Strathallan Newsletter Spring 2022 by Strathallan School

Spring 2022

Strathallan News

Featured Beds for Ukraine: Strathallan School supports urgent appeal

Acting as a depot for donations, Strathallan School received a staggering amount of donations for an urgent appeal from a parent. Strathallan School parent and Executive Chairman of EastHORN Clinical Services, Iain Gordon is working with ClockWork Removals in Perth to transport a large number of children’s beds, mattresses and bedding directly to Ukrainian refugees in Poland. Iain Gordon, said, “Thank you again for all your support with the appeal for beds and bedding. The generosity and offers of assistance have been overwhelming. None of this would have been possible without Strathallan and the generous backing of Courtenay and Anna Morison of Clockwork Removals. If it weren’t for Clockwork’s logistical expertise, and the loan of a lorry and driver, we would have a mountain of well-intentioned aid but no way of moving it.” Acting as a depot for donations, Strathallan School already filled its Cricket Pavilion, Chapel and parts of the Design Technology department with flat-packed bunk beds, mattresses and other soft furnishings. “Donations completely exceeded all expectations,” said Strathallan Chaplain, Rev Jonny Wylie. “Every time I went to take a look there was more and more stuff. And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Huge thanks to everyone who has donated so far. We are also collecting clothes, blankets, first aid kits, baby essentials, canned food and other crucial items requested by the Polish shops in Perth.” The donations collected were loaded by Strathallan students and staff onto an 18-tonne lorry from ClockWork Removals on Friday 11th March. The lorry will now head to Grodzisk Mazowiecki, just outside Warsaw in Poland to deliver hundreds of essential items to refugees.

Charlotte ready for Harvard

Captain of School Charlotte G will swap Scotland for Massachusetts this summer as she becomes the first student from Strathallan School to be recruited to the Harvard Women’s Rugby Team. The 17-year-old from Swanage in Dorset, will join the ranks of the oldest rugby club in North America when she starts the next chapter of her education at the Ivy League institution. Charlotte, who first picked up a rugby ball when she was 8 years old, said it felt surreal to be recruited for the prestigious team. “I’m so excited to rise to the new challenge, they play a different brand of rugby in the United States so I can’t wait to head out there and get started.” Charlotte, who was selected for the U18 Futures Scottish Rugby Squad in 2019, has balanced her love of sports with her interests in engineering and sailing. She recently helped secure two School National Championships in goal for Strathallan 1st XI Hockey squad and has helped guide more girls into rugby and the Combined Cadet Force as the Captain of Girls Rugby and Head of the Navy Section respectively. Off the pitch, Charlotte was awarded an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship in 2020 and as Captain of School she has taken a key leadership role at Strathallan. Mark Lauder, Headmaster at Strathallan, said, “Charlotte’s drive and commitment makes it easy to see why she has been recruited across the pond to one of the world’s top universities. Ever since she joined us, Charlotte has been an outstanding student, leading on initiatives and exemplifying our core values and school motto: hard work conquers all. Well done, Charlotte, we cannot wait to see what you do next.” 2

Strathallan School flying the flag for a greener future

Strathallan School has been awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag celebrating the environmental efforts of its students. Pupils at the Perthshire school have been awarded the international accreditation for their efforts to rewild parts of the campus and reduce waste in the school’s dining hall. Already home to deer, woodpeckers, otters, buzzards and bee-hives, improving the natural ecosystem of the campus has been a central focus for the students and staff from the school’s 12-year-old Eco Committee. They have begun planting bee-friendly wildflower meadows and over 450 native trees in copses and hedgerows to increase sustainable biodiversity. Pupils also instigated pupil-led campaigns to reduce litter on campus, especially disposable face coverings and chewing gum. The group then led a food-waste audit, leading to a new conveyor belt system promoting more opportunities for recycling and food waste management in the school. Strathallan students were also invited to take part in COP26, – the only school in the UK requested to represent Great Britain – at the UNESCO Futures of Education discussion with leading experts and other schools from across the world on Zero Water Day. Sixth Form student Dan De L, said, “It’s important we act now to help make the future more sustainable. The trees we’ve been planting and the work we’ve been doing to make more areas of the school accessible to wildlife will have a real benefit for years to come.” Members from the schools’ John Muir Trust and the Combined Cadet Force also helped revitalise an important part of the Perthshire school when they dug out the old Curling Pond, helping to improve irrigation on school grounds and creating more habitation for local wildlife. Paul Vallot, Biology Teacher at Strathallan, “It’s a proud moment for the school to receive the Eco-Schools Green Flag. Being close to nature is part of our school’s experience and it is great to see so many pupils wanting to get involved in everything from leading campaigns to bee-keeping.”

