Dr.Timothy Phillips Woods DPhil passed away peacefully on 7 September 2025, with his good friends by his side.

Affectionately known as TPW, Woody, The Doctor, Doc; a sportsman, academic and the ultimate competitor! A man’s man!

Tim was born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, third son of Arthur Phillips Woods and Katherine Isabella Woods, he was younger brother to John & David. Tim's father taught at the nearby big independent school, Michaelhouse, and sadly died when Tim was young. Awarded a bursary to the school, Tim flourished there, especially in the realms of sport, playing every sport the school offered, representing the school in rugby, cricket, hockey and arguably his most successful sport, squash.

Tim apparently made time for a little work, and gained a place on a three year degree course to study history and geography at Rhodes university. When asked by a professor how he had managed such good honours exam results given all his sporting commitments, he responded that he had temporarily given up one of them! His sporting prowess continued at university where Tim represented in all three sports. He was also chosen for the combined South African Universities squash side.

Tim and Erica met at university where it is believed they went to a graduation ball together, after which romance blossomed. At the time, Erica lived in a hostel overseen by the formidable Miss Iggleston, who insisted that all young ladies were back in residence suitably early. Arriving later than acceptable on one occasion, Tim and Erica were confronted by the redoubtable Miss Iggleston who asked where they’d been. Tim gave a most uncharacteristic response: 'we have been canoodling in the long grass!'

Tim stayed at the university for a fourth year to study for a masters, resulting in the prized offer of a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University, and in addition to academics went on to achieve Blues in both squash and hockey, . It was in Oxford that Tim and Erica got married whilst Tim was still studying. Oxford friendships included one William Clinton, later President of the United States, a friendship that endured and which included a note of congratulation when Tim eventually retired from teaching.

Like his father, Tim decided that the teaching profession was for him, and in 1971 he joined the staff at Felsted School in Essex.  He immediately made an impact, both in the classroom and particularly as a coach and player on the games field. He produced some fine results with some wonderfully gifted pupils. He demonstrated an uncompromising approach in his sporting activities with all opposition, be they club members, colleagues or pupils. 

In 1982 he began a short spell as headmaster at Gresham’s school in North Norfolk, until in 1985 he arrived at Trent College, where once more, his influence came to bear with great effectiveness.

Former Trent colleagues have testified to Tim’s excellent man management skills in the History department, and the relaxed atmosphere that he promoted. Never a great lover of admin, Tim was as likely to be demonstrating a hockey tactic, stick in hand, known as the 'Doc Woods dummy', as to be discussing matters, historical. Working in a particularly small office, this proved to be something of a challenge for colleagues trying to reach their desk!

Challenges were also evident when it came to reading Tim’s handwriting, and in his mastery of technology. Nonetheless, his knowledge of his subject, together with his genial and encouraging demeanour were always apparent and hugely appreciated by his colleagues.

In 2003, the History department somewhat inexplicably kept receiving phone calls from the White House. It transpired that Bill Clinton was in the UK on a visit and was keen to link up with Tim. Attending a book signing later in the day, the President’s black Limousine pulled up outside Blackwell’s bookshop. Little did people realise that Tim was also on board! 

Tim had very happy memories of his time as master in charge of cricket and hockey at Trent College and achieved considerable success in both, on one occasion at least, taking a tour to Australia. Tim was asked to address schools about the controversial matter of when to declare in a one-day cricket match. The chosen venue was none other than the hallowed Long Room at Lord’s Cricket Ground - a most treasured memory for him.  A less exalted memory but nonetheless cherished with amusement was the moment when a visiting pupil, the opening bowler, thinking that Tim was a neutral umpire, asked him if he would hold onto his cigarettes and lighter!

Retiring in 2004 after 19 years, with Erica at his side, Tim continued to pursue his passions including history, art, golf, wine and gardening. Generous entertainment featured significantly and standards were always of a high order. Just as the table cloth and china used to appear on their camping table when caravanning, so when friend and former colleague Mark Field and his wife visited Tim after a spell in hospital, tea cups AND saucers were demanded.

Tim, we be dearly missed and as he joins Erica, heavenly standards will be just that little bit higher.

With thanks to Mark Field for this heartfelt tribute.