Strathallan Newsletter Autumn/Winter 2024

Strathallan News

Featured

Elevating the Student Dining Experience: The Launch of ‘Harry’s’ at Strathallan School

Strathallan School is proud to announce the launch of its rebranded dining centre, ‘Harry’s,’ the latest development at the school, and one that represents a significant investment in the school’s fabric and future.

The transformation, made possible through an exciting partnership with catering providers, Independents by Sodexo, is set to redefine student dining with a refreshed, dynamic experience.

The new dining facility, named ‘Harry’s’ in honour of the school’s founder, Harry Riley, marks a new chapter in the way the school approaches dining on campus. The collaboration is aimed at creating a more sophisticated and contemporary dining environment, with versatile food offerings that cater to the diverse tastes and needs of both students and staff.

“I am thrilled with the results of this transformation project,” said Angus Mackay, Strathallan’s Domestic Operations Manager and leader of the redevelopment project.

“Harry’s is more than just a dining hall - it’s a vibrant, welcoming space that will bring our community together, enrich student life, and support our commitment to excellence in all aspects of education. Our brief was to deliver a space that felt like a high street offering and transport our pupils away from school life; I believe we have achieved this and am thankful to all those involved in the project for making this happen.”

The completed space, which welcomed its first cohort of student diners yesterday, is already a hit with the Strathallan community.

“I barely recognised it; it’s a completely different space!” said Strathallan School student Constantin B.

He added, “It feels like a cool place to socialise with friends. It’s great to see this progress, not only the refurbishment but also the quality of food. It’s like eating at a cool restaurant.”

As the school enters a new academic year, the team at ‘Harry’s’ will be working hard to deliver an innovative dining experience and provide high-quality meals in an inviting atmosphere. With the goal to create a dining experience that is as inspiring as it is delicious, the project promised to meet the needs of today’s students and set a new standard for school dining everywhere.

W stands for Wellbeing

Over 14 passionate pupils have volunteered to be our new Wellbeing Ambassadors, ready to make a positive impact and offer support and guidance to their fellow students.

Lisa E, from Woodlands House said, “It’s a great opportunity to be a Wellbeing Ambassador because it gives us the chance to change the school community and to embrace the changes that comes with being part of a diversity community.”

Oskar V D from Ruthven House said, “It feels good to be a Wellbeing Ambassador, I’ve struggled with mental health in the past and now I want to use my experience to make sure others don’t struggle in silence.”

Pippa M from Woodlands House added, “I feel privileged to be a Wellbeing Ambassador because I’m excited to help make a difference and be there for those who need support.”

Strathallan Trio Triumph in Final Open Water Races of the Season

A trio of Strathallan School students capped off a successful open water swimming season with standout performances in the last major races of the year.

Kristin M, Samuel C and Soren Y showcased their skills at North District Open Water Championships and the Kessock Ferry swim, securing podium finishes.

Soren Y, competing in the Kessock Ferry Swim, took on what was meant to be a 1200m course but ended up swimming 2000m due to the strong currents and tidal flow. Despite the challenging conditions, he claimed victory, finishing first out of 250 participants.

“It was really good to win, especially given the extra distance,” said Soren. “I’m excited to do even more open water swimming this year. Last year was my first, and I’ve been training hard with my club Stirling Swimming Club, Highland Swim Team, and here at Strathallan with Coach Elaine.”

Samuel C, now in his second year at Strathallan, placed third in the North District 3km swim at Loch Insh. He’s been swimming for eight years and took up competitive open water swimming last year.

“I’m really proud of my result, especially with all the training I’ve put in here and with my club, Step Rock. Winning the 1500m relay with my club was a highlight, too. I’d love to get selected for bigger and more races in the future.”

Kristin M, a seasoned swimmer, dominated the North District Open Water events, taking home gold in both the 3km and 500m races at Loch Insh.

“It was nice to win, especially since I was really just racing against my friends,” she said.

Kristin, now in her third year at Strathallan, has enjoyed a stellar season swimming for her club Fins CSC, winning the West District 1km, Midland District 3km, as well as securing silver in the East District 1km and bronze in the 2km at the National Championships.

Through training with their respective clubs and Strathallan’s Swimming Academy, where they train at least six times a week, all three swimmers have refined their skills. Their success marks a fitting end to the competitive open water season.

Our Director of Strathallan Swimming Academy, Elaine Johnston said, “We are delighted to see our swimmers achieve great results in the open water circuit as well as the pool. Their hard work has been paying off and we are looking forward to their next competitions.”

