Obituary: Noel Moran – 'highly intelligent' former Arnewood School chemistry teacher

TRIBUTES have been paid to former long-serving Arnewood School chemistry teacher Noel Moran who has died.

Dr Moran taught at the Gore Road facility in New Milton for nearly 30 years and was credited with helping some of his pupils advance to careers in scientific research.

Among them were those he coached for entry to top universities including Oxford and Cambridge.

Dr Moran was form tutor and science teacher to generations of youngsters between 1983 and 2012.

Former head teacher Nigel Pressnell remembered Dr Moran as a “highly intelligent individual” who was able to make the most complex concepts enthralling and easy to comprehend.

“I fondly remember walking into Noel’s laboratory on one occasion to find a large group of sixth form students working diligently at their Bunsen burners,” Mr Pressnell said.

“They are making aspirin,’ explained Noel, as if manufacturing painkillers were an everyday experience for 17-year-olds. He will be sorely missed.”

A tribute posted on the Arnewood’s website told how his greatest impact may have been achieved as head of science.

“Although chemistry was his passion, he was a strong advocate of scientific enquiry and a student-centred approach to teaching,” it said.

“Dr Moran was a highly dedicated teacher and always saw the best in people.

“He advocated qualifications as giving students choice to shape their lives as they wanted.”

Continuing to support learning in his retirement, Dr Moran regularly coached A-level students.

He was also said to have generously shared his professional knowledge and experience with colleagues.

The Arnewood’s tribute added: “A charming man, Dr Moran is fondly remembered by his former colleagues for his mercurial spirit, warm wit, and loyal friendship.”

A funeral mass for family and friends took place last Friday, with donations directed to the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.

Cheques can be sent to A. V. Ridout Funeral Directors in Highcliffe or directly to the charity via uhdcharity.org/donate

Dr Moran is survived by his wife and two daughters, who are both alumni of the Arnewood School.