David was a teacher of Japanese at Killara High School and Hunters Hill High School before joining the Curriculum Directorate of the department at Ryde state office where he worked as a Senior Languages Consultant specialising in the incorporation of technology in languages teaching and learning.
In addition to his expertise in Japanese, David was an engineer and he applied his many skills to become an early leader in the development of languages and technology resources. In 1994, when Curriculum Directorate had only one computer with email access, David and Sally Shimada – former Languages Consultant for Japanese collaborated with the University of NSW to produce an innovative CD-ROM for teaching Japanese. David was a ground breaker at a time when very few technology resources were available.
In the following years, David worked across languages developing CD-ROMs and online language programs. His technical and communication skills, combined with his diligence and keen eye for detail, enhanced the incorporation of technology in languages programs in many schools. David also worked with the Board of Studies on HSC Japanese examination committees and served as a Supervisor of Marking for many years.
With his friend, Masumi Sorrell, David co-authored the Wakatta textbooks for senior Japanese. Many teachers of Japanese continue to use this highly regarded resource, an affirmation of David's skills as a language educator.
David was a very kind, modest, talented and successful man, who will be sadly missed by his family and his many friends and colleagues.
Contributed by Sally Shimada, former Japanese Languages Consultant.