The Chronicle 2023

2023

CHRONICLE

Curtains up on Showcase Moments

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on Saturday 3 February 2024 at Upper School Hall, St George’s School

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on Friday 17 May 2024 at Prestonfield House Hotel, Edinburgh

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Contents G 17

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Student Leadership Team 2022-23 Head Student – Sofia Rambukkana Deputy Head Student – Priyanka Manohar Senior Prefect – Juanita Haynes Head of Boarding – Ellen Wong Deputy Head of Boarding – Carys Runciman

Contents 4

The Big 4

45 Lower Four

5

Letter from Head

46 Lower Charity

6

Nursery

48 Young Enterprise

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Primary 1

10 Primary 2 12 Primary 3 14 Primary 4 17 Primary 5 20 Primary 6 22 Photography 24 Primary 6 Camp 25 Remove Camp 26 Music 28 Drama 30 Trip

Scotland

50 CCF Camp 52 Roleplaying Club 53 Geography Trip

Buccleuch – Eileen Njotu Douglas – Kenzie Robertson Lindsay – Kendal McDonald Moray – Tess McMyn Strathmore – Lottie Birrell

Vice House Captains Argyll – Sara Shafiq Buccleuch – Elena McQuade Douglas – Sophie Sutherland Lindsay – Anna Bole Moray – Annabelle Mathers Strathmore – Alice Lappin

56 U4 International

School Prefects

Exchange

58 S6 International Exchange

60 Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

62 Library 64 U6 Leavers’ Fortnight

66 The Houses

37 Trip

68 Lower 4

38 Creative Writing

69 Old Girls Award

40 L4 Camp

70 Sport

42 A Year in

82 Staff Leavers

44 Poetry Competition

Argyll – Robyn MacDonald

54 Classics Trip

32 Art

Houldsworth

House Captains

88 Valete

Yearbook – Millie Allan Sports – Kate Bole International – Saskia Buitendijk Yearbook – Greta Choi Wellbeing – Alexandra Hotson PR – Darcey Hundleby E-learning – Emily Lawrie U5 – Oliva Mason Learning & Teaching – Madeleine Meikle International – Lily Muir L5 – Molly Paton U4 – Isla Pearce-Menzies Charities – Ella Roger PR – Lucia Ross & Georgia Yates Charities – Kitty Scott Careers – Lauren Walker

Editor: Jamie Hogarth

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G Student Leadership

The Big Four

It has been an absolute privilege to be Head of School this year. In nursery I remember looking up to the Big 4 as role models, and to be in that position now, I could not have asked for a better team with me than Priyanka, Juanita and Ellen.

Head Student is very much a learning process. You learn not only about yourself but also how to cooperate effectively with others in a diverse environment. I have been able to foster my interpersonal skills and rise up to challenges.

My wish for future Student Council teams is in becoming a shining example of inclusiveness, equity and progress.

Sofia Rambukkana - Head Student

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Taking on the role of Deputy Head Student has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

Being the bridge between the students and staff, in the Lower School and Upper School Student Councils, has not only taught me the value of effective communication but has also enabled me to better understand my strengths and weaknesses within a collaborative setting. I’ve enjoyed every moment and will carry the memories from this incredible chapter of my life forward with me.

Priyanka Manohar - Deputy Head Student

Being Senior Prefect has helped me develop a higher level of confidence in my abilities and has enabled me to discover strengths I didn’t know I had. It helped me create many new and enduring friendships and I am especially thankful for the rest of the Big 4. It is safe to say that I would definitely encourage others to take on the Senior Prefect challenge.

Juanita Haynes - Senior Prefect

Introduction G

Letter from the Head

This year has been the most special year since I’ve been at St George’s.

I cherish all the memories I’ve had working with the Student Leadership Team and living at Houldsworth.

Being part of the Big 4 has taught me so many wonderful things that I wouldn't have learned otherwise. It has given me so much insight on working with others as a team.

I’m very grateful to have this role, working with my fellow U6 boarders and bonding with boarders across different year groups. With the support from Mrs Bryce and all of the houseparents, we managed to make our boarding community more homely.

Ellen Wong - Head of Boarding

Welcome to this year’s edition of the Chronicle, which is full of happy memories and enriching experiences to cherish.

In my first year as Head at St George’s I have so enjoyed seeing the students enjoying all the opportunities on offer here. I am very impressed by how well those opportunities are taken up and possibilities explored at every age. This sense of ‘having a go’ is not something to be taken for granted; it does not exist in every school. It is testament to the genuinely inclusive and supportive environment here, that our three-year olds all the way up to our 18-year olds are willing to try themselves. Just some of the highlights for me this year have really illustrated the St George’s commitment to providing exciting opportunity: watching our CCF students on exercise at Dreghorn training ground, simulating a full attack, with piper in tow; hearing of our Lacrosse 1st XII placing as the most successful Scottish team at Nationals in England; watching our nursery pupils in command of the Cameron Toll fire-fighters’ hose in front of Upper School; seeing our students truly find their voice at Model United Nations conferences, watching our Primary 5 pupils all performing their musical piece at their move up event and hearing all about fantastic experiences from international exchanges and outdoor education camps far and wide.

It has been such a pleasure to be guided by this year’s Big Four and the Upper Sixth as a year group, in my first year here. Getting to know them has confirmed just what a great impact a St George’s education has and I am so grateful to them for their support; it was a privilege to host their final Speech Day at St Mary’s in June. I look forward to hearing all about what happens in the next exciting phase for them.

I hope you enjoy reflecting on 2022-3 at St George’s and that you are looking forward to more adventures and experiences to come.

Carol Chandler-Thompson 2023

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G Nursery

Nursery Little Owls Ante Preschool interests and learning The Little Owls have had a fantastic year of learning. The Summer Term has been filled with a variety of different interests and learning experiences. The life cycle of the butterfly and minibeasts has been special interest along with enthusiastic learning about colour mixing, pattern, and sorting. This has linked in with exploring the story of The Colour Monster and learning more about how to regulate our emotions.

The children have loved engaging with ways of looking after our planet. Eco Day and Sports Day were highlights of our year. During Eco Day, all the children participated in activities such as picking up the litter caused by our naughty litter bug who had dropped rubbish all over our nursery garden.

The children looked at different materials we can recycle and enjoyed interactive games as a way of gaining understanding.

Sports Day was another event filled with joy and determination from our Little Owls. Each child had practised balancing on our loose parts obstacle course, throwing bean bags into hoops, crawling through tunnels and dribbling balls through cones. We were so proud of how each child participated in both the practices and our main Sports Day event.

The Little Owls have also been developing independence this term as part of their transition to preschool. They have been eager to help prepare snacks for their friends during our afternoon sessions. Many of our children were incredibly excited to make their own healthy strawberry and banana smoothies which were a treat enjoyed by all. Space was another interest that we extended further this term, which linked in again with transition and going on journeys to new places. The children were interested to learn about the solar system, planets, and the galaxy.

They made some planets of their very own to display in our playrooms. Well done to all our children. We are thankful for all the great memories we have made together this year.

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Nursery G

Big Owls’ Preschool Paper Project In Nursery, the children are given ample opportunity to spend time outside, exploring and learning about their environment through the act of play. Spending time in nature helps build confidence, promotes creativity, boosts physical movement, as well as nourishing and promoting resilience. Not only does playing outside provide incredible developmental benefits, but it also lets children gain an understanding of how to responsibly look after the environment we live in.

This year, to celebrate Eco Day, the Big Owls’ preschool class decided to help the environment by making their own recycled paper. The inspiration for this came from one of the Big Owls weekly Spring walks where we discovered a few trees with “x” marked on them. We soon learned that these trees were to be cut down and made into paper! It was hard to imagine that something we use every day for drawing and writing comes from trees. We conducted some research to help us understand this process better and learned that paper is made at the paper mill. The Big Owls learned that once the trees have been chopped down, they get peeled and cut into small pieces. These small pieces then are mixed together with water, turning the mixture into what the children referred to as “a big porridgeystew" - we learned that this was called pulp. The “porridgey-stew” is then spread out thin and left to dry, turning into what we know as paper!

The Big Owls were left feeling very inspired! We learned that paper can be made using scrap pieces, so we decided to think environmentally about the planet and make our very own paper. First, we set up a paper recycling station at our drawing table to collect paper scraps to be added into our water tray. The children then used their hands to tear, crumble, mix and mash the paper in the water, strengthening their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination along the way. This paper mixture was then scooped up using a round net, pressed, and left to dry into our finished recycled paper! To round off their term-long project, the Big Owls presented their paper and the process of making it to the Junior School children during the Eco-Day assembly, which was a wonderful opportunity to develop communication and public speaking skills.

During this topic, the children have learned the importance of taking care of their environment - to reduce, reuse, and recycle - and also about what choices we can make as individuals to make sure our Earth is happy and healthy!

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G Primary 1

Primary One Teddy Bear Picnic Primary One celebrated the end of a fantastic first year at school by going on a teddy bear picnic. They received a letter from Edward the bear at the Royal Botanic Gardens who invited them to bring their own teddy on an adventure! The students learnt all about the four

things which every animal needs to survive: shelter, water, air and food. We followed the paw prints to locate all the elements before finishing with some fun games and by building their own bear habitats. It was a wonderful way to celebrate a lovely first year at school!

‘The game where we had to be bears looking for shelter was so fun’.

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Primary 1 G

‘I enjoyed learning about S.W.A.F which was shelter, water, air and food.’

‘Edward the bear left us funny clues all around the botanical gardens.’

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G Primary 2

Primary 2 Musical – There’s a Sunflower in my Supper!

As part of our topic on Plants, the Primary 2 students put on an outstanding musical performance titled ‘There’s a Sunflower in my Supper!’ which showcased their musical talents, acting skills and teamwork. The performance was a culmination of weeks of hard work, practice and preparation. 'There's a Sunflower in my Supper!' is an environmental musical by Gaynor Boddy and Rebecca Kincaid about a cow with ambition who decides that she wants to grow something a little bit different from just plain grass.

The Primary 2 children were involved in every aspect of the show, from making the set to learning the songs and actions with Mrs Morrison, our Junior School

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Music specialist teacher. We worked together to make and decorate the set, creating a beautiful and colorful backdrop that complemented the performance. We also created some wonderful sunflower pictures using oil pastels. Mrs Grey, our Art specialist teacher, taught us how to use colour and tone to bring our sunflowers to life.

The performance was a huge success, and we were thrilled to showcase our talents to our families and friends. Everyone had an important role to play in our performance. The musical was a valuable learning experience that taught us the importance of teamwork, creativity and dedication.

Primary 2 G

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G Primary 3

Our Primary 3 Victorian Trip to Hopetoun House Primary 3 students recently had the opportunity to dive into the world of the Victorians. One of the highlights of their learning journey was a visit to Hopetoun House, a grand country estate outside Edinburgh. The students were able to explore the house and its grounds, learning about the history of the house and the people who lived and worked in it. They particularly enjoyed dressing up and role-playing as different servants from the Victorian era.

Another exciting event was a visit from Margaret Imlah, our school archivist, who shared her knowledge of St George's archives and the fascinating history of the school during the Victorian era and beyond. The students were able to see a variety of artifacts and documents from the time, including photographs, letters and diaries. The children also learned about what school was like for children in Victorian times, and they also got the opportunity to write on their own chalk boards.

The P3 students had an opportunity to learn about Victorian art - specifically crazy quilts, and its history.

They were fascinated by the intricate designs and the

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stories behind each piece. They discovered that these quilts were often made from scraps of fabric and were a way for women to express their creativity and individuality. They also learned about the architecture of Victorian houses, which were often ornate and grand, with intricate details and elaborate decorations.

As part of our art lessons, we created our own Victorian house, focusing on the detail in each room.

Of course, no study of the Victorians would be complete without learning some facts about Queen Victoria herself. The students were amazed to discover that she reigned for over 63 years, the second longest of any British monarch. They also learned about her love for her husband, Prince Albert, and how she popularised many of the Christmas traditions we still celebrate today – even Christmas trees!

Finally, the children put their learning into action by performing a school Victorian musical. They worked hard to learn the songs and dances, and the show was a great success. It was a wonderful way to bring their learning to life and showcase their newfound knowledge of this fascinating era.

Primary 3 G

“”

Melina – ‘We learned that people had lots of remaining pieces of fabric and they decided to sew them together to make colourful quilts’.

Julia – ‘Hopetoun House was an exciting experience because there was so much to learn and discover. My favourite bit was getting to use the Victorian working tools’.

Maria – ‘I liked learning about Victorian schools. I learned that the teachers were very strict and children were often punished with a cane’.

Eliza – ‘Queen Victoria wore black after her husband died and kept wearing black for the rest of her life’.

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G Primary 4

Primary 4 Poetry Through the Year This year in literacy, Primary 4s have been learning to write different styles of poetry, including acrostic poems and haikus. In June, we visited the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, to attend a workshop called ‘Wild Words’. Inspired by this interactive workshop, we wrote acrostic poems on themes related to the book, ‘The Lost Words’, written by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris. Here are our poems.