Aila snaps up Perthshire Young Photographer of the Year

Strathallan Prep School student Aila D has been named Young Perthshire Photographer of the Year 2022, after she took an award-winning photograph during a canoe camping trip on Loch Lomond. The Perthshire pupil, not only beat all the junior entries in the competition but came top out of all 150 submissions with her photograph ‘Sunset on the water’. Aila said she was over the moon with the news. “I didn’t expect to win at all,” she said. “I took the photograph because the sunset looked so beautiful so, it feels amazing that other people also appreciate my photos.” Francis Glancy, Head of Art at Strathallan, said, “Aila should be incredibly proud of her achievement. The Young Perthshire Photographer of the Year is a prestigious competition run by the Perth & Kinnoull Rotary Club and I know from the submissions that she was up against some brilliant young artists. Congratulations Aila.”

Introducing Strathallan Rugby Academy

With the launch of Strathallan’s Rugby Academy, we aim to draw out excellence in talented young players providing the support, guidance, and expertise to improve each player within the Academy by focusing on being development-driven and player-centered. Through our intensive programme of training, teaching and coaching, and access to some of the best facilities in Scotland, the Academy will provide a high-quality player experience. In my time at Strathallan I’ve seen more than forty Age grade International players go on to represent their country on the pitch, eleven full-time professional players, six full internationalists, and a British & Irish Lion and I’m proud to have played some part in their incredible success. Each member of the Rugby Academy will have access to first-class training, advice, facilities and support. We want our players to be part of our Rugby family and nurture their talent and ability. The Academy is open to Rugby Scholars and those that show the most potential. Alongside a passion for the game, we are looking for talented players who are dedicated and can actively demonstrate that through, hard work, determination and a willingness to listen and act. The journey to being a fully inducted member of the Academy will begin in 3rd form where players will have the opportunity to apply to be on the programme, these are known as Aspiring players. These players will be worked with at this entry-level and as information and experience of the player is gathered, with positive recognition, players can be promoted to being a Player of Note. This will bring more opportunity for the player to further demonstrate that they have the attributes, attitude and work ethic to be inducted as an Academy player. Once inducted to being a full Academy player a player agreement is signed as commitment to the Academy.

The Situation in Ukraine

MBE

Huge congratulations to former pupil Duncan Scott on being awarded an MBE for services to swimming

For former pupil Duncan Spinner, Ukraine had become his home. He returned to Strathallan this month to share his story. Scottish veteran Duncan Spinner had been working for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office for over 7 years in Luhansk, Ukraine, when he was emergency airlifted out with his two-year-old daughter. Now, he is leading efforts to rescue colleagues stuck in Ukraine and take military surplus equipment back to the country that became his home. He returned to Strathallan to share his story and answer questions from our students. 4

Teacher’s book puts women’s football history into play

Strathallan School teacher Paul Beeson has become a published playwright this month as his play Sweet F.A. hits the shelves. Published by Tippermuir Books on International Women’s Day, the play-turned-book follows the story of a factory football team from Fountainbridge fighting for their right to play the game. Paul Beeson, an English and Drama Teacher from Edinburgh, wrote Sweet F.A. alongside fellow actors, writers and directors Bruce Strachan and Tim Barrow. Sweet F.A. was first performed during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival by a company of 9 women on a uniquely-built stage at the historic Tynecastle Park, the home of Heart of Midlothian football club. The same football ground where the players from the North British Rubber Company (NBRC) faced rivals from Ramage & Ferguson shipbuilders in 1916 the protagnoists of Sweet F.A. Paul said, “I’m not only delighted as the writer of the play to see Sweet F.A. in print but also as a fan of football. The rapidly growing popularity of female football before the 50-year ban imposed by the F.A in 1921 is a vital part of our nation’s history and something more people should know about. “It’s testament to the compelling story that it has been easily adapted into a book. I hope it gives football fans from all clubs a chance to consider the struggle women have endured to play the beautiful game.” Sweet F.A. is available directly from Tippermuir books or in person from the Hearts Clubstore at Tynecastle Park.

Academic Dan debates for Scotland

Strathallan School student Dan D L represented Scotland in his first-ever international debating tournament. The 17-year-old from Crieff, who only started debating a year ago, was awarded the highest individual score for a debate out of the 138 participants attending the prestigious Vilnius Open 2022. Selected to the Scottish debating team in December, Dan discussed four motions during the event covering topics from feminism, international aid and democracy. He said, “It felt amazing to represent Scotland at Vilnius. If you had told me a year ago I would be debating for Scotland I wouldn’t have believed you. I’m excited to see where debating can take me.” Louis Dunn, Director of International Study and Debating at Strathallan, said, “Dan has been a real powerhouse in debating, driving himself and his peers to success both nationally and, now internationally.” “Getting selected for the Scottish National Debating Team is an extremely difficult achievement as only a handful of pupils in Scotland are selected each year. Dan truly leads by example and this will, I am sure, inspire many to follow in his footsteps.” Looking ahead, Dan hopes to go on to participate in even more debates and study Economics at University.

