User:Soaper1234/Characters of Waterloo Road

Waterloo Road is a British contemporary drama televison series that premiered on 9 March 2006 on BBC One. The series was created by Ann McManus and Maureen Chadwick. It is set in the fictional comprehensive school of the same name, which was originally based in Rochdale, England before relocating to Greenock, Scotland in series eight. Waterloo Road follows the lives of the staff and pupils at the school and features an ensemble cast of regular characters. The show began with 13 main characters in its first series and finished with 23 main characters in its final series. Several many characters have been written in and out of the series since its creation, with no original cast members featuring in the final cast. Waterloo Road has also featured guest stars, as well as recurring characters such as parents of students.

To do list

 * 1) Complete Tom Clarkson with series 4b-8
 * 2) Complete Kim Campbell with series 4b and 5
 * 3) Complete Grantly Budgen with series 4-9, find more on s3.
 * 4) Add remaining series 1 characters: Steph Haydock, all pupils, all supporting cast
 * 5) Add series 2-10 characters.
 * 6) Find references for minor character or remove
 * 7) Find any reception (source: The Free Library)

General sources

 * Several interviews
 * Several more interviews

Barry Barry
Barry Barry, played by Carl Au, first appears in the show's eighth series. He is introduced as part of the Liverpudlian criminal Barry family, consisting of mother Carol Barry (Zoe Lucker), son Barry and daughters Dynasty Barry (Abby Mavers) and Kacey Barry (Brogan Ellis), and their unseen jailed father Neil Barry. The character and Au's casting details were announced on 25 June 2012. Barry is characterised as a villain who is unfocused and troublesome, but also has a complex personality. The absence of Barry's father has impacted his personality and created a dislike for authority. Au extensively researched troublesome children with absent fathers for his portrayal of the character. Barry's mischievous personality is a recurring theme throughout his storylines.

Following his arrival, Barry establishes a feud with Jack MacAlister (Taylor Rhys) after it is revealed that Barry is dating Jack's mother, Olivia MacAlister (Pollyanna McIntosh). The character is also developed through his interactions with other characters, including a vendetta against deputy headteacher Sian Diamond (Jaye Jacobs) which concludes when Sian slaps Barry, a romantic relationship with Gabriella Wark (Naomi Battrick), and the breakdown of his relationship with Kacey after she struggles with her gender identity. Barry is also used to highlight the topic of sexting after he shares explicit images of Rhiannon Salt (Rebecca Craven). When almost £10,000 is raised towards a boxing scholarship for Kacey, Barry steals the money, but is exposed as the thief, resulting in his exile from the Barry family. Following a short absence, Barry returns for a handful of episodes leading to Au's departure from the series. Barry departs in the ninth series episode "Dynasty's Choice", broadcast on 26 February 2014, when he is arrested for human trafficking after being reported by Dynasty. Au thought it was suitable that Dynasty reported Barry and opined that the character's exit needed to be drastic. The character received a mixed response from television critics: the family were criticised for being a bad representation of a Liverpudlian family, while Clemmie Moodie of the Daily Mirror praised Au's performance in the role.

Guy Braxton
Guy Braxton, portrayed by Regé-Jean Page, first appears in the show's tenth series. The character and Page's casting were announced on 5 January 2015. Guy is introduced as a trainee teacher who joins the school through the government's School Direct teaching training programme. He is characterised as immature and "a smart kid" who often improvises and talks to the students on a level.

On the day of his audition for Waterloo Road, Page was attending two other auditions and was unorganised. He believed that the casting directors saw a resemblance between Page and Guy, which led to his casting.

Guy clashes with science teacher Marco D'Olivera (Stefano Braschi). The character shares a backstory with Carrie Norton (Tahirah Sharif), a pupil at the school, which is explored.

Janeece Bryant
Janeece Bryant, portrayed by Chelsee Healey, first appears in the show's first series. Janeece is billed as "a mouthy and cocky little madam" who views herself as better than everyone else. She is characterised as a flirtatious and a "loudmouth". The character's argumentative persona gives her the image of a bully, although she is loyal and defensive towards her friends. Deep down, Janeece is softhearted, something which others do not always witness. On the character, a BBC journalist commented, "Janeece has a heart of gold, however, but a mind as malleable as putty." Healey described her character as an honest, bold and fun busybody. She added that she is a "very bubbly person" who is amusing and conceal secrets.

In the second series, Janeece is 16 years old and resitting her GCSEs because despite being a smart woman, she is lazy and does not understand "the point in education". The character changes her opinion on her education when she is inspired to work for a career in palaeontology by deputy headteacher Andrew Treneman (Jamie Glover). Healey pointed out that since developing the interest, Janeece has become "eager to learn". Janeece establishes a friendship with Maxine Barlow (Ellie Paskell).

Series four features Janeece in an issue-led storyline when she decides to have breast implants after becoming unhappy about her image.

Grantly Budgen
Grantly Budgen, played by Phillip Martin Brown, first appears in the show's first episode. He is billed as the "slightly scruffy, tired" Head of English, who "lacks conviction about anything". Grantly is apporaching the age of retirement so he has "had many years to perfect his cynical disenchantment with the teaching profession." The character's backstory states he never received a degree. Martin Brown described Grantly as "an educational dinosaur who cares little for his pupils" and summarised him as "cynical, disillusioned and sarcastic". Grantly is described as wanting "life on easy street" and disagrees with the school's inclusion policy. Grantly clashes with deputy headteacher Andrew Treneman (Jamie Glover), due to their different styles of teaching, and threatens to report him to the union for bullying. Martin Brown said that Grantly is "suspicious" of Andrew's methods and strongly believes in his approach that "you run the classroom through fear" rather than Andrew's "new-fangled, wish-washy liberal approaches".

