Frances COBURN Obituary

Hi there. I was a former student of Mrs Coburns at Hornby High and was very sad to hear of her passing. She taught me my entire high school life and I went to Japan with her. I have fond memories of my time with her, she had a good sense of humour and I remember laughing on the plane ride watching 'Kinky Boots' with her. As a teacher she had high standards which pushed me to be better and her encouragement sent me to pursue further study. I loved the stories she would share of travelling and teaching. Even now I often am reminded of something she said or an experience I had with her. I'm sure I'm not the only former student who appreciates the influence she had on my teenage years. I know she was so proud of her children and am sorry to hear she has gone too soon. Kind regards, Julia Walsh

I served on several social studies committees with Frances. She was an innovative and influential educator and always a lot of fun. The 1990 Canterbury Social Studies Expo was a huge success in no small part to Frances. Kaumatua Rakiihia Tau welcomed thousands of local students in a video where he told the Ngai Tahu story. His audience in the video included teenagers David and Andrea and younger children, including my 5, 8 and year olds. so in many ways was a forerunner of the new Histories curriculum. Again in 1993 Frances took a leading role in teaching children on how and why NZ women were the first to win voting in national elections. The video 'Kate Sheppard a woman of note' was a best seller in schools through NZ. Frances as well as being on the production team Frances
played the role of a suffragist cyclist in a chauvanistic world. I was fortunate to reminisce these memorable moments with Frances at the Papanui Village Church a month ago.

I didn't know Frances well, but I will miss her on Sundays sitting in what was dubbed the 'naughty' corner (the comfy seats) in church. Her smile will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to her family.

Some great memories thinking of Frances. Thoughts go out to your family. Rest Easy.