It has been 40 years since Gregory Hall began his career as a teacher, overseeing hundreds of students through their early years of education.
To celebrate this milestone, Mr Hall received a ‘Recognition of Service to Victorian Education’ from the state government, which honoured 275 staff members for their service to public education.
After beginning his career as a relief teacher in Bendigo, and teaching for five years in Melton, Mr Hall found his way to Altona Meadows Primary School where he has had a hand at teaching every subject.
He has been at the school for 35 years.
“I still enjoy the job, things have changed but I have no plans to retire yet,” he said.
“My wife keeps asking if I will retire, and each year I say no I am really enjoying this year.”
Mr Hall met his wife Carole walking the halls of Altona Meadows more than 20 years ago, when she started as a student teacher.
Mr Hall said he has taught every year level besides prep, but is known for his passion as a music teacher.
“I have spent most of my career teaching music and performing arts, although in university I said I would never teach music,” he said.
According to Mr Hall, to teach a subject well you must have decent knowledge and undertake good research.
Which is just what he did, learning to play several instruments for his students including guitar, ukulele, drumming and keyboard.
“I couldn’t teach music so I learnt with the kids,” he said.
Mr Hall said teachers must have two things: patience and a good sense of humour.
“Teaching is not an easy job, you have to have a lot of patience. I am very patient,” he said.
Jennifer Pittorino
