Jo Greenbury, who has died aged 61 was a teacher and housemaster who transformed the lives of generations of Jewish students at Clifton College's Polack House. Although not Jewish, his career showed dedication to Jewish culture, education, and the unwavering support of his students. Born the son of Sir Richard Greenbury, the former chief executive and chairman of Marks & Spencer, he attended St. Paul's School before going on to study theology at Oxford University. He taught religious studies at Clifton, and was the school’s first Head of Sixth Form, later overseeing university admissions and alumni relations. He possessed an extensive breadth of knowledge on Judaism and remained committed to supporting the community throughout his life. [Missing Credit] Joining one of Bristol’s most esteemed schools, Clifton College, in 1989, Jo later took on the pivotal role of housemaster of Polack House, the school’s house for Jewish pupils. He became only the second housemaster who was not a direct relation of the Polack family to assume the position. Polack House held unique significance as the Jewish community's only remaining boarding house in a private boarding school, having been established at Clifton College in1877. He assumed his position during a challenging period for the House; it was in a state of disrepair and struggling with low student numbers. Through his tireless efforts, Polack House was soon revitalised. His dedication to the students was evident in their achievements that occurred under his leadership; during his tenure, for instance, four Polackians were appointed Head of School. But in 2007 Polack’s House closed, due to a lack of Jewish boarding pupils. At an event to mark the closure, Greenbury said: “It was billed as a celebration and it was a celebration albeit tinged with considerable sadness. There was much nostalgic conversation and fond memories recalled. Many of the very best Cliftonians have come from Polack’s. As I bolt the doors, I’m sure I will shed a tear.” He maintained his presence as a guiding force at Clifton College until 2016, when he became director of the Old Cliftonian Society. He remained a prominent figure at the college with strong associations with the Jewish Centre until the day he died. The immense affection and admiration held by students and colleagues for Jo Greenbury was clear from the shundreds of people expected his memorial service in Bristol last week. Sam Mond, a former student, remembers Jo as a profound "father figure" and "one of life's gentlemen," during his four years at Clifton College, saying: "I have nothing but fond memories of him. He very much shaped the person that I became." He particularly valued Greenbury’s ability to connect with students and impart meaningful pieces of advice, for example: "Never have a knee-jerk reaction to things". This is something that Mond tries to embody today. “He had a unique way of drawing me back in, putting my feet on the ground and reminding me of the question 'What would common sense do?'” He described Julia Greenbury as a “mother figure,” with the couple always having an “open door” for students. "He is somebody I will remember for the rest of my life." Rusleen Bass, a former student who came from Ukraine recalled: “He knew how to individually have a relationship with every student. In the whole school, everyone was jealous of Polackians because we had Jo as our housemaster.” He described the housemaster as “a cool guy,” who “wasn't snobby”, and had “a unique way of connecting with everyone.” “I came from Ukraine and didn’t know much English; if it would have been anyone else I don’t think it would have been the same.” Jesse Romain, another former student, echoed these sentiments, emphasising Jo’s unwavering support for everyone in the house. "He was always patient, wise, willing to listen and I wouldn't be where I am today without him." Polack House felt like "a vibrant and special place”. James Marshall, a fellow alumnus said: “He would encourage a kind of closeness within the house and make sure everyone is respected. He would protect you, so you would get the wrath of the punishment from him as opposed to the college.” Former pupil Antony Kluk fondly remembered Greenbury as a lifelong Manchester United and rugby fan, who coached the 2nd XV as though it were his own professional franchise. Kluk said: “Jo was a staunch believer in the power of togetherness.” Vlad, another former student, reflected, "During our formative teenage years, Jo Greenbury was an all-important father figure, full of warmth and wisdom. Thereafter, he became a role model for a life well-lived, in the service of others, and leading by example. Even those of us who, after graduation, saw him rarely carry the fondest memories of Jo in our hearts. Being a Greenbury Polackian is a privilege I and my contemporaries cherish.” Jo's personal life was intertwined with his dedication to Clifton College. He and his wife Juliahad five children, some of whom were even born in Polack House. His legacy as a compassionate mentor and a profound figure in the Anglo-Jewish community will be fondly remembered by his former students. Antony Kluk powerfully summarised his impact, saying "His legacy deserves a place among the great figures of British Jewry." Jo Greenbury: Born December 1963, Died June 2025