Derek was a caring and conscientious colleague and friend. Whilst I led the MA programme at BIMM, Derek was involved in a small capacity, and worked with one of our MA students as a coach. I was really struck with the passion and dedication that Derek brought to his role, and when his students didn't do as well as he'd hoped they would, he was devastated. My heart broke for Derek when I discovered this; we can't take responsibility for the learning that students do—only the degree to which we show up and meet the responsibility of our role. Derek was so committed and caring in his role, that he did this and more. He brought this same care to his colleagues, and when he was in his role as digital coordinator he gave his time and patience to anyone who needed it. The day I found out about his passing, I had his name on a list as we'd intended to meet up to see how we could bring further collaboration between the MA and BA cohorts. I wish we had time to do this now - not so much for the invariably fruitful effects this collaboration would have brought to our students groups, but rather, to have gotten the chance to spend more time working with him. A true gem of a gentleman . He is sorely missed.