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Primary 4 G

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G Primary 4

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Primary 5 G

Primary 5 Trip to Bannockburn brings our topic learning to life!

P5X I enjoyed getting dressed up into the knight outfit and it was particularly heavy, especially the chain mail. Isabella G My favourite thing at Bannockburn was the cinema screens when the arrows were flying overhead and we had to duck down to avoid being shot. Cara My favourite thing was when we saw the pikes that were used as schiltrons because they were very long and pointy.

Alice B I enjoyed the cinema area because you had to duck down to avoid the arrows. Yashica I enjoyed the cinema because we pretended that we were in the middle of the battle. Poppy I enjoyed the room where the soldiers were fighting because they were firing arrows at each other. Lydia I enjoyed the cinema screens and the corridors were dark and there was a group of my classmates talking and I sneaked up on them. Bronwyn My favourite activity was getting dressed up in the armour because it was interesting to see all the different types of armour people wore. Melody My favourite thing was dressing up because I got to hold real weapons and try on the armour. My favourite weapon was the two-handed sword. Lucy It was when we went to the map room because I was Robert the Bruce and everyone cheered for me. Isabelle D I liked the map room because I was surprised about how much the countryside had changed and it was an unexpected lesson in geography. Rachael I liked the cinema room because Bronwyn chased us and I was quite scared and pretended to die in a hail of arrows.

Isobel My favourite thing was the cinema room because I loved dodging the arrows. Olivia I loved the cinema room because I got to pretend I was on the battlefield fighting for the Scots. Madeleine I enjoyed the cinema room because it was really cool how it made it look like you were right in the middle of the battlefield. Erin

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G Primary 5

P5Y At Bannockburn we dressed up as people from the year of the battle. We also got to hold different weapons and pieces of armour. We had so much fun. I loved it!

We watched a little movie and we went to the statue of Robert the Bruce. Anaya H When we went to Bannockburn, I had to wear the heaviest armour because I was a knight and I had to wear chainmail. I could barely stand up! I did get to hold some cool weapons though. They called me Madame Tessa because back then the knights on horses were very wealthy people. It was really fun.

Tessa D When we went to Bannockburn, we watched a floor to ceiling screen. It showed us clips from the battle with all the key people like Robert the Bruce. It looked like they were shooting arrows over us. It showed us what it would have been like to be in the battle all those years ago. Alba G We went to Bannockburn when our topic was Scottish Wars of Independence. We got to dress up in armour

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and hold weapons. My favourite part was when we went to a dark room to watch the floor to ceiling screens. Audrey W I loved our trip to Bannockburn – it was so much fun! We got to watch lots of clips about the battle and at one point it was like the characters were shooting at us. We also dressed up as people from the wars of independence, I was Robert the Bruce.

Erin B When we went to Bannockburn, we went into a classroom and got to put on armour and hold swords.

We also got to hold speers and we took a photo in front of the statue of Robert the Bruce. Emily B When we went to Bannockburn people were chosen to dress up as knights, archers and cavalry. We also got to choose which weapons we wanted to hold and got photos taken with them. Imogen P At Bannockburn, I really enjoyed dressing up as a foot soldier. I also enjoyed the floor to ceiling screen which showed us the battle and it felt the arrows were being shot at us. Abigail R

Primary 5 G

I loved Bannockburn, it was the best trip and we had so much fun. We got to try on lots of clothes and had our pictures taken. Pranavi M

taken. I also enjoyed the part where we were given characters and got to shout out when we were involved in the battle. Ananya C

When we went to Bannockburn, we got to dress up in armour and it was so much fun. We got to hold swords and wear chain mail and it was so heavy!

Selma A

We went to Bannockburn and got to dress up as soldiers from the battle. We also watched some movie clips about the battle. It was scary but then we had lunch and went outside. Elizabeth H

At Bannockburn, I remember pretending to be Edward ll and it was a lot of fun. I got to wear a tabard with the English flag on it. Uisce H

At Bannockburn we got to dress up in lots of armour.

The chain mail was the heaviest and having it on your head was quite sore! I like when we re-enacted parts of the battle and got to shout for our team.

Isabella M

I really enjoyed dressing up in the battle clothes at Bannockburn – it was really fun! My favourite was the bow and arrow. I also enjoyed the re-enactment of the battle. Alice J-R We went to Bannockburn in May. I really enjoyed dressing up as soldiers in armour. We charged up to the statue of Robert the Bruce and practised our Schiltron formation, which looks like a hedgehog when you have spears. Eliza A At Bannockburn we went to dress up as soldiers in costumes. We had so much fun and got lots of photos

At Bannockburn, I liked when we saw the floor to ceiling screens. We watched the battle on the screens and it felt like we were really there. We also went to Robert the Bruce’s statue and practised our schiltron formation. Pandora A-B When we went to Bannockburn, I liked dressing up in all the different styles of armour and handling all the weapons. My favourite weapon had 4 sides and could break heavy armour. Annabel J

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G Primary 6

Primary 6 Trip to Dynamic Earth In October, as part of our study of the formation of the Earth and rocks, we went on a trip to Dynamic Earth and Arthur’s Seat. We were split into two groups. One group got a tour of Dynamic Earth and took part in some fantastic workshops based on natural disasters.

We also watched a film about super volcanoes that was

on a screen over our heads. The other group went with a geologist, Angus, on a walk around Arthur’s Seat. He showed us some amazing rocks and we learnt how to tell if they were sedimentary, igneous or metamorphic. Both groups got to do everything.

It was a brilliant trip.

Too Close to the Sun On the 2nd of June, we went to the Traverse Theatre.

We rode on the public bus. We watched a ballet based on the Greek legend of Icarus. It was about a girl who was worried about the environment and plastic pollution.

My favourite parts were when they had crazy music on and were running about the stage. I also liked when they were doing gymnastics.

I really like how they used plastic and bottles to look like the sea.

Katie, Primary 6

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Primary 6 G

Zoo Trip On Wednesday 7th of June, we went on a trip to the zoo. Recently in P6 we have been learning about the life cycle of humans and animals. Our trip to the zoo included learning more about that.

On the Wednesday morning we all jumped on the coach that was taking us to the zoo. When we arrived, we first stopped at the meerkats to eat our snack.

Afterwards we split into groups, and we met our tour guides that would show us around and teach us some fascinating facts. A fact I found out that I never knew was that a male penguin will find a shiny stone to give to a female penguin to impress her, then they will bow and hiss to show off. If the female likes the male back, she will do the same thing to him!

Then we all headed to a hall where there was a PowerPoint presented to us and we needed to figure out things from pictures for example if it was a male or female lion. Then it was lunch time which everyone enjoyed after walking around a lot!

When lunch finished, we split up into our groups again and saw all the animals we wanted to see. We saw giant pandas, giraffes, flamingos and much more. Then we headed back to school again. We all enjoyed our trip to the Zoo and loved learning new things and seeing all the fantastic animals.

Fleur, Primary 6

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G Photography

Photography Yeve W

Tillie B

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Photography G

Saskia B

Phoebe W

Alice L

Alex T

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G Outdoor Education

P6 Camp

Lendrick Muir

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Outdoor Education G

Remove Camp

Lagganlia

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G Music

Music It’s been an exciting and busy year in the Music Department. Our St George’s musicians have been heavily involved in a range of co-curricular activities throughout the year. The many Junior School Concerts, Performance Platforms, the St Giles Carol Service and Lower School Carol Service, Christmas Concerts, Spring Concerts, Choral Concert, Lunchtime Recitals, Cantate Concert, Leavers’ Recital, multiple ABRSM and Trinity exams and Speech Day were all raging musical successes! We are so proud of our musicians for delivering some truly outstanding musical performances in the 2022-2023 Academic Year. It’s been wonderful to finally be able to invite larger audiences to share in these performances and we are certainly rebuilding post-Covid, after not being able to perform for others for so long.

Some specific musical highlights included the Young Singer competition where Sylvie McAlpine-Lee claimed her place as the Young Singer of St George’s

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for the 2022-23 Academic year and the Young Musician competition where Christine Sang earned the title of Young Musician of St George’s 2022-23.

Kenzie Robertson represented the school very well on the marimba in the Scottish Young Musician Independent Schools’ Competition, which St George’s was pleased to host.

The Leavers’ Recital was a magical and emotional evening as we heard wonderful performances from Anna Bole, Colleen Newman, Emily Lawrie, Kenzie Robertson, Priyanka Manohar, Lucia Ross, Ella MacLeod and Georgia Yates. We will also miss our lovely and committed music prefects for this year – Kiera Frost and Ella Macleod.

In addition to all of these ensembles and events, there have been numerous other musical attainments by individuals, most notably in music examinations where we had many distinctions, merits and passes – all fantastic achievements!

Music G

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G Drama

The Caucasian Chalk Circle Review 28

Drama G Brecht is not known for being simple. With complicated plot and intricate language, any of his plays would be hard for a Director to take on, let alone in eight weeks.

But the Directors of St George’s ‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’ managed to produce an excellent production in November 2022.

The play is about a struggle between a biological and adoptive mother over a child. Grusha, a servant, saves the Governor’s baby who was abandoned as a result of war. The story follows Grusha’s journey as she fights through glaciers, cornfields and rivers, to keep herself and the baby alive in the midst of governmental change.

St George’s production put an environmental spin on the Brechtian script, placing it in a dystopian world where the impact of climate change has caused a shift in the world. The costumes were made from recycled items, bringing an authentic feel to this world which is desperate for materials. Some of my favourites included binbag jackets, tinfoil armours and bottle cap necklaces.

We were introduced to many colourful characters as the play progressed; one of my favourites was the brilliantly nasty Governor’s wife (Hope) who abandons her baby in favour of her dresses. We also met some of the brainless soldiers who were played by the students from Merchiston. Our main couple Grusha and Simon (Thea and Darcy) exchange a few witty conversations before Simon is recruited as a soldier and Grusha stumbles upon the abandoned baby.

Visual effects were utilised effectively in this production with projections displayed on a white screen at the back of the stage. Whether used to set

the scene or display ironic hashtags, the tech team did a fantastic job in making this performance run smoothly.

One of Brecht’s main messages is that of greed, which the directors interpreted as a greed on the earth’s natural resources, resulted in the play’s dystopian wasteland setting. To mirror this message, movement is used to blur the line where people and products are differentiated. Specifically, the narrators (Georgie, Nimi, Kiera, and Samanthi) are seen morphing into bathtubs, houses, boulders and more.

As governments and soldiers take from the land, people begin to replace materials and they become exhausted as in our natural world.

It would be impossible to talk about ‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’ without mentioning the deluded Judge (Annabel). Impossibly intriguing, this character had everyone hooked as he takes us on his own journey of thought and reasoning in the court room. It is in front of the judge that the play is brought to its climax as the Governor’s wife and Grusha have to physically fight for the child, pulling him out of a white chalk circle.

Although initially defeated, the Judge witnesses how Grusha cares not for her own wellbeing but the safety of the child. This determines his decision for the child to stay with her. Victory at last, the Judge sees a party as the only way fit to celebrate. This production has many humorous elements scattered throughout but nothing quite made me laugh as much as the Judge doing the chicken in his gown and wig.

Funny, relevant, and downright unique… not bad for eight weeks.

Lucia U6

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G Trip

Geography Field Trip to Iceland Where to begin.... it really was a trip filled with awe and wonder and one that I will never forget.

The excitement had been building for over a year and the day had finally arrived when I was about to embark on my first ever holiday abroad without my family. Those nerves soon subsided as I stepped off the plane when I breathed in the Icelandic air, and I was instantly captivated by Iceland’s beauty.

If I could describe Iceland in three words, they would be adventurous, beautiful and breathtaking.

I loved that on the trip I was not only surrounded by fun peers and teachers who had us laughing and joking the whole way through, but we were all able to appreciate and experience Iceland’s natural beauties together. From drinking lemonade and relaxing in the Blue Lagoon to trying not to slip on the magnificent glaciers, I was constantly shocked by the endless places that made Iceland so unique. The itinerary was certainly jam packed but with so many wonders to see, and places to visit, there was no choice other than to try and see them all! We visited so many amazing places, from climbing Eldefell volcano, walking between tectonic plates, boat trips on glacial lakes and getting to walk behind magnificent waterfalls. The highlights for me

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were the boat trip to see the icebergs at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and visiting Gullfoss waterfall. Being on the boat really allowed me to reflect on the climate change issue as I found it shocking that the stunning icebergs I was seeing may not be there when I visit in the future. At home and in school, you hear a lot about the climate crisis, but I think everybody on the trip witnessed firsthand the extreme impact this is having on Earth with rapidly retreating glaciers and disappearing ice. Overall, the icebergs were truly stunning, majestic and breathtakingly serene and it is sad that others may not get to experience them in future. Gullfoss waterfall was certainly the coolest landmark we visited and although exhilarating, it was also quite overwhelming. Comparing the extreme size of it alongside the roaring and powerful water to ourselves, made me feel quite insignificant in a way that was very humbling and a feeling that I don’t think I'll ever experience again.