Brothers Qualify for Junior European Golf Open

Strathallan students Nicholas and Lucas have qualified for the prestigious Junior European Open, set to take place in Spain at the end of November.

After a series of impressive performances, the brothers will head out in November to compete against the best young golfers in Europe.

This season has been particularly strong for the duo. Nicholas and Lucas represented Perth and Kinross at the Scottish Boys Area Team Championship, held recently at Duff House Royal. Lucas, the AGC Junior Champion for the second consecutive year, has also reduced his handicap to 5 and been selected for the SG Foundation Winter Training Squad.

Nicholas said, “This season has been busy, with plenty of events across the country. It’s been a great learning experience, and having Lucas with me makes it even better. Competing together, we push each other to improve.”

For Lucas, it’s an exciting new challenge, “This is my first time qualifying for the European Open, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how we measure up against some of the best young players in Europe. It’s a great opportunity.”

Strathallan School pupils secure top GCSEs

Results published today by The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) shows Strathallan School students have secured outstanding GCSE results, with an overall pass rate of 85%, continuing an upward trend surpassing the 2023 results.

One of the pupils picking up their results today was Ben W, who earned nine GCSEs at Grades 9 to 7, the equivalent to nine A*s to A in ‘old money’.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” Ben shared. “I was nervously waiting throughout the summer, but I’m beyond thrilled with my results, especially in Spanish, where I managed to improve by 3 grades from my mock exams.”

Ben, who joined Strathallan in 2021 from Perth Academy, expressed that today’s achievements have greatly boosted his confidence as he plans to pursue Law at university.

“Looking ahead to my A Levels, I’m excited to start the year with these results behind me. I’m eager to take Classics, History, Geography and English even further over the next two years.”

Picking up her results in Germany, Klara K was equally thrilled with her impressive grades, including five Grade 9s, one Grade 8, one Grade 7, and one Grade 5. She said these results, which she achieved in one year at Strathallan, have set her up for a bright future.

Having joined Strathallan last year from Edith Stein School to embrace a new challenge in Scotland, Klara reflected on how her time in Perthshire has provided her with a fresh perspective as she plans to study Business and Science.

“I’m really happy with my results, and honestly, I was surprised when I opened my email,” the 16-year-old shared. “Studying at Strathallan allowed me to immerse myself in music, try new sports, and gain invaluable skills and experiences. I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

Another student celebrating a top set of results today is Iona F from Fife. Iona received one Grade 9, a Grade 8 and seven Grade 7s.

Planning to study English, Drama, and Biology at A Level next year, Iona expressed her delight, saying, “I am very happy with my results. It means a lot to me to know that my hard work has paid off, and these results make me want to work even harder at A Level.”

Mr Mark Lauder, Headmaster of Strathallan School, praised the exceptional performance of this year’s GCSE students, noting that their results have surpassed last year’s already impressive achievements.

“Our students have once again demonstrated their dedication and hard work, with more than half of this year’s grades being a 9 to 7. These results are not only a reflection of their commitment but also of the outstanding support and guidance provided by our staff. We are immensely proud of what they have accomplished and the high standards they continue to uphold at Strathallan.”

There's only one House Music

Congratulations to Thornbank House on retaining the House Music crown!

This Year's Results:

Best Conductors - Nicol

Best Soloist - Thornbank

Runner-Up - Glenbrae

Best Ensemble - Nicol

Runner-Up - Simpson

Best Girls Choir - Thornbank

Runner-up - Glenbrae

Best Boys Choir - Nicol

Runner-up - Ruthven

Best House Overall

3rd Place - Glenbrae

2nd Place - Nicol

Winners - Thornbank

Strathallan students destined for dream degrees after A Level results

Exceptional A Level results released today have confirmed top choice destinations for pupils from Strathallan School.

After achieving a record 100% pass rate, including 37% obtaining A*-A, Strathallan students are soaring to their first-choice destinations including the Universities of Edinburgh, Durham, Bath, Queens University Belfast, Dundee, Loughborough and Milan Fashion School.

This follows equally impressive Advanced Higher results earlier this month which saw 97% of those studying Advanced Higher land their first or second choice destination including the Universities of St Andrews, Oxford Brookes, Stirling, North Carolina, Exeter, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Newcastle, Heriot-Watt and Trinity College.

