Top scientist returns to be Taradale High's first Legend

A doctor who has designed a medical device that helps couples conceive has been named the first Taradale High School Legend.

Dr Shamus Husheer was a student at the school from 1990-94, before gaining a PhD at Cambridge University and developing the conception device DuoFertility - regarded by experts as successful as costly IVF treatment.

The device measures a woman's body temperature thousands of times per day, telling couples when they are most likely to conceive.

On a recent trip back to Hawke's Bay, Dr Husheer visited his old high school to receive the accolade and meet current teachers and students.

Taradale High School principal Stephen Hensman said the outstanding academic and successful entrepreneur worked with top science students in Years 10-13, as well as speaking at school assembly and holding a workshop for senior students.

While at Taradale, Dr Husheer said he switched off during subjects he did not enjoy and spent time in detention.

However, as head of his own company, Cambridge Temperature Concepts, he told students they should not dismiss subjects, as he now valued a firm grounding in mathematics, at least one science and excellent grades in English.

"There are thousands of good scientists out there. What makes a great scientist is communication," he said.

The scientist's former teacher, Walt Rutgers, said Dr Husheer breezed through his work and had to be given special projects.

"One, the building of a moving laser light, is still in the back rooms of the science department to this day," he said.

Mr Hensman said the Legends Project was developed last year during the school's 40th celebrations. "Over the next two years, we plan to introduce six high-achieving past pupils to our school to encourage and inspire our students to believe that they can achieve great things."