The Old Haileyburians Amateur Football Club are saddened to learn of the passing of Frank Northcott, aged 96. Frank served the school for 48 years from 1935-1982, and was Vice Principal from 1961 – 1982. Frank devoted a large portion of his life to the school. His roles included classroom teacher, resident house master (at both Wellington and Castlefield), Commander of Cadets, coach of first teams in football, cricket, swimming and tennis, coach of football umpires, administrator of timetables and examinations, producer of school magazines, keeper of records and school photographer.
Frank was also a life long follower of the Old Haileybury Amateur Football Club and was a patron of the club for many years. His contribution to the school and football club was immense and he will be sadly missed by all.
He was a larger than life figure and a charismatic speaker, attributes which contributed to his superb classroom management. He was noted also for the meticulous planning and eye for detail exhibited in his varied administrative roles.
His outstanding management skills and meticulous planning in those pre-computer times were held in awe, whether in planning examination timetables, organising school bus schedules or in cutting back the allocation of boiled cabbage on the boarders’ lunchtime menu. He was appointed Vice Principal in 1961 and served under four Headmasters/Principals: Dickinson, Sholto Black, Bradshaw and Aikman. A larger than life figure, his colour portrait hangs in Aikman Hall, and the main quad at Keysborough bears his name.
Frank had a passion for furthering the development and well-being of each student, including those less able. His ability to recall the names and interests of long-departed students when they revisited the school was indicative of his interest in them individually.
Frank’s commitment to the school, and to the boys, was 24/7. His devotion to their well-being and their development was total. Even today, there may be some who recall the ominous tap-tap of his walking stick as he patrolled along the Keysborough covered way at the start of teaching sessions, ensuring punctual attendance in class of both students and staff. His discipline was unquestioned, yet managed with restraint and sometimes a twinkle of humour. Somehow the boys knew he was acting in their best interests.
He was a lifelong supporter of the OHA and its clubs, and any function at which he was listed as guest speaker invariably was a sell-out. The Frank Northcott Trophy Bowls Event was played for the first time in 2013. The event played between the OHA and School teams will continue to be played to recognise Frank's contribution to Lawn Bowls.
Frank’s contribution to Haileybury was immense. He will be sadly missed by generations of students.
A memorial service to honour the life of Frank Northcott will be held on Tuesday 25 February at 4.45pm in the Aikman Hall at Haileybury Keysborough. Refreshments will be served following the service in the Frank Northcott Quadrangle. Individuals requiring special parking arrangements are asked to contact the OHA office on 9213 2260.
Last Modified on 12/02/2014 21:39