In series 2, Grantly clashes with Roger Aspinall (Nick Sidi), the newly-appointed Chair of Governors. Roger, who is dyslexic, previously attended Waterloo Road, where he was bullied by Grantly for his dyslexia. Martin Brown explained that Grantly "can not abide" Roger and nicknames him "'Roger the Bodger'". Roger returns to the school as a potential investor, which Grantly struggles to comprehend as he knows Roger as "the boy who couldn't string a sentence together". Martin Brown added that Grantly believes that Roger "should leave education to the educationalists". Following their history, Roger is only prepared to invest in the school if Grantly is fired from his job. Martin Brown explained that Roger wants revenge for Grantly's treatment of him as a child. When Roger witnesses Grantly asleep while teaching a class, he decides to use this as a "perfect opportunity" to have him fired. In addition to their shared backstory, Grantly is also against Roger's plans to transform the school into an academy. Series 2 producer Sue de Beauvoir said, "Grantly makes a point of hating any change, so it doesn't go down well with him." Due to Roger and Andrew, who strongly disagree with Grantly, being in senior management, Grantly has become more careful about who he complains to in series 2.

Shabana Bakhsh was cast in series 3 as newly-qualifed english teacher Jasmine Koreshi. Grantly is "delighted" by Jasmine's hiring as it means he can pass his workload onto her "in the name of 'development'". On Jasmine's first day, Grantly bets Tom Clarkson (Jason Done) £10 that Jasmine will quit by lunchtime as he believes that her nerves will overcome her. Despite this, Jasmine becomes a successful teacher. As a grumpier teacher, Grantly does not form relationships with many students and instead, begins feuds with Karla Bentham (Jessica Baglow), a student who has Asperger syndrome, and Bolton Smilie (Tachia Newall). In series 3, Grantly's personal life is explored through the creation of a gambling addiction and the introduction of his wife, Fleur Budgen (Lorraine Cheshire). At the beginning of the series, it was teased that his problems would "soon spiral out of control and spill over into his work life".

In series 4, Grantly experiences a "mid-life crisis", deciding to change his appearance although he does not receive the reaction he hoped for. Grantly suspects that Fleur is having an affair and tries to reconcile with her "in a most unflattering manner". Despite his attempts, Fleur ends their relationship and ejects him from their house. In addition to this, Grantly also clashes with the other English teachers after nearly suspending each of them in the previous series, as well as headteacher Rachel Mason (Eva Pope) who does not like Grantly's work ethic.

When producers decided to relocate the show to Scotland for its eight series, Martin Brown opted to continue with the show. In series 8, Grantly clashes with new history teacher Audrey McFall (Georgie Glen), whose "enthusiasm puts her at daggers drawn" with Grantly. He creates a good friendship with english teacher Christine Mulgrew (Laurie Brett), who is secretly an alcoholic. Brett opined that they have a good friendship because they both enjoy drinking.


 * Exit interview
 * Exit interview
 * Hill interview around exit
 * Digital Spy tag
 * S7 (?) Interview

Maggie Budgen

 * Series 9 Interview

Kim Campbell
Kim Campbell, played by Angela Griffin, first appears in the show's first episode. Kim is the school's "fiesty" Head of Pastoral Care and an art teacher, roles which Kim treats "seriously". She is billed as "relentlessly optimistic" and a strong believer of reformation. Griffin explained that Kim is a good support to the students and is "very sympathetic" to their needs since she grew up in a similar environment. She added that Kim prefers to treat the students as independent and is not "afraid" to defend herself or the students. The actress summarised her character as "sympathetic, caring and opinionated". Griffin enjoyed Kim's good-willed personality and her "sensitivity" around the students, adding, "I don't know how many teachers there are like this in the school system." Jason Merrells, who portrays headteacher Jack Rimmer, noted that Kim has a "motherly style of teaching". Of Kim, a BBC Online reporter said, "If what makes a good teacher could be bottled, you'd bottle Kim." Claire Phillips, series 1 producer, praised Griffin's performance and said she "makes [Phillips] want to teach". Playing the role of a teacher made Griffin understand the pressures of teaching and she developed a new respect for teachers.

Child centric and politically outspoken, Kim Campbell is a committed and capable Head of Pastoral Care, popular with staff and pupils alike. Her feisty nature and quick wit means Kim is never stuck for words and handles cheeky students by giving as good as she gets, often disarming any situation and gaining the kids' respect, in one fell swoop.

Kim works with Jack and deputy headteacher Andrew Treneman (Jamie Glover) to save the school from closure in series 1, although does not agree with Andrew's methods. Despite this, Kim "secretly admires his dedication". Producers paired the characters together romantically; on this, Glover commented, "They are polar opposites in their approach to schooling but they respect the commitment and care of the other." Any romance between the characters is only hinted at in series 1 and never fully explored. Despite this, Griffin favourited this storyline and enjoyed working with Glover. Towards the end of series 1, Kim is nearly sexually attacked by Lewis Seddon (Craig Fitzpatrick), leaving her traumatised. A BBC Online reporter described the attack as an "ugly brush". Griffin spoke about Kim's feelings following the attack, stating that it "shook her up really badly" and nearly made her end her teaching career. Griffin explained that rather allowing anxiety overcome her, Kim "tackled her fears head-on" during the summer holidays by participating in self-defence classes so she could return to school "stronger than ever". Additionally, the attack made Kim adamant not to return to isolation − where the attack took place. The attack also made Kim understand the feelings of bullying victims, helping her in her role as Head of Pastoral Care.

