JUNE 27 will be the final day well-known local teacher Bob Mortyn will walk into a classroom.
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Mr Mortyn, who has taught for almost 41 years, most at four Shoalhaven schools, will on July 13 retire from a profession that has seen him teach thousands of local children.
Originally from Sydney, he completed his training at the Northern Rivers College of Advanced Education at Lismore, and headed west for his first teaching post at Alma Park.
“It was a little, one-teacher school west of Culcairn,” he said.
He spent two interesting years “in the bush” which was “certainly a learning experience for a boy from the city”.
From there he moved to the coast, taking up a position at Nowra East Public School, starting a love affair with the Shoalhaven, which has seen him spend 15 years at NEPS, two years at Kangaroo Valley, 16 years at Cambewarra and five and a half years at Nowra Public.
“I’ve made some great friends with staff, families and students,” he said.
“Kids have changed significantly, as has the way we now teach.
“For kids to learn it needs to be fun.
“Sure, we are now in the technological age and that has had a tremendous impact on the kids, but not always for the best.
“I do believe students’ fitness levels have dropped from what they used to be.”
He has been a member of the Shoalhaven District Public School Sports Association (PSSA) for 38 years, holding most executive positions except president.
In retirement, Mr Mortyn plans on becoming a grey nomad.
“We have a caravan and we will travel – with my wife Lyndal, we intend to hit the road,” he said.
A farewell function will be held for Mr Mortyn at the Bomaderry Bowling Club on Saturday, July 19 from 6pm.
The cost is $30 and bookings are essential through the office of Nowra Public School on 4422 0401.
Colleagues, former students and friends are invited to attend.