sursum semper - issue 01

ISSUE 01 • SUMMER 2015

After 39 years of service to the High School of Glasgow, Colin Mair retires.

SURSUM SEMPER • ISSUE 01PAGE 2

Dear Former Pupils,

The Development Office are delighted to bring you Sursum Semper, this is our new yearly magazine that will be distributed to former pupils in print and by email. We felt the School motto was a fitting title, and hope that you will enjoy reading of the achievements and memories of our former pupil community along with news of the success and activities of our Senior and Junior School pupils.

In the Development Office, we have had another busy year. Thanks to the generosity of the High School community we had a successful launch of our first Annual Fund in 2014, raising over £103,000 in support of bursaries and smaller projects across the School. We are delighted to report that our latest Annual Fund Appeal is on course to exceed that figure - with your help we are sure we can achieve this!

We are looking forward to a number of class reunions happening in May and June this year and we are already working with a number of class representatives on reunions planned for the 2015/2016 session. If you would like to get together with your contemporaries for a reunion event, please get in touch with the Development Office, we would be delighted to help.

This summer, Colin Mair, Rector of the High School will retire. Colin has devoted his career to the High School of Glasgow over the last 39 years. He is held in high regard by many of our former pupils and the School felt it was only right that they be given their opportunity to wish him farewell.

Therefore, in order for our former pupils to be able to wish Colin a happy retirement, we have arranged a Farewell Presentation on Friday 12 June in the Senior School to which all of our former pupils are warmly invited.

The evening will be held in the Assembly Hall, starting promptly at 7:30p.m. We ask that in order to assist with the planning and catering of the event, all former pupils wishing to attend fill in the on-line form that can be found on the School’s website:

www.glasgowhigh.com/senior-school/colin-mair-farewell

We do hope to see many former pupils at the event, and hope you enjoy reading this School publication.

Best wishes,

Karen & James

Welcome to our new magazine!

Dates for your diary

• Saturday 30 May 2015 Class of 1965 Boys Reunion - Jimmie Ireland Stand

• Saturday 6 June 2015 Class of 1965 Ladies Reunion - Jimmie Ireland Stand Class of 1995 Reunion - The Pavilion

• Friday 12 June 2015 Colin Mair Farewell Presentation

• Saturday 13 June 2015 Class of 1955 Ladies Reunion - Jimmie Ireland Stand

• Saturday 20 June 2015 Class of 1964 Boys Reunion - Jimmie Ireland Stand

• Friday 4 September 2015 Class of 1968 Boys Reunion - Jimmie Ireland Stand

• Friday 18 September 2015 Class of 1955 Boys Reunion - Jimmie Ireland Stand

• Friday 2 October 2015 The High School of Glasgow Club Dinner

• Thursday 22 October 2015 London Club Lunch and Evening Drinks Events

• Friday 4 March 2016 London Club Annual Dinner

Contact Details

Development Office High School of Glasgow 637 Crow Road G13 1PL

[email protected] 0141 954 9628

Karen McDonald Development Director [email protected]

James Brechany Development Assistant [email protected]

SURSUM SEMPER • ISSUE 01

After 39 years of service to the High School of Glasgow, Colin Mair retires.

As I contemplate retirement after 39 exciting and very memorable years at The High School, beginning at Bearsden in 1976 and continuing at Anniesland thereafter, I consider myself fortunate to have had a unique insight into the development of the School since the closure of Elmbank Street and the change of The High School for Girls to Cleveden Secondary School. I have so many great memories of pupil achievements and wit, sporting successes, musical and other cultural occasions, house outings and Latin classes, to mention just a few.

I am most grateful to those of you who attended the FP Club Dinner last October and/or the London Club Dinner in March - these were marvellous occasions and a fitting reminder of the depth of commitment to the School which so many former pupils display. I greatly appreciated the warm and very kind words of President Eric Hugh and London President, Ian Brodie, on these occasions, and particularly value the wonderful Quaich which I received from the London members.

Since the 1970s, when Eric Harle adapted enthusiastically to his new role as Rector of the High School, this School has been blessed with highly committed Boards of Governors, led by exceptional Chairs of the Board, and following the inspirational leadership of Robin Easton, Eileen Robertson, Brian Lockhart and Audrey Whitefield in the 80s and 90s, their successors in Senior Management have all been focused on a very special vision and ethos. This, along with very talented pupils, excellent and dedicated staff and highly supportive parents has been the basis of the High School success in recent times. I can assure you that my successor,

John O’Neill, following his tremendous commitment as Senior Deputy Rector over the past 11 years, will show similar dedication.

As I depart, I would ask you all to remember that there has been one other key factor in this ongoing success - the ceaseless interest, commitment, encouragement and generosity of former pupils. Please don’t underestimate that, since the early days of Norrie Thomson’s historic Appeal, this school would never have existed here at Anniesland without former pupil support and involvement, nor would it have been as successful. The modern day High School was literally built by its former pupils and parents. I entrust its long term future to your loving care with great confidence, and with my thanks to you all for your support and good wishes. As the motto says “Sursum Semper”.

Colin D. R. Mair


The School community share memories and pay tribute to Colin Mair.

Brian Adair, Class of 1964 Chair of the Board of Governors

As Chair of the Board of Governors of the High School of Glasgow, I have much pleasure in paying this tribute to Colin Mair, the retiring Rector.

I have known him firstly as a teacher and House Master to my own children when they were attending the High School between 1981 and 1992. He struck me then as an outstanding communicator who always obtained the best from the children he taught. He had an innate ability to encourage and foster good relations with all the children in the School which resulted in well-rounded pupils, very properly prepared for tertiary education or for business or professional life.

Secondly, in 1992, I was appointed to the Board of Governors and from then until 2006 when I became Chair, I watched and observed a man moving through the School with internal promotions, culminating in his appointment as Rector in 2004. I was a member of all the interview panels who were selecting the best person for the particular appointment and I am delighted to say that Colin Mair stood head and shoulders above all other candidates at the time of his promotions.

Since becoming Chair, I have worked closely with him to ensure the smooth running of the School and I can assure everyone that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of excellence. As is apparent to the whole School community, from the examination results through to the finished

product, namely our young adults leaving school, by his leadership and example, he has maintained and enhanced the reputation of The High School as the best Independent School in Scotland.

I was delighted when the Scottish Qualifications Authority recognised his contribution to Scottish education by awarding him a Fellowship last year.

Finally, it bears repeating that Colin Mair is unique in that he commenced his teaching career within the High School in 1976 and leaves in 2015 having spent his whole working life devoted to The High School - Sursum Semper and congratulations.

From the London Club Ian Welsh, Class of 1991 Clyde House Captain & London Club President 2011-13

Colin will be hugely missed by all friends of the High School. For those of us who have passed through his care over the years, his continued presence at the school has been something that has connected us all back with our time at Old Anniesland - a time that many of us look back on with much affection.

It is clear to anyone visiting the school now that the connection those of us in our 20's, 30's, 40's and 50's remember Colin forming with our school mates, and the respect and admiration in which he was held, has not diminished. It has increased with those who now fill the


places that we once filled.

The ever-increasing community of former pupils in the London area have been very appreciative of Colin’s regular trips south to attend our events every year, and we all hope that he’ll continue to come to our reunions. The massive turnout for his final dinner at the Caledonian Club in London as Rector - the highest anyone can remember - demonstrates this.

His support of the work of the London Club in trying to maintain its role as a focus for former pupils in the south has been unstinting, for which we are very thankful.

All the best to Colin from all his friends at the London Club.

Sir Michael Bond Former Parent & Past Chair of Governors

My acquaintance and friendship with Colin Mair began when our children were pupils at the High School; our son joined the Junior School in 1974 and our daughter in 1979.

Since those days, Colin’s qualities as a teacher and leader have impressed me increasingly. Through my children, their friends and their parents, I learned in those early years that Colin had the respect of his pupils and that he inspired them in his various roles as a Classics teacher, House Master of Bannerman House and Head of Rugby and that they had great affection for him. One of the hallmarks of High School pupils is their high levels of self confidence in a wide range

of situations - academic, musical, artistic, sporting and social, and Colin has played a major part in those developments, thereby adding significantly to pupils’ successes. As my daughter once commented regarding his power to enthuse, ‘when Colin was Head of Latin, he could make even old texts like the Aeneid seem relevant!’

Colin comes from a family with a very strong background in education. His grandfather was Professor of Greek at Edinburgh University, his father was Rector of Kelvinside Academy and his sister was Head Mistress of Kelvinside Junior School. Teaching is in his blood and it is not surprising to me that he has such a deep understanding of teaching and of school children.

Colin moved into the Management team of the School in 1995 as an Assistant Rector under the then Rector Robin Easton and important aspects of his character and abilities became even more evident and in particular his leadership qualities. He became known for his calm and firm but fair disposition when dealing with pupils and parents - all tempered by his great sense of humour. It was clear that both groups had great respect for him.

As a member of the Board of Governors from 1988, and then Chair for five years to 2006, I came to know Colin very well, especially after his appointment as Rector in 2004.

All of his qualities mentioned above formed the basis of his strengths in that role as he took the School forward to even greater heights. He has been supported by a very strong and able management team including the Headmistress of


the Junior School, Mrs Karen Waugh. They have all shared his total dedication to the School and his high level of commitment to the welfare of the children.

For almost forty years, Glasgow High School has thrived as one of the very best schools in Scotland. Over the past eleven years, that position has been maintained as a result of the outstanding leadership of the current Rector, Colin Mair.

I wish to take this opportunity to thank Colin for all he has done for The High School over many years and to wish him many years of healthy and happy retirement.

Graeme Williams, Class of 2006 Clyde House & 1st XV Captain

When asked to write a tribute to Mr. Mair, my first thought was what an incredible man he is, and what a huge loss he will be to the School. As someone who was passionate about sport, his achievements in both rugby and cricket were something that I greatly admired and which meant myself and others were in awe of him. His enthusiam and ability

to motivate pupils across all abilities made participation in sport so enjoyable. Whenever you had a bad game or felt a bit down about a performance, a few words from Mr. Mair could always lift your spirits, and he gave people confidence in their own abilities - something that extends beyond their time at school.

He is someone I will always have a huge amount of respect for, and would like to thank him for all his support and guidance over the years.

Scott Adair, Class of 1987 School Vice-Captain

The place simply won’t be the same without him. An often said but little meant compliment. Two statements that do not ring true for Colin David Robertson Mair. The High School of Glasgow at Old Anniesland won’t be the same without him and that compliment is very much meant.

I first encountered Colin in Summer term of 1982. I was a new entrant to the school and Colin by then was a hardened and experienced Head of Latin, having commenced his teaching career in 1976. For someone who didn’t know his ‘amo’ from his ‘amamus’, I was a challenge and a challenge was something from which Colin has never backed away. An ‘A’ in my Higher Latin pays testament to that!

I followed my old man’s footsteps into Bannerman House and therefore benefited from Colin’s promotion in Autumn term of 1982 to House Master of Bannerman. Many fun days of House golf outings and fundraising ensued – although I’m not sure the House funds ever recovered from the broken window at Hilton Park Golf Club. One of Colin’s favourite events was Fireworks night – in the days before Health and Safety went mad and prevented a large bonfire being lit. I became the ‘go to’ pupil in Bannerman to make the guy that was placed on top of the fire. My grandfather always had a good stock of really dodgy tweed 1930’s suits. It became a regular occurrence however to see the guy wearing an even dodgier 1980’s suit and Colin appearing on the Monday morning in Grandpa’s old suit!

You can’t keep a good man down and three short years later - at least for the pupils - saw Colin move from Bannerman into Senior Management as Assistant Rector, Deputy Rector and finally Rector and the rest, as they say, is history. And history will record a 39 year career at the High School that will never be surpassed. I am proud to be able to say that I was taught by Colin. Amo, amas, amat, amamus, amatis, amant!

Kate Lemond, Class of 2008 Clyde House Captain

Mr Mair was an extremely dedicated, kind and helpful Rector and always showed a keen interest in how the pupils were progressing.

It was also encouraging to see him on cold and wet Saturday mornings, cheering on the hockey and rugby teams from the touch-lines.

