John Bell pursued a career in secondary education, first in Dunedin, then in the South Canterbury town of Waimate, after completing an MA (Hons) and Diploma in Teaching. He has been involved in outdoor education, sports coaching and administration, and management of a student exchange programme with New Caledonia. He was a National Party member and served as Post Primary Teachers' Association regional chairman for 16 years.

John discusses biculturalism in education.