FOR more than 50 years Ian Lindsay has been helping shape the minds of the next generation, earning the former deputy principal at Scotch College a Medal of the Order of Australia for his contribution and services to education.
The Helena Valley resident said he treasured his 55 years working at the school based in Swanbourne.
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READ NOW“I have had the great fortune of working with people who are very committed to their students and are very good at what they do,” he said.
“I started off in the English department and also worked in the music department, as a commander of the College Air Training Corps and coordinator of the year 12 study skills program and the international Bacclaureate program.
“Being involved with so many educational bodies was important in keeping me fresh in my approach.
“I have had a very satisfying career, including three retirements, but if you enjoy what you are doing why suddenly stop?”
Mr Lindsay said it was as a student that he was encouraged to enter the profession.
“I studied at Perth Modern and I had some excellent teachers who gave me the idea to give teaching a go,” he said.
“It was the beginning of a wonderful career and I have met lots of students who stand out over the decades.
“One I remember well is the youngest judge of the High Court and another student is an internationally recognised professor of mathematics at Harvard University.
“He is the brightest student I ever came across, sitting his Year 12 exams when he was just 11.”
Mr Lindsay is also a life member of the Australian College of Education and a founding member of the Parkerville Baptist Church.