An Ode to Colin MairBest wishes on your retirement from the Docherty clan

Many years ago when the man was a boy Mr Mair found a vocation which filled him with joy.

Not a lawyer, a doctor not even a preacher To everyone’s benefit he became a teacher.

From the University of Glasgow he took his degree A scholar of Arts (Latin & French) was he.

Then an educational course at Jordanhill College Furthered his dream of sharing his knowledge.

Mr Mair was sporty, in games he excelled. In fact, a Guinness World Record for rugby he held. He scored the highest points in a match v Japan. If you wanted a winner, Colin Mair was your man.

A fantastic coach in both rugby and cricket Teaching the art of bowling a wicket.

Drop goals were a skill he also imparted, His dedication to sport was certainly wholehearted!

Teaching Latin in class was his first High School role But his mind was set on a much bigger goal.

House Master came next but he still wanted more, So he settled for ‘Rector’ on his final office door!

Leading the High School of Glasgow with style and panache, Not to mention the most perfectly groomed moustache!

‘CDRM’ what a journey - and now that it ends, You’ll be hugely missed by staff, pupils and friends.

Mr Mair, you’ve been an inspirational man!


I will have fond memories of my time at HSOG and Mr Mair’s stewardship has played a significant part in those memories.

Thank you for all your hard work at the school and good luck in your well-deserved retirement.

Michael Gallacher, Class of 2001 Clyde House & 1st XV Captain

Colin Mair was the Assistant Rector at HSOG when I joined the senior school at Transitus. During my period at the School, he coached the 1st XV rugby team, 1st XI cricket team, became the Deputy Rector and then, eventually, the Rector, following my departure in 6th year.

Mr Mair avoids being condescending when dealing with pupils and has remained approachable at all times. His support and positivity is contagious and it is clear to all that he genuinely cares for the pupils and desperately wants to see them succeed in all that they do, whether it be academically, in sport, the arts or professionally. Mr Mair is a bastion of the school and the values it stands for. Every day he tries to impart his ethos on respectability and attitude. These principals are very influential on pupils and are, without question, aspects that they carry into adulthood.

Whenever I meet former pupils and we inevitably reminisce about our school days, the most common theme is the affection and respect that they all share for Mr Mair. I believe that when people think of HSOG, they inevitably think of Mr Mair. He is held in the highest esteem by parents and pupils

alike, perhaps one of the rare occasions where parent and child reach unequivocal agreement.

One cannot mention Mr Mair without reference to his endless contribution to sport. I was lucky enough to be a tourist to both Dubai and Canada with the School and Mr Mair attended both. He remained controlled and composed regardless of the situation and allowed pupils to enjoy the opportunity whilst in a safe environment. Mr Mair’s coaching methods were often innovative and certainly improved many players. He continually wanted pupils to understand the dedication, respect and commitment required to succeed in sport and how it can offer many benefits that can be carried into later life. He could always identify the hidden potential in players that would often otherwise go unnoticed. This allowed talent to be encouraged and nurtured, resulting in many new and inspired athletes.

Mr Mair will be sorely missed by all associated with the School, despite the fact that he will be leaving it in rude health with an excellent replacement in Mr John O’Neill. I have always had the utmost respect for Mr Mair and always found him to be fair and reasonable with all pupils. I feel privileged to have had him as a teacher and mentor. I was very fortunate to attend the school, especially so during Mr Mair’s tenure. I was pleased to be able to call him my teacher and delighted that I now call him a friend.


George Mackie, Class of 1988 School Captain

The abiding memory of my Sean Connery-esque 2nd year Latin teacher?

The elusive nature of his middle initials? His spell as Bannerman House Master in the face of an unstoppable Moore House? No, it has to be 3 successive summer trips to Rothesay rugby camps - only now am I appreciating the damage sustained to my knees running up Serpentine Road. Thank you for your service to the High School of Glasgow, enjoy your retirement.

Graeme Stapleton, Class of 2004 School Captain

What can you say about a man who pulls off a moustache better than Tom Selleck?

I was lucky enough to be School Captain in Mr Mair’s final year as Deputy Rector before he took over from Dr Easton. Being able to enjoy his company and humour on a daily basis played a big part in making my School Captain experience so rewarding and enjoyable. We shared a few unexpected experiences (discovering on Oxford Street of his last minute call up to do the London Club speech, among them!) which made it all the more colourful. He has been a fantastic presence at the school over the years. He will be greatly missed by pupils, staff and parents alike. As a final note he has always expressed how he is a fan of my mum’s artwork so he’s obviously a man with great taste!

Alison Weatherhead, Class of 1993 Moore House & 1st XI Captain

I attended the High School from 1987 to 1993 in the years before Colin Mair decided that he’d had his fill of teaching and was appointed Rector of the School. I’d like to think that I was in no way responsible for Colin packing-in teaching full-time but as a rather noisy, wayward and not-too-diligent former pupil of Colin’s Latin classes, I may have accidentally accelerated Colin’s ascent of the management ladder. Latin’s loss was the High School’s gain. He couldn’t quite escape me in 6th year, with the hockey/rugby tour to Canada. To his great amusement I lost my voice, for the first and last time. Pretty sure Latin class and the tour were the first steps down the road to 20 plus (noisy) years with Rod, so thank you Colin!

Gillian MacDougall, Class of 1982 School Captain

Having been at Drewsteignton School, I was a 12 year old First Year at Ledcameroch Road in 1976, the first year that we were joined by some Sixth Years wearing the original brown GHS uniform and we officially became Glasgow High.

Colin had just qualified from teacher training and was the form teacher of 1B, which was in the next classroom to mine. We were all very excited to have a member of staff who had

Katharine Liston is a Commander of the Order of St John and holds the degree of Master of Arts. The Order is a charitable organisation and supports other charities such as Scottish Mountain Rescue and Neonatal Ambulance Service. Her Majesty The Queen is Sovereign Head and awards the title of Commander to reflect a persons commitment and to the Order. She is a dedicated and fervent supporter of the High School. Her late husband John (known as Ian) Liston was a pupil at the School from 1934-43 and sadly died in 2007. There is a plaque in his honour at the Junior School. Katharine kindly sent the poem to Colin after the recent Senior School Spring Concert "Mair nae mair".

Colin Mair’s retiring At the end of June,

Said John O’Neill, his colleague, ‘It won’t be a moment too soon!’

I think it’s very nasty Of John to feel that way,

I told him so, when I saw him In the School the other day.At three years old our Colin Had his soft-toy rugby team,

The child was father of the man And sport became his dream.We cannot help but marvel

At Colin’s sporting skill For all those years – and now his shoes

Will be very hard to fill.His service to the High School

Was lengthy and devoted, For this, Congratulations

Must be said and duly noted.He was Head of Classics first and then

Became a Deputy Rector And the last eleven years were spent As the School’s distinguished Rector.

And in those years of leadership Ad libitum was taboo,

Agenda were all organised And errata would not do.

He is a rara avis As a sporty Classics master, It was veni, vidi, vici, as he

Always could run faster.I hope that Colin may enjoy Retirement full of pleasure,

With good health, many interests, And much fulfilling leisure.I really can hardly believe it, ‘cos Colin’s a youthful lad

And when he goes for good in June, I’ll be very, very sad.

Experientia docet He’s reached the grand finale

Of this, his magnum opus, So it’s ave atque vale.

A Poem by Katharine Liston


played for the Scotland B rugby team and who regularly turned out for West of Scotland. “Dishy Mr Mair” he was known as amongst us First Years, so heaven knows what the older girls called him!

He subsequently taught me Latin for several years, which stood me in good stead in medical school and I remain forever grateful that we were offered Latin at GHS. Somehow, Colin made it interesting and I can still remember some declensions and the stories of Claudius and Claudia.

In my later years at School, Colin was the Deputy Head of Moore House with Audrey Whitefield as Head. Moore was consistently the most successful House for years under her stewardship.

I was delighted when he was appointed to the headship of the school, emulating his father who had led Kelvinside Academy when my brother attended there.

I have always found him extremely approachable and very professional in all his dealings with pupils, colleagues and former pupils. When I visited the school for Brian Lockhart’s retiral, I was shown round by some of the then current Sixth Years. They were polite, chatty, sociable and intelligent - just a joy to be with, which is a credit to the school and Colin’s headmastership.

I wish him all the best with a long, happy and productive retirement. He will be hard to replace.

Ricky Sharma, Class of 1989 School Captain

When I was a school pupil at the High School, I don’t think I realised the value of the all-round education and constant support that Mr Mair offered. At the time, I thought of Mr Mair, the “Assistant Deputy Rector,” as a bit of a celebrity, Sean Connery crossed with Tom Selleck, rather than a Classics teacher. Mr Mair had a natural ability to know how well each pupil was doing generally: studies, sports, general contentedness, behaviour and potential to develop.

Since I have had children of my own, almost 2 decades after leaving the High School, I have realised the importance of Mr Mair’s well rounded approach to education. Mr Mair made it clear, in his softly spoken way, that academic achievement was important, but that other interests mattered. For example,

I remember him commenting to me in the corridor early one morning on my 100m sprint time from earlier that week, and encouraging me towards Scottish Schools’. In the Sixth Year, his coaching of the First XV and encouragement of me as a winger was always so positive and so heartfelt that it spurred me on as an individual to fight for the team in matches when we weren't playing as well as we should have. And of course, rugby camp on Bute with Mr Mair and his wonderful sister: a memorable experience that shaped us and taught true team spirit.

Thank you, Mr Mair, for teaching me how to build and foster a team of individuals and for revealing “Sursum Semper” in my own character.

Christopher Stothers, Class of 1995 Moore House Captain

Salve magister! When I went to university to read Law, my Director of Studies said the most useful subjects to a lawyer were Latin and Maths. Looking back, I think it was more the teachers of these subjects who were important to me, and I can clearly see the balance of Mrs T’s detail-driven academic rigour and Mr Mair’s recognition of the lighter side of work in my legal practice today. His extra-curricular contribution was just as important – not every rugby coach would promote a 3rd XV workhorse rugby player straight to the 1st XV at the start of his fifth year, never mind appear disappointed at his subsequent failure to make the Glasgow Schoolboy squad. Of course, that also led to the wonderful irony of a Latin teacher rugby coach complaining that his front five had far too high a collective IQ (two would go on to be consultant doctors and another a law firm partner). I was delighted when Colin became Rector and his retirement is a real loss for the High School, although I am sure he will find many new outlets for his boundless enthusiasm and good humour. Good luck!

Cameron Brown, Class of 2007 School Captain

When asked to write a few words by way of tribute to Colin Mair, I knew it would be difficult to encapsulate his many attributes into a short paragraph!

I was privileged to spend my 12 years at the High School


under the guidance of Eileen Robertson, Robin Easton and Colin Mair; an exceptional group of educators and inspirational role models.

During my final year as School Captain, I saw first hand the commitment Colin had to upholding the fantastic ethos of the High School, a sense of community which you can feel walking down the corridors, and which we take pride in. His dedication to supporting every pupil in their development throughout their school careers was admirable, harnessing his global connections to provide opportunities for pupils to learn and progress.

Touring with the Rector to Canada and Rothesay highlighted his past and current love of the game of rugby. I can only hope to continue seeing his support at GHK RFC in the years ahead.

Colin Mair has left a legacy at the High School for which we are all eternally grateful.

The class of 2007 thank you for everything you have given us and wish you all the best in retirement.

Sursum Semper.

Eric Hugh, Class of 1972 Governor, Club President 2009, 2014 & Former Parent

My first meeting with Colin was on the sports field while we were both still at school; him being the star of the Kelvinside Academy rugby and cricket teams and me as a makeweight in the High School teams. Because of our differing abilities, after our school days, we only met once on a rugby pitch. It was at the side of a pitch when Colin, as coach of the High School 2nd XV and myself as a parent of a youthful middle row, were reacquainted and I started to get to know him.