Headmaster of Strathallan School, Mark Lauder said, “Today’s results leave me in no doubt that our Class of 2024 is well prepared for whatever comes next. We have a class of very happy young people heading in exciting directions: to their first-choice degrees, off on gap years, or, in the case of our Army Scholar Lisa, who is off to Edinburgh to complete a history degree before taking up a place at Sandhurst. I am immensely proud of all their successes and wish them all the very best for the future.”

Former Vice-Captain of School, Angus Gibson from Carnoustie said he was over the moon to land his place to study Medicine at Queen’s University in Belfast after he received 3 A*s this morning.

Angus Gibson said, “I can’t believe how the last two years have paid off. I’ve been thinking about studying Medicine for so long, now it’s going to happen!”

Lisa Convey, who received 3 A*s and A, said her results have opened up a world of possibilities as she plans to spend a year becoming fluent in Mandarin in Taiwan before studying Maths.

Lisa said, “It’s such a relief that I don’t need to worry anymore. My results give me so much confidence for the future.”

Scottish Alpine Ski Racer Alasdair Macdonald will swap the slopes for the streets of London, as he confirms his place to study International Relations at Kings College London following 3 straight As.

No stranger to performing arts in Perth, Alasdair, who joined Strathallan from Craigclowan in 2015, said he’s excited to take centre stage in the next chapter of his own education.

“It feels surreal. It’s a huge relief after the last two years but it’s a dream come true. I can’t wait to head to London and see where it takes me.”

Elise Cosens, who joined Strathallan on a Swimming Scholarship in 2019 from Golspie High School, said her results today of 2 A*s and an A have landed her a spot on her dream degree of Medicine at the University of Dundee.

Elise, who celebrated her results by going surfing at Dunnet Head, said it’s thanks to her teachers and in particular her swim coach, Elaine Johnston, that she is heading off to follow her dream of becoming a doctor.

“I was really shocked when my results came through. My teachers have all been so supportive but Elaine my swim coach has been my biggest advocate, encouraging me to put my all into my studies.”

After landing offers in Aeronautical Engineering from top universities across the UK, Joshua Chapman from Edinburgh has set his sights on Southamption after landing 3 A*s today.

“My dream of becoming an F1 Aerodynamicist now feels within reach thanks to these results,” Joshua said.

Joining Strathallan from Cargilfield in Third Form, he credits Music, Maths and the Build-A-Plane project for shaping his school experience.

“Maths played a crucial role, and I wouldn’t have reached this level without the support of teachers like Mrs. Halley and Mrs. Higginbottom. Building the plane and getting started on the electric car with Mr Barrett and Dr Cooper confirmed my career aspirations,” Joshua concluded.

Strathallan students celebrate stellar SQA results

Results published by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) today highlight record Advanced Higher results for Strathallan School and excellent Higher results, with 100% A-B grades in Chemistry, German, Latin, and Spanish.

Three of Strathallan’s new school leaders achieved an outstanding 16 As between them.

Eve B, our incoming female Captain of School, secured 6 As in English, Maths, Biology, Latin, History, and Economics.

Eve told us, “I felt a huge wave of relief when I saw my results. All my hard work had paid off.”

Eve was particularly proud of her A in Economics, which she pursued outside of school hours.

“Studying Economics after class required a lot of work, but it turned out to be my favourite exam to sit,” she said.

Eve said that achieving these 6 A grades has alleviated pressure for the upcoming year, allowing her to focus on her role as Captain of School and look ahead to new opportunities.

Her fellow Captain of School, Fergus T received his results just before he started his shift at the House of Bruar this morning. Fergus achieved 5 As in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Economics and History.

He said, “It’s great to see that all my hard work throughout the year paid off and it is a nice way to round off the summer in addition to a successful season of rugby with Caledonia. I think it’s important to thank all the teachers who have helped me and everyone else over the years. I hope to keep up the good grades as I enter my final year at Strathallan.”

Receiving her results in Mexico, Vice-Captain of School Louise B expressed her amazement at waking up to 5 straight As.

“I feel so proud to have balanced all my subjects with my sports,” said Louise. “These results mean the world to me.”

Louise excelled in Physics, Mathematics, Biology, Physical Education, and English. “I’m especially proud of my Physics result,” she shared.

“I really worked hard with my teachers, study groups and peers to prepare as best as I could and as someone with dyslexia, I’m immensely proud of my A in English, it gives me a lot of confidence. These results open so many doors for me and make the future look so promising.”

