Mr Ryan Dowling

Kia ora,

My name is Ryan Dowling, and I am excited to be the new Outdoor Education Teacher for Year 12 and Year 9 Maths at Otago Girls' High School. I hold two degrees—one in Anthropology, both social and archaeological, and another in Design, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning.

Sport has been a major part of my life, and I’ve been fortunate to represent two provinces across seven different sports. I’m still an active cricket player and have coached swimming, football, rugby, cricket, and athletics. I also have a passion for the outdoors.

Originally from Lumsden in the Deep South, I grew up in Central Otago with a rural background and a deep passion for the outdoors. My father was a well-known stock auctioneer, and my mother dedicated nearly 70 years of her life to teaching ballet—one of New Zealand’s longest-serving ballet teachers.

I have two children, aged 19 and 28, both born in Golden Bay/Nelson.

I am thrilled to now be a part of the Otago Girls' High School team and look forward to contributing to our already dedicated and talented staff. My goal is to promote active participation and enjoyment in everything we do, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be here.