The 96-year-old neighbour of the Liberton Christian School in Pine Hill can often be seen looking over his back fence into the school - just minding the children as they play.
School principal Fiona Sizemore said his support and friendship to the school over the past decade had been extraordinary.
So to say thank-you, the school's 61 pupils lined up on the tennis court yesterday to sing Happy Birthday to celebrate his 96th birthday.
‘‘He's just like our guardian angel. He's got a workshop in his garage and he used to mend the odd chair for us and other things around the school.
He also speaks to the pupils at school assemblies about his life. It's a unique opportunity for the kids to hear the voice of a man this age about his life experiences.
‘‘His attitude to life is incredible. He embraces it and he sends the message to the kids to make the right choices and make the most of life's opportunities.''
Staff and children had been singing for Mr Harlow on his birthdays for the past six years and he said he felt honoured by their gesture.
‘‘I feel so privileged. I don't know why I deserve it. No-one else gets this treatment. I get a lot of joy just out of watching them play.''
Mr Harlow attributed much of his ‘‘youthfulness'' to the presence of children nearby. He said they were entertaining and they made his life worthwhile.
There were cheers and clapping following the birthday wishes and Mr Harlow responded by saying, ‘‘I should clap for you - what a wonderful performance.
‘‘I do appreciate it. I love this school, I love living here. I find it very entertaining''.