Our paths crossed many times in the next few years, mainly at Glasgow High School Club Limited (GHSC) meetings. Initially, when I was Treasurer of the GHSC and Colin was the Deputy Rector, he came along occasionally as a stand-in for Robin Easton. However, it was when I was President in 2008/09 that I really got to know and understand the man. His passion for all things High School is unsurpassed. He wants the best for his pupils and staff. In terms of GHSC, that means him ‘encouraging’ us to spend lots of money on upgrading our facilities. In recent years, that has meant the

main rugby pitch being re-laid and now being acknowledged by the press and the Scottish Rugby Union as being one of the best in the country. As I write this short piece, we are putting the finishing touches on a project to create a second synthetic grass hockey pitch which will be water-based and of the highest standards required by the Scottish Hockey Union. This project has been on the drawing table for many years and without Colin, it would never have come to fruition. The pitch will be part of his legacy – but hopefully not his “memorial”, as I once accidentally said!

The hours that Colin puts in are phenomenal. Quite often, I go home after a long day, have my dinner and then come out to the Pavilion at Old Anniesland to socialise with friends. Almost invariably, his car is there and the light is on in his room. However, in spite of the time he has to devote to the ‘day job’, he rarely, if ever, misses a GHSC meeting or event, whether it be in the evening or at the weekend.

In more recent years, since I have been a Governor of the School, I have come to see more of Colin, the educationalist. The way that he, with the help of his senior colleagues, has implemented the Curriculum for Excellence at the High School must be the envy of other schools. He has even managed to explain it to a crusty old accountant in such a way that I feel able to talk knowledgeably about it to my teacher in-laws, whose experiences with CfE have been less successful.

While in John O’Neill, I know that a very worthy successor has been chosen, along with a lot of other individuals, I will really miss Colin. However, I am sure he will be around Old Anniesland for many years to come and I look forward to continuing to receive from him the Saturday lunchtime text messages telling me that the School 1st XV have just beaten the Academy.


2014-15 has proven to be another busy year at the school. Senior pupils had excellent exam results in 2014. Fifth Year pupils achieved 69% Grade A passes and a 95% pass rate overall, Sixth Year Advanced Higher pupils achieved 58% Grade A passes and a 93% pass rate, while Fourth Year pupils had 95% awards at National 5 (Grades A-C), 72% at Grade A. In Fifth Year, each pupil passed an average of 4.8 Highers. 91 pupils (89%) gained 5 or more Highers and 35 pupils achieved 5 or 6 Grade A passes. Jasmine Aikman (S6) received the Royal Society of Chemistry Award for the best performance in the SQA Higher Chemistry exam in 2014. Lucy Phillips (S6) achieved 100% in Higher Maths. Virtually all leavers proceeded to the University courses of their choice. Ross Duncan (History at Homerton) and Adam Macnaughton (Natural Sciences at Gonville and Caius) gained admission to Cambridge, and Abby Fraser (Human Sciences at Magdalen), Jonathan Gibson (History at Magdalen) and Michael Muir (History at St. John's) to Oxford University.

The summer saw the Commonwealth Games coming to sunny Glasgow, with pupils from the school getting involved in the event. We were lucky enough to have five baton bearers taking part in the Queen’s Baton Relay in July - Mr Kenneth Robertson and S6 pupil, Georgia Callander, represented the Senior School as the baton passed Old Anniesland. Our Pipe and Jazz Bands also performed at Commonwealth Events at Glasgow Green and Merchant City Square, respectively.

The other huge event on the Scottish calendar last summer was the Independence Referendum. Pupils from the school attended the ‘Scotland Decides’ debate at the Glasgow Hydro, which allowed 12,000 first-time voters to quiz key

politicians and personalities on all issues related to Scottish independence. The school also hosted a Referendum Debate of our own, inviting both the ‘Yes’ and ‘Better Together’ camps to indulge in some healthy debate about potential independence.

Whilst there was plenty to celebrate at the school, the 2014-2015 session has also been a poignant one for us all. As well as our annual Commemoration service at Glasgow Cathedral at the end of September, the school also hosted various WWI Centenary commemoration events throughout October and November, including an evening of recitation, visuals and music, put on as a joint venture by the History and Music Departments. An ‘army’ of singers led the audience through an array of traditional WWI songs, with School Captain, Adam Atri (S6), narrating the evening, and with solo performances and recitations from Celia Petrie, Sara Pearce, Alice Walker (all S6), Ian Black (S5) and Mìcheal (S4) and Màiri Callan (S3). The night also saw a presentation on the digitisation of our Book of Remembrance, as well as giving our audience the opportunity to purchase a wooden cross of remembrance and place it in our ‘Field of Crosses’ in the Science Courtyard, in memory of the nearly five hundred former pupils who fell in the Great War.

The annual Fraser Lecture was delivered by Professor Sir Hew Strachan and followed the commemorative theme. In a fascinating lecture, he discussed the topic: “1914 - The Last Great War”. We also hosted National Science and Engineering week in March, with various events taking place throughout the week including a ‘Code-a-thon’, a week of coding activities from the Computing Science department, an assembly on the

Senior School News


importance of mathematics in our everyday lives, and pupils venturing out to (attempt to) witness a Total Solar Eclipse. As part of this week of science celebration, pupils were also visited by one of the foremost authorities on cerebral visual impairment, Professor Gordon Dutton. He took part in an assembly and returned later in the week to deliver a fascinating lecture on the complexities of the visual system.

There have been other interesting lectures this year from the likes of Sheriff Joe Platt, on the Scottish Legal System, member of the school’s Board of Governors, Mr Stephen Miller, on Human Rights, Law and Equality, former pupil, Jamie Spurway, on refugees in Scotland and from Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service, on the responsibilities faced by young drivers.

We were delighted that our School Chaplain, Reverend Dr Laurence Whitley, was honoured with the presentation of the Loving Cup by the City of Glasgow, in deserved recognition of his years of pastoral service to the city.

Music

Our young musicians again excelled throughout the year.

We’ve had a very successful year in piping, with Gregor Norris (S6) being appointed to the distinguished role of National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland Senior Pipe Sergeant, heading off to Switzerland to take part in several Tattoos over Christmas time. On top of this, Gregor led our Fusion Band to victory in the Freestyle Competition of the Scottish Schools’ Pipe Band

Championship in March.

This year’s senior musical production was “All Shook Up”, a musical comedy which brought together 40 S4-S6 pupils to pay tribute to the Broadway show about life in the Midwest in 1950s America. The lead roles were occupied by School Captains, Charlotte Gilbride and Adm Atri (both S6). The Junior (Transitus to S2) Musical Production of “The Wizard of Oz”, saw the High School Junior Players put on an excellent production of the famous 1939 film, with S2 pupil, Philippa Newbery, more than capably filling Dorothy’s famous ruby slippers.

The annual SingFest Final in March saw an evening of wonderful performances from our finalists, after a competitive first round. Euan Campbell-Birkett and Sara Pearce shared the Iain Paterson Award for Outstanding Musicianship in Classical Solo Singing, Adam Atri won the Nadine Livingston Award for Outstanding Musicianship in Theatrical Solo Singing and Sara Pearce and Celia Petrie (all S6) won the Peter Douglas Award for Outstanding Musicianship in Ensemble Singing. The awards for Outstanding Potential went to Lois McColl (S1), and Amy Provan and Zoe Robertson (both S3).

Our Senior Spring Concert "Mair nae mair" paid tribute to our retiring Rector in an evening of excellent musical performances from our Senior Orchestra, Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble and Senior String band, as well as our Fusion Band performing their winning piece from the Pipe Band Championships. On an entertaining evening of surprises for Mr Mair, including unexpected guests, video tributes from around the world and funny caricatures depicting the Rector


and soon-to-be Rector as characters from The Lion King, the Rector himself took to the stage to conduct musicians in a performance of ‘Delilah’.

The talent of our Musicians has also been recognised outside of school events - in January, 12 pupils were invited to be a part of the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland’s Junior Orchestra (that’s over 1/10th of the entire Orchestra!), whilst 2 pupils were invited to join the Senior Orchestra. A further two were invited to join the NYOS Training Ensemble, while S4 pupil, Christopher O’Leary, was offered a place in the Edinburgh Youth Orchestra. In addition to this, Christopher has also been offered a most unique opportunity - to conduct the Royal Scottish National Orchestra as part of a ‘youth takeover’ day.

We also had 5 pupils invited to join the National Youth Choir of Scotland’s Boys’ and Girls’ Choirs for 2015, as well as many pupils who did fantastically well to gain awards in Glasgow Music Festival competitions. Particular congratulations go to Adam Insall (Trans), Anna Lilley, Millie Haldane (both S2) and Inez Gallagher (S5) who won first place awards.

The Chamber Choir performed at various events throughout the year, including at a Clutha Vaults Memorial service in Glasgow Cathedral. After being named winners of the 2013 “BBC Songs of Praise Senior School Choir of the Year”, they have also recently released a CD entitled ‘Choral Music from the High School of Glasgow’. The CD is available to purchase for £10 from the General Office or by contacting the Development Office ([email protected]). There was even recognition for our Chamber Choir leader, Mr Frikki Walker, as music from his new CD was featured on BBC Radio 2.

Sport

Pupils of the school excelled in sport, picking up many trophies and medals throughout the year.

In an extremely successful season for our Girls’ Hockey side, the 1st XI won the West District Tournament, as well as achieving a 4th consecutive BP Cup success. This meant that they advanced to the Scottish Schools’ Finals where they were extremely unlucky to lose narrowly in the final to George Heriot’s School. The Hockey 7s side won the High School - hosted tournament, whilst the 7s ‘B’ side won the

West District tournament. The Transitus XI won at the Lomond Festival of Hockey, the S1 XI were finalists at the West District S1 tournament and our 2nd XI also reached the final of the West District 2nd XI tournament. Vice-Captain, Erin Gilchrist, and Ellie Hutcheson (both S6), represented Scotland U18s against Germany in Cologne, as well as against Ireland and Wales at Glasgow Green. Erin was also selected to train full time with the Scotland senior training squad, in preparation for the European Championships in August.

Our Boys’ Rugby 1st XV have also had a productive season, with a comeback from 0-12 down, to a 14-12 victory in the last 3 minutes of a game with Glasgow Academy, a particular highlight! Our Transitus boys were joint winners of the St Columba’s School tournament, whilst the 7s ‘A’ team were finalists in the tournament hosted at Old Anniesland. Our boys were lucky enough to have a clinic with former Scotland International kicker, Dan Parks.

Our Boys’ Athletics team, led by Athletics Captain, Mark Revie (S6), performed excellently at the Emirates Arena in March to win the Auldhouse Cup, with James Stewart (S4) winning a Gold medal in the U15 High Jump at the Scottish Athletics Championship in August and a Silver medal in the U16 High Jump event at the Scottish Schools’ Indoor Athletics Championships in early February.

In swimming, the Glasgow Schools’ Championship saw us win a total of 40 medals, with 11 individual Gold medals and 5 team Gold medals won, whilst Transitus pupil Douglas Kelly won a Gold medal and set a new Scottish record in the Boys 12-and-under 50 metre Breaststroke race. There were also Gold and Silver medals for our Girls and Boys teams, respectively, in the 4 x 50 metre Freestyle Relay races. Our swimmers were victorious at the Primary Schools’ Gala and 7 new records were set at our annual Gala at Drumchapel Pool. S3 pupil, Anna Fleming, earned a place on the 2014/15 Scottish Swimming National Youth Squad.

Our Girls’ Football side had an excellent season, winning the SSFA U14s 7-a-side West Region Tournament, before finishing 4th in the Scottish Finals. S4 pupil, Oli Crawford, took part in the Scotland Women’s U16 training camp in late January, before being part of the side that competed in a UEFA Women’s Development Tournament in Portugal. Georgia and Mhairi Crooks (both S1) took part in successful trials and were selected for the SFA’s U14 West Region ‘Performance’ and ‘Development’ squads, respectively, whilst Ben Fulton and Daniel Lightbody (both S6) were both selected for the


Independent Schools’ National Squad.

Gordon Sivarajan (S1) achieved remarkable success in Sailing – he was First Junior (12 years and under) in the Scottish Optimist Championships (2nd overall), First Junior in the Royal Yachting Association Scotland Zone Championships and First Junior in the Scottish Optimist Traveller Series (2nd overall). He also won the Silver Fleet in the IOCA UK Winter Championships in Cardiff.