Sixth Form Lecture series

Thanks to MBE Scottish Nigerian Author and supermodel Eunice Olumide for an insightful Sixth Form Lecture on equality and human rights. After giving her talk and a tour of campus with some of our Sixth Form students, she said, “Strathallan goes to the heart of what education should exemplify. Both the faculty and students demonstrate why diversity is crucial for us to create a truly inclusive world.”

Maths Competitions

This has been a busy year so far in the maths department with over 200 students taking part in competitions. From the primary maths challenge to the Senior Olympiad we have seen students being enriched by interesting problems at all levels. We have held six lots of individual competitions so far this year with notable excellence in many areas. Particular praise must be given to the following pupils for their mathematical reasoning, precision of thought and fluency. Mathematical Olympiad for Girls – Jessica T, Katharine H and Angie L gaining merit certificates and Isabella Z a distinction.

We were delighted to welcome back former pupil & Sports Journalist Heather Dewar to discuss her journey with our pupils on International Womens Day 2022 Sixth Form student Iona said “Her speech supplied a safe space for us to feedback our honest opinions. It was a fantastic experience.”

We were delighted to welcome back former Thornbank pupil Alex Muir to deliver a jam packed Sixth Form lecture on Diversity. Class of 2013, Alex is the Trans Policy Officer LEAP Sports Scotland and teaches LGBT+ Awareness to leading healthcare professionals across the UK. Alex discussed LGBT+ history in society and education, his work in sport and healthcare, the benefits of diversity and how to be an Ally.

UKMT Senior Maths Challenge - Five gold awards: Isabella Z, Fred S, Carl W, Kevin M and Vanja Z Follow on Round - Isabella qualified for the Olympiad. Four students qualified for the “Andrew Jobbings Senior Kangaroo” with Carl W gaining a merit certificate. UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge - Five gold awards: Joshua C, Gleb Y, Angus G, Rohan M and Georghii K. Sadly the UKMT team competitions have not been able to run this year, however, we have been able to compete in two other team based challenges. Both Lower VIth and Vth form took part in this year’s Mathematiques San Frontieres which featured heated debate and a lot of cookie eating! Mrs Halley’s Vth form class were awarded a certificate of excellence for their responses to the Maths With Nae Borders competition and were praised for their flamboyant solutions. We await results for the Mathematiques San Frontieres, Pink Kangaroo and the Scottish Maths Challenge with baited breath and we look forward to the Junior Maths Challenge next term.

Bright spark runs in the family as Strathallan engineer receives Oxford offer Strathallan School student Vanja Z has been offered a place to read Electrical Engineering at New College, University of Oxford, from September.

The Sixth Form student from Serbia could join his older brother Mateja at Oxford, as the former Strathallan student and HMC Scholar also got into the prestigious university, heading to Jesus College to study Physics in 2019. Vanja joined Strathallan three years ago on a full HMC Scholarship and is studying Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science at A-Level. The 18-year-old said he still couldn’t believe he has been offered a place at Oxford. “It feels unreal,” said Vanja. “I had to keep reading the offer to make sure I didn’t imagine it. Now I just must keep focused and get the grades I need.” “I’ve loved my time at Strathallan, I’ve felt very supported and coming to Scotland has given me the opportunity to take part in activities like the Duke of Edinburgh award that I wouldn’t have been able to do in Serbia.” Vanja is passionate about maths, robotics and astrophysics, recently crafting a radio telescope at school. During his time at Strathallan he has won Gold in the UKMT Senior Mathematical Challenge 2021, British Physics Olympiad Senior Physics Challenge 2021 and the Scottish Maths Challenge. Headmaster, Mark Lauder said, “I am delighted for Vanja after all his hard work and dedication to his studies and I look forward to Vanja joining his brother at Oxford, Mateja who was Strathallan’s Dux in 2019.”

Kenya The Strathallan Kenya Projects comprise three main locations. Firstly in the Kibera Slum and environments in Nairobi, secondly in Suswa in the Great African Rift and the third in Kilifi in Eastern Kenya, close to the Indian Ocean. In the Mashimoni region of the Kibera Slum we support 40 children for their education in terms of their school fees, uniform, books and two meals a day Monday to Friday. These children would not be in education without the donations from the Kenya Project. The aim is youth empowerment and respect, giving them a better reality. In Kenya Children’s Home Orphanage, the Strathallan Projects continue to support children and babies on a number of ways. We provide funds for education but also for infrastructural items such as play parks, a nursery and rain harvesting schemes. We have connected with members of Strathallan and orphanage staff to share best practice in residential and educational care, helping the orphans to thrive and to place them with loving families where possible. In the Rift Valley in Suswa, we have a partnership with the unique Soila Maasai Girls Rescue School. The aim is for protection from early marriage and FGM. The girls attend across the Maasai region for their primary education. My provide school fees in addition to practical things such as school bags, mattresses, bedding, uniforms and sports equipment. Strathallan and Suswa teachers engage in professional discussions to further build skills in particular with STEM subjects and Boarding Practice. The girls are fantastically keen to learn and have high ambitions such as doctors, aeroplane engineers and politicians. We hope to develop positive young leaders.

