Dedicated to the Memory of JD

This site is a tribute to JD, who was born on 24 May 1946.  He was loved and respected as a consummate professional, charismatic and exceptional teacher and a warm and generous human being by his many friends and colleagues within the Wales High School community.

JD's contribution to the educational and the community life of Wales High School is entirely unique. His character is woven into the fabric of the school, into the history of its achievements and into the hearts of all he encountered over his long years of service.  His work was characterised by the same qualities that were evident in his relationships with students, staff and parents in the Wales family. He was unfailingly courteous, kindly, mischievous, respectful and honest.

JD was an outstanding educator, a teacher and a man of inordinate talents, a model of decency and of principle and an example to all who were taught, supported, cared for and guided by him. 

He will be sadly missed and we will treasure our memories of JD, Mister Wales, embodiment of 'The Wales Way'.

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It’s more than a few years since I was at Wales High ... Mr Day was then PE Day and head of the Upper School. Though not directly taught by him I was introduced to camping at Abersoch and Berwick. Scary though it was I remember going to his office twice - one to ask for permission to have a day off school (Princess Margaret was visiting Glenbrook and I had been invited to attend) and a second time to borrow a couple of primes stoves to show Guides at Harthill. Learning to over come the fear of asking has taken me further in life and in my career than anything else. He was definitely a force at Wales back then and I was over joyed to hear he had married and become Head. Kind thoughts to you and your family. Suzanne Hodkin now Short PS Mr Arnott - I remember you too, not forgotten as you thought!
Suzanne
16th May 2020
“If you want to know who we are , we are gentleman of Japan “ .....these words are from The Mikado ... John Day was The Mikado in a Wales production around 1992 . He only came to the dress rehearsal and the actual performances ( busy running the school )...but WOW ! What a commanding performance he made ... His being projecting into every space in the auditorium and held the audience spellbound . His commanding figure , melodic tones and humour ; his calling card traits , unique. I drove a minibus to Scotland in place of John after the earlier Wales trip that academic school year .He had his birthday , this time of year .May .Same as mine exactly I remember .... he wanted to put his young family and wife first . He really thought about this decision . I saw him deliberate . He made a good call . He made lots of good calls . My children now attend Wales . We had no real chance to be admitted. He said to me , “ For every child who really wants to attend Wales High School .. we have a place for him “ . I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a great man . But happy to have known him in some, small way . My thoughts are with those who loved him . Jayne
Jayne
10th May 2020
The main reason our keep fit class has lasted nearly 50 years is down to John's ability as a teacher but mainly his sense of humour and personality, gone far too soon, Phil Allen keep fit member.
Philip
9th May 2020
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