Transitus Cricketer, John Greene, was selected for the West Region Development Centre Winter Training programme, as part of the specialist ‘spin group’ and Georgia Callander (S6) was selected to be a member of the Triathalon Scotland Foundation Squad for 2014/15. At the Scottish Indoor Rowing Championships in December, all pupils who took part achieved personal records, whilst our girls’ team won Gold medals in the S4 Girls’ 2000m team race. There was a first place finish for our Transitus girls’ team at the Garscube Harriers Schools’ Cross-Country event, whilst 11 team and 4 individual medals were won at the Glasgow Secondary Schools’ Cross-Country Championships in late February. Well done to the S2 and S1 Boys’ teams, who both won Gold medals.

James Shemilt (S5) represented the West of Scotland Men’s County Tennis team at the Aegon Tennis County Cup in Hull, whilst Rachel Sugden (S2) represented the Scotland U15 Girls’ Badminton team at a tournament in Hungary, the European Championships in Belgium, and Quad internationals in Glasgow. Pupils of the school won a combined 4 team medals and 6 individual medals, including

Gold medals for Abhishek Gambhir (S4) and James Stanley (S6), at the Glasgow Schools’ Badminton Championships in January.

There has also been success this year for Transitus gymnast, Maia Gillespie, who won a Gold medal at the Scottish Tumbling Finals; for Spencer Brown (S5), who was named number one in Scottish Muay Thai for his weight class; for Matthew Dalrymple (S5), who represented Scotland in the U16 Faldo Series Golf Final in West Virginia, USA; and for Megan McInnes (S5), who won the U18 Girls’ Championship and Murray McVicar (S4), who was 2nd in the U15 Boys’ Scratch competition, at the St Leonard’s Golf Championships in October.

Competition Success

As ever, current pupils have excelled not only in music and sport, but in various fields, throughout the year, both in team and individual events.

Three siblings from the Callan family, Cathal, Màiri and Mìcheal did fantastically well in the Royal National Mòd – Cathal (Trans) won the Folk Tale (9-10 years) and Traditional Solo competitions, Màiri (S3) won the Poetry Recitation (13-15 years) competition and Mìcheal (S4) won the Traditional Silver Solo Medal (boys 13-15 years), as well as the Ann Kelly McDonald Memorial Trophy for the highest total mark over the boys and girls Traditional Fluent competitions.

Transitus pupil, Sara Millar, excelled in cookery competitions – she won the local heat of the Rotary Young Chef Competition against much older competitors. She attended the Rotary Club of Glasgow Lunch to be awarded with a trophy, a set of chef’s whites and tea for four at The Willow Tea Rooms. She was also lucky enough to receive a cooking lesson from Michelin starred chef, Martin Wishart, as part of her prize. Sara went on to compete well in the district heat of the competition, eventually losing out to a 5th year pupil from St Ninian’s High School.

Jasmine Aikman (S6) was awarded a Gold medal, with Hatti Yao (S6) gaining a Bronze medal, in the British Biology Olympiad. Georgia Callander and Alice Walker (both S6) were awarded certificates of commendation.

In the National Enterprising Mathematics in Scotland competition, our team of Junwen Chen, Keshav Mahendra


(both S4), George Cooper and William Xu (both S3) won the Silver Salver. 9 Gold, 14 Silver and 23 Bronze awards were won in the UK Intermediate Maths Challenge, with Junwen Chen winning ‘Best in School’, impressively scoring full marks. Junwen, along with Duncan Fraser, Abhishek Gambhir, Euan Gibson-Smith and Keshav Mahendra (all S4), were amongst the top 500 pupils in the UK and were therefore invited to take part in the next round of the prestigious Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad.

In public speaking and debating competitions, we had many pupils taking part and excelling. Murray Webster (S5) and Christopher O’Leary (S4) reached the final of the Glasgow Rotary Public Speaking competition, with Murray finishing 2nd overall. Murray went one better in the Glasgow Speakers’ Club Schools competition, qualifying through to the final, which took place at the Glasgow City Chambers. After a tough day of competing, he was eventually crowned the overall winner. He was also part of a team, along with Christopher O’Leary and Alex Gould (S4), who having won the West of Scotland and Scotland and North of England heats of the Rotary International Youth Speaks public speaking competition, then won the UK final in Brentwood, Essex, in May. Murray received the award for "Best Speaker", Christopher for "Best Voter of Thanks".

As ever, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards scheme has been popular, with many pupils venturing out on various outings in order to gain awards. This session has also seen pupils taking part in First Aid training courses. Our Young Enterprise companies have also been particularly fruitful this year, with iWood, in particular, achieving great success. Led by Managing Director, Tom Milne (S6), they finished in 2nd place at the Glasgow Area Board YE Christmas Trade Fair, impressing judges with their solid oak iPad stands. At the beginning of April, they were chosen as the Glasgow Company of the Year for 2015, advancing on to the Scottish finals in June.

Trips

There were various school trips throughout the year, with Advanced Higher History pupils visiting Berlin during the mid-term break, 105 S3 and S4 pupils visiting the Battlefields of Belgium and France at the start of April and the PE Department’s joint 1st XI Hockey/1st XV Rugby trip to Northern Italy. More closely to home, Modern Studies’ classes

visited both Westminster and the Scottish Parliament, whilst we hosted pupils from CSI Lyon in the first leg of the French Exchange.

In March, we were also privileged to welcome 13 staff from Menntaskoli Borgarfjardar, an Icelandic school based just north of the capital, Reykjavik. They were given a tour of the school and observed lessons in various departments, before continuing on their educational tour of Scottish learning institutes later in the day at Glasgow Kelvin College in Springburn. They shared with us their experience of the educational system and later told us that they found the experience of day-to-day life at the High School both informative and enlightening.

Helping Others

As ever, our four Houses each hosted a week of fun-filled fundraising events, in order to raise money for their chosen charities. In October, Law House raised over £3,000 for the ‘Children’s Home for Hope’, an orphanage in Cape Coast, Ghana, which helps to treat children who are the victim of Aids. Clyde House exceeded their £2,500 target in December when they raised money for ‘The Desk and Chair Foundation’, helping to fund educational and health projects in Tanzania. Bannerman House did fantastically well in February to raise £4,257.70 in order to build two 10,000 litre water tanks which will collect and safely store water for Miti Mingi Primary School in Kenya. They raised so much money that they exceeded their target by almost 30% and so are consulting with Miti Mingi School as to how best to use the extra money to benefit the local community. Moore House rounded off the fundraising weeks in March, raising over £2,500 for the Beatson Cancer Charity, a specialised cancer care centre based at Gartnaval General Hospital, Glasgow. Law House were also honoured for their efforts during the 2013-14 session, as they received the ‘Best School Fundraiser’ award at Down’s Syndrome Scotland’s Annual Conference.

Money raised out-with the fundraising weeks included a Poppy Appeal that raised over £530, £758 raised for Children in Need, £2,200 raised for East Park School and £1,655 raised by S6 pupil, Alyssa Quigley, for the Princess Trust, through donating 15 inches of her hair to the charity.


Another busy year at the Junior School saw pupils partake in many activities, welcome various visitors to the school and partake in fundraising events, as well as heading out on various outings throughout the year.

Class News

Kindergarten children visited Scotland Street School Museum for a workshop entitled ‘Wee Architects’ and Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum for ‘Tracks, Trails and Dinosaur Tales’. They also visited the Gallery of Modern Art to look at sculptures, inspiring budding artists to create their own pieces for an Art Gallery Enterprise while an Art Gallery open morning raised £138.64 for the Dogs Trust charity. Local Fire Service also visited the school as part of the ‘Keeping Safe’ topic.

Junior 1 visited Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum for a workshop entitled ‘Feeling Faces’, as well as visiting Loch Lomond Aquarium to learn more about what is ‘Under the Sea’. They also hosted afternoon tea for grandparents of the school, entertaining them with songs, poems and stories and showing off their work in the classrooms. They raised £606.85 for the RNLI.

Junior 2 studied ‘Senses’ and were visited by Laura Rennie from Animal Magic. In studying the topic of ‘Toys’, the children visited Scotland Street School for special workshops and were visited by Mrs Jean White, who brought a selection of old toys for children to see. They then organised,

publicised and ran a very successful Toy Fayre, raising £672.20 for WaterAid. J2 also visited Finlaystone Country Estate to explore how to make art from natural materials and The Burrell Collection for workshops on ‘Changing Materials’.

Junior 3 explored the topic of ‘The Rainforest’ by visiting Amazonia to experience a simulation of the rainforest environment, with Laura from Animal Magic again visiting. They supported a rainforest charity by creating art work, which was then printed onto canvas bags. They also studied ‘Polar Lands’ and had visits from the Edinburgh Science Festival group, Generation Science, with enjoyable workshops – ‘The Wonderful World of Water’ and ‘Marvellous Magnets’, as well as learning about the planets by visiting the Glasgow Science Centre Planetarium.

Junior 4 classes visited Vikingar in Largs, getting an insight into the reality of life in a Viking settlement, while Mr Bruce Jamieson, former teacher and historian, brought the topic alive with a very interesting talk. J4 also studied the topic of ‘Glasgow’ this term, touring the West End and Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, studying Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s work, and the East End of the city, visiting the Cathedral, spotting landmarks and spending time at Glasgow Green. They visited the Riverside Museum for a Clydebuilt exhibition and The People’s Palace to learn about the changing face of Glasgow. Artist Avril Paton visited the classes to talk about her work and her childhood memories of Arran and Glasgow, while a visit to Garnethill Synagogue, with expert guidance from a member of the Hebrew Centre, was enjoyed in their study of ‘Judaism’.

Junior School News


Junior 5 studied the topic ‘Plants’ by visiting the Botanic Gardens. They did paintings of flowers in the style of Georgia O’Keefe and made sculptured flowers using coiled wire and mesh. They also organised a very successful ‘Mackintosh Masterpieces’ Art Gallery event, raising £753 for the Glasgow School of Art Restoration Fund. Later in the year, they studied Robert Burns and his work by visiting the Burns Heritage Park in Alloway and hosting a Burns Supper with songs, poems, speeches, toasts and a Ceilidh. Whilst on their trip to York, they visited the Minster, the Dungeons, walked on the walls and explored the ancient city beneath York at Jorvik. To round off their medieval studies, the classes took part in a Knights and Castles workshop at The Burrell Museum. Other activities included a ‘Roald Dahl Day’, a visit to the Falkirk Wheel and a day visit trip to Edinburgh to explore the wonders of the planet at Dynamic Earth.

Junior 6 studied ‘WWII’ with visits to Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, to Scotland Street School for a glimpse of school life in the war years and to Clydebank Library to view an exhibition. Pupils were given accounts of life during the war to further enhance their learning, while Hopscotch Theatre Company presented a WWII workshop for classes. During Book Week in October, Ken Cockburn, Edinburgh poet and author, worked with J6 pupils on their poetry writing about wartime. As part of their ‘Electricity’ topic, classes visited Whitelee Windfarm to learn about renewable energy. They studied the Solar System, visiting the Glasgow Science Centre Planetarium and taking in a 3D film at the IMAX cinema. Visits were also made to the Greek Orthodox Church in

Glasgow, the Coats Memorial Church in Paisley and to TCoNE at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum.

J6 class captains, Mackenzie Bruce, Annabel Goold, Annabel Davies and Shria Crossan, represented the Junior School at the Remembrance Service at the Senior School in November.

Pupils attending our after-school Judo Clubs were inspired by a visit from James Miller, Commonwealth Games Judo Bronze Medal Winner, whilst the Out of School Care club were fortunate enough to get a visit from Partick Thistle footballer, Lyle Taylor, who signed autographs and had a kick-about with the children.

Hopscotch Theatre Company presented ‘St Andrew and The Flag’ and M&M Productions entertained the whole school with their Christmas production of ‘Cinderella’. The Senior School Fiddle Orchestra and the Fusion Group also performed a wonderful lunchtime concert. As always, the Spring Concert was a wonderful success and showcased the incredible talents of the children in the Junior School.

On World Book Day, representatives from each class gave book reviews of their favourite books at assembly. The Global Citizenship Committee held a Fair Trade assembly and, during Fair Trade Fortnight, ran a stall at lunchtimes selling bananas, juice, key rings, book marks and trinket boxes. Eco work at the Junior School continued apace, with a recent submission of an application for the renewal of our ‘Green Flag’ status whilst the Eco Committee encouraged the Junior School to have a Zero Waste Day.


