Flinders is mourning the passing of John Harris.

Mr Harris, an adjunct Lecturer in the School of Education, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

A former school principal, he was a key contributor to the Professional Experience Office, pioneering a new approach to the management of professional experience combining a professional staff and academic role.

Mr Harris also pioneered on-line reporting and the building of relationships with schools in the compulsory sector.

He was highly committed to the APY lands experience for the University’s students and recently accompanied the latest group to undertake the trip.

After retiring from his position at Flinders six years ago, he maintained contact and provided support for students.

His wife, Di Harris, passed away just over two years ago, leading him to establish the Di Harris Foundation to support the work of the Australian Foundation for Fostering Learning in the Philippines.

“John was always thinking about others and how to ensure the rights of all children to a high quality education,” said Professor Lindsey Conner, Dean of Flinders’ School of Education.

“He built strong friendships with many in our schools and left a legacy for our professional experience model.

“He will be very greatly missed but also remembered for his contribution to education.”