In a career spanning 40 years — the past 23 as principal of Lawrence Area School — John Auld has taught in many of the South’s rural outposts, including spells in Blackball, Hyde, Blackmount and Hokonui.
He retired last term, as a long-standing diagnosis of Parkinson’s caught up with him "a little earlier than expected".
Although, at 67, the time was right to step aside.
"I’ve always described myself as a teacher first and foremost, and I’ve been very lucky across the many schools I’ve worked at to teach every age from new entrant to year 13.
"What’s been universal, wherever I’ve been, is the huge potential of each and every child.
"Place the school at the heart of its community and remember you’re there for the children and their families above all."
He was particularly proud of the academic progress made both by Lawrence pupils, and by area schools across the country.
"I’ve been lucky to be involved with the area schools executive for several years, and help shape relations between the roughly 100 member schools nationwide and the ministry.
"I think we can be proud of the preparation of our kids for the next stage of their lives, whether that be tertiary education, apprenticeships or the workplace."
Although some superficial elements of teaching had changed during his 40 years, the basics remained the same.
"Technology has changed the ways of teaching for many teachers, but I think we now recognise it as just another tool.
"What doesn’t change is the value of school for children and their families, and the daily necessity to plan well, and put your heart into it."
As well as the sense he was leaving the school "in good heart", it had received a significant physical overhaul during his recent closing tenure.
"We discovered serious damp issues during a project in 2017.
"The ministry stepped up in 2021, and $9 million and three years later we have a fantastic school, future-proofed for the next 50 years."
He and wife of 45 years Sharon were looking forward to an active retirement, including plenty of time spent with their three adult children and six grandchildren.
"I’d like to get back to golf, which is different with Parkinson’s. And it would be nice to be in Queensland next winter."
New principal David Bagwell will take up his position on November 25, leaving his role as principal of Westbridge Residential School in Auckland.
