Ian Torrie
Ian has been Co-Chair of SCENZ since it was established as a sub branch (now a Division) of the NZIC in 2019. In this role he has been a strong leader for all chemistry teachers in New Zealand as a mentor, organiser, communicator, and advocate. Ian has developed numerous resources for secondary teachers, instigated regular communications for the science teaching community across the country, and advocated at the highest levels for a strong chemistry curriculum in New Zealand that allows both students and teachers to thrive. He continues to be heavily involved in curriculum development work. Throughout this time, he has also been a member of the NZIC Council.
Prior to his retirement from teaching full time in 2023, Ian was Head of Science and/or Head of Chemistry at both Carmel College and St Cuthbert's College, Auckland, for 44 years during which time he encouraged and inspired many pupils to study sciences at a higher level. He has made significant contributions to the national Chemistry Education conferences since their beginnings in the 1980s both as a regular speaker and as a conference organiser, and continues to share his experience as a tutor for teacher trainees.
Ian’s significant contributions to chemistry education have previously been recognised by a number of prestigious awards including the Peter Spratt medal by New Zealand Association of Science Educators (2020), the NEiTA National Award for Excellence in Teaching (2014), the ISNZ Honours Award for Chemistry leadership (2013), the NZIC Denis Hogan Chemical Education Award (2009), a Royal Society NZ Science & Technology Bronze Medal (2000), and the British Council Science Teacher of the Year Award (1996).
Ian is acknowledged for his distinguished teaching career, longstanding and continued involvement in national curriculum development, and mentorship of the next generation of science teachers in New Zealand.