Iceland was not what I expected in the best possible way. It was an extraordinary experience and one I shall never forget.

Ariana L5

Trip G

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G Art

Lottie U6

Hannah U6

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Art

Art G

Georgia U6

Trinity U6

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G Art

Lottie U6

Greta U6

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Art G

Hannah U6

Lara U6

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G Art

Georgia U6

Georgia U6

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Trip G

Our experience of Inchcolm Abbey In Remove we got to go on a trip to Inchcolm Abbey.

This began with a twenty minute bus ride that goes to a beautiful port where we all caught a boat to Inchcolm Abbey. We got to see the three bridges in Queensferry on our travels.

When we arrived, our class was with Mr Maciver and we all went to see the abbey. We had a detailed tour, seeing all the sites and how people lived in the medieval times. We learned lots of fun facts along the way. Afterward we all stopped to eat some snacks and have lunch. During lunch we were allowed to roam around the abbey and beach that surrounded it, and we could even go in the water!

We even went to the top of the abbey. To get to the top we had to climb up two flights of stairs, one being steep and the other one was really thin. At the top we had the most beautiful view of the ocean with waves going back and forth and islands awaiting adventures.

Then we got back to the ferry and had a great trip back. We were lucky enough to see seals, jellyfish and dolphins that were travelling in pods and jumping out of the water from time to time. After the ferry we hopped onto the bus and headed to Blackness Castle.

The scenery on the bus ride was amazing and we were able to see lots of farm animals like sheep and horses.

When we arrived, we got surprised with a scavenger hunt where we could all run around the castle! We also used the clues that were given on the sheet to find out the answers for a small prize. There was also a great shop for ice cream, food and souvenirs.

Then the trip had to come to an end. So, we hopped on the bus and arrived back at school.

All in all, we would all do it again.

Elizabeth and Aarna, Remove

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G Creative Writing

Friends They are my human comfort blanket, With me in good times and bad.

Without them I am lost.

My hand around their fabric comforted by their soft touch They are my guide I turn to for purpose Provide me with the essential company that is their friendship Their integral entertainment.

Full of laughs when I am low Advice when I require it Backup when I am in need of defence These are the people that I love They have a piece of my heart Cherise, L5

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Creative Writing G

Music Music carries memory Music carries emotion Music excites Music is like fireworks Colourful and beautiful Twisting, turning this way and that Cherise, L5

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G Outdoor Education

L4 Camp This year the Lower 4 cohort travelled to Loch Eil Outward Bound Trust for their residential trip. Sitting underneath Ben Nevis and on the shores of Loch Eil, the location allowed students to undertake activities that challenged them physically, socially, mentally and emotionally. This was supported by the trip’s focus on the meta-skills (leadership, listening, speaking, teamwork, aiming high, problem solving, staying positive and creativity) that have been launched with this year group.

Mr Fowles

Overview Lower 4 Outdoor Education was incredibly fun and engaging this year! There were so many exciting activities. From hiking to rowing, from gorge walking to climbing, from camping to abseiling. Camp was an amazing experience many will not forget.

It also taught us important skills and made every single person step out of their comfort zone. Hiking built our resilience because we walked a long way to get to the campsite and back to the dorms. The groups built our teamwork since we were mixed with some peers we did not know too well, which encouraged new friendships. Climbing built our trust in others because during the climbing, it was not only the climber doing the work, but it was also a whole team to help the climber and catch them if they fell. Camping built our courage to do things we may not normally do because for some of us, camping outside in a tent may not be our idea of fun.

Camp was a wonderful experience that taught everyone something and may have even helped some people find their new hobby.

Elizabeth, L4Q

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The Expedition Loch Eil is a fantastic place to go camping and on the Wednesday evening we prepared for our trek. We all picked up our backpacks and were told to pack the essentials for one night's camping.

We set off after lunch on our two hour and 50 mins hike to our campsite. On the way, we saw amazing views of the surrounding area, lots of birds and beautiful wildlife.

I felt a real connection to nature. I found the hike easy until we started to climb up the mountainous trails.

We finally reached our destination - Steall Waterfall – which is situated in Glen Nevis. The waterfall was unbelievably majestic as it flowed down the mountainside. It felt very calm and relaxing listening to the water cascade in the background.

Mr Fowles and our instructor Andi told us to set up our tent and make sure it was neat and clean if we wanted our dinner! Eliza and I proved to be a good team with Eliza adjusting the poles and I hammering in the pegs with my foot. We showed teamwork and resilience putting up our tents and both felt a huge sense of accomplishment.

By 6.30 pm it was time for dinner, so we boiled some water on three different camp stoves and put our boil in the bag dinners on to cook. Surprisingly, my chicken curry with rice and potatoes was delicious. I washed that down with some hot chocolate and a tub of jelly. We then had a wash in the river right next to where we were staying.

As the sky darkened, we all went to find a secluded toilet spot halfway up the mountain, then got ready for bed and a marathon Uno session. As we wrapped it all up for bed, we drifted off to sleep with the calming sound of the beautiful waterfall behind us.

Overall, I had the best experience ever because my group was everything I could have asked for and we had a thrilling adventure that will never be forgotten.

Anais L4X

Outdoor Education G

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G Houldsworth

A Year in Houldsworth At the start of session 2022-23 we welcomed our returning boarders and our new boarders joining us for the first time. Our first weekend trip was a bus tour of Edinburgh, it was a beautiful sunny day and a wonderful way for new arrivals to see this beautiful city.

As Autumn approached, we enjoyed the MidAutumn Festival and sharing moon cakes, this was a new experience for many in Houldsworth. We also enjoyed weekend trips to the Chihuahua Café, Escape rooms and pottery painting.

The highlight on our return from half term is always the Houldsworth fancy dress party. This event is organised solely by our U6 boarders, led by our Head of Boarding. This year, they decided on a confectionery theme and the finale saw the losing team being put inside their homemade Hansel and Gretel oven to be cooked by our Chef!

Our weekend trip included pumpkin picking at a local farm followed by carving them into wonderful creations. As November arrived the cold dark evenings were perfect for a firepit and sparklers to mark Guy Fawkes night.

December is always such a busy and fun month. The month begins with decorating the Houldsworth tree, the house looks so beautiful at this time of year. We enjoyed a trip to the Christmas Market; this is a terrific opportunity to buy gifts for family and friends. We also spent an evening Carol Singing in our local community, raising £380 for Hopscotch Children’s Charity. We were delighted to welcome a special visitor to our Christmas dinner; he wore a bright red suit and was carrying gifts for all!

The highlight of December for our Upper 6th boarders was their ball. They all looked wonderful in their chosen outfits and enjoyed a lovely meal and evening of dancing.

After the winter break, the first few weeks back at Houldsworth flew by as we busied ourselves with a game of bingo, repotting geraniums, and a Sunday outing to the shops. Miss Elder had a treat for all the boarders, as everyone got to pick 1-2 books of their choosing at Waterstones!

It was then time for the boarders’ social. This time we teamed up with Merchiston Castle School for a game of bowling, and not to mention the delicious

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snacks of curly fries and nachos.

Our Houldsworth talent show was a great success, as there were many keen to perform. We watched dancing and singing, and listened to musical talent from the guitar and piano players. And not to mention – a group effort for the well-known cup song!

As Easter came around, the boarders enjoyed lots of baking activities which included mini egg rocky roads, and Easter nests. Miss Guilmant organised an Easter treasure hunt for all, where a dozen crème eggs were to be found. It’s safe to say, all eggs were found and eaten without hesitation!

Rugby season was enjoyed by many, as there were Scotland games against Ireland and Italy. The boarders took a trip to Murrayfield stadium, some experiencing a rugby game for the first time.

Throughout the year, the boarders got to go on lots of fun and exciting Sunday trips such as ice skating, gravity park, the arcades, swimming, the Edinburgh bus tour and Edinburgh Castle, as well as lots of creative activities at home such as bird house painting to decorate the front garden, baking, and making things out of playdough.

The boarders took part in the Ovarian Cancer Holyrood Park walk/run and managed to raise £979!

An amazing turnout with many participating for this year’s charity event.

Sadly, it was then that time of year were we had to say goodbye to our wonderful U6s. To see them off, the house organised an afternoon tea, followed by a water fight. Then as the last days before Summer ended, we hosted our end of year BBQ with family and friends. We are sad to see our U6s leave but wish them all the best for their next chapter!

A few words from our boarders when asked about their favourite memories of Houldsworth this past year: I loved all of it but especially liked just having fun with my friends here. Antonia, L4 No favorite moments, this whole year was the best I had in years. Jolie, U4 Stuart’s dad jokes and the water fight! Juanita, U6

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G Lower 4

Poetry Competition To celebrate UNESCO World Poetry Day, Remove students were invited to participate in the GSA ‘Let Me Put You On Speaker’ competition celebrating friendship and allyship. Remove students wrote their own poem to shine a light on their friendships. The competition was judged by internationally best-selling author, writer and publisher Jane Jones.

My Friendship Will Be Unforgettable My friendship will be short and sweet, You and I will last less than Forever, but for a while we’ll be together, we’ll Relate, exchange stories, break apart, recreate, In a dramatic dance, Explaining hurtful gossip, Not always understanding, Deceiving for good reasons, Sailing down the river of life, enjoying, Having sleepovers, staying awake late, until at last, I step over the line, and my Pleading is not answered.

While I can, before it’s too late, I will share my snacks with you, sit with you at Lunch break, never Leave you behind, keep your secrets, Be the best I can, recommend you books, Entertain you, make you laugh, Undertake your problems, give advice, Never Surrender, have Fantastic adventures climbing trees with you, Open your mind, I’ll be Readily listening and helping you revise, we’ll be Getting each other through life, holding Extravagant parties, Taking our time, being Tourists together, And drawing each other pictures, writing Books and thinking of stories, Leaving us in the End, unforgettable.

Alina, Remove P

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Children in Need In November, Lower School had a ‘Spotacular’ theme inspired own clothes day to raise money for Children in Need. The challenge was to wear as many spots as possible. Primary 6 also took part in some on-the-spot challenges!

It was fantastic seeing all the spotty and colourful outfits and we managed to raise £291.34 for Children in Need. Great effort, Lower School!

Lower 4 G

Lower School House Captains The first event that the Lower School House Captains led was the P1 and P2 Winter Art event. We were all so excited to lead and organise the event, especially because we enjoy working with the younger students.

We organised a different Art project for each House to complete. It was fun watching all of the younger students enjoying our planned activities. Once they completed their projects all the Houses went to the hall to show their work to the rest of the Junior School.

We loved watching the P1 and P2 students getting all excited about the project and we were able to meet new girls and talk to them. It was such a great afternoon!

Paige, L4 As one of Lower School House Events we did ‘Just Dance and a quiz’! The whole of Lower School joined together for our first Lower School House event of the year! We started planning this by having regular house meetings and we all contributed with different ideas and then decided which ones we liked best! After several weeks of planning and plenty of teamwork we were ready to go! Overall it was an amazing event, everyone really enjoyed themselves and had such a great time, it was such a successful House Event and we had a really fun time running it!

Holly, L4 For one of the events we organised this year, we went

to Junior School to teach the P1-P5 students a Christmas dance. Every house learned a different dance. As House Captains we were in charge which was fun. We had to be responsible, kind and patient with everyone and it turned out that everyone in Junior School loved the activity. After some time rehearsing, we all performed to some of the Junior School staff and the judges had the difficult task of deciding which one they liked best. Everybody celebrated together in the end and it was such a fun event.

Tessa, L4 Our final (and one of our favourite) event of the year was planned by all the house captains for all the Lower School students on the penultimate day of term.

We all worked together to plan and come up with our ideas. We ended up doing a disco, water balloon dodgeball and capture the flag. Everyone had a great time, and it was a perfect way to round off the year.

Although it was a bit sad knowing that was our last house event, we were pleased that our last one was so successful. Last year we participated in a similar event, so it was great to be a part of the decision making and planning process. It was great to watch everyone having such a great experience and all the House Captains had a good time too. I am looking forward to seeing what the house captains come up with next year.

Lucy, L4

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G Lower School

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Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home

Eco Day In Lower School, our eco and charities committee, directed by Autum, Emmea and Anthi decided upon an ‘ocean-themed’ own clothes day. We came to school dressed in something blue, green or ocean themed. We also did lots of different eco activities relating to ocean plastic pollution.

We had a raffle with ocean-themed prizes too.

All the money that was raised was sent to The Marine Conservation Society who campaign for cleaner, better protected and healthier oceans.

Marie Curie In March, the Lower School Reps sold daffodil pins to help raise money for Marie Curie.

We managed to raise over £80.

The money we raised will help Marie Curie provide free care and support to people living with terminal illness.