Charities

Junior School pupils were active in their fundraising efforts throughout the year with many charities benefiting from their efforts. A Macmillan Cancer Care Coffee Event raised £1046 and £1018.55 was raised for Children in Need through various fundraising activities. A performance of ‘The Tempest’ and a Christmas choir concert at Princes Square by J6 pupils raised money for the ‘Bliss’ charity and Quarriers, respectively. The J6 choir also brought Christmas cheer to senior citizens at an event at Bearsden Cross Church. J1 classes took their Nativity, ‘A Magical Christmas Journey’ on tour, visiting New Kilpatrick Ladies Guild and the Monday Club at Bearsden Baptist Church, before performing for parents and friends at the school. Kindergarten performed their Christmas sing-a-long for parents and grandparents.

Decorated Harvest boxes filled with food provisions were donated to Local Meals-on-Wheels, The Salvation Army and Focal Point in Drumchapel while proceeds from personalised Christmas cards and the Piggy bank collections went to The Nora Docherty School in Malawi. Pupils also raised £361.60 through buying red noses for Comic Relief, and the sum of £688.48 for Unicef from a ‘Dress-as-you-Please’ day. Several very generous donations to charities were also given from individual children in lieu of birthday gifts.

Sport

The Junior School boys and girls were successful at both Triangular Swimming Galas held in January while pupils from J5 and J6 had outstanding success at the Glasgow Primary Schools' Swimming Finals. The R.W. Smith Memorial Trophy for 10 years Boys’ Relay was won by Milo Harris (J4), Fergus Currie, Liam McColl and Jamie Ritchie (all J5). The Dykes Trophy for 11 years Girls’ Relay was won by Kirsty Jones, Zara Kennedy, Anna Ivins and Anya MacLean (all J6).

There were also individual Gold medals for James Ballantyne (J6) in the 11 years Breaststroke, Fergus Currie (J6) in the 10 years backstroke; Zara Kennedy (J6) in the 11 years Backstroke and Anya MacLean (J6) in the 11 years 25m Freestyle and 11 years Breaststroke. Anya was also part of the Girls’ U12 4x50m Freestyle Relay team which won at the Scottish Schools' Swimming Championships in Aberdeen, as well as being victorious in the U11 Scottish Aquathlon. Her sister, Coryn (J4), won the U8 Aquathlon.

At the Glasgow Schools' Cross-Country competition, the J6 girls’ team of Ellie Adair, Annabel Davies, Francesca Deane, Zara Kennedy, Anya MacLean and Lucy Sillars gained 1st place overall, with Anya finishing first in the individual standings. The J5 girls’ team and the J5 boys’ team finished second overall and the J6 boys’ team achieved a third place finish.

At the Garscube Harriers Schools’ Cross Country Race, our J6 Girls’ Teams (Zara Kennedy, Anya MacLean and Lucy Sillars), our J5 Boys’ Team (Fergus Currie, Jamie Ritchie and Ben Taylor) and our J5 Girls’ Team (Eilidh Hill, Coryn MacLean [J4] and Anna McCallum) all achieved first place finishes. Anya MacLean came first overall.

The J6 girls won the Carol Hamilton Hockey Cup, while the J6 Gymnastics Shield and Gold Medal was won by Anya MacLean. Alex Sivarajan (J5) had a number of successes in dinghy sailing, coming 1st in the Optimist Regatta Fleet at Largo Bay, at Bardowie and at Peterhead and also winning the International Optimist Class Association UK End of Season Championship at Rutland Water. Toby Sim (J6) won a tennis tournament in Newcastle, whilst Emma Dry and Jai Shergill (both J4) took part in a joint event at the Taekwondo Scottish Open Championships, gaining the Gold Medal, with Emma also winning Silver in an individual event.

Competitions

There were winners in every section at the Trades House of Glasgow Robert Burns Festival. Amongst the medallists were Zixuan Yao (J5), playing violin, who won the P4/5 Instrumental Section and Annabel Davies (J6), also playing violin, who won the P6/7 Instrumental Section. The Scots Verse Competition was won by Polly Quaile (J5), who performed an outstanding recital of ‘The Rickety Bus’ by Matt Freeland.

Archie MacFadyen was overall winner of the U18 Chanter Competition at the National Piping Centre whilst J5 pupil, Ritvik Maheshwari, won the annual Chess Championship.


Sophie Herron, class of 2010, writes about her time

studying veterinary medicine and her visits to Ghana

and Zimbabwe.The day after our year’s leavers’ party in June 2011, I flew out to Ghana to spend a month shadowing vets there as part of a voluntary programme with Projects Abroad. This would be the first of many challenging adventures gaining experience with animals as part of my chosen degree in veterinary medicine. I had already discovered a love of travelling and discovering different cultures on the 2009 China trip with the school, but it was still a big step for me to go alone and for longer than I had ever left the UK for before. The days in Ghana didn’t always involve standing in the vet’s consulting room for hours before rushing off to the internet café - outside the practice we visited neighbouring villages to give rabies vaccines to dogs, castrate pigs, and even perform screening diabetes blood tests on a more co-operative species - humans.

After that exciting summer, I moved down to London in September to start my five-year degree at the Royal Veterinary College, part of the University of London. The college has two campuses- for the first two years of the degree, known as the “pre-clinical years”, students are based at the Camden campus in central London. The remaining three years, the “clinical years” are spent at the Hawkshead campus in Hertfordshire. Some would say this gives students the “best of both worlds”, having the opportunity to live in both the city and countryside, however now in the fourth year of the course, I look back on the two years spent living in London and can’t help but miss them! A veterinary student’s life doesn’t have to consist of classes all day followed by personal studying in the evenings - I took every advantage of our location and enjoyed many trips to musicals, plays, orchestral concerts and conventions at London’s Excel Centre.

Hard work had to be done however, and come “holiday” time,

there was no such word spoken. During the pre-clinical part of the course, all students are required to complete 12 weeks of animal husbandry extra-mural studies (AHEMS) during holiday periods. This had to include at least 2 weeks each of work with lambing sheep, dairy cows, pigs and horses. The other 4 weeks could be just about anything. The college frequently sent us emails detailing various opportunities for such placements, however I would delete most of them without even reading past the title. There was eventually one that caught my eye and merited reading on - a placement working with lions in Zimbabwe. I decided to go there for a 2 week placement in the summer following my second year. The work was with a lion conservation project in Antelope Park, Gweru. The aim of the project was to successfully breed captive lions with the hope of releasing their offspring into the wild. In order to improve survival rates, cubs were hand-reared from 3 weeks old and accustomed to human contact. At a few months old, they’d start going on “lion walks” around the savannah to get used to the environment and learn their hunting skills. The lions weren’t expected to make their first kill until they reached roughly a year old, so still required feeding. After the keepers were satisfied the young lions were good hunters, they would be released into a much larger enclosed area to fend for themselves. It would be the offspring of these lions, who received no human contact that they hoped to eventually release to the wild. As a volunteer with the project, daily duties included going on lion walks, preparing the food, taming the very young cubs and making natural toys for them to keep them amused. The lion walks were of course the highlight. These took place every day at dawn and dusk, as the lions slept most of the day.

While these were “tame” animals and still very young, they undoubtedly had the potential to do us a lot of damage. Like our domestic pets, lions also like to play with teeth and claws. On lion walks we were advised not to wear bright colours or any dangling items- these can be seen as fun toys just like a house cat with a piece of string! Making direct eye contact or running around was considered as challenging the lions, and so we were advised not to do this. Our height was our weapon - being taller made the lions think of us as the dominant members of their pack. Many tense moments occurred on walks when they spotted zebra and impala in the distance, and though on one exhilarating occasion a successful chase was made, the zebra in question got the better of the naïve young lions!

These days my holiday work placements take place mostly indoors at veterinary practices, and although I don’t expect to see another lion anytime soon, I get my fair share of their domestic relatives!

Former Pupil News


67 years on, now living in Canada, three members

of Form 1A in 1948 meet for lunch.Colin MacCallum, class of 1953, kindly sent in some photographs to the Development Office.

The first photo was taken the day before Armistice Day in 2014, when Colin met for lunch with fellow class of 1953 members, Henry Caplan and Charles Martin, in Victoria, BC. This was the first time Henry and Charles had seen each other since they left school.

The second image is from 1947 and shows a class photograph of Miss Isa B Young's class, 5Y. Both Henry and Colin can be seen in this photo, Henry is second from the right on the back row and Colin is first from the left on the front row.

All are now living in British Columbia, Canada and hope to continue to meet up over the coming years.

Surgeon Rear Admiral Alasdair Walker OBE, class of

1974, tells us about his 36 year career as a doctor

and surgeon in the Royal Navy and Defence Medical

Services.Having left The High School in 1974 and qualifying in Medicine from Glasgow University in 1979, I have spent the last 36 years serving as doctor and surgeon in the Royal Navy and Defence Medical Services. Tours of duty in the Falkland Islands, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan have added excitement to a surgical career mainly spent in Plymouth until 2009.

At the same time as developing a practice in vascular and trauma surgery, to effect change in the NHS (Service Hospitals closed in the 1990’s and the military hospital staff are embedded in NHS units), I became involved in clinical management – Clinical & Divisional Director in Plymouth. This prepared me for a career leap from surgery to administrative medicine in 2009 after a final surgical tour in Camp Bastion, Afghanistan.

Promoted to Surgeon Commodore, I spent over four years leading the Defence clinical cadres from anaesthesia to psychiatry. This was combined with setting up national and international collaborative research programmes which are driving trauma management forwards around the world.

Now promoted to Surgeon Rear Admiral in 2014, I am responsible for medical operational policy and capability

across the Ministry of Defence as well as being Deputy Surgeon General. The focus rapidly shifted from trauma care in Bastion to helping manage a global Ebola health crisis focussed on West Africa, which makes the variety of my career intriguing.

I am now the last serving doctor to have contributed to the Falkland Island campaign in 2002 and am the Chief RN Medical Officer (Medical Director General Navy). I have had the honour to be awarded the OBE in 2004 and appointed Queen’s Honorary Surgeon in 2010.

Not bad for a wee boy from Miss Ralston’s Class in 1966-8. I and others owe her a lot.


Andrew Duncan, class of 2004, launched

SwarmOnline just over 3 years ago, he has kindly

taken the time to tell us of its growth and success.I’ve always had an entrepreneurial side to me. While I was at the High School, broadband was only available in the centre of cities and unheard of in the rural outskirts. So I decided to provide satellite broadband to those who wanted it. This was the first time anyone had ever installed a Wi-Fi mesh network covering an entire village anywhere in the UK. Amazingly it still exists 11 years on.

The technical stuff has always interested me - I write textbooks about it, I consult businesses about it and I speak at conferences about it. In fact, I now do this all over the world, including Silicon Valley.

However, technology is just a means to an end for me. The end I’m talking about is the eventual benefit it brings to the users. When I provided Internet to my hometown I wasn’t satisfied once everything was working. Satisfaction came from residents thanking me for solving what was a big problem and ultimately improving their livelihoods.

It’s exactly the same today. My business, SwarmOnline, uses creativity, innovation and technology to build apps for a wide range of businesses. Our client list includes the likes of E.ON, Scottish Power, Veripos, AMT-Sybex and many more. We solve technically challenging issues and I’m proud to be growing a team of experts to tackle the challenges thrown at us. However, even if we were to build the world’s most complex app, I wouldn’t be happy with it until it started providing benefits to it’s intended audience.

Here’s a good example. Last year we were approached by Speirs Gumley, one of Glasgow’s largest property management companies, to help them provide a new service to their huge customer base. They knew their customers were using smart devices as their preferred means of communication and they wanted to provide a service that was compatible with that technology. We spent quite some time planning and brainstorming different ideas and decided to build an app that would allow their customers to complete all the important tasks over a smart phone or tablet. This represented a significant technical challenge but thankfully we had the skills to handle it. That was great but what really excites me is that we’ve created a tool that can be used by thousands of tenants to pay their bills, report repairs, intimate insurance claims and reach the best tradesmen available. This makes their

lives easier, adds value to Speirs Gumley’s business and gives SwarmOnline the kudos it deserves.

