Waterloo Road
Jason Merrells plays Jack Rimmer
What happened to Jack at the end of last series?
"Jack and his team had successfully pulled Waterloo Road out of the doldrums – and then he was almost burned alive by Lewis Seddon."
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Do you think Jack has changed at all?
"He's become more comfortable in the job and realised he has a real desire to stay as Head and really make a difference."
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How does Jack get along with Roger, the new investor who has staked a lot of money in the school?
"Jack is happy for the potential funding. Although, at first, he and Roger do not click, Jack grits his teeth and gets on with it. However, he doesn't expect Roger to be as involved in the running of the school as he soon becomes…"
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What are your own thoughts on Academy Trust schools?
"I don't really trust them. I believe that there are certain things that should be run without the influence of the marketplace and education is one of them."
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Do you think it is important for television programmes to address such issues?
"I think it is. Our storyline concerning Academies is very current and the truth is often more shocking – I recently heard of an Academy school in London that tracks children in and out by bar codes on their exercise books."
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Steph was very pleased to be able to come to Jack's rescue at the end of last series. Does he feel obliged to spend more time with her?
"Jack uses Steph for comfort when he feels low and he treats her pretty shabbily, but she doesn't seem to mind. In a way, they are similar but soon Jack will fall in love elsewhere."
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Tell us more...
"She is Davina Shackleton – blonde, beautiful, capable, confident and strong. Jack is suspicious at first but quickly falls for her completely. It's been my favourite storyline this series."
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Do you think it's a fling or is it more serious?
"It is serious for him – he is divorced and tired of playing the field."
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What have you enjoyed most about making Waterloo Road?
"The cast is great – it is what attracted me to the part and what has kept me here. We have a good laugh."
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What goes through your mind when you think of your own school days?
"It was grim! I don't miss it. I went to Buckhurst Hill County High School for boys, a comprehensive, and I remember the uniform was a dark blue blazer and tie."
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What are your strongest memories from those days?
"English classes and bunking off."
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Did you have any inspiring teachers?
"My English teacher, Mr Patrick."
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Do you think you have picked up a better understanding of teaching and the education system since playing Jack?
"I have a greater respect for teachers now – I think it's a very difficult job. It doesn't appeal to me as a job, though!"
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Are you enjoying living and working around Manchester while filming Waterloo Road?
"Yes, it has become my second home. I've seen a lot of Old Trafford ... and the Pennines."
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