Further East in Kilifi, the Strath Kenya Project provides funds to enable physically disabled primary children to access school. In particular, a 12 year old boy who is now in his second year at primary school has been transformed to a happy boy who is able to play with his friends and socialise in addition to getting his education. At the same Kilifi area, we link a numbers of schools together to gather 550 girls every three months to provide practical health education and sanitary products. The aim is that the girls are able to attend school throughout the year, their grades improve and this helps to reduce Period Stigma and Period Poverty. Presently, we are looking to design reusable sanitary pads with the aim of creating a micro business for two young

women to produce, reducing our overall costs, creating employment and reducing the impact on the environment. The Strathallan Kenya Projects have been working now for fourteens year and are committed to enduring positive values and relationships.

- Chloe M and Ethan W (Strath Kenya Team, Lower Sixth)

Raising the roof for the Kenya Project

Our Lower Sixth Kenya team held an amazing Valentine’s Dance for our Prep Pupils. Donations from the dance will directly allow our young friend Jarvis, who has been disabled from birth, to be able to afford another year of school in Kenya.

Music & Piping Strathallan School Pipe Band join Red Hot Chilli Pipers on stage

Members of Strathallan School Pipe Band were invited on stage this month by Scottish piping legends the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. Performing live at Perth Concert Hall in front of a packed audience, Strathallan pipers and drummers took to the stage to play ‘Highland Cathedral’ with the band. Strathallan Pipe Major, Conor C, who led the band on stage said, “Playing with the Chillis was absolutely incredible, going up on stage no matter where is always enjoyable, but with the Chillis it was something more. “I think I speak for the whole band when I say that it was one of the best experiences you could ask for, and it really shows just what you can do with piping and the joy it can bring.” Pipe Major Josh Fraser, who joined the band on stage said, “It was an unforgettable evening for the Pipe Band. It was some of our pipers’ first-ever performance and I think it will stick with them for a while. With Strathallan pipers from Hong Kong, Iceland, and Spain joining in, it was a unique experience.” The Perthshire concert wouldn’t be the only time Strathallan Pipers played with the Chillis, as Piping Instructor Kyle Howie and former pupil Harry Richards joined them pitchside to play to a packed Murrayfield for the Calcutta Cup.

Strathallan pipers join SAINT PHNX on major track

Members of Strathallan School Pipe Band were invited to join Scottish rock band SAINT PHNX and musician Cameron Barnes on a special cover of the chart-topping track ‘Happy Place’. ‘Happy Place’ is a huge anthemic track written in memory Bert Jukes, father of the Scottish duo SAINT PHNX. Given his love for the Highlands, SAINT PHNX said, “It only felt right to add bagpipes.” Strathallan Pipe Major Conor C said he and the other pipers felt privileged to be involved with the latest bagpipe cover of the song. “It sounds great,” said Conor. “I’m so happy that so many of our pipers were involved, it’s a brilliant tune that was fun to help make and great to listen to afterwards. I hope the number of pipers on the track inspires others to pick up the pipes and see that the pipes have a place in progressive music as well as traditional tunes.”

Jazz

Our musicians enjoyed an inspiring day with top Scottish jazz musician and educator, Richard Michael. It was a brilliant day of hands-on music-making that challenged and inspired both students and staff.

Art Facing the pandemic: Strathallan students create striking sculpture

Sixth Form students at Strathallan School have put a face to the pandemic, creating a clay mask of faces symbolising the range of emotions felt by many during the national lockdowns. Currently on display in the school’s Art Department, the piece called ‘Faces of the Pandemic’ took four weeks to create, with over seven A-Level students contributing to the project. Two students involved in creating the sculpture were Art Scholars Isobel W and Issy W. Isobel W said, “It’s important to create art about the pandemic. It reminds us of the shared experience we all faced and can serve as a reminder of how quickly things can change.” Issy W added, “Contributing to the sculpture made me realise how many emotions everyone had to endure during the lockdowns. I realised during the process that there’s a lot of anger, loneliness and sadness that come up when the younger generations discuss the pandemic and it’s important to share this perspective.” Head of Art at Strathallan School, Frank Glancy said, “I’m incredibly impressed by the range of emotions and skill our A-Level group has shown in creating this together. There’s a beautiful irony in how close the wee faces are on the mask given how much distance we’ve all had to adapt to.”

