TANILBA resident Ian Downs has recently been honoured by the unveiling of a bronze bust in recognition of his dedicated service as principal of the New England Girls’ School.

The private school, which was founded in 1895, commissioned renowned sculptor Tanya Bartlett to cast the sculpture which now takes pride of place near the entrance to the administrative block.

Ian finished a career spanning some fifty years with four years as principal at the boarding school.

Starting out as a high school teacher in 1963, he worked his way up the promotional ladder within the NSW Department of Education from a classroom teacher to subject master and on to the senior executive roles of Inspector of Schools and Cluster Director.

He then switched to The King’s School at Parramatta where he became Director of Boarding.

His final appointment was as principal at NEGS in Armidale.

“I was both honoured and flattered by the tribute,” he said.

“My fondest and most enduring memories are of all those wonderful children with whom I’ve had the privilege of helping along life’s pathway.”

“Knowing that I’ve played a positive role in their lives is the greatest reward I could have been given.”

“I loved every one of them.”

 

By Geoff WALKER