Teaching by the book

By Lia Bichel
Eight students who graduated from Hillcrest Christian College last year compiled a book of 101 jokes from their business management and national politics teacher Rob Wilson.
The book, titled 101 Reasons Not to Buy This Joke Book, was a compilation of Mr Wilson’s best, and worst, jokes.
Past student Tim Ray said students decided to create the book during the second half of term two last year.
“We just thought the jokes needed to be preserved,” Tim said.
“Every time he said one in class, we said ‘that’s going in the book!’”
Some jokes included “Collingwood? Colling would if it could.” And “Have you rung the RACV? Because they care.”
The book also contains pictures and caricatures of Mr Wilson.
The teacher said he was “chuffed” the students took the time to make the book to show their gratitude towards him.
“They are A1 students. The only thing I wrote is the forward and I will take credit for the jokes, but the credit really goes to the students for putting it together,” Mr Wilson said.
The students’ gratitude towards Mr Wilson is written on the back of the book.
“This book is a testament to a man we know and love,” it says.
“This is a work of literature that exists as a memento of our time in Mr Wilson’s enlightening classes, and thus we decided it would be fitting to return to him a little of what he gave to us. May these jokes bring both memories and laughter.
“We all very much appreciate everything you gave, including these jokes.”
Past student Ben Mailo designed the graphics for the book while Lana Taylor organised the printing.
“It was a lot of work, and a mad rush to get it finished, but I am glad it has come up so well,” she said.
“We have made 36 copies.”
The students launched the book at McDonald’s in Narre Warren last week, presenting one copy to Heather Arnold of Casey Cardinia Library and Michelle Nye from Hillcrest Christian College’s Discovery Centre.