In 1979 Mrs Thatcher was elected prime-minister, the Clash were in the charts, and Steve Latus was appointed geography teacher at Sackville. 42 years later and we are wishing him a very well-deserved retirement. All of our staff joined Steve and his family for a celebratory BBQ, and Mr Grant shared the many highlights of his time at Sackville. These include 52 ski-trips, 38 geography field trips and nine victories in the Charlton Chase. But Steve has also taught over 30,000 lessons, and over 15,000 students, and was head of year for a quarter of a century.
Steve himself said none of this ever felt like work, and if he could he would go on forever. He finished his own memorable speech with a quote from Tennyson’s Ulysses
We are not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, made weak by time and fate, but strong in will. To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
Steve signed off with his signature ‘Carpe Diem’. Happy retirement Steve – you have earned it. They say no-one is irreplaceable, but we are not so sure.
