John Doughty (Staff, 1988-2003) died in December, 2025. John had an unusual career on the King’s staff, though one that was much valued. Having taken early retirement as Deputy Head at Burnage High School, he first came as a part-time cover teacher, but very soon moved into a role in outdoor education. He began by taking a variety of activities in sixth-form Wednesday afternoon activities, as well as establishing local trips, including under canvas, for years 7-9. In 1992, though, John introduced the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme to the school, and this soon became his main focus. Until his final retirement in 2003 – though even afterwards he continued to help out with equipment maintenance and minibus-driving! – he was significantly responsible for encouraging very large numbers of pupils to participate in the scheme, so that large numbers of King’s participants held him in very high regard and affection as a result of his enthusiasm for the Award and concern for the pupils involved.