In memory of Christine
Christine Smith, 27 January 1950 – 7 February 2018
Born in Preston, Lancashire, Christine Smith (née Gartside) trained as a teacher and began her career in mainstream education, where she also developed a keen interest in youth work.
After moving to London, Christine became involved in Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching – an area that would become the central focus of her career.
Passionate about supporting young people, she found time to serve as a school governor – even while she and her husband, Norman, were raising a family – and later took on the significant responsibility of being a foster carer.
Known for her deep empathy with students, she was a much-loved figure in school life.
Since Christine’s passing in 2018, Norman – together with family and friends – has generously raised money for SHINE in her memory, most recently donating £1,500.
Norman said: “This donation is a fitting tribute to her lifelong contribution and one she would have heartily approved of.”
SHINE would like to thank Christine’s family and friends for their generous gift, which will help fund projects that give children in the North brighter futures.