Since I launched the business just over 3 years ago, we’ve grown into a team of 14, moved into some of Glasgow’s finest office space and created a foothold in some exciting industries that will see our solutions have an impact around the world. Our solutions allow businesses like E.ON to install smart meters across all of their customers homes and we just signed a partnership deal with Vodafone that will see our solutions being offered in their bids around the world. This is all contributing the growth of SwarmOnline that will see us become a global IT leader.

What’s the secret to our success? There are a lot of factors but the overarching one is that we’re ahead of the game. Last year we were thinking about the things that businesses want this year and this year we’re thinking about the things businesses will want next year. Technology is evolving at a rapid speed and we’re at the forefront of it.

In the future we’re going to keep doing what we’re doing, staying ahead of the competition and providing great services, but we’re also going to launch some exciting products into the industries we’ve gained a foothold in. Once our products are in full swing, we’ll greatly increase our client base and ultimately provide benefits to more people than ever before. I can’t wait.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning the High School provided me with the foundation necessary for embarking on this journey. It takes a lot of ability and self-belief to start your own business and I’m not sure I would have had that if it weren’t for my time at the High School. Thank you!

It is with great pleasure we report on some recent

former pupil sporting successes.Andrew Umeed, class of 2014, signed a two year Senior Professional Contract with Warwickshire County Cricket Club in April 2015. The whole school community is delighted for Andrew on this excellent achievement.

Charlie Telfer, class of 2013, signed for Dundee United Football Club in June 2014, he has scored 4 goals in the SPFL and was named as SPFL Young Player of the Month for November 2014. Charlie was also capped for the Scotland U21 team in March 2015. We look forward to watching his progress and wish him well.


It is with great pleasure that we share photos of

former pupils who have recently married, become a

parent and a grandparent!From left to right, starting at the top, we have three generations of the Hugh family. Eric Hugh, class of 1972, former parent and current Governor, with his son Neil, class of 2002, and his first grandchild, Sam, who was born on 8 March 2015.

Next, we have former pupil Ian Mackie, class of 2001, with his wife Victoria and their new arrival, Struan Ian Paterson Mackie born on 14 December 2014.

Douglas Easton, class of 2000, married Cathy Hamilton on 9

April 2015 in Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church in Belfast.

Katy Siedlecki née Teo, class of 2002, married David Siedlecki in Peebles in August 2013.

We wish you all every happiness, and thank you for sharing your happy news with the School.

Please get in touch if you would like to include a photo of your wedding or new arrival in the next edition of the magazine.


Former Pupils continue to meet at the Hong Kong

Club Annual Rugby Sevens Dinner.A group of former pupils attended the Hong Kong Club Annual Rugby Sevens Dinner on Tuesday 24 March. Peter Reed, class of 1969, organises a table at the event each year, which is attended by over 300 guests. This year the guest speakers were former Australian World Cup winner, Nick Farr-Jones and former England international, Richard Hill.

The High School table was made up of (back row L-R) Ken Morrison, David Knight, Gordon Neilson, Graham Eckersley (front row L-R) Sandy Hamilton, John Barr, Peter Reed and Glen Docherty.

Congratulations to the following former pupils who

graduated in 2014•Alysha Aikman

BMSc 1st Class in Medical Psychology at University of Dundee

•Natasha Aikman MA Hons in Medicine at Cambridge University

•Patrick Bell BA Hons in Marketing and Management at Newcastle University

•Lorna Brown LLB Hons 2:1 in Law at University of Glasgow

•Amy Cameron MA 2:1 in Theatre Studies & English Literature at University of Glasgow

•Calum Clayton MA 2:1 in Management Studies at University of Aberdeen

•Jennifer Derrick BA Hons 2:1 in Risk Management at Glasgow Caledonian University

•Olivia Fearn MA Hons 2:1 in Psychology at University of Edinburgh

•Benjamin Filmer LLB Hons 2:1 in Law at University of Aberdeen

•Andrew Fleming BDS in Dentistry at University of Glasgow

•Duncan Godsman BA Hons 2:1 in Finance, Investment & Risk at Glasgow Caledonian University

•James Gordon MChem 1st Class in Chemistry at University of St Andrews

•Brogan Grier MA 2:1 in Management Studies & Property at University of Aberdeen

•Karm Jandoo BDS 2:1 in Dentistry at University of Glasgow

•Richard Macfarlane LLB Hons 2:1 in Law at University of Aberdeen

•Megan McLachlan MA 2:2 in Film & Visual Culture & Politics at University of Aberdeen

•Charlie McNaught MA 2:1 in Management Studies & Property at University of Aberdeen

•Eilidh O'Neil BDS in Dentistry at University of Dundee

•Calum Paterson MRES Masters in Finance at University of Aberdeen

•Catriona Reid LLB Hons 2:1 in Law at University of Aberdeen

•Catriona Scholes BSc Hons in Psychology at Newcastle University

•Maxine Steel BSc Hons Honours in Biomedical Sciences at Newcastle University

•Katy Wade MA Hons 2:1 in Economics & Social History at University of Glasgow

•Desmond Woods LLB Hons 2:1 in Law & European Legal Studies at University of Aberdeen

To feature in this list for the next edition, please contact the Development Office with the necessary details of your degree.

Jamie Spurway, class of 1996, visited the High

School in late February to talk to our senior pupils

on the topic of “Refugees in Scotland”.Jamie studied Psychology and Philosophy at Stirling University before travelling further afield to work as a tour guide in the Middle East and North Africa for five years. He returned to Glasgow to work for the Scottish Refugee Council and currently provides training courses on issues such as refugees, trafficking, gender- based violence and cultural diversity. Our pupils enjoyed a hugely interesting lecture, following it up with some searching questions, on an issue of great importance in our society today.


Colin Young, class of 1958, talks about his time as

a Clydesider at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.Having been involved in athletics as an athlete, coach and official for most of my life, I decided last year to volunteer as a helper at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. On learning that there were 50,000 applicants for 15,000 places I was less than optimistic about being accepted, but after filling in the form and being interviewed in Glasgow, I was chuffed to receive an acceptance in January 2014.

Our first Games orientation was an afternoon in March at the Emirates Stadium in Glasgow, where, amidst much razzamatazz and loud music, we learned a bit about the history of the Games and the events that would take place. We also got first sight our uniforms of red tops and grey trousers. The red shirts of the Clydesiders were to become a feature of the Games throughout the city.

By May things were hotting up and we had a full day’s training on our venue and tasks, which in my case, was the area around Hampden Park. We were taken round Hampden in great detail and were all impressed with the installation of the track. Lesser Hampden had also been converted to a warm-up track.

As I had now learned that my work venue was to be the warm-up area for throwing events at Tory Glen and not at Hampden itself, I volunteered to work at the Grand Prix meeting there in July, just to see what it was like, working as a kit carrier. It was good fun, but running up and down under the stand at Hampden means you don’t see much athletics!

One perk of being a Clydesider was an invitation to the dress rehearsal for the opening ceremony at Celtic Park. This was great fun and apart from noting a whole new meaning given to the hackneyed phrase “a Glasgow kiss”, it was fascinating to see much more of the workings of the ceremony than was later visible on the telly. An army of well drilled people in black dungarees were swiftly and efficiently shifting equipment on and off the park - a bunch of unsung heroes.

After all the preparation, I was really keen to get started as a Clydesider and do something positive. My group had been asked to come two days before the Games to get familiarised with our duties. It transpired that they were not arduous - consisting mainly of issuing throwing impedimenta to the discus, javelin and hammer throwers, who were training or

warming up, winding up and down the nets on the throwing cages, keeping the place generally tidy, sweeping water off the runway and circles, drinking coffee and eating muffins! Clydesiders were divided into different groups depending on their theoretical duties but although the numbers and personnel varied from day to day, we all worked amicably together at whatever was needed. On warm sunny days it was a pleasurable experience sitting watching the cream of the Commonwealth field events hurling their impedimenta into the distance! We also had the added bonus of a massive screen relaying the competitions down to us and we took great interest in seeing how “our” athletes were getting on.

For me as a coach, a fascinating part of being in the training area was observing at close quarters the techniques of high quality athletes. In the quieter moments of an evening when maybe there was only one athlete there, you could chat to them a bit. When I commented to one Australian lady that it was looking good, she responded that it was “good, but not awesome!” – Nothing like setting your standards high!

I had been lucky in early July in getting tickets for five athletics sessions for when I was off-shift, all for events I really wanted to see, and some of them for prime sessions towards the end of the Games.

The athletics were wonderful and I have so many memories of great competitions. The Australian hurdler, Sally Pearson, gave an immaculate performance in both heat and final to win the sprint hurdles and our own Eilidh Child ran magnificently for silver in the 400m hurdles. Full marks for courage must go to Lynsey Sharp for coming second after spending half the night before her final in hospital!

There were many more wonderful performances but I will always remember the moment when the exceedingly fast Adam Gemili of England took the baton in the last leg ahead of the Jamaican runner - and for a few heartbeats we wondered if the unimaginable was going to happen - but Usain Bolt strode magnificently down the track to bring Jamaica home for the gold medal.

All in all, the Games were great fun and most enjoyable. I am already thinking about going to Gold Coast in 2018.


A group of Ladies get together on the first

Wednesday of each month in term time for a cup of

coffee and a chat.Some of the Ladies have been regular visitors to the Coffee Mornings, held in the Jimmie Ireland Stand at the School, for a number of years. We would like to extend an invitation to former pupils and friends of the School to come along and join us - you can be assured of a very warm welcome. Please contact the Development Office for further details.

Alison Spurway, class of 1964, reports on the generous support shown for a Girlguiding Glasgow

fundraising event held at the Senior School.In March 2015, the School Assembly Hall was the venue for “Brides Fashion & Fun”, an evening around the theme of weddings, to raise funds for a Girlguiding Glasgow visit to Mexico. The participants will undertake a service project and will stay at “Our Cabana”, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girls Scouts Centre.

The evening included an interview with one of the brides who participated in “Don’t Tell the Bride!”. In addition, 17 brides from the 60s and 70s located their dresses in the back of their wardrobes and generously permitted 17 young women to model them. The evening was a great success, raising over £1900.

We are grateful to Hugh Allan, class of 1958, for

sending in the above photo of his Kindergarten class

in 1947.Hugh is now 73 years old, retired and living in Australia with his wife, who he met in Sydney in 1972 and married in 1974. He has 5 children, 12 grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter, aged 7.

Scott Kennedy, class of 2006, is a Royal Marine

helping the international effort to rescue stranded

migrants from the Mediterranean Sea.He is one of a specialist team of Royal Marines permanently on board Britain’s flagship HMS Bulwark. The ship is leading the UK’s response to the plight of people trying to leave Africa in overcrowded and unsafe boats. Marine Kennedy is coxswain in charge of the navigation and steering of one of the landing craft playing a critical role in the rescue effort.

Scott said: “I’m proud to make a difference because it lessens the suffering of people less fortunate than ourselves. Helping folk who don’t have many options available to them is the right thing to do.”


Annual Fund

After the success of our first Annual Fund Appeal,

we bring you news of the latest Appeal.In session 2013/14, we were delighted that the first Annual Fund Appeal raised the fantastic total of £103,000 - thanks to the generousity of the High School community.

The chosen projects all benefitted greatly from the money raised, the Bursary Fund recieved £55,000, a truly fantastic sum. We are proud to now have 68 pupils are receiving Bursary support ranging from 20 - 100% of the Tuition fees.

The Junior School purchased a new projector for the Assembly Hall, some additional staging and backdrop curtains for the stage.

The Pipe Band now has a full set of waterproof capes and many of the current bagpipes have been refurbished, which will help to prolong their lifespan.

The major change has been the Lecture Theatre. It had a major refurbishment and has been completely re-designed to be a fully air-conditioned room with state of the art presenter facilities.

We are delighted to report that we are on course to raise even more funds this session for the Annual Fund. The chosen projects for session 2014/15 are the Bursary Fund and Where the School Needs it Most, which includes enabling the Junior School to further develop their outdoor learning area and also to enhance their music and drama resources.

