June Diamond, a teacher who worked across secondary, adult, and higher education in Yorkshire, has died at the age of 76. She was also known for her role as deputy director of The Basement, a pioneering adult education centre in Leeds.
The Basement provided counselling and practical support for long-term unemployed individuals. Ms Diamond later became a lecturer in education at Leeds University, retiring in 2016.
Born in Leicester, she earned an English literature and American studies degree from the University of East Anglia before completing teacher training in York. Her career included teaching English at a secondary school in Sutton, south London, and adult education roles in Leeds and West Yorkshire.
From 1987, she was deputy director of The Basement, offering services such as advice on accessing education, training, social services, job searches, and emotional support. She also lectured at Park Lane Further Education College in Leeds and was active in the Natfhe trade union.