At the beginning of series 2, Kim decides to forget about her attack and further her career, while trying to "fight her feelings" for Andrew. She also works with Jack and Andrew to fight against plans to transform the school into academy. Series 2 producer, Sue de Beauvoir, explained that Kim is "fiercely opposed" to the plans as whoever funds the academy has the power to "implement their own beliefs and agendas". Kim struggles to comprehend the idea that the investor, Roger Aspinall (Tom Payne), "can come in and just buy a school", and is even more surprised that Jack and Andrew support the idea. The relationship between Kim and Andrew also progresses in the series; Glover said that there is a "strong magnetic pull between them". Griffin hoped the couple would date and explained that Kim "fancies Andrew like mad" but his awkward behaviour frustrates her. Griffin left the show in 2007 and Kim departed alongside Andrew at the conclusion of series 2. They moved to Rwanda together.

Griffin opted to reprise the role in series 4 of the show and Kim returned in episode 11. Kim returns to her former positions, helping to confront "the challenge of modern day pressures on today's kids". As Head of Pastoral Care, Kim works to help student Janeece Bryant (Chelsee Healey) who plans to have breast enlargement surgery, which "divides the pupils and staff".

Tom Clarkson
Tom Clarkson, played by Jason Done, first appears in the show's first episode as an english teacher. He was billed as a "an 'in it for the holidays' teacher" and a BBC press officer said "the boys like him because he doesn't push them and the girls fancy him because he is good looking." Tom is in his early thirties and Done described him as "a lazy teacher." Camilla Power, who played Tom's original love interest Lorna Dickey, described Tom as "very down to earth and laid back." The show's original producer, Claire Phillips, described Done as the "perfect Tom Clarkson." At the beginning of the show, Tom is engaged to Lorna (Power), having been in a relationship for five years and they get married in the show's first episode. While Lorna is "desperate" to marry Tom, he is hesistant to marry her because he has "fallen out of love" with Lorna. Power believed that her character "would come out of her shell a lot" without Tom. Tom and Lorna are also good friends with Izzie Redpath (Jill Halfpenny), with Lorna and Izzie considering each other best friends. However, Tom and Izzie developed romantic feelings for each other and a love triangle storyline was formed. Halfpenny explained that Tom and Izzie are attracted to each other because they have "similar outlooks on life" and are "both spontaneous and free-spirited and they make each other laugh." Tom and Izzie began an affair and he later decides to leave Lorna. Lorna struggles with this and after giving Tom and Izzie her blessing, she attempts suicide.

At the beginning of series two, Tom and Izzie are shown to be living together and expecting a child. Tom is also acting as stepfather to Izzie's two daughters, Chlo Grainger (Katie Griffiths) and Mika Grainger (Lauren Drummond), and they eventually start to view Tom as a stepfather. When they return to the school for a new term, they are surprised to find Lorna back at the school and despite Lorna's "relaxed" attitude, Tom is "certain they can't trust her" and believes she is "up to something". Lorna's return and Tom's suspicious attitude adds strain to Tom and Izzie's relationship. The producer of series 2, Sue de Beauvoir, teased that "things will get pretty cosy" between Tom, Izzie and Lorna. When Tom discovers Lorna is suffering from multiple sclerosis, he becomes sympathetic with her reasons for returning and Done explained that he is "reminded of why he once loved her the way he did." Tom was devastated when Lorna commits suicide after reuniting him and Izzie following an argument. At the end of the series, Izzie is murdered after saving Jack Rimmer (Jason Merrells), leaving Tom "reeling".

In series three, Tom struggles to grieve for Izzie and blames Jack for her death. Tom is left as the primary carer for Chlo and Mika and he tries to "ensure they have as normal a life as possible". However, tension arises when Chlo marries Donte Charles (Adam Thomas) without Tom's permission. In the second part of the third series, Tom formed a relationship with Davina Shackleton (Christine Tremarco), which was intially met by criticism from Mika who believed Tom should remain devoted to Izzie. Mika eventually relents but Tom's relationship with Davina strains when he begins to focus more on Mika and Chlo. When they discover Davina is meeting with Jack, who is her former partner, Mika and Chlo reunite Tom and Davina. In addition to this, Tom was promoted to Head of Pastoral Care following the appointment of new headteacher, Rachel Mason (Eva Pope).

By the beginning of series four, Tom, Davina and Chlo were living together, with Chlo hoping to move out into a flat with Donte. The Kelly family moved next door to Tom, which made his life "unbearable". Uncharacteristically, Tom struggled with the family and had to refrain from assaulting one of them. However, in his role as head of pastoral care, he was forced to deal with the family regularly, which pushed the limits of his "good nature and patience". Tom becomes aquatinted with Rose Kelly (Elaine Symons) and decides to help her and her family. This results in the breakdown of Tom's relationship with Davina, who leaves after believing Tom and Rose to be having an affair.

Feud with Kellys Exit interview

Sian Diamond
Sian Diamond, portrayed by Jaye Jacobs, first appears in the show's seventh series. The character and Jacobs' casting details were announced on 29 May 2011. Sian, a science teacher, is introduced alongside her PE teacher husband, Jez Diamond (Alex Walkinshaw). They join the school's teaching staff after being recruited by new headteacher Michael Byrne (Alec Newman).