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Tula During our study of the skeletal system we had to make a skeleton out of bone shaped dog biscuits. There were various shapes and sizes. We had to show all the different parts of the skeletal system and the different bones that we knew. After we had made our skeletons, we were left with lots of dog biscuits. We set up a doggy tuck shop where people could buy pick and mix biscuits for their dogs. Mr Fowles was our best customer and he bought loads of biscuits for his dog, Tula. We paid back the money that we spent on the dog biscuits, and then donated the profit to the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home.

Lower School G Fresh Start Visit In December, some of the Lower School Charity Reps went on a trip to the Fresh Start Warehouse. We were given a tour and then we got to work making up some festive hampers. We made up over 40 hampers filled with Christmas goodies.

These were distributed in the weeks leading up to Christmas to various hostels and organisations working with families and individuals, aiming to ease the financial stress of the festive period. It was great fun and it felt great to know that we were helping people. We were also able to present Fresh Start with a cheque- this came from our choir who raised money when they were singing at Edinburgh airport.

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G Young Enterprise

Young Enterprise Scotland

Young Enterprise Scotland Gears Up for a Year of Innovation and Creativity.

Exciting product launches and social media campaigns await as students prepare to shine.

We are excited to launch Young Enterprise Scotland for this year. With a myriad of products showcasing the boundless creativity of St George’s talented students, this promises to be a year like no other. Young Enterprise Scotland (YES) has long been a part of the Business Department empowering young minds and fostering entrepreneurship. This year, we are set to deliver on that mission with an array of innovative products that reflect the ingenuity and dedication of the students involved.

One of the standout features of YES's offerings is the sheer diversity of products that will be hitting the

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market. Ranging from sustainable fashion, jewellery and much more, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy. The true highlight, however, is the unbridled creativity of the students. The products are not just items; they are manifestations of the passion, hard work, and innovative thinking of the next generation of entrepreneurs. As the launch date approaches, keep an eye out for the exciting product offerings from Young Enterprise Scotland.

For updates and more information, follow Young Enterprise Scotland on social media and the students’ social media channels. Join them on this exciting journey of innovation and entrepreneurship.

SCAN ME

Educating Young Men of Integrity Since 1833 merchiston.co.uk | admissions@merchiston.co.uk

G CCF

CCF Camp 2023 New Cadet (Lower 5)

St George’s & Merchiston Castle CCF joined forces to camp at the Pentlands. We were split up into two platoons, and then further split up into sections. Over the course of three days, we learned to work and collaborate with people we wouldn’t usually spend time with. For example, we set up shelter, patrolled, and cooked together. Our eventual objective for the camp was to ambush the other platoon, with the first two days spent planning for the attack whilst ensuring the safety of our own platoon.

There were definite highs and lows – my least favourite part of camp was picking slugs off my sleeping mat!

However, I appreciated the other things that I had never done before, such as firing live ammunition and learning to disassemble and reassemble a rifle. The camp also allowed us to apply and adapt everything we had learnt in our training sessions to a more realistic situation.

Overall, I enjoyed CCF camp as I was forced to challenge myself and had the opportunity to try new things.

New Cadet (Lower 5)

CCF camp allowed me to be confident in my learning throughout the weeks every Wednesday. It allowed me to build up my teamwork skills and made me think in an outdoors setting that is different to that of a classroom!

Junior Cadet (Upper 5)

This year at CCF camp was a day camp at Merchiston, rather than a residential one at Barry Buddon.

Although you lose the aspect of communal living and you may not get to know everyone as well as you would have, if we had gone to camp, it was much better to go home to your own bed every night! Even at the day camp, we were still able to watch Wimbledon under our bashas, which made it all the more enjoyable.

Despite the torrential rain during the 36 hour exercise, it was still a very enjoyable experience, and in the morning, it had dried up so we weren’t too wet. The ration packs were also very good this year, I can wholeheartedly recommend the ‘Hunter’s chicken’.

I can’t wait to go back to camp this summer, and now that we’re hopefully going back to Barry Buddon we can look forward to enjoying the aspects of camp we didn’t have this summer.

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Junior Cadet (Upper 5)

During the CCF camp my stamina was tested as during the 36 hour exercise the conditions were challenging due to the low temperatures and the rain. However, I persevered despite the fact that one of my basher pegs came loose, soaking my kit. Even with this, I found this experience to be enriching, memorable and rewarding - and taught me not to take things for granted. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this experience especially the range day as I got to put my shooting skills to the test.

Senior Cadet (Lower 6)

CCF camp gave me the opportunity to put my leadership skills into practice. An example of this was during a patrol when my section got fired upon by the enemy behind us! I had to quickly command my fireteam in order to regain control of the situation. Due to the bad weather during the 36 hour exercise my section's morale was low, and as the 2IC (Second in Command), it was my job to encourage my section to have a positive outlook and high spirits. I did this by helping the cadets set up their bashas and showing them how to prepare and cook their meals.

CCF camp gave me the opportunity to go to a firing range and put all my rifle knowledge and skills into action. I am so grateful for the opportunities that CCF has given me and I'm looking forward to next year's camp.

Senior Cadet (Lower 6)

Camp gave me the opportunity to use my leadership skills in a friendly environment with no pressure. I got the chance to spend time with friends, meet new people and to get to know the younger years in a way that school doesn’t normally give. I hope to go to camp again next year and spend the week making memories and new friends.

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G Clubs

Dragonfire Roleplaying Club This year saw the birth of a new club at St George’s: a roleplaying club, called Dragonfire, in which we work as a group to make our way through a corrupt society and deal with scheming plotters and terrifying creatures set on our destruction.

This is the world of Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (WFRP). WFRP is a roleplaying game (RPG) much like Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder or Call of Cthulhu.

RPGs are story-focused games where the players define the story, allowing them to explore and become engrossed in a world of their own making; like a cross between a board game and an improv session.

Every Monday we enter the town of Ubersreik, in The Old World, an alternate universe with elves and dwarves based on 16th Century Europe, at a time of

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massive economic development and social upheaval, creating a flourishing town to explore.

In Ubersreik we play a variety of characters including: Hecke the Hedgewitch, Nikola the Dwarf (with her very large hat), Genia the Investigator, Emil the Outlawed Noble, Wolf the Solider and Mark Platz the Spy. Part of the game is creating these characters with varied traits and characteristics, detailed backstories, and their own ideals and aspirations.

Playing as these characters, we must face all sorts of problems and make some morally grey decisions such as choosing to turn a blind eye to bribery or to risk your lives by defying the criminal underworld…

Welcome to Dragonfire!

Sarah (Lower 6)

Geography Trip G

Arran 2023

In March of this year, we were given an opportunity to view Geography through a whole new lens and study what we have spent hours learning about in classrooms in an entirely different setting. Our trip to Arran was an array of memories. It began with a rather damp ferry over to the isle and concluded in the same manner only with more wisdom in hand. During the days we swapped out our pens for metre sticks and spent hours in and out of

rivers, measuring everything from the depth of the river to the pebble size. Our walk down Glen Rosa was an inevitability for photos, finally putting a foot on a place we had spent so long hearing about. Although it wasn’t always the driest or the warmest trip, there can be no contention to the quality of it, with every pedestrian count and questionnaire punctuated with laughs and knowledge that will last us far beyond our ferry return.

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G Trips

Classics trip to Naples April 2023 The Naples Trip of 2023; where to start?

Five days that brought us into a world long past but never forgotten, not least by our extremely informative tour guides, Pierro and Umberto, who gave us such a good insight into ancient life.

Our trip began with an enriching visit to the Naples Archeological Museum, complete with intricate mosaics, statues, ceramics, and its very own Secret Room (of which we can’t tell you anything for obvious reasons.) Then a winding bus trip through historic Naples to Pompei, which is an actual real-life city, not just some ruins as we had all previously thought.

We arrived at our hotel, situated on a picturesque piazza, near an impressive cathedral and many, many gelaterias, which we filled to the brim with ice-creamhungry students.

The next day: Pompeii. The ruins this time, not the city. We were overwhelmed by its impressive architecture, which stretched on for miles each way. In the Amphitheatre – a highlight – we enjoyed an impromptu operatic performance from a random German school teacher. The trip was not complete without an emotional visit to the house of Caecilius – that man who has loomed so large in the Latin textbooks of modern Britain.

Herculaneum was next on our list. Covered by burning mud, not ashes, in the wake of Vesuvius, it provided a fresh and colourful contrast to Pompeii,

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with its beautifully preserved frescoes and carbonised wood ships. In the afternoon, a trip to Sorrento, where we explored modern Italy with its picture-perfect Mediterranean views and architecture.

The following day we faced a death-defying journey along the Amalfi Coast, passing stunning seaside villages, the playground of celebrities (not that we saw any, but we suppose that’s not the point.) Stomachs grumbling and queasy from the bus, we were served a slap-up three course meal of pasta, some breaded meat (salad for the vegetarians), and the best lemon sorbet ever created.

And then, the boat. An equally tumultuous journey through lashing rain, choppy waves, and a family doing Maths homework. But it brought us to the ancient temple at Paestum, which was naturally accompanied by ice cream and hot chocolate (a smashing combo).

The final day was an emotional one but a lovely meal of lemon calamari and lots and lots of pasta right by the sea topped off the whole trip perfectly.

Those five days brought an ancient world back to life. We will always look back at our time in Italy fondly: Nutkao at breakfast, a guitar serenade at lunch, UNO at dinner, the Great Ice Cream Dash…

Thank you to all our teachers and tour guides for giving us such a good time.

Katherine Dixon and Stella Whitworth (L6)

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G Trips

U4 International Exchange

This year, twelve Upper 4 students travelled across the world to North America, on a life changing journey.

Eight students have already hosted their exchanges from Philadelphia, and two schools in Toronto, four more students are still to host their exchanges from Texas and another school from Toronto.

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Hosting – it was an amazing experience hosting our partner for 2-4 weeks. We travelled across Scotland showing them our incredible Scottish culture. Our favourite places that we visited with our partners included Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Dungeons, Mary King’s close and Calton Hill. We also visited other

Trips G

towns and cities including Glasgow, Crieff, North Berwick and St Andrews. It was incredible to get the chance to show our school and country to our new friends across the pond.

Texas - two of us stayed in Fort Worth Texas, for three weeks. After 18 hours of travelling, we finally landed and started our adventure. Our top spots in Fort Worth were the Stockyards where we watched the cattle drive, Main Street, Six Flags and Yogurtland.

While in Fort Worth we attended Trinity Valley School where we experienced different subjects and cultures, and we made lots of new friends. Overall, it was a great experience, and we can’t wait to host our exchanges!

Canada – seven of us stayed in Toronto Canada for

2-3 weeks. We were spilt between three different schools: Branksome Hall, Havergal and St Clement’s.

Our favourite destinations in Canada included Niagara Falls, CN tower, Blue Jays games and Toronto Islands.

We all had an incredible time hosting and visiting our partners. We hope to see them again soon.

Philadelphia – three of us stayed in Philadelphia and attended Germantown Friends School, for 4 weeks.

Some of the places visited were New York, Washington DC, a Phillies baseball game and the Liberty Bell. It was a great experience, and we hope to visit the city and our partners again.

Overall, we all made lifelong friends! We learned new skills and overcame all our fears and difficulties.

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G Trips

Sixth Form International Exchange The exchange was an experience that none of us will ever forget. It helped us to grow as people, flying across the world was a challenging thing for 16-yearolds to do but we all achieved it. Through our 4-week experience in Sydney we gained important independent skills, we also experienced another culture and lived like Australians for a month. By going to school, we learned brand new things that we had never done before such as Australian history. I think some of our favourite memories have to be walking

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across Sydney Harbour Bridge and travelling around the city on ferry boats which gave us amazing views.

Another thing we enjoyed was the Australian food which included kangaroo sausages and all of our favourite slushies from 7-11 that we consumed far too many of. It is clear to anyone who knows us how much we valued the experience of the exchange, we all still talk about it as if it were yesterday and we are all very keen to go back!

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In South Africa, we went to Durban Girl’s College where we participated in lots of new and exciting activities and lessons such as Afrikaans and Zulu beading. Some of our favourite moments included seeing the sunrise and going to a game reserve. We also visited many interesting places such as Bloemfontein where we saw the Nelson Mandela statue. We volunteered at local primary schools and preschools which benefited our

wider understanding of the South African culture and we got to give back to the community. We gained lots of independence and confidence on our trip while making lifelong friends.

Overall, we would all highly recommend taking any exchange opportunity you are given as it really is the best experience, and we have all benefitted from it.

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G Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Silver DofE Qualifier September 2023 • Trossachs, Callander • 6 Groups, 34 Students

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award G

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G Library

Library

Every year the Libraries are bustling hubs of new books and activities. These are some of the highlights for the 2022-2023 school year.

