William Diver (1944-2026)
A caring and inspiring teacher, who spearheaded geology and employability education
William Diver (© Sophie Diver)
Will Diver was born to humble beginnings in Twickenham and spent much of his early life and education in Epsom, Surrey. At grammar school, a newly offered geology A-level sparked his lifelong passion for the subject, leading him to the University of Exeter. Fieldwork from Scotland to North Devon shaped his love for the outdoors. Despite two years of serious rowing that contributed little to his academic progress, he graduated with a lower second and went on to complete an MSc in Micropalaeontology at Imperial College London.
Will began a PhD in foraminiferal biostratigraphy but, after two years, a lack of funding and major kidney surgery, he had to abandon the programme. He then worked as a Research Assistant to Marjorie Muir, working on Precambrian microbiotas. Will gained extensive field experience with a three-month stint across the Northern Territories, Australia, as well as sampling most of the UK Pre-Cambrian units, including the Dalradian and Torridonian of northwest Scotland, which became a lifelong personal passion. The disbanding of the research group led him into a pivotal period of varied work and part-time teaching that revealed his true vocation.
Empowering education
In 1981, Will joined Plymouth Polytechnic (now the University of Plymouth) as a Lecturer in Stratigraphy. At the time, there was no standalone geology department or full degree programme. Will, along with a couple of colleagues, spearheaded efforts to create both. Using his humour, persuasion and political nous, he lobbied successfully for a full geology degree and eventually a department.
With the department established, Will began focusing on supporting students and preparing them for the workforce. He believed stratigraphy was the best framework for understanding Earth’s history. His teaching approach was dynamic and engaging, focusing on reflective learning and developing critical thinking, rather than rote memorisation. He always championed geological fieldwork and advocated for employability education. One of his proudest achievements was the establishment of a professional skills module, emphasising the importance of these skillsets alongside academic knowledge for students’ future employability.
His commitment to student support was unparalleled. He was acutely aware that not all students found degree-level study easy, and that often personal problems could prevent good learning. He gained counselling qualifications in his spare time to better equip himself to support students and took on a significant pastoral role within the department.
Will’s commitment to excellence in teaching, strong course design and robust quality assurance also led him to working with the university’s academic quality assurance team throughout his time at the university. After retiring from full-time teaching at 65, he joined the team full-time. He chaired countless review panels and course approvals with grace and diplomacy. Through this work, he was a key member in establishing academic partnerships across South West England with other further education facilities. He was one of the best and commanded great respect from those he met.
A legacy of enrichment
In retirement, Will remained active and curious, travelling widely with friends and continuing to explore his interests in geology, early human evolution, science, politics, music, and cooking. He retained his humour and love of good food and wine, enriching the lives of those around him.
Will sadly passed away on 28 February 2026, aged 81. Will’s devotion to his family, particularly his wife Ali and daughter Sophie, was unwavering. Known for his kindness, courage and wit, Will was a loyal friend and valued colleague, leaving behind an enduring legacy of generosity, curiosity and joy in life. He leaves us all better than he found us.
By Ian Tunbridge and Sophie Diver
