An invitation from the patrons to act as teacher in the Secession School at Methven resulted in a ten years' residence there, distinguished by efforts on his part towards popular improvement, including a zealous promotion of the study of science, the foundation of a people's library, and what was substantially a mechanic's institute.
The invitation to teach at the Secession School in Methven led to a decade of dedicated service to the community. He made significant contributions during this time by advocating for science education, establishing a public library, and founding a mechanics institute.