Author Visits

We’re lucky to welcome authors to school throughout the year. At the beginning of May, the Junior School had a visit from Janis MacKay to coincide with Eco Day! Students spent the whole day learning about the environment and what they can do to help it and Janis gave us a connection through her books. In June,

Holidays

From BOOkmarks at Halloween to celebrating Muslim authors during Eid, holidays are always a special time in the Libraries. In the Winter, Junior School Library hosted Christmas Post, where students could send letters to each other and staff in the Junior School, with Student Librarians acting as the posties! The JS Library also transformed into the Polar Express for a week! Students enjoyed singing songs and listening to The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg while sitting on our train before borrowing books to read over the winter break. A favourite Valentine’s tradition in Upper School Library is Blind Date with a Book, where you borrow a wrapped up book based on only a few key words.

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debut author Pari Thomson launched her botanical fantasy book Greenwild for an audience of Primary 5 and Primary 6 students. After a reading, Pari invited everyone to design their own magical world – deciding how they would travel to this world and what it would look like.

Library G World Book Day World Book Day was a celebration across the whole school of books and reading! Everyone from Nursery through U6, including staff, dressed up as their favourite book characters and had a fun-filled day of bookish activities.

Primary 4 and 5 students were treated to a special visit from comic book writer and illustrator Kev Sutherland. He taught them how to draw a comic and even drew a caricature of each student! All of the students were able to take home a comic book written by the class with a cover drawn by Kev at the end of the day.

Students also submitted their entries for the National Book Token Competition.

There was a lot of excitement in Lower School Library during World Book Day because of the Book Fair that ran from the 27th of February to the 3rd of March!

In Upper School, we opened the day with an assembly featuring a video of students and staff explaining why they love reading, and then the whole school had the chance to add their reading recommendation in real time to a presentation on the screen.

Finally, we played our annual game of Literary Pairs, where students have to match up the teachers by their book character name badges, and teachers and staff have to find their match and make it to the Library first to claim their prize. Congratulations to all the winners!

Patron of Reading

This was Anna James’ second and final year as our Patron of Reading – the school’s dedicated author. Anna led our Remove Reading Challenge in October and hosted a Careers Workshop in February in the Upper School. The highlight of the year was her afterschool event with Elle McNicoll. In an event open to the whole St George’s community, the two bestselling children’s authors chatted about their books and writing as well as their favourites children’s books and stories.

As she finished her reign as Patron of Reading, Anna has this to say of the experience: ‘I feel incredibly lucky to have been Patron of Reading at St George’s. I have loved every day I’ve spent with you – there is such a wonderful atmosphere of enthusiasm, intelligence and inclusivity at your school that it is amazing to be even a small part of! Thank you very much for having me, keep reading, and I will treasure my St George’s scarf forever.’

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G U6 - Leavers’ Fortnight

U6 - Leavers’ Fortnight

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The Houses, 2022-23 Lights are off. Anticipation builds. All the students in place. Perfect formation. Music starts. Lights come on. The crowd cheers. The singing begins. Glee is back! And oh, is it back! Students from P6 to U6 all in synchronised movement, giving their all for their house. This is what the House system at St George’s is all about: students working together, demonstrating their individual talents, and supporting each other.

We had music ranging from Abba to Elton John, Miss Campbell drove a model car in Douglas’ Grease performance, and Mr Ashmore dressed up as Santa in Argyll’s performance. We had individual performances on the drums and the guitar, and we had students demonstrating their competitive spirit. We were not able to have Glee for three years, but it felt like it had never gone away. Moray won the overall event, but it was all so close.

It was a great year for the houses in the 2022-23 session. The spirit and enthusiasm displayed in Glee was mirrored in other house events. The creative talents of our House Captains were on full display when they took on the task of producing house boards. Each house designed a captivating board representing their unique identity and spirit. These boards were not only a testament to their artistic abilities, but also served as a source of pride for the houses. Students were quizzed in Junior School, in Fifth Form and in Sixth Form. These quizzes tested the students' knowledge across various subjects and allowed them to work on their team-building skills.

Sporting competitions showed the determination of the student body.

Competitive hockey, lacrosse, netball and tennis matches demonstrated students’ willingness to participate even when they were not seasoned players of the sport. This was capped by a Sports Day in June when students raced in both competitive and fun races.

The House Captains and Vice-Captains worked hard to organise an event at the end of the Spring term. This saw students engage in a variety of outdoor games, indoor bingo and even an indoor rave. The music was pulsating, the dance floor was packed, and the ‘glow-in-the dark’ wrist bands created an electrifying atmosphere. Face painting and balloon animal-making stations added a splash of colour and creativity, allowing students to express themselves in unique ways.

All these events take careful planning, and the House Captains and Vice-Captains learnt to manage projects, delegate tasks, and take responsibility. These leadership skills will help them in the future as they take on new opportunities beyond school.

The house competition, always a source of great tension, was a photo finish this year. Congratulations to Douglas who, despite trailing Argyll for much of the year, pipped them at the post to claim the House Cup for the second year running.

The House Team

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Lower 4 Dragons’ Den Dragons’ Den was one of my favourite activities we did in this session. Throughout the day we completed multiple different activities. Then we got to create our own products and present them to the dragons. We were in groups of five; making posters, scrips and some groups even raps to present and explain their product! Presenting was definitely my favourite part, hearing everyone’s raps and products was really funny and interesting because some of them were very creative!

We all had so much fun and there were lots of funny moments during that day that no one will forget.

Ghorgie & Anna L4

The Museum of Flight We thoroughly enjoyed the The Museum of Flight school trip and the experience that it brought for us.

Our first stop was to see the Concorde. We learnt how it was a very mechanically challenging build, for example as the plane is taking off the nose lowers to create a faster aero dynamic plane. Our second stop was a massive hangar with a wide array of WW2 aircraft and information.

There was an area at the The Museum of Flight that had lots of interactive games such as a simulator where you could land a plane.

Overall, it was a really interesting experience that everyone enjoyed.

Paige and Zara, L4

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OGA - Reunions St George’s London Reunion – Caledonian Club – May 2023

The London Reunion was another very successful evening at which over 50 St George’s OGs attended.

Mrs Carol Chandler-Thompson commented on the event saying: “What an inspiring and worthwhile evening it was, to meet a room brim full of intelligent, warm and impressive women. The strength of St George’s

community was demonstrated in the way that alumnae aged 21-81 chatted so readily to each other, sharing fond recollections of their time at school. That every woman I met was so charming and approachable is testament to the grounded and inclusive nature of St George’s. Yet their modesty belied a pretty talented group of individuals.”

St George’s OGA AGM and Summer Lunch June 2023 We welcomed over 60 St George’s old girls back to school for the Summer lunch in June and what a happy day it was. Many year groups were represented but the most impressive one was definitely the 28 members of the class of 1983.

Our guests enjoyed a tour of the school to see all the new developments and to reminisce on old times, drinks and a delicious lunch provided by the school catering team. Many thanks to our speaker Wendy Barrie who is a popular cookery show presenter and highly respected campaigner for finest local produce. In her interesting and informative speech, Wendy talked about where to find local produce and what to do with it.

Many thanks also go to Emma Welsh for her hard work and time as President of the OGA. Emma is standing down and we welcome Lizzie Bruce to the position.

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Hockey 2022-23 was a memorable year for our 1st XI. The season started with some tough games but the team worked hard build up to our Scottish Cup 1st Round fixture with Fettes. We made it tough for ourselves, but in the end came through with a brilliant result. 4-1 behind with 15 minutes to play, our cocaptains led the way, with Kate driving the team to make an amazing comeback to 4-4 by the final whistle. Kitty then starred in the penalty shoot-out to earn St George’s the win.

Some good results followed as we moved towards the October break, including a win over North Berwick in the East Cup. A highlight of our season took place during the half-term holidays as the 1st and 2nd XI squads travelled to Utrecht in the Netherlands for our first hockey tour since 2019. We trained at world-class hockey facilities with top coaches and played some great fixtures, while also managing some sightseeing and socialising!

On our return to school we went through a busy period with lots of games. The East District Tournament did not go the way we wanted, we were knocked out at the group stage. However, the team recovered to deliver the performance of our season against George Watson’s College in the Scottish Cup Quarter Final. The team showed great determination and grit to draw the game 1-1, thanks to another late equaliser, scored by Anna B this time. Once again, Kitty made two saves in the penalty shootout, while Honor held her nerve to score the winning stroke to send the team through to the Semi-Final!

The Semi-Final was played in February in front of another large home support and the team did themselves proud, performing to a high level but unfortunately falling by a very close 2-0 defeat to MES. Our season of Saturday fixtures ended in March with our leavers competing in the Kilgraston Tournament, where they enjoyed playing together as a group for St George’s on one final occasion. Well done to the whole squad on a memorable season for the 1st XI!

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Netball St George’s Netball has been very successful this year. All clubs were bursting with participation and enjoyed success on court. The 1st Senior team succeeded through to the top 16 schools in the Scott Cup. The Remove Netball Team came on top this season, winning the EPSSA P7 Netball Winter Cup and the Summer P7 Tournament.

Our Primary 6 enjoyed their EPSSA P6 Netball Tournament. They played good netball and worked hard as a team and were undefeated.

Well done to all the netball players!

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Lacrosse The 1st X Lacrosse team had an outstanding season, showcasing remarkable progress from the start of the term right up to the Nationals. Throughout the season, the team engaged in friendly fixtures against opponents such as Loretto, Glenalmond, and Fettes. In their journey towards the National Schools tournament, they also participated in the Scottish Schools tournament. During Nationals, they faced fierce competition from over 100 schools. Undeterred, the team displayed unwavering determination and resilience, securing the distinction of being the highest-ranked Scottish School at the event and even triumphing over some prestigious English schools.

Our U15 and U14 teams enjoyed a season full of very competitive games and tournaments.

The U14 team won bronze at the Lacrosse Scotland tournament.

Several schools from across Edinburgh took part. All teams played well and with narrow margins our U14 team won bronze.

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Tennis

Badminton

We have had a very busy tennis season, with our regular fixtures on Tuesdays and Saturdays mixed with LTA matches, tournaments and the Scottish Schools Tennis Championships.

There are quite a few highlights this term; our young team played in an LTA round robin fixture winning the section and our intermediate team was also unbeaten.

The U14 team had a successful season, winning the Kilgraston tennis tournament and our seniors qualified for the regional finals in Sunderland.

The senior tennis team in particular, has performed brilliantly this season. The Scottish Schools competition is a demanding fixture with the players playing two sets of singles followed by two sets of doubles. The first round of the Scottish Schools competition was held in snow against Fettes and despite the conditions, we came away with the win which gave us confidence moving forward. The next round saw us win against Heriot's followed by a quarter final home fixture against Watson's. Despite the students juggling exams, they played brilliantly and made it to the semi-finals. This match was against MES, where they fought hard to close out very tight games. An exceptional team effort brought us to the finals, an amazing achievement that we as a school reached only when we were part of the tennis academy. The finals were held against a very strong Dunblane High School. The first round saw us go down 2-1 but with it all still to play for. The second round was as close as it gets, each match went down to a tie-break with our team pushing Dunblane for every point. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to convert any of the tie breaks and so lost the final despite all their efforts. The girls have impressed throughout this competition and fought hard right until the end. Finishing as the runners-up in the National competition is a huge achievement.

Deepti and Vibha represented St Georges's at the SSBU Secondary Schools National Championships that was held on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 March.

Deepti won the Intermediate Girls Singles (2007+) and Vibha the senior title.

With both winning the individual titles it was no great surprise that they went on to take the senior doubles title.

Deepti was also chosen as one of the two girls to represent Scotland at the prestigious U15 Europeans in Ibiza this year and is aiming to challenge herself in Europe at the U17 Europeans and International competitions in August 2023.

To cap her exciting progress over the past couple of years, Deepti has been invited for a fully sponsored trip by the Japanese Badminton Association. She will be the only girl to represent Scotland in the invitational U16 International Tournament in Japan (Jul 1-2, 2023) with the top sixteen singles players from leading countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Denmark, Spain, Germany and the host country, Japan.

She is looking forward to this challenge.

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Golf

Fantastic achievement by Evie on her selection for the Scottish National girls golf performance squad. They will be competing in 2023.

Evie was selected to play for Scotland in the Quadrangular, an international competition, like the Home Internationals, but between Wales, Ireland, Netherlands and Scotland.

The team consists of four U17 girls and six U16 boys competing in the Netherlands on 3-6 April.

This was Evie's first time representing Scotland.

She has also been selected as one of the eight members of the Scottish girls performance squad.

In November 2022 she played in the Justin Rose Junior Telegraph Championship in Portugal along with eleven other UK players. The tournament is the junior equivalent of a golf major and a big step up competing against the best players in the UK. Over 17,500 qualifying rounds of golf were played, with Evie qualifying for the tournament by shooting -2 at Kilspindie Golf Club. She learned a lot from the competition to take to the next season and worked very hard over the past winter with the Scottish golf team, reducing her handicap to scratch, ready for the season ahead!

Great effort, Evie!

Cricket

Molly has been selected to play for Scotland in the Women's U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa in January. This is a fantastic achievement for Molly. She represented Scotland in the T20 World Cup in South Africa. We thoroughly enjoyed watching her on TV, especially hitting the winning runs against the USA! Nail-biting stuff!