Sian is billed as an "ambitious" graduate of Cambridge University who wants to "inspire the pupils through her love of science". Jacobs described her character as "career-driven" and "so passionate about teaching", with the ambition to become a headteacher one day. This is reflected in the series when Sian is promoted to deputy head teacher on her first day. Sian aims to help pupils pass their exams and improve the school's status from a failing school. Sian's costumes consist of dresses and high heels, which Jacobs liked and found to be an improvement on the costumes of her Holby City character Donna Jackson. Initially, Jacobs struggled to wear high heels for a full day of filming, but soon adjusted to them. She added that she was "self-conscious" about her body but Sian is not, so she has to act confidently about her body when in role.

The character's backstory states that she and Jez have recently returned from their honeymoon, having married after a five-month courtship. On the speed of the relationship, Jacobs commented, "Jez is very impulsive, and Sian got very caught up in that and fell in love." She enjoyed starring opposite Walkinshaw and found it odd to play a wife. Walkinshaw opined that Jez "loves [Sian] too much". Prior to Sian's relationship with Jez, she dated Michael, which Jez is aware of and consequently, he keeps a check on Michael's closeness to Sian. Newman explained that Michael's "most serious" relationship was with Sian and it was ended by Michael despite him still having feelings for her.

Writers plotted a love triangle story between Sian, Jez and Michael after she begins questioning her marriage to Jez and her feelings for Michael. Jacobs explained that following their honeymoon, Sian and Jez have to find "domestic compatibility", which makes Sian question if their marriage is a "mistake". Contrastingly, Walkinshaw stated that Jez "worships Sian and is devoted to her", which he thought would "[freak] her out". Jacobs told a reporter from TV Choice magazine that although Sian loves Jez's "cheeky, chirpy" side, she also enjoys the "intellectual stimulation" from Michael that she cannot get from Jez. Sian soon begins feeling suffocated by Jez's actions. Jacobs noted that Sian is not familiar with this, so she "pulled away a bit". Sian finds comfort in Michael, who has been making "predatory" advances towards Sian, and they begin an affair. Jacobs explained that Sian understands that her actions are wrong, but she shares history with Michael, who "seems to understand her". She added that being with Michael is "safe ground" for Sian because he is "intellectual", while Jez has been involved in "one mess-up too many". The actress told Patrick McLennan of What's on TV that Sian sees her marriage as a "big mistake" and when Michael admits that he regrets their relationship ending, Sian considers leaving Jez.

When Jez discovers the affair, he ends the marriage, however Sian later realises that she wants to be with Jez and they reunite. Walkinshaw explained that Jez wants the marriage to succeed, although he continues to act "like a bull in a china shop". Jez suggests that they try for a baby and when Sian displays "a glimmer of interest", he adds pressure onto the idea. Walkinshaw commented, "He's totally committed to Sian and anything that will make their relationship stronger." Following the affair, Sian's relationship with Jez's daughter, Madi Diamond (Georgia Henshaw), becomes estranged. Walkinshaw pointed out that Madi has "got the hump" with Sian and is making her "squirm".

Jacobs reprised the role for the show's eighth series, a decision she "instantly agreed to". The series sees the show move production and setting to Greenock in Scotland; Jacobs expressed her excitement at the move and the new stories. Sian decides to move to Scotland with the school following the end of her marriage to Jez. Jacobs explained that Sian has experienced "a really tough time in her personal life", so the move would be "a really fresh start for her". Cameron Roach, the show's executive producer, reinforced this and said that Sian would focus on setting herself up in the management of the school. He revealed that she would face a challenge when Madi arrives to live with her, which would complicate things for Sian.

On 21 September 2012, it was confirmed that Jacobs had left the series and the character would depart during the second part of series 8. Jacobs filmed her exit during the same month. The actress reflected positively on her time on Waterloo Road, but looked forward to spending more time at home. In the build-up to Sian's exit, she is tasked with challenging student Barry Barry (Carl Au). Au said that Barry likes how Sian respects him and treats him with maturity. He added that Barry is attracted to Sian's strong-willed personality. Barry's attitude to Sian changes when she gets involved in his family's issues and tries to help. Au explained that Barry begins a vendetta against Sian and plans to "bring that person down and destroy them". Barry breaks into Sian's house and steals her underwear with the intention of embarrassing her and getting her to leave the school. After going to Sian's classroom, Barry reveals the underwear to her class, so she slaps Barry. Au said that Barry is "genuinely surprised" by Sian's actions since she has acted differently to other teachers. Shocked by her actions, Sian decides to quit her job and leave. Jacobs and Au repeatedly rehearsed the slap scene with the stunt coordinator and when they first filmed the scene, Jacobs accidentally slapped Au, which she was not supposed to do, shocking the actress. Au enjoyed working with Jacobs and off-screen, they bonded over their shared theatre training and music interests. Between filming, the actors would sing together to lighten the mood.

Lorna Dickey
Lorna Dickey (also Clarkson), played by Camilla Power, first appears in the show's first episode. Lorna is billed as a "by the book" english teacher whose punctuality, professionalism and organisation stops her being a favourite for the students. Power described Lorna as "organised, quiet, [and] desperate", adding that she is nice. The actress liked Lorna's organisation and her "good and decent heart", but believed she is too fussy. In the second series, Lorna is billed as someone who "prides herself on being a very practical person and loves to help other people sort out their problems." A BBC reporter explained that Lorna "loves to be needed". Lorna has good relationships with other members of staff, who are under the illusion that she is "very strong".

