A long-serving former Hove teacher has been recognised in the King’s birthday honours list, becoming an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire).
Graham Goldup, 65, joined Cardinal Newman Catholic School in September 1982 and taught geography to generations of secondary school children.
He was the senior assistant head teacher when he retired from four years ago, in August 2021.
Mr Goldup, who lives in Worthing, said: “I’m thrilled to have been given this honour which recognises my work over the past 40 years in geography locally and nationally and post-16 education.
“It has been a privilege to teach thousands of students at Cardinal Newman Catholic School since 1981; work alongside highly talented and supportive teachers and support staff; and have the opportunity to lead and drive geography nationally through opportunities from the Geographical Association, Prince’s Teaching Institute (PTI) and the Royal Geographical Society.
“I am truly indebted to so many great geography educators across the country and five head teachers that have wholeheartedly believed in me, allowed me to pursue ideas and opportunities and enabled my teaching career to develop and flourish.”
Cardinal Newman principal Claire Jarman said: “Graham was an integral part of Cardinal Newman for over 30 years, during which time his work with the Geographical Association, the Prince’s Teaching Institute and other notable educational institutions and organisations helped shape the future of geography teaching in this country.
“We are all delighted for him and send our warmest congratulations.”
One of his many former pupils, Patrick McVeigh, technical director of economic development at Beca engineering consultants, in Auckland, New Zealand, said: “They say you always remember your best teachers and what they taught you.
“I had the pleasure of having Mr Goldup as my sixth form geography teacher at Cardinal Newman in 1989 before studying town planning at university and his lessons left me well prepared for my future career.”
Another former pupil. Sarah Booker-Lewis, local democracy reporter at Brighton and Hove News, said: “He was an inspirational teacher and one of my favourites.
“I know he inspired many people in his years teaching and then moving into leadership at Cardinal Newman.
“The knowledge I gained through his geography lessons has served me well in my 26-year career as a journalist and is probably why I enjoy planning so much.”
In 2009, Mr Goldup received the Royal Geographical Society Ordnance Survey Award for excellence in teaching at secondary school level.
As well as teaching teenagers, he has inspired other teachers through the Prince’s Teaching Institute (PTI) which was set up by King Charles when he was Prince of Wales.
Mr Goldup was the geography continuing professional development co-ordinator at the PTI.
He was made an MBE for services to education.
It’s hard to believe he was in his early 20’s fresh out of Uni when he taught us from 82 through to my Geography A level in 88. A great teacher who enthused so many in geography. But most of all a lovely chap. Congrats Mr Holdup and thank you.
Congratulations Mr Goldup, you taught both of our sons at CNCS. Your wonderful service and dedication to education has shaped many young people futures.
I remember him and Mr Green having way too much fun working together.
Working for Graham was a real pleasure. He gave me lots of opportunities which contributed to me going on to do a Geography PGCE and teach Geography for 10 years. A well deserved award.
Many congratulations Graham on receiving an MBE in the Kings Birthday Honours list. Such an amazing teacher and colleague. This honour is well deserved marking a fantastic career in teaching so many young people.
Mr Goldup was and is a legend.
Best teacher we ever had and we still talk about to this day.