Molly's summary: In August 2022, I travelled to Holland with my team to compete in the World Cup Qualifiers for Scotland U19s. We successfully beat Holland in three T20’s, qualifying for the World Cup in South Africa. In January 2023 we played in three warm up games: two against USA and the other against Sri Lanka. In our pool we played against India, South Africa and UAE. Unfortunately, we didn’t progress through to the knockout stages and finished the tournament with a match against USA. It was a really competitive game and we managed to win in the last over!

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Equestrian Initially 2022/23 looked as though it would be a quieter year for us as our Upper School team from last year moved on. However, their places were readily filled by younger riders who have been keen to show how able they are in a variety of events.

The first schools’ event of the year was Strathallan’s Show Jumping Competition at Highfields Equestrian Centre at Howe in October. Two of our students took part, Iona L4 and Isla L4. Iona and Isla had good rounds, but Isla riding Lucky Pearl came fourth in the 50cm class.

Our riders competed in the Kilgraston Scottish Schools Equestrian Championships 2023, in both the NSEA Dressage and Show Jumping events. The riders were all Lower School students, namely Iona L4, Isla L4 and Katie P7.

In the dressage, Katie came third, Iona fourth and Isla sixth and they won their class. Later in the 50 - 55 cm Show Jumping event, Isla was placed third and their aggregate team score won the class.

Bea L5 competed in the Show Jumping at Ian Stark’s Equestrian Centre and then at the Under 18 80cm One Day Event at Foresterseat.

Isla L4 participated in the same competition, and despite being one of the youngest competitors there, she came second!

Kiana U5 won the Endurance Novice Rider Award and also rode for the Lothian team for Endurance riding, winning a

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Gold Medal at the Interregional event. Kiana has also been selected to represent Scotland at the 2023 International Endurance Event in Wales in September and we wish her all the very best.

Marni L6 qualified and competed at The Top Pony Show Jumper Tracks 135/140 cm event at the Horse of the Year Show last October 2022. Marni also qualified for the JC Championship at the Royal International Show at Hickstead in July and then for the Royal Highland Show in June.

Another one of our very talented riders Rosie was selected to represent Scotland in the British Eventing 90cm Under 18 Youth Championship last summer. She went on to be Scotland’s highest placed equestrian in the 90cm at the Under 18s National Championship.

This year she was selected to represent Scotland in the British Eventing 100cm Under 18 Youth Championship.

She went to Bishop Burton Youth Internationals where the Scottish Under 18 team came fourth.

Rosie then competed in the Scottish Regional Championships where she came fourth, qualifying for the Badminton Grassroots National Championships in May 2024. She also competed in the Scottish Grassroots Eventing festival at Blair horse trials where another super double clear gave her second place with another qualification for Badminton 2024! We wish Rosie all the very best!

Congratulations to all our equestrian members who have worked extremely hard. It should be an exciting year following their progress in 2023/24.

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Cross Country The Scottish Schools Road Relay Primary and Secondary competitions were both held at Pittencrieff Park in Dunfermline. The primary team of Nora, Bess and Grace placed 11th, whilst the Lower 4 team of Sophia, Beth, Bridget and Paige finished 8th.

The Cross-Country club runners have also been running in the Lothian League. At the halfway point of the League, both the Primary team and Junior team are sitting in 2nd position.

Gymnastics The Primary 3 gymnasts had a fantastic first term, learning all about vaulting. Students have been developing the skills required to perform a successful vault and land, including the progressive practices for handsprings. All students have enjoyed pushing themselves to try a variety of challenging activities.

We look forward to continuing this after the Christmas break.

Skiing Moyra Rushworth Ski Race

This term saw the return of the Moyra Rushworth Ski Race. This is open to students from P6-U6. The race was won by Isla (U6), while Lucy (L4) was runner up.

It was great have the return of the time trial that was dominated by L4 and U4 entries, the future is bright for Ski Racing at St George’s.

SSSA Dual Slalom

A S1-S3 team and a Senior Ski team competed in the Scottish Schools Snowsport Association Dual Slalom Qualifying event at Hillend. The teams performed well, with many representing the school for the first time.

It was a great experience for the skiers, who are now looking to the Alpine season next term.

Fencing Alexia L5

Alexia won a Bronze Medal at the Manchester Youth Foil Fencing Series, followed by a Gold medal in the Under 14 Girls Foil in Wetherby for the “Northern Youth Challenge”.

An impressive start to 2023 for Foil Fencer Alexia, who took home two Golds, a Silver and three Bronzes across February and March.

This included representing St George’s in the Public School Fencing Competition in Lee Valley Athletics Centre, London, where she fought through to come third in a field of 89.

Alexia mainly fences in U15 Category but has also competed in Stirling Sword Senior Individual and Team Events, Salle Holyrood Senior Open, and Challenge Wratislavia in Poland, continuously pushing herself out of her comfort zone to keep gaining new experience and developing new skills.

Alexia was lucky enough to be selected as a Limitlesskit Ambassador earlier this year, and is also heading to Poland for Fencing Camp in the summer.

Well done, Alexia!

Thea L5

This season Thea worked hard and was awarded with several podium positions.

Congratulations, fantastic effort!

June 2022: Gold medal at the U14 Girls Sabre Scottish Secondary Schools Championship February 2023: Silver medal - U15 Women’s Sabre at the Youth Development Series (YDS) Foundation for Scottish Fencing March 2023: Gold medal - U15 Women’s sabre at Scottish Fencing’s Scottish Youth Championships April 2023: Silver medal - U15 Women’s sabre at the Youth Development Series (YDS) Foundation for Scottish Fencing

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Awards & Presentations NEW RECORDS ON SPORTS DAY

Lower School Cricket Ball Throw - Isla Kay (D) 37.56 m NR and Agnes Foley (D) 34.70 m NR

MOST IMPROVED PERFORMER(S) LOWER SCHOOL

This award is for an individual or a team that showed the most progression throughout the season.

Emmie Gribbin – Emmie started playing hockey and netball this season and showed consistently high effort levels in both sports. Her basic skills soon developed, and she became a key member of her team.

MOST IMPROVED PERFORMER(S) UPPER SCHOOL

This award is for an individual or a team that showed the most progression throughout the season.

Julia Janowska – At Julia’s first netball session, she informed us that she had never played netball but had watched videos on You Tube on how to play... and then proceeded to be selected for the 1st Netball team a few weeks later.

VOLUNTEER & CONTRIBUTION

Person who has contributed to PE/Sport as a volunteer or helper Marianne Stewart – Marianne was a shining light on a Saturday morning. Her commitment and dedication to volunteer her time every Saturday gave the PE department a boost knowing she was on hand to offer an ice pack/plaster and a kind word.

YEAR GROUP SPORT AWARDS

Individual participation in a variety of sports for school, shown commitment, good attitude and good teammate.

Hollie Kirk, P6 Katie Po, Remove Kari Fourie, L4 Francesca Earl, U4 Becky Sinnet, L5 Verity Shand, U5 Honor Simpson, L6 Anna Bole, U6

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR: BY A TEAM

Best performance of the year in a single fixture or event.

Senior Lacrosse Team – National Schools championships - the team beat English premiership teams and are now ranked the top team in Scotland.

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR: BY AN INDIVIDUAL

Best performance of the year in a single fixture or event.

Anushka Anoj – Anushka’s performance in the Kilgraston U14 tennis tournament was outstanding.

She controlled the court and forced her opponents into errors. She attracted compliments throughout the day for her technical ability. She was also the only player to win her singles match in the Scottish Cup final.

DISTRICT/NATIONAL EVENT REPRESENTATION RECOGNITIONS

The following students were chosen for their sports District Team or participated in a National Event.

Iris Weston – Netball (U15 Edinburgh District) Charlotte Earl – Lacrosse (Scotland Development Squad) Florence Henry – Lacrosse (Scotland Development Squad) Isabelle Paton – Lacrosse (Scotland Development Squad) Alexia Hardie – Fencing Thea Todd – Fencing Bella Geard – Swimming Anushka Anoj – Tennis - East Scotland Elodie Dick – Tennis - East Scotland Kana Saito – Tennis - East Scotland Anna Hutchison – Tennis - East Scotland Kate Bole – Hockey (Brave Academy Aspiring) Honor Simpson – Hockey (Brave Academy Aspiring) Florence Henry – Hockey (Aspiring East District) Susanna Hotson – Hockey (Aspiring East District) Abigail Grahamslaw – Hockey (U15 East District) Isabelle Paton – Hockey (U15 East District) Hannah McIntosh – Hockey (U15 East District) Lily Finlayson-Russell – Hockey (U14 East District)

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TEAM OF THE YEAR – UPPER SCHOOL

This award is for a team that demonstrated good teamwork, dedication, and consistent performance throughout the season.

1st Senior Tennis Team – The 1st Senior tennis team had an outstanding year. They were runners up in the Scottish Schools tennis championship, a huge achievement, with most of the players juggling exams and still giving time to compete at a high level. This is the first time that the school has reached the finals since being part of the tennis academy, almost 15 years ago.

TEAM OF THE YEAR - LOWER SCHOOL This award is for a team that demonstrated good teamwork, dedication, and consistent performance throughout the season.

Remove A Netball Team – Remove Netball team had a successful year, winning all three of their tournaments, the EPSA summer and winter tournaments as well as our own Primary 7 competition.

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Awards & Presentations - continued INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATION RECOGNITIONS

The following students were chosen to represent Scotland.

Isla McLintock – Lacrosse Selected for Scotland U18 Home Internationals and U21 European Championships.

Robyn MacDonald – Lacrosse Selected for Scotland U18 Home Internationals and U21 European Championships. She is also Vice Captain for the U18 National Team.

Molly Paton – Cricket Represented Scotland at the U19 Cricket World Cup. Evie McCallum – Golf Fantastic achievement by Evie on her selection for the Scottish National girls performance squad.

They will be competing in 2023.

Lily Muir – Dance Being a Scottish Ballet associate for seven years, training in Glasgow and at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland junior programme for five years. Gained first place at the Scottish Youth Ballet Grand Prix in her age category.

STEEDMAN SALVER AWARD

Awarded to an individual with the best performance in a range of sports. This is a particularly strong field and it has been difficult to select the winner, as each nominee has been outstanding in their time at St. George’s.

Kate Bole – Kate has been an exceptional sportswoman in her time at school. She has represented St George’s 1st team hockey, netball, tennis, cricket, skiing and lacrosse. She shows all the attributes required to excel in sport and we have thoroughly enjoyed witnessing and being part of her journey.

Rosie Simpson – Equestrian She represented Scotland in the British Eventing 90cm Under 18 Youth Championship. She also won the award for the Highest Place at 90cm, at the Under 18's National Championship for British Eventing (equestrian) Scotland.

Deepti Vijayakumar – Badminton Selected to represent Scotland in the U16 singles invitational tournament to be held in Japan end of June and at the U17 Europeans Scotland in August.

Emma Macleod – Gymnastics Emma (Remove) represented Scotland in the NDP inter-regional final event. She won Bronze and the Scottish team finished second overall.

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PE AWARD

Awarded to the most outstanding team or individual(s) Robyn MacDonald and Molly Paton Both winners have played at international levels in their respective sports, lacrosse, and cricket. Molly represented Scotland in the U19 Cricket World Cup and Robyn has been selected for the lacrosse U21 European Championships. They have managed to balance playing at this high level alongside school commitments. Their love for sports is contagious and inspires everyone around them to strive for excellence.

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New and Improved New Spin Studio “The Uniform Exchange is delighted to fund this exciting new project. The Spin Studio is a wonderful addition to the PE department, broadening the sports offering to St George’s pupils AND staff!”

Sarah Marshall, Uniform Exchange “Thank you again to Uniform Exchange for funding the spin bikes. By having these bikes, we further diversify and modernise our PE and Co-Curricular programme. The students are enjoying the new spin sessions during core PE and it's great to see so many of them attending the new Spin Club on a Thursday.

Christine Fourie, Director of Sport New additions to our PE, Co-curricular programme and staff benefits are: Physical Education programme, offering spin as an option within core PE for all students from L5 to U6.

The Lower 5 Nat 5 class completed a biathlon during their course work this term.

New Spin clubs: Thursday for students - very popular among the students

Partnership with Limitless We are delighted to announce our partnership with Limitless, who will provide high-quality sportswear to our Junior, Lower and Upper Schools. Limitless is committed to ethical trading and reducing its impact on the environment by using more sustainable fabrics.

"Limitless is excited to be supplying St George’s, Edinburgh from September 2023 and looks forward to encouraging and inspiring all their students to enjoy being active."

Louise Allard, Limitless

"Our partnership with Limitless is a big step forward by providing sportswear making our girls feel comfortable and confident, breaking down barriers to being active and increasing participation in PE and Sport."