Lorna is engaged to english teacher Tom Clarkson (Jason Done) and they marry in the first series. The character's backstory states Lorna and Tom have been in a relationship for five years and in that time, the relationship has run its course. Dickey explained that Lorna and Tom have different personalities, which attracted them to each other. Dickey said that Lorna is "desperate" to marry Tom, and added, "Lorna will do anything in her power to keep the relationship alive." Dickey hoped that Lorna would estrange from Tom as she could develop more without him. Lorna is close friends with drama teacher Izzie Redpath (Jill Halfpenny); Dickey explained that they are friends because Lorna "surround herself with good spirits". Tom and Izzie begin an affair in series 1, creating a love triangle storyline between Lorna, Tom and Izzie. On her favourite storylines, Dickey said she enjoys the love triangle plot as well as "the journey that Tom and Lorna take together", branding it "interesting". Claire Phillips, the show's original producer, praised Power's performance as Lorna, labelling it "formidable".

At the end of the series, Tom ends his relationship with Lorna so he can pursue a relationship with Izzie. Lorna struggles with this and Dickey said that Lorna becomes "deeply disturbed". She then attempts suicide by trying to drown herself, but writes to Tom and Izzie informing them she has moved to Australia. Dickey explained that Lorna "found it all too much to bear" and she "reached the end of her tether". A BBC Online reporter said that Lorna's suicide attempt leaves her "cold, wet and embarrassed".

At the beginning of series 2, a "relaxed" Lorna returns to the school, "determined" to further her career and to become friends with Tom and Izzie again. On Lorna's mental state, Dickey said, "She appears to have regained control of her life but this turns out to be quite misleading." Tom and Izzie, who are now expecting a child together, are stunned to find Lorna at the school and Tom is "unsettled", believing that she is "up to something". Done explained that Tom cannot believe "how thick-skinned she is being". Lorna is "devestated" about Izzie's pregnancy, but does not show this. Izzie, on the other hand, attempts to forge a relationship with Lorna and invites her to stay in their spare bedroom. Halfpenny explained that Izzie is "wracked with guilt", which allows Lorna to "manipulate" her. Dickey explained that Lorna and Izzie have a "deep bond" although Lorna habours resentment towards Izzie. She added that Lorna still has feelings for Tom. Lorna has mixed feelings towards Tom and Izzie which are worsen by Lorna's "deep depression". Dickey sympathised with Lorna, but felt she should not have return and place herself in "such painful and vulnerable situation", comparing Lorna to "a moth to a flame".

Lorna later experiences "weird symptoms", and she is eventually diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Unaware of her diagnosis, Tom instead believes she has "turned bunny boiler". Done explained that when Tom discovers Lorna has MS, "he is reminded of why he once loved her the way he did." Lorna develops a friendship with deputy headteacher, Andrew Treneman (Jamie Glover) after their respective personal life issues. On how they become close, Glover explained, "They are both tired with what is going on in their own lives, so they are both easy arms to fall into." Dickey said that Andrew's good nature boosts Lorna's "vunerable" state and added that she uses Andrew as a distraction from Tom and Izzie. Andrew struggles to pursue anything further with Lorna since he has feelings for Kim Campbell (Angela Griffin), but cannot explain this to Lorna as he is "too nice". Towards the end of the second series, Lorna commits suicide after reuniting Tom and Izzie. The school subsequently holds a memorial service for Lorna, where Andrew delivers an emotional speech about her. BBC Online included the speech in their "10 biggest moments" of the series in 2015.

Karen Fisher
Karen Fisher, portrayed by Amanda Burton, first appears in the show's sixth series. The character and Burton's casting details were announced on 16 October 2009. Karen is introduced as the school's "ballsy" headteacher. Burton began filming in November 2009 and relocated to Manchester, where the drama is filmed, from her home in Northern Ireland for the role. She expressed her excitement at joining the drama and looked forward to beginning filming. Anne Mensah, the head of independent drama at BBC Scotland, praised Burton for her "exceptional quality and enormous popularity with the audience" and was pleased that she had joined the cast. Brian Park, the managing director of production company Shed Productions, also expressed his delight at Burton's casting and commented, "She brings a real presence to the series – and the role of Karen will reveal a new, exciting side to Amanda's acting talent."

Waterloo Road has a new Headteacher; warm but disciplined mum Karen Fisher. Karen's top priority is encouraging well-rounded and socialised pupils, and to achieve this she wants to create a safe and positive school environment where kids can leave their troubles behind and concentrate on their schooling.

Karen is billed as "warm, but disciplined" with a priority of developing "well-rounded and well educated" students. Karen is "instantly dynamic and ambitious" in her leadership and wants to promote her "unique vision" in the school, making it a "safe, vibrant place to learn". A press release states that Karen is "never one to shirk from a challenge", evidenced in her hirings for the school. When the situation is appropriate, Karen will put her "tough love policy" in place and is not afraid to exclude her students, something which contrasts the approach of Karen's predecessor Rachel Mason (Eva Pope). The new policy creates tension with staff and students alike, who disagree with it. Karen always tries to help her students, but dislikes them using their home lives as an excuse for any poor behaviour. Patrick McLennan of What's on TV described Karen as the "formidable and fearsome new headteacher". Burton disliked Karen's costumes, but thought it was "sweet" when Karen tries to reflect the trend in her outfits, such as when Karen wears a leather jacket.

