In each Aquinas Newsletter, we’re putting one of our staff under the microscope so you get to know the people helping to mould your child. First up is Mr Richard Watson, PE head honcho and the powerhouse behind last week’s Athletics Day.

1. What is your title and area of responsibility?

Head of Faculty - Health & Physical Education, Teacher-in-Charge Cluny House, Teacher-in-Charge Hockey.

2. How long have you been at Aquinas?

This will be my 17th Year at Aquinas.

3. You're taking leave in Term 2. Tell us about that.

It's a TeachNZ sabbatical open to teachers who have been in the profession for 20-plus years. (This is my 24th year teaching since returning from overseas.) The sabbatical allows for some refreshment and also some study. I am going to look at whether generalisation or specialisation is best for young athletes. The rest of the time is going to be spent mountain biking lots of the South Island’s cycle trails, some white water kayaking, yoga, and gaining a greater appreciation of red wine.

(Note: Mr Marty Lee will return to Aquinas for Term 2 to teach in the Health & PE faculty while Mr Watson is on leave.) 

4. What sports do you play? Or played in previous years, including any major representative teams?

Hockey was my sport all through school and university. These days it is anything outdoors - mountain biking, some trail running… but a day skiing in fresh snow would be the ultimate day out for me.

5. Tell us about your family.

Married to Claire. Dad to Charlotte (19) who is at Otago University, Stanley (17) who is in Y13 at Aquinas College, and Luca - a very excitable labradoodle who thinks he is half human.

6. Favourite song?

It used to be Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond but I have moved on to Fat Freddy's Drop.

7. What's the best way for students to get in your good books?

Bring their PE gear, not wearing shoes in the gym, and always give 100 per cent effort.

8. What's your favourite memory of your time at Aquinas?

Cluny House winning the AA centennial House Cup back in 2012.

9. Best advice for students?

Be yourself and don't worry about what other people think. Spend more time in the present and less time on Tik Tok.