Scots College – Learning. For Life.

From his appointment as head in 1950, the primary school at Scots grew steadily in stature under his leadership, while his administrative skills produced an effective smooth-running department.

It was Stan Painter was was the prime mover in developing the Staff Committee for the whole College.  He served as its chairman for five years and in that time the new staff room was built and a staff agreement covering terms of appointment was developed – the first such agreement for independent schools in New Zealand.

On his retirement in 1976 those writing of his contributions to the college remarked on the fact that “he was always approachable and ever ready to lend a sympathetic ear to help solve everyday problems.  He always demanded the highest standard possible from the boys, but with understanding humanity, has not expected miracles, and has been quick to praise any worthwhile achievement no matter how small … while at the same time never shirking the unpleasant necessity of severely reprimanding any whose actions could in any way tarnish the good name of the school.” (He has been described as possessing a stinging forehand and a powerful backhand).

In 1971 his duties were extended when he was made senior housemaster of Gibb House, a position he relinquished after five years of conscientious service, part way through 1975.

Condensed from The First Seven Thousand: a Jubilee history of Scots College 1916-1990 by James Brodie