We feature one of our most long servicing teachers this week, Athol Webster - Head of Learning Area: Physical Education & Health

How long have you been teaching and how long you been at Nayland College?

I have been teaching for 38 years and I have been at Nayland College for 32 of those.

What are your passions and areas of expertise?

I love to be involved in physical activity and sport plus travel and explore other countries and cultures.

A real highlight of my recent experiences was travelling on safari in Southern Africa. We went through parts of South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The experience was amazing, particularly when we were able to visit the small villages, interact with the people and in that way appreciate their country and their culture in a more authentic manner. Seeing wildlife up close, lions within 2-3 metre’s out hunting, rhino, giraffe in their natural environment and having to stop the minibus on a main road so that elephant could cross are all pretty special experiences.

I enjoy seeing the geographical wonders of each country, for example we have walked the Great Wall of China, visited Victoria Falls, seen Roman ruins in Europe, Machu Picchu and Rio de Janeiro.

In terms of my areas of expertise, most obviously is Physical Education!

My teaching diploma is in Physical Education alongside a degree in, Geography and Economics. My sporting expertise is predominantly in the areas of basketball, cricket, volleyball and more recently, golf.

Who has inspired you on your own learning journey?

A range of different people, from way back to my own teachers through to my fellow colleagues, students and my wife.

What is your favourite thing about the school?

It's the relationships with past and present students and staff.

I enjoy catching up with ex-students and finding out what they have accomplished, where they are in the world, and the people they have become since leaving Nayland College. I was able to catch up with a ex-student in Dubai for four days earlier in the year, and remain in contact with many ex-students in a sporting context through golf and basketball in particular.

What are your ambitions for the future?

Stay healthy, enjoy life and enjoy my family and friendships. And of course, travel!

I'm sure I'll end up relief teaching or working part-time to help pay a few of my travel bills.