In Memoriam: Bertie Bellis
We are saddened to share that Bertie Bellis, the sixth Headmaster of The Leys, passed away on Wednesday 1 October at the age of 98.
Bertie was educated at Kingswood School and St John’s College, Cambridge, where he was a Mathematical Exhibitioner. His teaching career began in 1951 at Rossall School, followed by a distinguished tenure at Highgate School as Head of Mathematics and later Housemaster. In 1965, he was appointed Headmaster of Daniel Stewart’s College, Edinburgh, and subsequently became Principal of the newly merged Daniel Stewart’s and Melville College, overseeing a combined student body of 1,450 boys.
A respected figure in the academic community, Bertie served as President of the Mathematical Association from 1971 to 1972 and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1972.
With a strong Methodist background, Bertie continued the legacy of our first three Headmasters, leading The Leys from 1975 to 1986 through a period of national economic challenge. His tenure was marked by significant internal refurbishments and the introduction of girls into the Sixth Form.
Clare Ives, current Head of The Leys, shared: “Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Mr Bellis personally, it is clear from his legacy that he was a Headmaster of great vision and integrity. His leadership during a time of change and challenge helped shape the school we know today. We honour his memory and extend our deepest sympathies to his family and all who knew him.”
A memorial service will be held at a later date, and we will share further details with the community in due course.