Strathallan’s Upper Sixth Leavers achieved the best Advanced Higher results to date, setting new benchmarks with the highest ever pass rate in school history.

One of these pupils, Rohan Mann, added two As in Mathematics and Physics at Advanced Highers to his academic record exactly one year after he received 5 As at Highers. The pupil from Dunning said it was a great way to round off his school career.

Securing an unconditional offer to study Economics at the University of Edinburgh, Rohan said, “I was really excited when my results came through this morning. It’s a perfect culmination of my time at Strathallan, and I’m looking forward to university life and the opportunity for more independent study in Edinburgh.”

A record 88% of those who chose to study Highers/Advanced Highers at Strathallan achieved their first-choice university destination, with 97% landing their first or second-choice destination including the Universities of St Andrews, Oxford Brookes, North Carolina, Exeter, Glasgow, Stirling, Aberdeen, Newcastle, Heriot-Watt, Stirling, Edinburgh and Queens University Belfast.

Regarding the results, Headmaster of Strathallan School, Mark Lauder said, “I am proud of our students’ outstanding achievements in this year’s SQA results. Their hard work, dedication, and resilience has paid off, setting new benchmarks for academic excellence at Strathallan. “

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to our exceptional staff. The collaborative effort between pupils and staff is what makes Strathallan a nurturing and successful educational environment.”

Strathallan Student and Teacher Qualify for Prestigious Badminton Equestrian Competition

Strathallan School is celebrating a remarkable achievement as both a student and a teacher have qualified for one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world, the Voltaire Design Grassroots Championships at Badminton Horse Trials, taking place in May 2025.

Pebbles W, a Strathallan pupil who has been riding since she was just 3 months old, was recently named Scotland Eventing 90cm Captain. She secured her place at Badminton for the second time after an outstanding performance at the last annual Blair Horse Trials with her horse Tino.

“It means a lot to me to qualify again,” said Pebbles. “I wasn’t expecting to qualify this year, but we managed to do it at the last Blair Trials, and I’m really happy. It was a tricky course, but we went clear after Cross Country, moving up to second place. I was thrilled with that result.”

In addition to her qualification, being named Captain of Scotland’s 90cm section team is a milestone Pebbles is particularly proud of. “Getting selected for Chillington and being named Captain is a huge moment for me. After Badminton, I want to keep working with horses and continue my journey in eventing.”

Joining Pebbles at Badminton is her Physical Education teacher, Mrs. Louise Waugh, a seasoned rider with a decade of experience competing for the British Modern Pentathlon team. Mrs. Waugh, who began her riding career with the Angus Pony Club competing in all disciplines before transitioning to Modern Pentathlon at age 16, qualified for Badminton with her young horse, Jack, after a string of consistent performances leading up to the regional championships.

“I wasn’t aiming to qualify at the start of the year, but Jack has been so consistent in his first year competing at this level that I went into the regional championships with qualification in mind,” Mrs. Waugh shared. “It’s an incredible achievement, especially with only two qualifiers in all of Scotland. Competing on the famous grounds of Badminton is a dream come true.”

Mrs. Waugh expressed her excitement about sharing the experience with Pebbles, praising her student’s talent and focus. “It will be a privilege to compete alongside Pebbles. She is such a talented young rider with a bright future ahead of her. I’m also quite competitive myself, so it’s fun to be in friendly competition with one of my students!”

Strathallan student claims UK Junior FITASC Championship

Strathallan School pupil Alasdair T has ended his shooting season in spectacular style, securing the UK Junior FITASC Championship title in Manchester.

Competing on a challenging FITASC layout with longer, more demanding shots, Alasdair demonstrated exceptional skill and focus to emerge as champion.

Reflecting on his win, Alasdair said, “Winning the UK Championship really cements the end of this season for me. There’s plenty to build on over the winter as I prepare for the European and World Championships.”

Alasdair hones his skills at Strathallan's Shooting Academy

Paul Vallot, Head of the Strathallan’s Shooting Academy, praised Alasdair’s achievement, “We are incredibly proud of Ali’s success this season. His hard work, combined with excellent guidance from our coaches, Clark and John MacBain, has truly paid off. Clay shooting is one of Scotland’s fastest-growing sports, and it’s a great source of pride to see our students excel at this level.”

Alasdair’s success follows his selection, alongside former pupil Molly Hall, for the Commonwealth and Olympic Trap development squads last year.