At the Senior School, funds raised would be committed to the School's major sporting priority, to build a water-based astro pitch behind the current sand-based pitch. This would provide not only a world class playing surface with numerous safety benefits, but will most importantly enable more pupils to participate in hockey on astro pitch surfaces.

You can still donate to the Annual Fund Appeal for

Session 2014/15.If you would like to support the Annual Fund Appeal, you can do so by any of the following ways. Donations can be made online by visiting the Annual Fund online giving page, maintained by ParentPay, or by cheque.

Please visit:www.glasgowhigh.com/annualfund

Here, you will also find information on ways to give from the United States of America and anywhere in Europe outside the United Kingdom.

If you choose to donate by cheque, please make sure to download a PDF of the Donation Form on the link above, and remember, if you are a UK tax payer, please sign a Gift Aid Declaration. This enables us to claim back the tax you have paid on the donation, therefore, a gift if £100 becomes a gift of £125.

Why leave a legacy to the High School?We are deeply grateful for the generosity of donors who choose to remember the High School in their Will. Our future ambition is to grow and expand our provision for bursaries each year.

Leaving the High School a gift in your will can provide the opportunity for a young person to benefit from a High School education and is one of the greatest gifts we can receive. Your decision now will influence future generations.

If you would like to speak to someone about leaving a legacy, please contact the Development Office.


Through the generosity of our Annual Fund donors,

the School Lecture Theatre has undergone a major

refurbishment and re-design to become a modern

multi-purpose lecture venue for visiting speakers and

general school use.The new facility is fully air-conditioned, with improved presenter facilities and a top of the range sound system, projector and lectern.

As a result of the refurbishment, the School has introduced the Sixth Form Friday Lecture Series.

The weekly lectures are designed to complement the existing range of activities and opportunities offered to Sixth Form and to further enrich their overall experience at The High School of Glasgow.

This series of lectures aims to provide opportunities for broadening students' minds, inspiring and provoking our students and to give them the chance to listen to and discuss some of the key issues of the day with some of the most inspiring speakers around. The lectures will run from 2.45 - 3.45 p.m. every Friday through the Autumn and Spring Terms.

We are looking for speakers and would welcome any suggestions from members of the FP community. This could be a personal nomination or someone you have come across through your work. The topics can be wide ranging but we

Sixth Form Lecture Series

hope they will stimulate interest and debate amongst our most senior pupils.

We are delighted that we have been able to invite some high profile former pupils from the business world to take part in our first series of lectures. However, there are still a few dates available and we would welcome the help from anyone in the FP community who would be happy to be involved.

If you would like more information about the Sixth Form Lecture Series, please contact the Development Office.


Current member of staff, Mr FitzGerald, kindly took

the time to tell us about his research of former

pupils who sadly fell during The Great War.I am just about to undertake my third trip to the Battlefields of the First World War. My introduction to the First World War during my own History lessons at school involved looking at a couple of black and white photos of men in gas masks, tanks and trenches in an old text book. Things have certainly moved on since then and the chance to actually visit the sites of what I read about over 30 years ago was too good an opportunity to miss. The previous two visits have rated very positively with all the other school trips I have been on since I started here, way back in 1993.

After the first trip, when we were taken to various sites and cemeteries and told numerous stories about the fallen, I felt that we needed to have more information regarding the final resting places of so many of our FPs. As many of you will know, The High School lists 485 former pupils in its Book of Remembrance. Every school, village, town, city and workplace was left devastated by the amount of fatalities. I can find no family connection to the atrocities of WWI, but was spurred on to do a bit of digging about High School FPs after this first trip to the Battlefields.

I set about my task by firstly going through the Book of Remembrance and recording the name, rank, regiment and date of death of every entry, much to the annoyance of my wife. However, I found a reliable ally in number one son,

Aidan, who helped cross check and recheck various bits of information. Some of you may well remember that poor little boy who was dragged to various sporting venues up and down the country and made to play in the pouring rain. Some of you even offered to look after him rather than play.

I then accessed the information held on the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website to find out where these men had been buried or commemorated on a memorial. At times it was difficult to trace a name, due to slightly different spellings or slight changes in the recorded date of death. All this information was then entered into a basic spreadsheet and I was able to extract various statistics from the information gathered.

Some of the basics facts that came out showed that 17 FPs died on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, 1st July 1916. 45 were to die in the whole month. This was almost ten percent of those High School FPs who fell. 87 died while serving in the Highland Light Infantry, 56 in the Scottish Rifles. However, the losses were spread across 83 different regiments. 41 names were listed on the Thiepval Memorial, just one of the 228 cemeteries / memorials where the fallen have been remembered. Although the guns ceased firing on November 11th 1918, a further 25 died after this date due to wounds received in battle.

My interest in the subject was further developed when I wrote an article for the Garnock Rugby Club match day programme when they played GHK just after Remembrance Sunday. It became obvious to me that although it is nice to have everything pigeon-holed when it comes to facts and

The High School's connection to WWI


figures, after a while, the numbers all tend to merge into one. However, it is important to remember each and every life in its own right. The research I did for that article showed me that there were various connections between High School FPs and the men from the Garnock Valley.

The 41 who were listed on the memorial at Thiepval were listed because their bodies had never been found or successfully identified. The name of former Spiers pupil, Private William Anderson, is also listed at Thiepval. He was the son of Jessie and William Anderson of 41 Wilson St, Beith, which was the house I first moved into upon arrival in Beith back in 2000. His name is remembered with 18 High School FPs on Face 15C at Thiepval, all of them casualties of the Highland Light Infantry’s involvement on the Somme during July 1916.

Another former Spiers’ pupil, Private William Blackwood of the 14th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, son of John and Jeanie Blackwood, of 32 Main St, Beith, died on 24th September 1916 and was buried at Philosphe Cemetery, Mazingarbe. In the grave next to him lay High School FP, Captain James P Hogg, also of the same regiment, who died on the same day.

Our Book of Remembrance was written well after the end of the war and it is possible that certain facts were incorrectly remembered and recorded. In the biography of Sergeant Donald McNeill of the Black Watch, it is stated that he was the first FP to die, in October 1914. However, upon further investigation I found out that he had actually died in November. Therefore, I would say that the dubious honour of being the first High School FP to die went to Sergeant Robert Paton of the 2nd Border Regiment on 26 October 1914. His name is forever commemorated on Panel 35 of the Menin Gate Memorial.

The youngest High School FP to die was 16 year old, Private John Pritchard of the Royal Field Artillery, who lost his life in October 1915 at Gallipoli. However, spare a thought for Cadet William Barr of the RAF, who was hit by a tram-car in St Leonard’s on Sea on December 31st 1917 while training, before he even managed to get across the channel. There are a few names in the book, which cannot necessarily be linked to action during the war, Herman Spencer, son of a former Rector, being one of them. He died in 1919 at Oxford University, having been refused entry to the army on health grounds. Another, Second Lieutenant Edward Stevenson of

the Black Watch, was killed by Irish Republicans in Westport in 1921, rather than action on the Western Front.

Losing one son would be terrible enough. However, 28 sets of parents had to go through the hell of losing more than one son. While it was not unusual for families to lose multiple siblings, it is still unthinkable to imagine what went through Mr and Mrs Brown’s mind when they were told of the death of their fourth son. Harold died first in July 1916 on the Somme, followed by John in April 1917, George in May 1917, both in the Middle East, and then William fell in October 1918, just outside Ypres. Robin Broadbent has been responsible for bringing this family tragedy to the forefront of many pupil’s minds on previous Battlefield trips, with a short service at William’s grave at Hooge Crater.

I feel I have only scratched the surface with regards to the information that is out there about the First World War, but believe that there is some excellent research and information being published at the moment which is well worth reading.

Lest we forget.

K. F. FitzGerald


Colin Kerr, Class of 1972, is a Director of the

Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and

has provided some information to accompany Mr

Fitzgerald’s article.The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) cares for the graves and memorials of the 1.7 million Commonwealth casualties of the two World Wars. Over 170,000 Commonwealth war dead are buried in the United Kingdom - with over 20,000 of these burials found here, north of the border.

Scotland was an important centre for both training and operational units during both World Wars and war graves are to be found at over 1,200 locations. In every major town, the Council set aside portions of the town’s cemeteries for the war dead: go into the Glasgow Necropolis, Seafield Cemetery in Edinburgh, or many, many others and you will see the CWGC’s Cross of Sacrifice and the rows of white headstones, no different from the Somme or from Normandy. If you want to know where the sites are in your town, just go to the CWGC website (www.cwgc.org) and use the ‘cemeteries near you’ function.

Why not visit one of the following locations?

Lyness Naval Cemetery in Orkney, with 700 men from both wars: this will be the key site for the commemoration of the centenary of the Battle of Jutland, in 2016

Rosebank Cemetery in Edinburgh, which includes the

memorial to the 226 people killed in a train crash at Gretna in May 1915, including men of the Royal Scots on their way to Gallipoli

Queensferry Cemetery in Edinburgh, which includes the graves of men killed at the Battle of Jutland and also memorials erected by their shipmates

Comely Bank Cemetery in Edinburgh, which includes the grave of Reggie Earnshaw, who was killed in 1941, aged 14, on a British merchant ship

The details of all of the 1.7 million men from the Commonwealth who gave their lives in both wars can be found through the CWGC website, including digitised archive documents.


In Memoriam

Mrs Sybil McDougall Class of 1930

Lt Col William Lawrie Class of 1936

Mr Douglas Lewis Class of 1936

Mr Leslie Valentine Class of 1936

Mr Robert Barclay Class of 1937

Miss Jean Craig Class of 1937

Mrs Edith Fox Class of 1939

Dr Struan Robertson Class of 1939

Mr Walter Ryan Class of 1939

Mr Douglas Hannay Class of 1942

Mr James Willock Class of 1943

Mrs Flora Bruce Class of 1944

Prof William Bain Class of 1946

Mr Iain Macbeth Class of 1946

Mr Matthew Dickie Class of 1947

Mr James Docherty Class of 1949

Mr Francis Jamieson Class of 1949

Mr Andrew Craig Class of 1954

Mr William McAslan Class of 1954

Mrs Patricia Boag Class of 1955

Rev John Cook Class of 1955

Mr David McAlpine Class of 1956

Mr Iain MacCormick Class of 1957

Mrs Pat Gibson Class of 1958

Mrs Aileen Stewart Class of 1964

Mr Kyle McKibben Class of 1965

It is with regret that we record the following former pupils who sadly passed away over the last year:


There are already a number of reunions planned

for 2015 - if you are not already attending one of

the events listed below, and would be interested in

doing so, please contact the Development Office.Class reunions are always a great way to catch up with old friends, and can often reignite lost friendships. If your class are going to celebrate a milestone anniversary since leaving the High School of Glasgow in 2016, why not organise a reunion?

The Development Office are more than happy to help anyone who wishes to organise such a event. We have great facilities available at the School, with the hire of the Jimmie Ireland Stand available free of charge. The School's renowned caterer, Mr Allan James, is always more than willing to cater for all your needs, be it a 4 course meal, or a buffet.

Please note, we are aware that some of the reunions below may have passed as they were very close to the time the magazine went to print. We will include a report and photograph in our next edition of the magazine.

Class of 1965 High School for Boys

Date : Saturday 30 May 2015

Venue : Jimmie Ireland Stand

Organisers : Melvyn Haggarty, Gordon Ash, Stuart Anderson, Fergus Neil and Kenneth Fettes

Class of 1965 Girls’ High School

Date : Saturday 6 June 2015


Organiser : Carol Stevenson

Class of 1995 High School of Glasgow


Venue : The Pavilion, Old Anniesland

Organisers : Karen Livingstone Welstead and Marjory

Maclennan

Reunions

Class of 1955 Girls’ High School



Organiser : Jane Connor

Class of 1964 High School for BoysDate : Saturday 20 June 2015


Organisers : Graeme Jamieson ,Brian Adair and John Duncan


Date : Friday 4 September 2015


Organiser : Douglas Attrill


Date : Friday 18 September 2015


Organiser : Ross Gibbons

Class of 1966 High School for BoysDate : September 2016 (TBC)


Organiser : David Thomson


We apologise to the ladies who attended the class of 48 reunion for missing their 65th anniversary reunion report in the 2014 edition of the Former Pupil Magazine, owing to an editorial oversight.