Christine Fourie, Director of Sport

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Staff Leavers Catherine Cerbauskas

1-to-1 Pupil Support Assistant – 10 months service Cat joined the Primary 1 team this session at St George’s to work as a Pupil Support Assistant for a child within the Junior School. Cat came to us with 15 years of experience in the Additional Support sector. She has made a noticeable difference in the life of the child she worked with, as she adjusted to life in the Junior School, by working on creating strong routines for her communication and daily activities. Thank you for all that you have done to support the student's learning this year Cat – we wish you well in your new job.

Carole Jeremy

Teacher of French and German – (almost) 7 years service Since graduating from Oxford and subsequently completing her PGCE, Carole has led a varied and interesting career. From leading European coach tours for American and Canadian school groups, to testing language proficiency in the M.O.D. and of course teaching French and German in a number of primary and secondary schools. She has always thrown herself into each of her roles, coaching hockey and tennis in addition to her teaching and holding a guidance post as a Form Master. In the past, Carole has taken part in and led trips and exchanges to both Germany and France and more recently has helped St George’s to start up a new exchange with a girls’ school in Paris.

Carole first started working at St George’s in 2007 on a supply basis and has made huge contributions to the modern languages’ faculty ever since.

Carole has brought so much energy, laughter and enthusiasm to the faculty and enjoys teaching the wee ones in Junior School just as much as she does her GCSE and Higher classes. She has a positive outlook and loves sharing stories about the songs she has sung with Primary 5 or the pep talks she has given to her Upper 5s to give them a boost ahead of their exams.

Carole has continued to go the extra mile to support her students and colleagues, offering to come in to teach extra classes at the drop of a hat. She’s on the ball with her IT skills too – often working into the night when Annie will get Teams notifications with Carole’s

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step by step instructions and clear resources for her classes. No pupil will ever be able to say, “but I didn’t see it on Teams!”

On top of her daily contributions to the faculty, Carole has played a vital role in welcoming our Language Assistants every year. She invites them round to share a Christmas dinner with the whole family two weeks before having to do it all again for the real event and then come May hosts a Eurovision soirée. She is kind, friendly and inclusive and we will miss her very much!

Now that retirement is on the horizon, she’ll have even more time for tennis, hill walking and theatre, not to mention regular trips to her place in the Alps where she and Michael can ski to their hearts’ content. She and Michael also hope to spend as much time as possible abroad in their newly acquired campervan.

Wishing her a very happy retirement!

Daisy Provan

Teacher of Primary – 1 year 7 months service Daisy – you have been a lovely member of staff to have within our Junior School team for the past two academic sessions. Reliable and steady, you have made a wonderful impression not only on the children in your care, but also parents and colleagues alike.

During your time with us, you have been a lovely colleague for Alasdair to have, sharing in year group responsibilities for Primary 5. Thank you for the new approaches you have brought to teaching in Primary 5, most noticeably during active maths lessons, which have been very popular with your students. Ceilidh club has also continued to be a popular after-school activity for the students – thank you for continuing this St George’s tradition.

Pastoral support for the children in your care is an area of strength for you Daisy. The children in both your P5 classes have benefitted enormously from your calm, sensible approach to teaching – it is clear that they love having a real life ‘Miss Honey’ as their teacher. You have a bright teaching career ahead of you Daisy and we wish you well in the next stages of your journey.

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Daniel Smith

Teacher of Primary – 10 months service Dan joined us at the start of this session on a maternity post. We have really enjoyed having his energy, humour and IT expertise amongst the team and in the Primary 6 classrooms! Not only did Dan's passions and interests lead to fun, engaging and interactive lessons, but within the P6 and LS team we saw a mince pie club founder, ice hockey Capitals biggest fan, maker of many hot chocolates, drinker of diet coke (although I'm sure it is about how he swaps to Pinot Grigio), a serious biscuit fan and a questionable approach to socks. Ceilidh dancing is new to Dan but we love that he is always willing to give things a go. When P6 camp needed a maid for Cluedo, Dan stepped up and when World Book Day was celebrated, we had our very own Batman - in fact, Batman very kindly brought some lunch to MHB's office in true character running in and out saying 'dinner dinner dinner dinner BAT DAN'!!

We wish him all the very best as he moves onto his next teaching post at Compass School.

Dougie Taylor

Crossing Attendant – 6 years 7 months service We think we all know Dougie, the lollipop, the smile, the high five, the dog treats … He has been the welcoming face of the school for the last 7 years.

But did you know he started out his working life as telegram boy at the age of 15!!! Then progressed to a fully fledged postie at 18 and for the next …. 43 years, at which point he was offered “early” retirement.

That early retirement became a part time post as a City of Edinburgh Council, “School Crossing Patrol Officer”. Luckily for us Margaret Imlah spotted his charm and charisma and quickly employed him to help us out in his “spare time”. Since then Dougie has been part of school life, he diligently and quietly cleans the Sports Hall every morning before switching over to his crossing duties on behalf of the council and the school, helping Lower School students in particular, showing a happy face whilst doing a difficult job managing people in their cars and getting families safely into school.

Dougie’s enjoyment of life and his job is infectious

and he can brighten anyone’s start to the day with cheery hello. This infectiousness obviously rubbed off at home, as two years after Dougie started, his wife Carol joined the catering team. Dougie has decided to call it a day on his working life, and in true Scottish style will be heading for the local golf club to improve his handicap and no doubt, further discuss plans for Scottish Independence. Dougie thank you for your time here and the smiles you spread across our community.

Josie Moore

Teacher of Primary – 3 years service We say farewell to Josie, teacher of Primary 6 since 2020. Josie has been a really valuable member of the Primary 6 team over the last three years. She has shared a wealth of knowledge and expertise within Primary 6 and her teammates have really appreciated this. You can rely on Josie to help with any grammatical query. She is a team player with a dry sense of humour, a good TV critic having made some excellent recommendations, 'mince pie club' member and has become a coffee snob - only the best freshly ground beans will do! We will miss Josie's calmness and her many musical talents. These talents will be a huge loss to the P6 year group who adore her sessions during 'activities' on a Friday afternoon which have been performed at various events. We hope that she will enjoy being able to have more time to pursue trips in her (enormous) campervan, knitting and family time.

Kenny Johnston

Estates Manager – 14 years service Kenny has been at St George’s since Feb 2009, coming to us from a career starting out as a joiner then later managing sites for house builder Mactaggart & Mickel.

He soon became part of the fabric of St George’s helping Margaret Imlah and her team keep the site running. Kenny put his joinery skills to good use fixing various things, but will be most remembered by the drama department for building sets for countless plays.

He has been key in getting various projects up and running, in particular new roofs – for the Junior School and the RMC, as well as keeping an eye on key new

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G Staff developments like the Pavilion, completed in 2018.

Kenny has an amazing knowledge of the school’s fabric, its challenging heating systems, and its little nooks and crannies with their various nicknames like “Aladdin’s Cave”or the “Salt Cellar”. With the large number of buildings we have, Kenny also ended up with an associated mountain of keys. I know Kirsty has enjoyed helping him sort out that mountain over the last year, so we aren’t totally reliant on his personal knowledge, but only a couple of weeks ago he produced another boxful for the team to tackle!

There are a large number of good wishes in his virtual card that was set up for him and the common theme there is Kenny’s helpfulness. Kenny has always been ready to lend a hand to whatever needed doing – rescuing D of E minibuses at weekends, setting up the school Balls, moving exam desks and everything else that needs sorting out around school from day to day. Having spent most of his life in Edinburgh, Kenny is well known for his intricate knowledge of Edinburgh streets, so with his helpful nature he is always ready to give incredibly detailed advice on how to get from A to B. Kenny is also always ready for chat or a story, usually in true Ronnie Corbett style – you never know where it might lead, but you can be sure there will be many tangents. Kenny does have lots of stories about remarkable and interesting times at St George’s, so perhaps catch him to hear a few.

So, thank you for all the time and effort you have put into St George’s, and we wish you a happy retirement.

Enjoy your time with your family, your grandson Harrison and watching all the Hibs matches at Easter Road.

Andy Leask

Teacher of English and Head of e-Learning – 7 years 11 months service The time has come to say goodbye to Andy Leask.

The aim is to try and keep this short and sweet because we know that Andy will be hating every second of the attention and people saying complimentary things about him, but it is impossible to be brief when trying to sum up the impact that Andy has had during his time here.

Andy arrived at St George’s from George Watson’s eight years ago to take on the role of Head of Faculty of English and Drama. Forward thinking and creative, he immediately settled into the role and made it his own, becoming an invaluable soundboard for

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colleagues in both English and Drama, always willing to listen and allow someone to let off steam. With good humour and grace, he led the team from the front, inspiring change and creativity. He has immersed himself in the wider life of the school, spearheading debating, LitSoc, setting up a role playing game club, leading a whole variety of trips and always looking for opportunities to enrich the students’ school experience.

When the school decided to appoint an eLearning co-ordinator, Andy leapt at the chance for a new challenge – although he never could have predicted quite how challenging it would become…

When Covid struck, Andy stepped up to lead from the front, and his calm, indominable spirit made him a guiding light in those dark times. When Teams had barely even entered our consciousness, with his amazing support, we found ourselves with about three days to level up our skills ready to deliver an online curriculum. Colleagues found themselves achieving things they never would have thought possible, all thanks to Andy’s guidance and patience – even when we had asked him for the fifth time how to flip our screen or he had to remind us to mute or unmute in meetings.

One of Andy’s stand out qualities is that he is never too busy for people – even if he actually is: he is never too busy to help a student with an essay or with their UCAS; he is never too busy to help a member of staff in need; he is never too busy to just have a chat about nothing important when he can see that you have had a difficult day and need to decompress. When something needs to be done, Andy will put himself forward and he is the ultimate team player.

But above all else, it is Andy’s passion for teaching and for English, which shines through daily. He is always looking to innovate and be creative in his classroom. It is a double-edged sword inheriting students from one of Andy’s classes: you know they are going to have been taught incredibly well, but you also know that whatever you do, you have a very hard act to follow. I don’t think he is aware of how profound an impact he has on the students in his care. His passion, drive, supportive and open nature immediately create an environment in which young people thrive – in part because Andy is unashamedly himself, sharing his own hobbies and passions with students and in so doing, giving them the space and freedom to be themselves.

To say that Andy leaving will be a loss for St George’s is a profound understatement. He will leave

Staff G behind a large hole, but we also could not be happier for him in his next adventure. Andy is leaving us to returning to George Watson’s and take up the post of Head of English: a role that he was made for. Leading a team of people, sharing his passion for English with others – it was a job made for him. We just hope he doesn’t become too frustrated with their reliance on Apple devices!

Andy, thank you for everything: your guidance, support, leadership, humour… the list could go on and on. You may be heading back to old pastures, but please know that your legacy here will continue.

Peggy Bentley

Classroom Assistant – 8 years service Peggy has been a Junior School classroom assistant for the last eight years. She first joined the Junior School team in 2015 and has supported children at the Primary 2 stage of their learning.

Peggy is a warm and nurturing presence in the classroom. The children are instinctively drawn to her gentle and calm presence. Peggy has endless patience and is always happy to help others. In her role as classroom assistant, Peggy has shown that she is organised, creative and a good team player. Many a child has been supported to achieve new understanding in their learning and development through her kind and intuitive interventions.

To know Peggy is to love her. She is a wonderfully caring and supportive colleague to all in Junior School and is held in high regard by everyone. Always busy, never still, Peggy has an instinctive ability to know exactly what needs to be done. She is quiet and unassuming, with a happy twinkle in her eye, and always taking pride in a job well done. No matter the task, great or small, Peggy gives them all her full attention and ensures that the needs of the children always come first.

Peggy is a much-valued member of our Breakfast Club team. Every morning, come rain or shine, Peggy is waiting at the door of the St George’s Centre with a warm smile and friendly word for the children as they come into school. This is an important part of the school day, and Peggy’s attention to detail means that every child feels valued and special.

Peggy is a mother, grandmother, colleague and friend. This next stage of her life sees her wish to focus her time and attention on her precious family and friends, and we know that she is going to find much to

occupy her time when she moves on from St George’s.

Peggy, we shall miss your gentle nature and zest for life – we wish you every happiness for your future.

Rosanna Owen

Teacher of Primary – 10 months service Since joining St George’s this year, Rosanna has been teacher of Music in the Autumn term, supply teacher of Primary and then finally teacher of Primary 3 in the Spring and Summer terms. I think this demonstrates that Rosanna is a resourceful and adaptable teacher.

She displays a positive outlook on life that shines through in all that she does in the classroom. The children have loved having her as their teacher this year. We thank her for bringing learning to life for them, and for the new initiatives that Rosanna has introduced to Junior School.

We have very much enjoyed her enthusiasm for assemblies this year too and are thankful for her help, creative input and dance moves! I know that she has also loved being part of the Lower School musical club this year and her involvement has been much appreciated.

We wish Rosanna well in her teaching career and never to lose her creativity and passion for life. We know that her new school is very lucky to have her join their team!

