Marilyn was born and raised in Swansea, Wales, in a Welsh-speaking family. She completed an Honours degree in physics and mathematics at the University of Wales in Aberystwyth, before beginning her teaching career in schools across England and Scotland. She emigrated to New Zealand in 1982 and joined the Dio teaching team the following year.
For more than 40 years, Marilyn has been a constant presence in Dio’s Science Department, teaching physics and science from Year 7 to Year 13. She became Teacher in Charge of Physics in 1989 and has acted as Head of Science on several occasions, though she always found her greatest fulfilment in the classroom. Along the way, she completed a Master’s in Science Education at the University of Auckland and contributed her expertise to the development of physics education nationally, through curriculum design and assessment practice.
Marilyn also co-founded Dio’s Duke of Edinburgh Award programme in 1987, running it for its first 25 years. Hundreds of students completed expeditions under her guidance, tramping through the Waitākere and Hunua Ranges, around Lake Waikaremoana and across Tongariro. Her love of the outdoors continues today, with recent adventures including the Rakiura, Queen Charlotte and Abel Tasman tracks.
She was an early and enthusiastic supporter of Dio’s adoption of the International Baccalaureate (IB), recognising the way it broadens students’ perspectives and strengthens academic depth. “The diploma prepares students for a career anywhere in the world. IB students are global citizens, making them an asset to communities wherever they go,” she says.
Reflecting on her career, Marilyn explains, “I’m very glad that I have spent my career as a science teacher. Everyone needs to understand basic science; it is the foundation on which absolutely everything around us relies. It develops critical thinking, logical reasoning and analytical skills, along with enabling individuals and societies to make rational decisions.”
She adds, “Scientific literacy is essential as a defence against misinformation and fake news in today’s world. It is also vital for finding ways to use our scarce natural resources rationally, to ensure the continuity of humanity and our precious planet.”
The ISNZ Honours Award recognises not only Marilyn’s professional excellence but also the countless ways she has enriched school life. At Dio, she has inspired generations of students to embrace curiosity, resilience and a lifelong love of science.
Head of Faculty of Science, Bernard Potter, offered this reflection:
“Marilyn’s award is a fitting recognition of her extraordinary dedication to Dio and to physics education. She combines deep knowledge with genuine care, integrity and warmth, always willing to step in wherever needed. After decades of service, it’s wonderful to see her passion acknowledged nationally. Marilyn embodies the very best of our profession and her influence on Dio students and colleagues will be felt for many years to come.”
