The Headmaster was privileged to spend an evening enjoying the warm hospitality of John Turner (Class of 1960) in Denver last week. At school, John was in West House and a member of the scouts. He studied Maths, Chemistry, and Physics at A Level and was the winner of the Aust Physics Prize. Born in Olney and raised in Reading, he fondly remembers his design teacher, Mr Ruffle, who taught him technical drawing. These skills served him well throughout his career in research, design, and manufacturing.

John exemplifies the attributes of a Reading School student: an agile problem solver and a quick learner. He mastered four languages and travelled the world, improving food manufacturing processes, notably for Weetabix. His charitable efforts are noteworthy. While in Massachusetts, John facilitated a policy change for a major breakfast cereal manufacturer to donate surplus produce to homeless shelters. He also maintained a lifelong love for the creative arts and fondly remembers his music teacher, Mr Griffin—a name shared with our current Director of Music. John was pleased to learn about the current Modern Foreign Languages curriculum, which allows junior students to learn four languages, and our school’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.

John’s intellect and charm are matched by his wife Gerda, whom he married in Caracas 52 years ago just three weeks after meeting. Gerda, a qualified dentist and accomplished dancer, became a Computer Science lecturer and has a long history of supporting opera and the arts. She has also served as a guide at the Museum of Colorado History for many years.

The Headmaster enjoyed a delicious dinner barbecued by John, accompanied by fascinating stories. As a token of appreciation, the Headmaster gifted a piece of art completed by our current student, Jamie Rainsford (Year 12MJK), to add to Gerda and John’s art collection. Jamie’s work, which reflects the cultural, racial, and ethnic diversity of Reading School, explores identity and racial complexities, stereotypes, and expectations. His Jamaican heritage influences his art, which often delves into histories concerning imperialism and its legacy.

We are proud of Jamie's work and grateful we could share this with John and thank him for his continued support and inspiration.

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