In 1926 he introduced his 'organic curriculum', which included a central core of science, technology, fine arts and sociology.

Working-class parents objected to students being encouraged to remain in school, as they wanted their children to become wage-earners as soon as possible.

For other parents, good examination passes in subjects such as Latin were seen as passports to tertiary education and to white-collar occupations.

His reforms were endorsed by a royal commission in 1925; a consultative committee in 1943 recommended that Strachan's system should form the basis of the post-primary curriculum.

His interest in the potential of wireless telegraphy to create international goodwill through better communication had led him to develop a school radio station, ZL3AI, where pupils could enhance their knowledge of the new technology while sharing ideas with their counterparts overseas.

A lifelong interest in international affairs resulted in his leading the New Zealand delegation to the conference of the Institute of Pacific Relations in 1931.

Mary Strachan died in 1923, and James married Vera Agnes Barrell at Waikuku Beach on 3 January 1934.