The education community across the Midlands is mourning the loss of Greg McCarthy, a gifted educator who transformed history lessons into unforgettable experiences for primary school children. McCarthy passed away at the age of 47 from a heart attack, leaving behind a profound legacy.
Bringing the Past to Life
Through his own company, The Specialists, Greg delivered thousands of meticulously researched and immersive history sessions. He didn't just teach history; he embodied it. Children were enthralled by characters like Gregolf the Viking and Gregorius the Roman legionary, with his performances consistently earning glowing reviews from both teachers and pupils.
A Creative Journey from Stage to Classroom
Greg's flair for performance was evident from a young age. Born in Oxford to Michael, a financial adviser, and Jean, a French teacher, he grew up in Crowborough, East Sussex. Just before starting at Beacon college (now Beacon academy), he was cast in the title role of Oliver! at the Assembly Hall theatre in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
This early passion led to work as a child actor, including an appearance in The Bill. He later graduated from the University of East Anglia in film and English studies. After university, his career path weaved through television post-production, a one-man version of Macbeth, and acting in theatre-in-education.
A Legacy of Passion and Family
After gaining a primary school teaching qualification from Leicester University, Greg's career found its true calling. A stint as a museum educator at Donington le Heath manor house near Coalville allowed him to merge his acting talent, teacher training, and passion for history.
This experience culminated in the 2009 founding of The Specialists, a business he co-ran with his wife, Lisa Gregory, whom he married in 2003. Together, they settled in Leicestershire and had two children, Frankie and Rowan.
Beyond the classroom, Greg was a man of many passions. He was a devoted Lego enthusiast, creating custom models for conventions, an avid collector of Marvel comics, and a lover of jazz, film-making, gardening, and his cats. He was known for his tremendous sense of fun, silliness, and straight-talking nature, living life authentically. Above all, he was a devoted family man, intensely proud of his creative and determined children.
Greg McCarthy is survived by his wife Lisa, their children Frankie and Rowan, his sister Esther, and his parents.