Susan Thomson

Teacher of French and Spanish – 10 years service Susan came into teaching for all the right reasons - She is a natural and encapsulates everything that it means to be a good teacher. Susan started teaching in 2009 and worked in the Weald School in Billingshurst, near Brighton before joining St George’s in 2013. For ten years, students and colleagues alike have benefited from Susan’s highly professional nature and also her warmth and friendliness. She is passionate about her subjects and has a genuine care and interest in the students’ wellbeing and their enjoyment of languages.

Their confidence and progress are at the core of her teaching.

Susan has taught students at every level of the school from Junior School to Upper 6. She exudes enthusiasm and has always strives to make her lessons enjoyable, never just settling for an “it’ll do” attitude.

Susan has the ability to make everyone feel at ease and, as a result, she quickly and easily builds excellent

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G Staff relationships with students. Susan’s passion for languages and Spanish in particular shines through in her teaching and she has led successful school trips to Andalucía in Spain which provided students with enriching cultural experiences.

During her time at St George’s, Susan has given her all both in the classroom and when leading or participating in extracurricular areas. Whether it was heading up Language Leaders, helping on Lower 4 camp, working in pastoral roles as a Lower 4 and Sixth Form tutor or Head of House for Douglas, she has always been willing to go the extra mile. Those around her have benefited from her kindness and her ability to always see the best in everyone. Despite the time and effort that she puts into her lesson planning, marking and direct support of students in her classes, Susan continues to offer support to her colleagues and always has time for the people around her. She has been regularly asked, and has volunteered, to be a mentor for student teachers. This is a crucial role which Susan has taken very seriously, dedicating a huge amount of time to give support and advice. She has always carried out this role with great compassion and interest.

Annie wanted to extend a personal thank you for being such a brilliant and supportive mentor and friend since she stepped into the St George’s reception for her student placement in 2014. Susan’s guidance and belief was invaluable. All of the department are really sad to be losing such a wonderful colleague – Susan, you will be greatly missed.

Beatriz Ferreira

Early Years Practitioner – 3 years 7 months service Beatriz first joined our nursery in January 2020, working alongside the Little Owls team during this time. Beatriz is a friendly, caring and kind practitioner who has a gentle manner with the children in her care.

She is a supportive colleague and hard-working member of the nursery team.

Beatriz has faced a few challenges during her time in nursery – the Covid pandemic being the main hurdle for her – and everyone - to overcome. We learned new words together – with ‘furlough’ being the most memorable! Beatriz remained cheerful throughout the pandemic, despite being many miles apart from her family, and we enjoyed connecting as a team for regular online meetings, and then later in person as she

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became part of the lockdown hub, key worker team.

Beatriz is a warm and welcoming face for the children in the morning, as the main practitioner for the nursery Breakfast Club, and then again in the evening as a part of the Nursery+ team. The children appreciate her gentle approach, and the sense of fun she brings to the nursery day.

After three and a half years with our Nursery, Beatriz leaves us at the end of this term to provide caring support for a member of her family. We wish Beatriz well for her future and thank her for her contributions to our nursery.

Roddy Long

Head of Strings – 29 years service The Music Department says goodbye to Mr Roddy Long this year after a whopping 28 years of dedicated service and leadership of the strings students and teachers at St George's. He is a truly outstanding violinist who consistently leads with humility, enthusiasm and diligence. Roddy has taught some of our students all the way from young Primary through to Upper 6 and has commented that whilst other gigs and employment opportunities came and went, St George's was the constant and at the core of his violin teaching career. He felt it was time to make a change and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. He will be sorely missed by his students and colleagues alike in the St George's Music Department.

Steph Shepherd

Finance Officer – 25 years service Steph Shepherd retires after 25 years as our Finance Officer at St George’s.

Here are some terms of endearment used by staff to sum up Steph’s personality and quality traits: fun, cracking sense of humour, enthusiastic, boundless energy, loyal, reliable, trooper, committed, heart of gold, efficient, one in a million!

In November 1998 Steph was appointed by Judith McClure (former Head) to join Margaret Imlah’s team as the Domestic Bursar’s Assistant and Bookkeeper.

During these early days, Steph completed her Association of Accounting Technicians qualification whilst working full time.

Steph and her organisational skills made a huge difference to many groups who have assisted school over the years - Friends of St George’s, Bookworms,

Staff G Browsers, the Futures Group to name a few. The accounting for the Friends’ Christmas Fairs in their heyday when they had outside stalls as well, was an immense task but Steph made sure that the day could run smoothly.

Steph has had many titles and additional roles over the years during admin restructuring: Facilities Director’s PA and Accounts Manager, Finance Officer/Head of Admin for a few years and then ultimately Finance Officer.

When the school restructured the financial operations to an in-house operation in 2019, Steph moved from Facilities to the Finance Department, with Jeremy Harper as Business Director, working also alongside Jen Millar who joined us from Chiene + Tait.

She picked up new systems and processes with ease.

When Jeremy left in 2022, Fiona Duncanson was appointed as the new Business Director and Steph has continued to work tirelessly with her and Jen. In Fiona’s words, Steph has been a huge part of the school for a long time and her commitment to the school, the staff and the girls is amazing. She works quietly in the background (although maybe sometimes not so quietly?) making sure that everything is paid on time, that people have what they need for trips, sorting cash and keeping things running smoothly. Fiona is sure that she has still not discovered many of the things that Steph does as they just happen, and always with a smile. Steph seems to know the answer to every random question asked of her. Although her role has changed over the years, her kindness and positive attitude have not, and she is one of the warmest people we know.

From the moment she started working at St George's Steph has been willing and able to take on far more than whatever is in her job description. She is Finance Officer, but she also takes the minutes at Staff Briefings, knows the best places to order pizza for hungry teenagers, quotes budget codes without having to look them up, and does everything with a smile and a kind word. Steph somehow has always made time to answer your questions, even though she is very busy - her organisational skills have been top notch.

Steph has always managed to make us laugh and see the funny side of life as well as being one of those colleagues who could always be relied upon to go the 'extra mile' when needed.

Other Leavers Caroline Cradock Teacher of Music, 4 years

Tracy Doig

School Admin Assistant, 1 year

Patricia Grant EYP, 8 months

Heather Fisher Facilities Assistant, 11 years

Aaron Flanagan Facilities Assistant, 1 year 6 months

Phoebe McHugh Assistant Housemistress, 2 years 4 months

Maria Chudzick

Graduate Boarding Assistant, 8 months

Pippa Shields School Nurse, 3 years 11 months

Joanne Grainger

Teacher of Support for Learning, 2 years 3 months

Sophie Woods School Nurse, 1 year 4 months

Nicky Stott

HR and Payroll Administrator, 10 months

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G Valete

VALETE 2023 Platinum Badge: awarded to girls who joined us in Nursery and completed their school career at St George’s School.

Gold Badge: awarded to students who began and completed their school career at St George’s School or who have boarded since Remove.

UPPER 6P Charlotte Birrell

2015 – 2023 University of St Andrews – Social Anthropology

Saskia Buitendijk

2015 – 2023 University of Dundee – Liberal Arts

Trinity Cheung

2020 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Biological Sciences (Biochemistry)

Kaitlin Fong

2017 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Mathematics and Statistics

Isabella Gibbs

Georgia Dixon-Spain

2019 – 2023 University of the Arts London, Central Saint Martin’s – Foundation Diploma in Art & Design

Havia Finlay

2017 – 2023 Heriot-Watt University – Business Administration

Emily Lawrie

2008 – 2023 Platinum Badge Abertay University – Ethical Hacking

Robyn MacDonald

2014 – 2023 Gap Year University of Chichester – Outdoor and Adventure Education

Isla Pearce-Menzies

2017 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Medicine

Sara Saber

2010 – 2023 Gold Badge University of Aberdeen – Psychology

Sophie Sutherland

2008 – 2023 Platinum Badge Robert Gordon University - Fashion and Textiles Design

2010 – 2023 Gold Badge University of Dundee – Adult Nursing

Annabelle Mathers

2010 – 2023 Gold Badge University of Glasgow – Psychology

Tess McMyn

Eva Vallery

2018 – 2023 University of Liverpool - Physiotherapy 2016 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Biological Sciences (Developmental, Regeneration and Stem Cells)

Carys Runciman 2021 - 2023 Gap Year

Lauren Walker

2018 – 2023 University of Oxford - Chinese

Lucy Wallace

2018 – 2023 University of Bristol – Veterinary Science

UPPER 6Q Lucy Dickson

2014 – 2023 Edinburgh Napier University – Psychology with Sociology

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Louisa Syme

2014 – 2023 University of Stirling - Business Studies

Ciara Wallace

2021 – 2023 University of St Andrews - Geography

UPPER 6R Pui Lam (Royce) Au

2021-2023 King’s College London, University of London - Pharmacy

Kate Bole

2009 – 2023 Platinum Badge University of Exeter – Liberal Arts

Weng Lam (Greta) Choi

2014 – 2023 University of Dundee – Interior and Environmental Design

Stella Honley

2015 – 2023 University of Glasgow - Spanish

Hei Tsz Zita Luk

2020 – 2023 University of Manchester - Law

Lara Murdochy

2019-2023 Anglia Ruskin University – Fine Art (with Foundation Year)

Marianne Stewart

2008 – 2023 Platinum Badge Gap Year

Yan Tung Tin

2019 – 2023 University of Manchester - Psychology

Cara Whittaker

2015 – 2023 University of Aberdeen- Sociology

UPPER 6S Millicent Allan

2021 – 2023 University of Aberdeen – Law with English Law

Grace Martin

2009 – 2023 Platinum Badge Gap Year University of York – Sociology with Criminology

Olivia Mason

2014 - 2023 Newcastle University – Biomedical Sciences

Lydia Paxton

Spring 2023 – Summer 2023 Gap Year doing archaeological fieldwork at Sheffield University University of York – Archaeology and Heritage

Kenzie Robertson

2014 - 2023 University of Cambridge – Music

Ella Roger

2015 – 2023 University of Dundee - Psychology

Komal Tripathy

2016 – 2023 University of Strathclyde – International Business

Valete G

Georgia Yates

2017 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh - Nursing Studies

UPPER 6X Anna Bole

2009 – 2023 Platinum Badge The University of Edinburgh - Physical Education

Darcey Hundleby

2016 – 2023 University of St Andrews - Medicine

Alice-Daisy Lappin

2019 – 2023 University of Stirling - Business Studies and Marketing

Elena McQuade

2016 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Law and International Relations

Madeleine Meikle

2009 – 2023 Platinum Badge University of St Andrews - Geography

Eileen Njotu

2017 – 2023 University of Strathclyde - Pharmacy

Molly Paton

2021 – 2023 Newcastle University – Geography

Poppy Reid

2017 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Veterinary Medicine

Amelie Taylor-Kidd

2017 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh - Chemical Engineering

Eve Wilkie

2019 – 2023 University of Stirling- Sport Business Management

UPPER 6Y Scarlett Tillie Booth

2021 – 2023 Gap Year followed by Newcastle University – International Business Management

Elona Deas

2021 – 2023 The University of Edinburgh – Medical Sciences

Olivia Fraser-Brown

2009 – 2023 Platinum Badge International University of Monaco – Business Management

Charlotte Kington

2016 – 2023 Gap Year to work and travel University of Manchester – Sociology and Criminology

Phoebe Kennedy Watt

2017 – 2023 University of St Andrews - Neuroscience

Ella Macleod

2018 – 2023 Gap Year University College London – French with Film Studies

Kendal McDonald

2014 – 2023 Business Management Degree Apprenticeship

Hannah Roseman

Lily Muir

2019 – 2023 University of Dundee - Art & Design (General Foundation)

Colleen Newman

2013 – 2023 Newcastle University – Politics and International Relations

2008 – 2023 Platinum Badge University of Glasgow – Scots Law 2016 – 2023 Abertay University – Ethical Hacking

Lucia Ross

2015 – 2023 University of Dundee – English and Creative Writing

Sara Shafiq

2017 – 2023 University of Stirling – Business Studies and Marketing

Felicity Short

2014 – 2023 Leeds Arts University – Fashion Branding with Communication

Yinong Yang

2019 – 2023 University of Manchester – Mathematics and Physics

UPPER 6Z Kiera Frost

2018 – 2023 Edinburgh Napier University - Music

Alexandra Hotson

2015 - 2023 University of Dundee – Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery (with a year in industry)

Megan Hughes

2020 – 2023 Durham University - Criminology

Kitty Scott

Alexandra Third

2016 – 2023 Gap Year Edinburgh Napier University – Sport and Exercise Science

Eva Tidswell

2017 – 2023 University of Aberdeen – Legal Studies and Politics

STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM Ellen Wong

Head of Boarding 2019 – 2023 University of Bath – Architecture (with Professional Placement)

Juanita Haynes

Senior Prefect 2019 – 2023 University of Glasgow – Molecular and Cellular Biology

Priyanka Manohar

Deputy Head of School 2017 -2023 The University of Edinburgh – Medicine

Sofia Rambukkana

Head of School 2009 – 2023 Platinum Badge University College London – Applied Medical Sciences

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