Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School bids farewell to a beloved member of its community, John Grant, as he retires after more than two decades of dedicated service. John joined the school in December of 2001, bringing with him a wealth of experience.
He began his journey with the grounds and maintenance team, supporting the school through a decade of growth and development. His professional welding skills played a significant role in his contributions to the school, with John fabricating bus shelters, aluminium hockey goals, boom gates by the ovals, and undertaking welding repairs on tractors and other workshop machinery.
“The first 10 years were full-on,” he said. “There were new buildings going up every year as the school expanded to double streams. It was a busy time, but I loved the diversity of the work.”
“It wasn’t like construction or workshop jobs. Every day brought something new, and I got to work with so many great people.”
In 2020, amidst the challenges of COVID-19, John transitioned to a role as a design and technology technician.
“It was a great move,” he shared. “It gave me the opportunity to pass on my experience in metalwork to the students. Seeing them enjoy what they’re doing and learning new skills—it’s so rewarding. These last four years have been a fantastic way to wrap up my working life.”
When asked about his favourite part of working at the school, John spoke fondly of the dynamic environment:
“The school is always evolving. It’s not static. From the boarding and catering sides to sports and landscaping, every facet of the school is interconnected,” said John.
“The people here are amazing, and it’s such a sociable and vibrant place to work.”
As John prepares to embrace retirement, he plans to focus on home renovations, a road trip across Australia, and visiting relatives in New Zealand. But he admits, “I’ll miss the school environment—the social side, the energy, and especially interacting with the kids.”
“Teaching and working with them has been so rewarding.”
Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School thanks John Grant for his outstanding contribution and wishes him all the best in his retirement.