Burton's father was a primary school headteacher and the actress took inspiration from him for her portrayal of Karen. Her sisters are also teachers and found it amusing that Burton was playing a teacher, especially a headteacher as it "outranked them".

The character was created as part of a family, who are all embedded into the school: her husband, Charlie Fisher (Ian Puleston-Davies), is a supply teacher and her children, Jess Fisher (Linzey Cocker) and Harry Fisher (Ceallach Spellman), are students at the school. A large part of Karen's characterisation is her role as a mother. Burton found this to be an attractive trait of the character and something which drew her to the role. She also thought it added "another dimension to the character". Karen's role as a mother allows writers to explore her home and family life and how she manages to balance her job with "keeping her family together", something which the actress liked. Karen tries to keep her professional work life seperate to her home life and expects her staff to follow this too. Burton pointed out that Karen often fails to acheive the appropriate balance between her personal and professional lives.

Within her family, Karen has to face many problems: Charlie's infidelity, Jess' rebellion and Harry's bulimia nervosa. Karen and Charlie have an estranged marriage, which stems from Karen's career progressing fast as Charlie's career stopped and he became a supply teacher. Burton enjoyed the Charlie's infidelity story, calling it "dramatic". The family are also dealing with the disappearance of their eldest daughter Bex Fisher (Tina O'Brien), which has estranged Karen and Charlie's marriage. Bex's disappearance marks a "[deep] fragility" under Karen's "steely exterior" and tests her principles across the sixth series. Burton thought that Karen responds to Bex's disappearance poorly and it leads her to neglect the rest of the family. Karen and Bex's relationship is explored following the latter's introduction to the series. O'Brien explained that Karen feels that she has "let Bex down" and does not want to "push her into a corner and make her run". The actress enjoyed filming with Burton and felt that she had learnt from her.

Following her arrival, Karen makes changes to the school's behaviour policy. She removes the "cooler system" and changes it for a "three strikes and you’re out" system. The changes are met with opposition from some teachers, including Grantly Budgen (Philip Martin Brown) and Ruby Fry (Elizabeth Berrington). Karen then has to work to win over her colleagues, which Burton thought was "realistic" and the audience would be able to relate to Karen's situation. She added that Karen arrives "slightly on the back foot" and tries to pre-empt her colleagues' response to her employment. Karen soon makes changes to the school, on behalf of the local education authority (LEA), which set her at odds with her staff. Burton thought the teachers would recognise the predictament that Karen is placed in.

The deputy head teacher under Karen is Christopher Mead (William Ash), who Karen utilises to get the staff to "pull their weight". Ash noted that Karen and Chris have a good working relationship and he is "her right-hand man". Writers tested their relationship in series 7 after Chris becomes over involved in a student. Ash explained that Karen is disappointed in Chris as he has "not been toeing the party line". He added, "He’s been deceiving her and she's understandably distrustful of him." Chris leaves the school to help the student during a vital inspection, which leaves Karen in a difficult position. Ash told McLennan (What's on TV) that Karen is disappointed in Chris, but they clear any tension between them. Chris consequently decides to quit his job, a decision that Karen "respects and agrees with". Ash added that there is "a lot of mutual respect between them". Karen also hires Janeece Bryant (Chelsee Healey), a former student at the school, as the school's new secretary. Their relationship was called "a case of opposites attract" as Janeece's bubbly personality clashes with Karen's "no-nonsense" approach. On the relationship, a press release commented, "Whilst Janeece is a fearsome gatekeeper of Karen's time, she's not afraid of mercilessly nagging Karen to get to a meeting on time and finish her paperwork."

Producers gave Karen a love interest - site manager Rob Scotcher (Robson Green) - in series 7 and explored a later in life relationship. Burton opined that the story made "a lovely tonic to Karen's other storylines" and liked that Karen was having "some time for herself" after being involved in a lot of family-based drama. She added that Karen becomes "distracted at work, which is very unlike her!" Green dubbed the story "a proper old-fashioned romance", an aspect of the plot which the actor liked. Green explained that he and Burton played the relationship as "awkward" because with the additional responsibility of a child, "it's not easy". He summarised the relationship as "a genuine, loving relationship between two people who are attracted to one another." The actor also thought that the differences in Karen and Rob's positions in the school would add another dynamic to the relationship. The actors enjoyed working with each other and Burton had expressed an interest in working with Green because she believed they would be "a good team", something she hoped would be mirrored on-screen. Ash highlighted Karen and Rob's relationship as one of his favourite stories on the drama in June 2011.

It was announced in April 2011 that Burton had quit Waterloo Road and would depart during series 7. She appeared across thirty episodes. The decision was influenced by the distance between the show's set in Manchester and her home in London. A show spokesperon expressed their disappointment at Burton's decision and commented, "Amanda has made an amazing contribution to Waterloo Road playing Karen Fisher." Karen leaves after campaigning for the school and her role as headteacher when officials deem Karen unable to control the school. Burton commented, "She makes some unwise decisions, things spiral out of control and that's really where we leave Karen at the end." Burton's exit also coincides with the departure of Green. The actress reflected positively about her time on the drama and thought her departure was timely.

Steph Haydock
 

Lorna Hutchinson
Lorna Hutchinson, portrayed by Laura Aikman, first appears in the show's tenth series. Aikman's casting was announced on 1 July 2014, while further details about the character were announced in December 2014. Lorna is introduced as the school's new deputy head teacher, working under headteacher Vaughan Fitzgerald (Neil Pearson). Aikman expressed her delight at joining the cast and featuring in the final series of the drama. Christopher Aird, the head of drama at BBC Scotland, said he was pleased with the casting and looked forward to seeing Lorna "make [her] mark on the school".