Performing Arts Perform in Perth: Strathallan students wow in Speech and Drama

Strathallan pupils won all 3 trophies in the Speech and Drama classes at Perform in Perth achieving 15 first-place performances across all age groups from 8 to 17. Congratulations to all our pupils who took part in this year’s regional festival of music, speech and dance. Results Trophy Winners: Eric M won the Perth Burns Club Rosebowl for his recitation of Tae a Louse. Isla S won the William Soutar Tassie for Soutar’s The Lowpin Match Tom N won the Year of the Bible trophy for his New Testament reading. Other notable firsts went to Madeleine E, Holly P, Daniel W, Chloe McM, Magnus M, Alexander W and Francesca W. Year 6 won the Choral Speaking (with movement) class.

Strathallan Prep School Strathallan Prep School opens new library on World Book Day

The new library unveiled today at Strathallan Prep School will open a new chapter of learning for children aged 7 to 13 years old. The reading neuk, named after former Strathallan student Adam Pattinson, will allow pupils to explore the world of books in their own time. Adam was a hugely popular teacher at Craigclowan School and Captain of Perthshire Rugby Club and will also be known to many for delivering Strathallan’s multi-sport camp each summer alongside his wife, Claire. Head of Strathallan Prep School, Emma Lalani, said, “We are delighted to open our new library today. Adam is greatly missed and was a respected teacher, so it feels very fitting that pupils from all over the world will get the chance to study in a library in his memory.” Officially opened by Adam’s wife Claire and mother Tracy, the library will create a comfortable space at Strathallan School for curious minds to discover the world of literature. Tracy said, “Adam had an enviable vocabulary which he attributed to his love of reading. This was something he did his best to encourage in all his pupils and he would be delighted that this cheerful reading space has been named in his memory. We hope that it will inspire many more SPS pupils to become avid readers.” Claire added, “As a teacher, Adam was also known for his excellent World Book Day costumes, so we were thrilled to see so many pupils and staff making such an effort today.”

Prep School Clays Competition

COPPS1

Strathallan Prep were awarded first prize in the competition against Belhaven, Craigclowan and Loretto.

Our pupils were proud to present their environmental initiative for an ocean-going plastic waste collector. We created environmental artwork and listened to a talk on looking after our oceans & reducing plastic use.

Lecture Series Inspirational! The latest in our lecture series for 1st and 2nd Form saw our own Mrs Waugh share her experiences as a professional athlete.

Sports From Melrose to Missouri: Strathallan Hockey star scoops up state-side scholarship

Orla F will swap Strathallan School for St Charles, Missouri this summer as she heads to Lindenwood University on a Hockey and Academic Scholarship. The 17-year-old said she was over the moon to receive the offer from the Division 1 team. Orla, who has been playing hockey since she was 10 years old, said, “I still can’t believe I got the dual scholarship. Hockey is really developing in the States and Lindenwood recently moved up to D1 so I can’t wait to join an ambitious team that’s going places.” Originally from Melrose, Orla will join her older sister and Strathallian Izzy Folan out in Missouri, as the pair get set to play for the same side again. “Hockey has given me so many amazing opportunities,” added Orla. “I’ve made so many friends playing the game. I’d like to go into sports psychology so gaining experience in Lindenwood and studying Psychology out there will put me on the right track.” Since joining Strathallan in 2018, Orla has played for the 1st XI side for four years, helping them achieve national success in both the Indoor and Outdoor championships. Headmaster of Strathallan, Mark Lauder said, “We are delighted to see Orla achieve a scholarship that recognises her hard work on the pitch and off. She will be a brilliant addition to Lindenwood. I’m looking forward to hearing all about her adventures in North America soon!”

Strathallan students crowned Scottish U18 Indoor Hockey Champions Strathallan’s 1st XI Boys Indoor Hockey team stormed to success in the Scottish Hockey U18 National Indoor Hockey finals.

The team, led by Captain Hamish N, were named champions after a thrilling 4-2 win against Kelburne in the final match of the round robin tournament. Hamish, a U18 Scottish Hockey player and Sports Scholar at Strathallan, said, “It felt amazing to win. Not just for me personally but the team as well. We kept pushing through every second of the games and gave our all. I couldn’t be prouder of the team.” “As captain, the moment that will last with me was the faces of the squad when the whistle blew and we knew we had won, it was fantastic.”

Hockey regional selection BRAVE girls Emerging: 1. Naomi H 2. Lucy W 3. Lucy T 4. Emma F

National Plate Champions

Huge congratulations to our 1st XI Boys who stormed to victory at the Scottish Hockey National Plate Finals - they put on a stunning performance.