Looking ahead, Alasdair has ambitious plans. “Next year, I’m aiming to take my shooting to the next level. After a gap year to hone my skills, I hope to secure a scholarship to a university in the USA to further develop my abilities.”

Strathallan School students selected for Scottish Junior Swimming Squad

Strathallan swimmers Evan D and Finlay B have been selected for the Scottish Junior Swimming Squad after an impressive summer of international competitions.

As members of the Strathallan Swimming Academy Performance Squad, the two students train six days a week at Strathallan and compete for Perth City Swim Club at competitions across the country. They shared their excitement about being selected for Scotland.

Finlay, reflecting on his first selection, said, “I’m absolutely delighted to be in the Scottish Junior Team. It is a huge step up from last year and it is great to see my hard work paying off!”

Looking ahead, Finlay added, “My goal is to qualify for Geneva by the end of the year.”

Evan, who has been reselected for the Scottish Junior squad for the fourth time, shared, “It’s fantastic to be part of the junior team again, especially in my last year as a junior. My focus this season is to enjoy it more, and I’m aiming for the European and World Juniors at the end of the season.”

“I’ve

Been Working Towards This My Entire Life”: Jacob Selected for World Pentathlon Championships

Strathallan School pupil Jacob H is set to represent Great Britain at the Modern Pentathlon U17 World Championships next week in Portugal, achieving a long-held personal dream.

The pupil from Melrose expressed his excitement at being chosen to compete for his country on the world stage.

“It’s what I’ve been working towards my entire life,” Jacob said. “The European Championships earlier this summer were a fantastic stepping stone to reach this point.”

Jacob’s journey into Pentathlon began by chance alongside his older brother Blake, sparked by their shared passion for horseback riding. The brothers last competed together in the summer of 2022 at the World and European Laser-Run Championships before Blake left Strathallan to start his studies at the University of Edinburgh.

“Competing at the Worlds is something my brother Blake and I always aimed for,” Jacob said. “Now that I have the chance to compete, it’s truly amazing.”

Despite setbacks due to injuries, Jacob has been on a winning streak recently, securing victory at the Royal Windsor Horse Show Tetrathlon for Team Scotland in 2023 and finishing just outside the top 20 at the European U17 Pentathlon Championships in Ankara this July.

Reflecting on his experience, Jacob added, “Turkey was my first international competition, and I gained a lot from it. I just missed out on reaching the final, so competing at Worlds will be the biggest event of my life.”

Strathallan’s Headmaster, Mark Lauder, praised Jacob’s efforts: “Jacob’s determination and perseverance have paid off. He has worked relentlessly to reach this level while continuing his studies at school. Competing at the World Championships is a huge achievement, and we couldn’t be prouder. He’s shown what it means to never give up, and we’re all rooting for him.”

Strathallan School’s Cover of Skerryvore’s ‘Take My Hand’ Goes

Global

Strathallan School has struck a chord with its latest Big Sing project, a whole-school cover of Skerryvore’s Take My Hand, which has already racked up over half a million views and caught the attention of Scottish radio stations.

Endorsed by Skerryvore themselves, the band has extended an exciting invitation for the school to join them on stage for a future performance!

The heartwarming rendition, featuring pupils, staff, and the school’s talented music department, continues the tradition of Strathallan’s Big Sing series, which aims to bring the school and wider community together through music.

This year marks the fourth Big Sing produced by the school, with previous covers amassing over 800,000 views, showcasing the power of collaboration and creativity, viewed across the world.

Tennis star Thomas named Tayside’s Most Promising Junior

Strathallan School pupil Thomas D has been awarded Most Promising Junior at the Tennis Tayside Awards 2024, in Dundee at the weekend.

The pupil from Perth has had an exceptional year on court, with notable achievements throughout the year including; winner of the 18U Lexus Scottish Junior Open, men’s winner of the TS500 at the TS Open Tour, Scottish Number 1 ranked player in the U16 age group, representing the North of Scotland in the U18 Div 1 and runner up at the Scottish Junior Indoor Singles Championships.

Reflecting on his most recent award, Thomas said, "I feel very proud to receive this award. It’s been a great year for my development, and the results have been good. I feel the hard work and dedication has paid off, and this award is a great recognition of that."

Head of Strathallan’s Tennis Academy, Tommy Ogilvie, added, “We are really pleased for Thomas, he’s had a fantastic year on court. The results have been there, but Thomas is also a great role model for our pupils. He maximises every opportunity and continually challenges himself to get better in all aspects of his development. I know there is more to come and look forward to helping Thomas achieve his goals in 2025."

