Mr Alan Swan (Latin and English master from 1953-1969)
Background
Alan was born in Adelaide and he studied at the University of Adelaide. He taught at St Peter’s College before moving to Tudor House and becoming Senior Master.
Master at Sydney Grammar School (1953-69)
Alan joined Sydney Grammar School in 1953 and was particularly well known as a Form Master in the Lower School. He taught Latin at Edgecliff Preparatory School for a while and coached rugby, helping Mr Stevenson with his famous Midget teams. For ten years he was Assistant to the Master of the Lower School where he interviewed new boys and efficiently dealt with significant clerical work.
Mr Alastair Mackerras, writing in Alan’s Sydneian obituary, noted that he would be remembered for:
- ‘his forceful teachings of the Classics and of English and particularly for his precision in the teaching of English Grammar.’
- ‘the warmth of his personality and his hatred of humbug and cant.’
- ‘his love of good books and … his love of the School.’
Unfortunately, Alan’s health began to decline in the late 1960’s and, although he was obliged to withdraw from most of his teaching, he continued to work at the School. He left a lasting impression on his pupils, and he donated many of his own valuable books to the School Library.
(Thanks to Ross Buchanan (OS 1971) for making an inquiry about Alan Swan.)
Alan Swan and Russell John (‘Stevo’) Stevenson with the undefeated rugby premiers (1960)