BRAVE girls Aspiring: 1. Orla F 2. Erin M 3. Zoe W BRAVE boys Emerging: 1. Conor F BRAVE boys Aspiring: 1. Joe T Scotland U18 Selection Squad: 1. Hamish N 2. Ross T Midlands U14 Girls (Selection Squad) 1. Rosie E 2. Emily P

Fit in February

A big thank you to all who have supported and took part in our “Fit in February” competition this February. Unfortunately, the trophy has travelled down the M90 this year to the capital, to visit Fettes for a year. Fettes won week 1 and Strathallan won weeks 2, 3 & 4 with the final difference being 821km. Both schools had over 2000 people taking part and both schools travelled over 56,000 kilometres over the course of the month, so well done to every single one of you who took part and got involved. Here’s to 2023 and gaining the Trophy again!

Callum and Andy selected for Scotland Under-20 Six Nations squad

Former pupil Andy Stirrat and current student Callum N will soon stand side-by-side for Scotland having been selected for the Under-20 Six Nations squad. Callum, who first picked up a rugby ball when he was 5 years old, said he was still in shock after the announcement. He said, “It’s a massive honour to be picked for the squad being able to perform on such a massive stage feels amazing. I can’t wait to go up against some of the best young players in Europe with my family and friends watching.” Andy, former Captain of Rugby at Strathallan, said, “It’s a huge honour to get the opportunity to represent Scotland. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and making friends and family proud.” Andrew Henderson, Director of Rugby at Strathallan, said. “I’m incredibly proud of Andy and Callum getting called up for the Under-20 team. They are both brilliant players and have worked very hard to get where they are today. They are a great example to other students.” The pair will join fellow Strathallians; Zander Fagerson, Matt Fagerson and Jamie Ritchie as they represent Scotland in the Guinness Six Nations series.

Rugby update

Strathallian Andy Stirrat played in the final U20 match v Ireland. Callum N was ruled out through injury. Both players will now prepare for an upcoming tour with another tournament including the home nations and some other European U20 squads who will lock horns over a period of time in the summer. This will replace the U20 World Cup which again will not run due to the issues still surrounding the pandemic. The Six Nations has been a tough campaign for Callum and Andy but they both really enjoyed the challenge and the opportunity to represent their country at this level. Andy has secured a contract with Ayrshire Bulls in the Super Six. Callum, as well as signing for Stirling County Super six, has also secured a senior academy contract with Glasgow Warriors which starts July 1st 2022. We are extremely proud of both boys achievements and wish them both the very best for their rugby futures. Alex T and Struan R continue to challenge for final selection for Scotland U18. Alex travelled to Newcastle to play some tough English opposition with the wider Scotland U18 squad which ended up being a comfortable day for the Scottish squad. We hope that they will be successful in reaching the final team who will travel to France over the Easter break to play in a tournament organised for the home nations and France. It is also worth mentioning 2 of our other star players who certainly would be challenging for this final squad Johnny M and Eric D were outstanding this season for the school and were certainly 2 of Caledonia’s top players who were looking to gain further honours. Unfortunately both required surgery to injuries sustained while playing and were therefore ruled out of taking any further part. We wish them both a speedy recovery and will follow their journeys after they leave school in the summer as they both have bright futures in the game. Doug Y and Innes P again who had performed so well through the school season and picked for the Caledonia U18 squads picked up covid at the very worst time which meant they could not take part in the district matches to stake their place going forward. Both have been invited to train with the Scotland Squad which hopefully may provide an opportunity to shine. Other selections at U17 with Joe T and Carlos A both of whom performed really well in the recent District matches against Glasgow and Edinburgh. The U16 selection has recently taken place so congratulations to Archie McM, Ramsay S and Fionn T who have made it through to the next stages for Caledonia U16 and will culminate with matches v Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Borders during April. Andy Henderson - Director of Rubgy

Students soar to new heights at SSAA Indoor Track & Field Championships

11 student-athletes represented Strathallan School at the SSAA Indoor Track & Field Championships this month, coming away with brilliant PBs and 1st place in the Pole Vault. Sixth Form student Emily S-M had a fantastic competition jumping to 2.70m in her first-ever indoor competition and coming top in the Over 16 Pole Vault competition. Emily, from Athens in Greece, said, “I didn’t expect to win but it was an amazing experience. The environment at the Emirates Arena was so friendly and chilled.” Emily, who has been at Strathallan since September, added, “Looking ahead, I’m definitely hunting for a PB and will definitely be competing in the outdoor competitions in Greece this summer. I’m excited to see where Pole Vault can take me.” Results from all our competitors are as follows: Jacob H finished 4th and ran a PB in the U16 1500m. Iona B, Finlay T & Matthew McG all ran PB’s in the 200m. Iona B got a PB in the 60m semi-final and Jamie L won his 300m heat qualifying him for the final where he finished 6th. Fionn T finished second in his 300m heat behind Jamie L which sent him as well to the final where he finished 7th. Callum T finished 3rd in his 400m head which earned him a place in the semi-finals as the fastest loser. He finished 6th in the Semi-Final. Findlay T also ran a PB in the 60m to earn a place in the semi-final where he finished 5th. Director of Sport, Jim Thompson, said, “It was great to see so many Strathallan athletes competing in the athletics competition in Glasgow. Emily should be proud of her achievement, we can’t wait to see what she does next.”