Lorna is billed as "idealistic" and "tactless" with a vision of helping struggling pupils and building the perfect school. Series producer Huw Kennair-Jones described Lorna as young and unafraid to speak her mind, which would "put some people's noses out of joint". Writing for Digital Spy, Daniel Kilkelly noted that Lorna is a "private" person. Laurie Brett, who portrays Christine Mulgrew, called Lorna "enthusiastic", "fashionable" and "quite feisty". Sarah Deen of the Metro described the character as "headstrong, kind and stylish to boot". Vaughan hires Lorna as his deputy to "shake things up a bit". He uses Lorna as a "strong ally" in his battle to keep the school open. Pearson explained that Lorna is "a loyal and effective lieutenant" who can manage the school's daily issues while Vaughan focuses on bigger issues. This is challenged when Lorna's own issues arise.

Lorna clashes with older members of the staff, specifically english teacher Christine Mulgrew (Brett), who had declined Vaughan's offer of the deputy headteacher position. Christine takes a dislike to Lorna because she is jealous of Lorna's attributes and does not appreciate Lorna rejecting her support and advice. Brett explained that Christine views Lorna as the person she could have become if she had not become an alcoholic. Lorna makes a connection with student Kenzie Calhoun (Charlotte Beaumont). They first meet when Kenzie accidentally punches Lorna in the face, while aiming for Scott Fairchild (Andrew Still), who had been winding her up. Beaumont enjoyed filming the scenes and thought it created a good introduction for her character. When Lorna realises that Kenzie is experiencing issues at home, she tries to help her. Aikman praised Beaumont and thought she would have a successful career. Producers also gave Lorna a love interest in Marco D'Olivera (Stefano Braschi), which Aikman liked as she believed Marco would make Lorna happy. Aikman enjoyed filming with Braschi and they became close friends.

The character's backstory is explored following the introduction of her husband, Rob Hutchinson (Gareth David-Lloyd), who has tracked her down to the school. Aikman explained that Lorna is shocked to see Rob and is scared about what he might do, especially after he confronts her in front of Marco and students. Her backstory states that she has run away from a former life after a series of problems with Rob and is restarting. Writers plotted hints to Lorna's backstory across the series, including telling her mother over the phone that she was in London and avoiding her photograph on the school website. Rob becomes involved in promoting the school through a PR stunt. Aikman told Kilkelly (Digital Spy) that having Rob involved in her work life is a "personal hell" for Lorna. The actress noted that there is still a "spark" between Lorna and Rob and thought she may struggle to avoid his "charms".

Aikman received a positive response to her character, which she found surprising. She added, "I thought she was being a real bitch to everyone, but people seem to be quite thrilled with her!" Deen (Metro) liked the character and wanted to see her as a headteacher. She also praised the scenes featuring Lorna standing up to "manipulative" Rob.

Izzie Redpath
Izzie Redpath, played by Jill Halfpenny, first appears in the show's first episode. Izzie is billed as "warm with bags of charisma" and a popular teacher due to her "sod the rules" teaching style. Izzie is the school's drama and movement teacher and a single parent to Mika Grainger (Lauren Drummond) and Chlo Grainger (Katie Griffiths). Izzie's backstory states that she was a singer and dancer, who married Jimmy Grainger (David Crellin) and became pregnant with his children. It continues to state they divorced and Jimmy began a relationship with a younger woman. Izzie is in her thirties. Halfpenny described the character as "spontaneous, creative, [...] warm, open and feisty". Additionally, Izzie is unique and prioritises love in her life. The actress enjoyed Izzie's "spirit" and the fact that Izzie allows "her heart [to] rule her head", but criticised her "stroppy" incidents. Camilla Power, who portrays english teacher Lorna Dickey, called Izzie "very down to earth". In series 2, Izzie was billed as "a popular teacher" who "can have a laugh at her own expense with the pupils".

Izzie is close friends with Lorna and her husband, Tom Clarkson (Jason Done), although Izzie has romantic feelings for Tom. After they realise they have feelings for each other, Izzie and Tom begin an affair. On why they are attracted to each other, Halfpenny said, "They are both spontaneous and free-spirited and they make each other laugh." Halfpenny and Power agreed that their favourite storyline of the series was the love triangle plot. Claire Phillips, the series 1 producer, praised Halfpenny's performance, calling it "formidable". At the end of the series, Lorna discovers Tom and Izzie's relationship and gives them her blessing, despite being hurt by this. Lorna writes to Tom and Izzie, informing them she has moved to Australia.

At the beginning of series 2, Izzie and Tom are living together "happily" and expecting a child together, with Mika and Chlo now adjusted to Tom's presence. Halfpenny said that Izzie begins the new series with "a renewed enthusiasm and happiness", feeling pleased and optimistic about her future with Tom. As they arrive at the school, they are stunned to find a "relaxed" Lorna in the staffroom. Izzie, feeling guilty about betraying Lorna, is pleased to see her friend and offers her their spare room, hoping to reconcile. Of this, Halfpenny said, "Izzie is wracked with guilt and allows Lorna to manipulate her because of this." Dickey explained that Lorna has mixed feelings towards Izzie as they are close and Izzie is dating Tom. Additionally in the series, Izzie's daughter, Mika, begins getting bullied, which has "extreme consequences". Halfpenny explained that Izzie feels "terribly guilty" for neglecting Mika.