“The Class of 48” are those who left the Girls’ High School in 1948. Many of us are still in touch. We began to meet regularly in the 1980s, and even had two weekends away, in 1990 and 1994. Since then, there have been reunions every two years, with up to 14 people attending. More recently, our lunches together in Glasgow have been annual events. Although only eight were able to meet this year - the 65th anniversary of our leaving school - we are in close contact with ten more.

As a school class we were an efficient, happy (and of course hardworking) unit, able to organise anything! This has obviously stood us in good stead; so that we continue to look forward to keeping in touch, meeting together, and enjoying our unique and much valued friendships.

Elizabeth Pritchard née Livingston Class of 1948

50 years have elapsed since the June 1964 leavers said farewell to Garnethill and the former Girls’ High School. We had previously marked 25 years and 40 years with an evening buffet at the Old Pavilion, Anniesland, and a lunch in the Jimmie Ireland Stand respectively. So, faced with the reality that another 10 years had slipped by, we wondered how to mark this significant milestone. The decision was to hold a lunch at the Millennium Hotel in September 2014.

24 ‘girls’ attended and we enjoyed a more or less private ‘do’ in the Brasserie. For those of us who had been to both, or at least one of the previous events, it was pretty easy to take on board change that the passage of time inevitably brings. However, for one or two, the task had to be a little more challenging as it was their first stab at recognition since 1964! Needless to say, it didn’t take long for friends to be reacquainted and by the end of the afternoon we really didn’t think anyone had changed at all!

The staff looked after us well and carried out their duties with a smile on their faces, making light of the non-stop sound of chatter.

Katy Drake née Caldwell Class of 1964

Reunion Reports


The Glasgow High School Club Limited held its

annual dinner in the School Assembly Hall on the

evening of Friday 3rd October.Club President, Eric Hugh, welcomed 230 Club members and guests including Lord Macfarlane, the Honorary Life President of the Club, accompanied by Lady Macfarlane, Chair of the Board of Governors, Brian Adair, Ian Brodie, the President of the London Club, and representatives from our kindred clubs around the city.

The number of attendees was a record for a Club Dinner held in the School; many of those attending realising it was their last chance to hear Rector, Colin Mair, speak at the Club Dinner before he retires next summer.

The evening kicked off with an entertaining production from the School Jazz band, led by Raymond McKeown.

After the Grace from Senior Vice President, Alistair Wood, School caterer Allan James and his team from Beta Catering served us up a sumptuous meal, enjoyed by all. Coping with such large numbers was a challenge for Allan but as always, he coped.

Following the meal and Loyal toast, former School Governor and parent, Anne Currie, toasted the health of the School and the Club, and in doing so, gave us some interesting insights into her time as a senior Procurator Fiscal.

Anne’s toast was replied to by Colin Mair. In previous years, Colin’s reply has featured lots of news of recent achievements

and happenings at the School. This year, he was in more reflective mood, picking out highlights from his near 40 years at the School. In doing so, he made particular mention of some individuals and year groups in the audience. It is fair to say that some in the audience were squirming slightly in case what they thought was a long forgotten misdemeanour was going to be brought to light again!

School Captains, Charlotte Gilbride and Adam Atri, then gave us an insight into school life from a pupil’s perspective. All former pupils in the audience must have been proud that “those who follow after” are such well rounded individuals.

President Eric Hugh’s toast to our guests was replied to by Jack Perry CBE, former chairman of CBI Scotland and

The Glasgow High School Club Limited


Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise. President Hugh in introducing Jack, made comment that not only was Jack a friend, but he was a Glasgow Accie! In his reply, Jack apologised for being an Accie, but he really did not like the chocolate brown blazer that High School pupils wore back then and chose the Academy instead. He is pleased that the School blazer is now blue!

Jack’s speech was entertaining and well researched as he delved into the history books and condemned the educational vandalism of the 1970s when the old High School and Girls High were closed. He acknowledged and praised the Club for the part they played in the construction of the new School.

During his speech, Jack referred to several oxymorons. In his

vote of thanks, Junior Vice President, Ronnie Gourley, noted a further oxymoron that Jack was that rare breed, a likeable Accie.

Following a rendition of the School song, we adjourned back to the bar in the Jimmie Ireland stand and shared many more High School memories.

Thanks must go to dinner convenor, Kerr Docherty and to School development director, Karen McDonald and her able assistant, James Brechany for all of the hard work they put in to make the dinner the success it undoubtedly was.


In October 2014, the London Club held its annual President’s Lunch at the Caledonian Club, with the best recorded attendance for a number of years. Both the Club President and Past President, Fergus Roy, reported back on their recent separate visits to the High School during which they were greatly impressed, not only with the excellent facilities, but also with the general atmosphere at the School.

In the evening, we held our Autumn drinks reception, co-hosted by the Rector and the Club, at a city wine bar, principally for younger FPs living in the London area. This was also well attended and was a good opportunity for everyone present to catch up with each other and with recent developments at the School.

The Annual Dinner of the London Club was held at the Caledonian Club in March on the night before the Calcutta Cup match. Attendance at the Dinner has been on the increase in recent years and this year we had an excellent turnout of 97 former pupils and guests for Colin Mair’s last London Club Dinner as Rector. The guest speaker this year was the 1996/97 School Captain, actor and writer, Richard Thomson, who amused us with his reminiscences of the Rector and the School’s insistence on trying Richard out in nearly every position on the rugby field. The Rugby Club eventually gave up and left him to the Drama Club and the Literary Debating Society, where he achieved some notoriety. The Rector then replied with his usual aplomb, as ever, ably assisted by the two School Captains, Charlotte Gilbride and Adam Atri.

The London Club Secretary and Immediate Past President,

Ian Welsh, then gave a slightly extended Vote of Thanks, including some personal reminiscences, and appreciation, on the club's behalf, of the Rector's outstanding support over the years.

The formal part of the evening was then concluded by the President presenting the Rector with a silver Quaich (and a bottle of Islay’s finest) on behalf of the London Club “in recognition of his service to the School”. All in all, it was an excellent evening, marking the Rector’s last London Club event.

Sixteen former pupils and guests attended the London Club's second lunch at London Scottish, to watch Scottish play Moseley in the Championship League. This year, our presence seemed to have the desired effect, with London Scottish recording a comfortable 35-3 win. Everyone seemed to have a good natter over lunch and enjoyed the rugby. It was particularly pleasing to see a number of our younger former pupils attending this year.

Glasgow High School London Club


GHK RugbyThis season has been an incredible one for GHKRFC. Winning a straight sixteen out of sixteen league games meant promotion into the SRU National Three league. This is a step up in quality and a challenge that GHK are looking forward to with relish. One of the highlights will be us meeting old city rivals, West of Scotland.

A strong run in the Shield led to silverware as regional Final winners, then wins at National quarter and semi finals were rewarded with a place in the National Final at Murrayfield on April 18th.

An added bonus was winning the "BT Try of the Month" for February. You can view the try here:

http://www.scottishrugby.org/news/15/03/12/ghk-add-trophy-cabinet-bt-try-award

Our 2nd XV currently sit top of their league so rugby is in a healthy state at Old Anniesland.

As always there is a strong input to the team from former pupils of the school. Our joint Head Coach this year is Cammy Little who has brought real drive and energy to our sessions. On the pitch the following feature and contribute to our season - Gordon Reid, Craig MacPhee, Ewan MacPhee, Mike Borthwick, Jeremy Hanks, Jamie Fleming, Dave McKeown, Cammy Brown, Struan Gray, Barrie Gray, Stuart Hugh, Paul Polson, Ross Baillie and Greg Woolard. Quite a team by itself if it took the pitch!

Our pitches have significantly improved this year, with work on pitch three and the 1st XV pitch being relaid over the summer. Our thanks to Barrie Gray, Keith Hodgson and Davie Miller, who have worked hard on this. It really makes a difference to the running style of rugby GHK like to play.

A rugby club is more than 15 players on a pitch. Its culture comes from supporters, parents, players and coaches. GHK aspire to being a rugby club on and off the pitch and ask for

your support in achieving this in any way you can manage. Our fixtures are on the GHK website - www.ghkrfc.com - and supporters or those wishing to join are always welcome.

If you wish to join the club you would be made very welcome.

Please email [email protected] for further information.

Scott Inglis GHK Rugby Convenor

Glasgow High School Club Sports Reports

At our annual awards Dinner held jointly with the GHK Hockey Ladies section the following awards were made for season 2013- 2014.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR COLIN NEILSON

GHKRFC 1ST XV YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR DAVID SEWELL

GHKRFC 1ST XV MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF THE YEAR NICK HURN

GHKRFC 2ND XV PLAYER OF THE YEAR CALLUM PENDER

GHKRFC CLUB MAN OF THE YEAR CHARLIE DUNLOP


GHK Ladies' HockeyGHK Hockey Club (Ladies Section) is a thriving club fielding four ladies teams and has a great strength and depth of junior players.

Our ladies section offers an opportunity for all ages, abilities and experience and we are always delighted to welcome new players. Our 1st XI train and compete at the highest level in Scotland, playing in the National League Division, with our other 3 teams competing in various West District Leagues. The 1st XI squad train several times a week during the season, supplemented by a conditioning programme. They also undertake a structured pre season programme. The squad is extremely cohesive and all work hard together to achieve team and individual targets. The club believe strongly in developing youth and the 1st team squad is made up of a group of budding stars. The club are very proud of their progress and development.

The 2nd XI have had a tremendous season in West District 1st Division, finishing in 3rd place. The team is made up of a mix of talented youth and experienced players, including some past 1st team players.

The 3rd XI are also in great form in West District 3rd Division, but with a game still in hand we don’t know what position they will finish.

The 4th XI is our feeder team and play in West District 4th Division. The team aims to connect our Junior Section with the senior hockey club. There are many schoolgirls, some as young as 12, turning out on Saturdays after their school games to take part in senior hockey.

The 1st XI train on Monday and Wednesday evenings, 2nds and 3rds on a Wednesday, after Juniors, and the 4th XI train on a Thursday evening, after Intermediates.

The Junior and Intermediate sections of the Club have a strong future, with around 80 young players coming to training sessions on Wednesdays and Thursdays respectively. We have many enthusiastic, dedicated and qualified senior players who contribute lots of their time and energy to coaching the youth section. Whether you are a budding youth international or a complete beginner, we will provide a safe and friendly environment in which you can enjoy hockey and we would love to welcome you to GHK.

We are also very proud to have some representative players

in the club. Jenny Morris is currently training with the Scotland Senior squad and recently received her first senior cap. Jenny, age 20, is a tremendous role model with a wealth of experience, representing Scotland at all junior age groups. She has also had a great season in the U21's with GB squad training and playing regularly for Scotland.

Lucy Findlay and Emma McDiarmid are current members of the Scotland U16 performance squad and represented them against Holland in April.

This season we also had our largest number of club representatives playing for West District at U16 and U18 level.

Several of our senior players are also currently in the selection process for representing Scotland for master age groups.

We are a big club and cater for all ages and abilities, so anyone interested in coming along, please get in touch with [email protected].

Suzanne Williamson

GHK Ladies' Golf SectionAt the beginning of February we held our Dinner and A.G.M. in the Committee Room in the Jimmie Ireland Stand. The meal was lovely and we were well looked after.

For the summer outing, in which we play for the Jean Smith Salver, we participated in a tri-am at Elderslie Golf Club. This was something different for us and was enjoyed by all. Winning team – Joan Bankier, Maggie Rutherford and Sheena Niven. The autumn outing was played on a fine day at Hilton Park Golf Club, and Margaret Ramsay returned the best score, winning the Anne Greig Cup. This year the Marion Smith Quaich, our knockout competition, was won by Joan Bankier

I am pleased to report that our ladies have had a most enjoyable season competing in the competitions. New lady members are always welcome, no matter how high or low their handicap. Further information may be obtained through the Development Office.

Margaret M Ramsay Secretary

sursum semper - issue 01

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