New learning pod pays tribute to beloved hospital figure Bob Marchant

QVH has officially opened the Marchant Learning Pod, a dedicated learning space within the hospital’s Library, created in honour of Bob Marchant and his lifelong commitment to education, mentoring and supporting future generations of healthcare professionals.

The opening ceremony brought together colleagues, friends and members of Bob’s family, including his sons Ian and Neil Marchant, to celebrate a remarkable legacy of service, learning and knowledge-sharing that spanned decades at Queen Victoria Hospital and beyond.

Bob joined Queen Victoria Hospital in 1956 as a theatre assistant after completing his National Service in the RAF’s medical branch. Chosen by pioneering plastic surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe to be part of his theatre team, Bob went on to enjoy a distinguished 42-year career at the hospital, eventually retiring as Chief Operating Department Assistant.

While Bob is perhaps best known for his work preserving the history of Sir Archibald McIndoe and the Guinea Pig Club, those who worked alongside him remember him most fondly for his enthusiasm for teaching and supporting others. He took great pride in helping colleagues develop their skills and was always willing to share his experience and expertise.

Following his retirement, Bob’s commitment to our hospital  continued through his extensive work with East Grinstead Museum and the Queen Victoria Hospital League of Friends. Through his dedication to preserving and promoting the history of the hospital and the Guinea Pig Club, he supported numerous authors, historians and researchers, ensuring that these remarkable stories would continue to educate and inspire future generations.

The new Marchant Learning Pod, provides a welcoming space where staff can study, collaborate and access educational resources, reflecting Bob’s enduring belief in the value of learning and sharing knowledge.

Speaking at the opening, Chet Patel, Director of Medical Education at Queen Victoria Hospital, reflected on Bob’s lasting impact on generations of clinicians.
“Bob had an extraordinary passion for learning and, perhaps more importantly, for sharing what he knew with others. He was always generous with his time and took great pride in passing on what he affectionately called his ‘tricks of the trade’ to the next generation. The Marchant Learning Pod will continue Bob’s legacy by supporting learning, curiosity and professional development for years to come.”

Ian and Neil Marchant said the occasion was particularly meaningful for their family, given the special place Queen Victoria Hospital holds.
“Queen Victoria Hospital has always held a special place in our family’s hearts. It is where both our parents dedicated their careers, with our dad spending much of his working life at the hospital and our mum, Anne, serving as a senior nurse. It’s also where they met, so we have many fond memories and connections to this place.

“Both Mum and Dad cared deeply about supporting others, and it is wonderful to see a space being created that will help future generations of clinicians and healthcare professionals learn and develop. We think they would both be delighted to know the role the Marchant Learning Pod will play in supporting staff for years to come.”

Pictured: Ian Marchant Chet Patel and Neil Marchant at the opening of the Marchant Learning Pod at QVH, and Ian and Neil Marchant cut the official ribbon on the Marchant Learning Pod at QVH.

For more information please contact the QVH Press Office at qvh.communications@nhs.net