He spent his childhood in
Auckland and received his secondary education at
St Peter's College (1943–1949) and his tertiary education at
Auckland University where he studied English Literature and Classics. (
Auckland), DipTch AIE(
London). Goddard taught English at
Auckland Grammar School and moved to
Thames High School as Head of English. He was appointed the fourth Head of English in 1964 at
Mount Albert Grammar School which felt "the influence of his enthusiasm and drive". Goddard published a book entitled
A History of the place of grammar in secondary schools from 1920–1967 based on his Dip Ed thesis. At various times, Goddard was chairman of the Whangarei Education Development Initiative, Auckland Catholic Integrated Schools Board, and the St Stephen's School Board of Trustees. He was a member of the Auckland College of Education Council and the organiser of the Australasian Education Council Conference. Goddard was active in the Territorial Force where he reached the rank of major. ==Death and legacy==