Athletics

Congratulations to Fionn T who was awarded the Oulton Trophy for the Most Promising Junior at the Dundee Hawkhill Harriers Award Ceremony. In the last six months he has dropped his PB in the 300m by 2 seconds, won the Silver Medal in Scottish Athletics U15 300m National Outdoor Championships, placed 5th in the 300m final of the Scottish Schools indoor championship and ranked 6th in Scotland.

Biathlon Championships

A podium finish for 3rd form pupil Jacob H at the British Modern Biathlon Championships held in Bath. Jacob’s outstanding performance also included PB’s in both his swim and run.

Clays

Congratulations to our Clays team who came 2nd in the British Independent Schools Championship at Holland and Holland. All our pupils shot well, with our Captain of Clays, Angus T shooting his way to High Gun.

Fencing

Congratulations to Joshua B who came in joint 3rd at the Men’s Sabre fencing competition.

Cricket

Congratulations to Emma F who has been invited to train with the National U17 Girls Cricket squad in their winter programme over the coming months.

Swimming

Strathallan Swimmers recorded amazing PBs at the SASA Midland District Swim Championships. They won 17 medals and two trophies. A great start to the 2022 race season. Results: Evan D -100 IM – Gold (PB), 200 BR – Gold (PB), 100 Br – Silver (PB) Elise C – 100 Fly – Bronze, 200 IM – Silver (PB), 100 back – Bronze (PB) 100 free – Silver Owen C – 100 IM – Bronze, 200 free – Bronze (PB), 400 IM – Bronze, 200 back – Silver Jess S – 400 free – Silver (PB), 200 IM – 5th, 50 Br - 5th, 100 free – 5th Ollie S – 1500 free – Bronze (PB), 50 fly – 6th (PB), 200 free – 8th, 50 free – 6th (PB), 200 back – 8th (PB) John M – 100 IM – 7th, 50 Fly (PB), 50 free – Silver (PB) Katelyn T – 100 Fly – 4th, 200 IM – 6th (PB), 100 free – 7th. Euan W – 200 Back Junior Gold, 200 Br – 5th (PB), 200 free – Junior Gold (PB), 400 IM – Junior Gold (PB) Harriet W – 100 free – PB, 100 back and 50 br on PB.

Equestrian Busy day for our riders at the Kilgraston dressage and show jumping competition. Strathallan riders winning the 1-1.05m class overall.

Congratulations to our Equestrian Team who were crowned Team Winners of the 1m class at Kilgraston’s School Competition. Blake H was Individual winner for the 1m class, Eliza E came top of the Pony 1.10 class

Congratulations to Strathallan sisters Pebbles and Topaz W who have qualified for the Pony Club Spring Festival Championships in April.

Congratulations to pupil Kyle F who has been selected for the Pentathlon GB Athlete Development Program.

Tennis

A fantastic win for Jed M in the U16 Scotstoun County Event, with a loss of just 8 games in the tournament. And well done to Thomas D, on winning the consolation draw at the G3 Regional Tour Event at Craiglockhart. Well done, gents.

Congratulations to Strathallan Prep pupil Thomas D on winning the U16 boys singles event at the North East of Scotland Junior Indoor Championships. Well done Thomas.

Scottish Indoor Doubles Champions.

Huge congratulations to Freya C, Nic B& Thomas D on your impressive results. Freya C won the girls U16 & U14 Scottish Indoor Doubles Championships, partnered with Anna M. Nic B won the boys U16 Scottish Indoor Doubles Championships, with partner Callum. And Thomas D, finishing 2nd in the boys U14 Scottish Indoor Doubles Championships with partner Tristan M.

County Cup Selection

Katie B, Jed M and Marcus M were all selected to represent their respective counties for the Under 18 County Cup this year. With Katie representing the North of Scotland in Sunderland, Marcus also representing the North of Scotland while competing in Essex and Jed representing the South of Scotland, who were competing in Prestwick. 18

District Selection

Freya C, Lucas B, Jed M, Nicholas B and Marcus M have all been selected to represent their respective Districts at the upcoming Inter-District Tournament in the Easter holidays.

FIS Super G

Ski-ing

She said, “My first FIS Super G was amazing. It made me nervous but has provided some great experience for upcoming races.”

