Peter Chamberlain
Common Room 1964-97
Peter ‘Chippy’ Chamberlain died at home in Cambridge with his wife, Caroline, and daughters, Juliet and Rachel close by. He was a much-loved husband, father and ‘Boppa’ to Ollie, Joe, Flo, Ned and Rose.
He grew up in Southampton, where his father was vicar of All Saints Church and his life-long support of The Saints football team began. At Marlborough College he was passionate about sport and regularly attended alumni events.
After school he served with the Royal Navy on HMS Cumberland, braving seasickness but relishing camaraderie. He studied Geography at the University of Cambridge, proudly achieving a rackets Blue.
In 1964 he began teaching at The Leys where he inspired pupils in Geography, squash, hockey and cricket. He married Caroline in 1969; with baby Juliet, they spent a year at Bishops School, Cape Town before returning to Cambridge with Peter as Housemaster of West House, where Rachel was born. The family spent 15 happy years there. Peter gave his time 24/7 to his pupils who say he was kind, fair, fun and a good listener. When he wasn’t teaching, he either played or watched sport. He was a lifetime member at Lords.
On retirement Peter continued to support young people’s education through GAP. He was active in the local community, volunteering at the Scott Polar Research Institute and library. He and Caroline travelled extensively, played golf, enjoyed U3A and spent lots of time with their family. We remember his calm grounding presence and miss him greatly.
Words by Peter’s daughter Juliet Morley