Stirling High bid an emotional, heartfelt farewell to long-serving headmaster Doug Prior, who presided over his final formal assembly, drawing the curtain on nearly a decade of dedicated service to the KuGompo City institution.
Prior, who was appointed at the helm in 2016, leaves behind a legacy defined by profound personal involvement, steadfast commitment, and an open-door approach that cemented strong relationships across pupils, staff, and the broader school community.
During his tenure, Prior was a ubiquitous presence on the school grounds — as visible on the sidelines of Saturday sports fixtures and cultural showcases as he was in the administrative office.
”My proudest moment was when we as a school all bought into our common goal — the school management team, governing body, staff, parents, and pupils realised that when we worked together, we were unstoppable,” Prior said. The affection felt by the pupil body was on full display during his final send-off, with pupil s humorously declaring that “Dougie P” had enjoyed a true “W” season and had earned ultimate status as the “GOAT” (greatest of all time) who kept the famous “green machine” cruising nicely.
“I appreciate the positive comments, but what we have achieved has in every respect been a team effort by the Stirling family,” Prior said.
Under his leadership, the school achieved significant academic success, increased extracurricular involvement, and completed key infrastructural developments, including acquiring the field in Galway Road, vital for ongoing sporting excellence.
Prior attributed his hands-on approach to a deep belief in holistic education.
“A principal must show equal interest in all areas of the school.
“Supporting our learners in whatever area they chose to be involved in was a natural progression,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of maintaining an open-door policy.
“Without a willingness to listen to those who have a stake in the school, one cannot improve things or be aware of concerns that need to be addressed.”
Tributes were warmly paid to his wife, Di, whose constant support and attendance at evening functions, weekend matches, and sports tours were instrumental throughout his tenure.
Addressing the leadership style that defined his tenure, Prior shared his preference for collaborative governance.
“I prefer making decisions in consultation with staff and our Governing Body in a democratic manner,” he said.
As he steps into retirement, he looks forward to spending time with family, starting with his two grandsons in Somerset West, traveling across SA, and renovating his home.
His parting advice to the Stirling family is simple: “Do not change the winning recipe too drastically. Retain the passion, commitment, and spirit, and continue to value every member of the Stirling family equally.”