Alasdair finished 9th in the English championships slalom in a field of 68 boys, 5th in the ambition championships super-g and at the British Schools Alpine Open Championships Ali took 3rd place in the slalom whilst representing Strathallan. A great return to competitive skiing after the pandemic and then his Achilles injury.

Strathallan student Maisie M faced her first FIS Super G Race. Maisie, who was selected for the Scottish Alpine Ski U18 Team, joins former pupils Iona Ross (FIS 18+), Charlie Guest (GB World Cup Team) and Katie Guest (Para Alpine Guide) in representing Scotland & GB on the slopes.

Congratulations to Alasdair M who attended the Scottish children’s Championships at Cairngorm. Alasdair finished in 1st place, gaining the title of Scottish children’s slalom champion for the men. Almost 2 seconds ahead of the 2nd racer.

SSSA

Congratulations to Murdo H who won the gold medal at Scottish Schools Snow sports Association (SSSA) boys S1–3 ski race event for Strathallan at Glencoe.

Netball

Huge congratulations to our undefeated Scottish School Cup winners. Our U14A team had a sensational game against St. Ninian’s High School - scoring the winning goal in the last 4 seconds. Well done girls, what a fantastic way to end an unbeaten season!

Students vs Staff Hockey

Fantastic match but in the end the final score was 4-1 to the teachers. Well done to everyone involved and thanks to all the supporters who braved the wind and rain.

Inter-House 6 school records smashed

Congratulations to Glenbrae House who have been named Inter-House champions for the first time in the house history. There were some very close races with 6 school records being broken. The Thornbank team of Grace H, Emma S, Katelyn T & Caitlin M in the Open 4x50m Medley relay. They then broke the record in the open 4x50m front crawl relay. Elise C broke 3 individual records in the Open 100m IM, senior 50M FLY & senior 50M Front crawl. Jess S also broke the record in senior 50m backstroke. The oldest record to be broken was the 100 IM which has stood since 2011. 2nd - Thornbank 3rd - Woodlands

Record-breaking Inter-House Swimming Congratulations to Evan D who smashed the Schools Junior 50 BR and 50 Free records with lots of intensely close competition. 1st - Freeland 2nd - Ruthven 3rd - Simpson 4th - Nicol

Inter-house Cross Country Junior Girls

Basketball

Congratulations to Freeland who won the senior boys InterHouse basketball by beating Nicol in the final.

1st Thornbank 2nd Woodlands 3rd Glenbrae

Intermediate Girls 1st Glenbrae 2nd Thornbank 3rd Woodlands

Senior Girls

1st Woodlands 2nd Glenbrae 3rd Thornbank Overall Winners 1st Woodlands 2nd Thornbank 3rd Glenbrae

Junior Boys

1st Ruthven 2nd Freeland 3rd Nicol 4th Simpson

Intermediate Boys 1st Ruthven 2nd Nicol 3rd Simpson 4th Freeland

Girls’ Basketball 1st Glenbrae 2nd Woodlands 3rd Thornbank

Inter-house netball Congratulations to Woodlands House junior girls who pipped Thornbank House to win the gold on goal difference.

Senior Boys

1st Ruthven 2nd Simpson 3rd Freeland 4th Nicol

Overall Winners 1st Ruthven 2nd Nicol 3rd Simpson 4th Freeland

Senior Girl’s Netball 1st Woodlands 2nd Glenbrae 3rd Thornbank

Inter-house Football

Inter-house Badminton

Junior Boys Football

Girls

4th Ruthven 3rd Simpson 2nd Nicol 1st Freeland

Senior Boys Football 4th Freeland 3rd Nicol 2nd Ruthven 1st Simpson

1st 2nd 3rd

Boys 1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Thornbank Woodlands Glenbrae Freeland Nicol Simpson Ruthven

Inter-house Hockey Junior Boys

4th Nicol 3rd Freeland 2nd Simpson 1st Ruthven

Senior boys 4th Freeland 3rd Simpson 2nd Nicol 1st Ruthven

Girls Football

3rd Glenbrae 2nd Thornbank 1st Woodlands

Colours & Awards

Strathallians Womens 6 Nations

Fabulous to see former pupil and groundmaking role model Abi Evans selected for the Scotland teams Womens Squad for the Womens 6 Nations.

Called up for Scotland

Congratulations to former pupil Ollie Smith who has been called up for the Scottish Six Nations squad. Ollie, who made his debut for the Glasgow Warriors last year, is the fifth former pupil to be selected for this year’s Guinness Six Nations.

Outstanding news for former pupil Murphy Walker

Snowboarding

Congratulations to former pupil Mackenzie P who came 2nd in the Freeride World Tour Open Faces contest. Mackenzie told us that it felt amazing to come second in his first competition of the season.

One of the most promising young front-rowers in Scottish rugby has put pen to paper with the club, with Murphy Walker signing his first professional contract with Glasgow Warriors.