He served as a Second Lieutenant in the Royal Field Artillery in France and occupied Germany in 1918 and 1919 before reading history at Oriel College, Oxford.

During his time at Geelong, Darling set up the Outward Bound campus Timbertop in the foothills of the Australian Alps between Mansfield and Mt Buller where academic work was supplemented by a wide range of physical activity.

Darling believed that it was of primary importance in education to cultivate sensitivity in students, but that toughness was also required for effective leadership.

[2] He revolutionised Geelong Grammar School with his educational philosophy, overhauling the curriculum and focusing less on achievement and more on learning.

In his obituary Darling was referred to as a prophet whose integrity, insight, intelligence and courage gave him great standing in the community.