Letitia Blake

We were greatly saddened to hear of the death in 2024 of former Trust Student Co-ordinator, Edward Gretton. Edward took over this key role from his wife, Susan Wilson, in 2011. Working in the area of restorative justice, Edward was a man of humour and kindness, both qualities that served him well when looking after hundreds of our students and dealing with all sorts of challenging situations along the way.  

In 2014, one young man needed to find a more suitable homestay and Edward and Susan invited him into their home for several nights while an alternative was organised. “We told him we were having the house rewired and he would be sleeping in a tiny, dusty, loft bedroom with only a torch for light. 

“He came and was very happy. We took him to dinner with neighbours who have very posh voices and are argumentative. He just loved it. Asked why he was enjoying the loft, torch and mayhem he beamed at us: ‘I’m a scout!” 

Students on their first trip abroad are understandably nervous. One young person said after her stay: ”Edward Gretton told me not to worry, it would be all right. In my first week I realised it wasn’t all right, it was just PERFECT! I sent my last email to Mr Gretton with a big thank-you.” 

Edward had an easy and fruitful relationship with the principals of language schools we used at Wheatley (Oxford) and in London, which turn was of benefit to our students. 

I always enjoyed my meetings with Edward at his home in West London, surrounded by papers, paintings, books and dogs. It was a privilege and a delight to work in partnership with him. Following his Parkinson’s diagnosis, he eventually relinquished the role reluctantly, handing over to David Kettle with his customary care and generosity. The Trust will be forever grateful to Edward for his significant ten-year contribution to the smooth-running of our student programme. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, Susan, and their two children.