At the conclusion to series 2, Izzie was stabbed by Jed Seddon after trying to protect headteacher Jack Rimmer (Jason Merrells) during a fight. At the beginning of series 3, it is revealed that Izzie died from the injuries she sustained. Jack subsequenly blames himself for Izzie's death, under the impression "he could have done more to save her". Tom is "reeling" from Izzie's death and, struggling to care for Mika and Chlo as a single parent, blames Jack for her murder.

Jack Rimmer
Jack Rimmer, played by Jason Merrells, first appears in the show's first episode. Jack is billed as "the reluctant new headmaster" who prefers to avoid his responsibilities and problems. Merrells described Jack as "bullish, frazzled and redeemable". Jack is in his early forties and a BBC reporter described him as "a complete pragmatist" who is enjoying bachelorhood following his divorce. The producer of the first series, Claire Phillips, said that Merrells "makes Rochdale sexy". Merrells relocated to Manchester for the role. Jack works closely to Andrew Treneman (Jamie Glover) and Kim Campbell (Angela Griffin) in the first series to save the school from closure. Steph Haydock (Denise Welch) harbours unreciprocated feelings for Jack and after they have a one-night stand, Jack decides to sack Steph but she threatens to report him for sexual harrassment so he does not. Despite this, Steph continues to pursue a relationship with Jack. Jack also feuded with Lewis Seddon (Craig Fitzpatrick), which concluded when Lewis nearly killed Jack after setting him on fire.

In the second series, Jack feuded with Roger Aspinall (Nick Sidi), which left his job "hanging in the balance" as he prepared for an interview for permanent headship. Merrells explained that Jack has become "more comfortable" in his position as headteacher so is surprised when Roger becomes over-involved in the running of the school. Jack continues to treat Steph poorly, which Merrells believed "she [did not] seem to mind." Jack formed a relationship with Davina Shackleton (Christine Tremarco) after "[falling] for her completely". Tremarco said that Jack and Davina "get on really well" and "challenge each other." Merrells described Jack and Davina's relationship as his favourite series 2 storyline. Following Davina's appointment, Steph "resolves to reel Jack in" and when she discovers Davina is working for Roger, she is given the "ammunition she needs". Welch explained that Steph continues to try to win Jack's attraction because it is "all she's got." At the end of the series, Jack tried to save the life of Izzie Redpath (Jill Halfpenny) after she was murdered.

At the beginning of the third series, Jack is awarded a national bravery award for his role in Izzie's death. Despite this, Jack blames himself for Izzie's death. As a result of Izzie's death, Jack becomes "determined" to make the school successful. Merrells revealed that Jack is still "head over heels" in love with Davina and it is her "love and support" that keeps Jack "afloat". Izzie's partner, Tom Clarkson (Jason Done), struggles to get along with Jack. Jack and the new deputy headteacher, Eddie Lawson (Neil Morrissey), "develop a mutual respect for one another." Merrells said Jack and Davina's relationship and Jack's "novel use of the school budget" were his favourite series three storylines. Merrells left in series three, but briefly returned at the end of the series. He explained that he opted to leave the show because he felt the character of Jack had been exhausted, and the writing was becoming repetitive and "more and more soapy".

Andrew Treneman
Andrew Treneman, played by Jamie Glover, first appears in the show's first episode. He was billed as "optimistic, educational zealot" who leaves a "comfortable private school job" for a position as deputy headteacher at the school. Andrew is "old fashioned and a strict disciplinarian" and unreceptive to change, having been educated at an Oxbridge university. Claire Phillips, the producer of series one, said Glover breathes life into Andrew. Glover described Andrew as "blinkered, focused, driven" and praised his dedication to his pupils, but said he disliked his simple-mindedness. Andrew is dedicated to his work and values the students' potential. Glover described him as "headstrong and opinionated and perhaps not the most sensitive man."

The character's love interest was Kim Campbell (Angela Griffin) and Glover noted that Andrew and Kim "dance around each other" in the first series. He added that they are "polar opposites" in their attitudes to teaching but they "respect the commitment and care of the other". Griffin said Kim and Andrew had similar "passions" while Glover believed that Andrew best relates to Kim. Griffin described Andrew and Kim's relationship as her favourite storyline. Jack Rimmer (Jason Merrells) invited Andrew to join the school's teaching staff in order to "restore discipline" within the school. The school faced closure and Andrew and Jack fought to keep it open, successfully winning at the end of the first series. Glover described Jack and Andrew as "chalk and cheese" and noted that they respect each other.

Andrew's relationship with Kim was a central storyline in the show's second series as Kim continued to struggle with her feelings for Andrew. Andrew and Kim are attracted to each other but struggle to "get things right". Griffin explained that Kim is attracted to Andrew, but finds him frustrating. Glover said that there is "a strong magnetic pull between them". Griffin added that the storyline would feature lots of twists. Andrew develops a friendship with Lorna Dickey (Camilla Power) after she experiences struggles in her own life. Glover explained that "Andrew likes and respects Lorna but there just isn't the chemistry there – unlike with Kim." Glover left at the end of the second series but briefly returned at the end of the fourth series.

Estelle Cooper
Estelle Cooper, played by Judith Barker, first appears in the show's first episode. Estelle is the original secretary of headteacher Jack Rimmer (Jason Merrells) and had a good relationship with him. Barker did not return for the show's second series.