Following 34 years of dedicated service to Churchie, Head of Mathematics Faculty, Mr Neale Holman (pictured in hi-vis vest with the undefeated 1st XV of 2014) recently announced his retirement, which was effective at the end of Term 1. Below is a fitting testimonial from Headmaster Dr Alan Campbell.

Neale commenced at Churchie in 1987 as a Teacher of Mathematics whereupon Headmaster Hayward invited him to teach Years 8-10 Maths, Maths in Society and Mathematics II. In 1989 Headmaster Ellis invited Neale to coordinate Junior Maths. By 1993 he was coordinating Senior Mathematics, ultimately moving to Head of the Mathematics faculty in 1994. Each of these advancements were borne of Neale’s recognised talent as a Teacher of Mathematics and his capacity to lead a team of fellow educators.

It is no modest testimony to Neale’s wisdom, experience and standing in the Queensland education firmament, that he was called to assume the new role of Chief Confirmer for Mathematics in the QCAA’s inaugural QCE (ATAR) system, a role he has filled with distinction. This appointment followed many years of service as a long-standing Panel member of former BOSSSS mathematics panels in Queensland.

Beyond his leadership role in Mathematics, Neale has contributed generously to the pastoral life of the School as a Tutor in Biggs House and, for a time, served as Assistant Housemaster of Biggs.

Notwithstanding Neale’s enthusiasm for, and expert command of, mathematics education, he may be at his most animated and passionate when he is urging the members of the 1st XV to victory in the GPS competition in his beloved role as Manager. Countless boys will have been the beneficiaries of an encouraging word as Neale willed the top team on during matches on Main Oval and throughout the schoolboy rugby-playing world.

While Neale concludes his time as a full-time colleague, we will see him at Churchie in the capacity of supply Teacher and, for a time, ensuring our 1st XV is well managed in the forthcoming GPS competition.

We thank Neale most sincerely for all he has contributed to Churchie over many years and wish him and his family, good health and happiness in the future.