MBE awarded to long serving DHS teacher

MBE awarded to long serving DHS teacher

17 June 2015

AT Down High School David Donnan’s door has been knocked on by many hundreds of students over the years.

Known for his caring nature and good sense, as well as his sense of humour, they got a sympathetic ear and often help above and beyond the call of duty. 

Those taught by him will know exactly why he has just been awarded an MBE.

Mr Donnan’s award in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced this week is for his services to education and especially for his contribution to Down High over 39 years.

Having previously been a pupil at the school, Mr Donnan joined the teaching staff in 1976 and is currently its Deputy Head. Over and above his classroom teaching in geography, maths and geology at different stages, he also helped to build international links through other subjects such as European Studies, establishing partnerships with schools in the Republic of Ireland and Scandinavia.

Carrying out many key roles within the school, most notably within the pastoral care system, his most significant contribution to the extra-curricular life of the school has been rugby, which he has coached at all levels.

Despite such a major contribution to the school he attended himself as a pupil, Mr Donnan (62) said he couldn’t quite believe an MBE was heading his way.

“I thought somebody was teasing me,” he said. “I have been really amazed by the response. I have had nothing but good wishes from all my colleagues.”

The father of three who lives on a farm outside Saintfield is also quick to credit the support of his family in helping him be the best teacher he can be.

“I could not have done this job without the support of my wife Cathy,” he said.

Asked why he had chosen to remain at Down High for so many years, Mr Donnan said: “I think it is an understanding, good school. It has outstandingly good pupils who are really easy to interact with and I have really good colleagues.”

It is hard to name particular highlights over his long teaching career, he says, but he still gets a kick from the circle of school life as sixth formers depart and make way for the latest new intake.

“Next week the next year’s year eights are coming in,” he said. “It is always nice to see the young ones coming in as the sixth form go away.”

Over the years the teaching profession as he has known it has changed, and he says it is a tougher job compared to when he was starting out.

“It is completely different,” he said. “The demands and expectations are much greater. It is a more demanding job and there is more pointless administration.”

Modern technology does not always make life easier, he also points out.

“When you have emails and then you also get letters, I don’t see the point,” he said. “We have never had so many labour saving devices, yet we never seem to be able to get ahead.”

But despite the demands, there are clearly no regrets.

“This was my school, the better part of my life has been here,” he said.

Down High School head teacher, Mr Paul Logan, said Mr Donnan had had a profoundly positive impact on the lives of thousands of young people by bringing outstanding personal attributes, energy and dedication to his role.

“A large number of parents speak to me each year about how grateful they are to Mr Donnan for the way in which he provides a highly trusted listening ear for pupils and a commitment that goes way beyond what is expected,” he said. “This  recognition of Davy’s work is marvellous news, and so totally deserved.”