Thomas recent success is a highlight in what has been a remarkable season for the Strathallan Tennis Academy. With a focus on nurturing talent and providing top quality coaching, the Academy continues to go from rallies to rising stars.

Strathallan School Pupils Enjoy Insightful Trip to University of Stirling

Strathallan School pupils embarked on an enriching educational trip to the University of Stirling. The day was filled with a variety of activities, offering students valuable insights into university life and sporting opportunities.

During two on-court tennis sessions, pupils had the privilege of learning from experienced coaches. Matt Earnshaw led a session for the school’s performance players, while Aidan Le Bouille guided the senior players.

The students also attended informative presentations from Graham Matheson, the Sports Development Officer, and Alan Waddell, the Student Recruitment Officer. Matheson provided comprehensive information on various aspects of university life and sporting opportunities, while Waddell shed light on academic options and the university’s overall offerings.

Bryan Barclay, the Performance Sport Officer, discussed the prestigious sports scholarship program, highlighting the benefits and support available to student-athletes. The tour of the campus provided a firsthand look at the accommodation, library, and lecture theatres.

Captain Jed M expressed his enthusiasm for the trip, stating, “It was a fantastic experience to interact with staff and students at the university. While I’ve visited the tennis facilities before, this tour allowed me to explore the campus and truly appreciate the university’s diverse offerings. Stirling is one of my top choices, and this visit solidified my interest.”

The day concluded with the opportunity to watch the University of Stirling’s men’s and women’s first tennis teams compete against Leeds Beckett in a BUCS match.

Strathallan School extends its gratitude to Graham Matheson and all the staff at the University of Stirling for making this enriching experience possible. The pupils were highly engaged throughout the day and were praised by Matheson for being a credit to their school.

A Sensational Season for Strathallan Prep Swimmer Finley

Strathallan Prep pupil Finley R has made waves this race season, earning an impressive 16 medals in less than a year since joining the school.

Finley was the youngest Strathallan swimmer at the Tayside Swimming Championship and has quickly emerged as a strong swimmer in the pool.

His favourite event, the 200m Individual Medley (IM), has been a major driver of his passion for competitive swimming. “I just love it so much,” he said, “Swim racing is fantastic! I get to meet all these new people, and it’s my happy place.”

Training several times a week with Strathallan Swimming Academy’s Director, Elaine Johnston, in the school pool has played a key role in his success.

Surrounded by supportive friends and a great environment, Finley added, “Training here is lovely. I get to swim with my friends - it’s fantastic.”

With big dreams on the horizon, Finley said he is hoping to compete in the Junior Olympics and, one day, the Olympics themselves.

Congratulations, Finley and good luck for the 2025 season.

Strathallan Trio Named Perthshire’s Top Artists of the Year

Three pupils from Strathallan School have swept top honors at the Perthshire Art Association Annual Exhibition, hosted by the Rotary Club of Perth Kinnoull.

Sophie D claimed the Senior Artist of the Year title for her oilon-paper masterpiece, Lustre & Light. Sophie, whose work was Highly Commended by the Royal Scottish Academy last year, reflected on the significance of this award: “Winning this feels different from sports, which are more routine. Art is something you invest so much emotion and effort into, so it’s incredibly rewarding to be recognised. It speaks volumes about the strength of our school’s art department.”

Niamh C received the newly created President’s Choice Award for her deeply personal pencil drawing, Reflections of Isla, a portrait of her twin sister. The award was personally selected by the exhibition’s president, who reportedly chose the piece within moments of viewing it.

“I’ve never entered an art competition before, so I was really surprised to win,” Niamh shared. “Knowing it was picked so quickly from all the art on display makes it feel even more special.”

Rounding out the trio’s success, George B was named Junior Artist of the Year for his striking still-life piece, Evening Bottles, praised for its dramatic interplay of light and shadow. George described his reaction as “elated,” adding, “I’ve never had opportunities like this before, so winning is incredibly exciting.”

Strathallan’s Head of Art, Francis Glancy, celebrated the trio’s achievements, “Winning these three major awards is an extraordinary accomplishment for Niamh, Sophie, and George. Their creativity, dedication, and exceptional skill set a high standard, inspiring not just their peers but the entire school community.”

A festive start to the season surrounded by friends

It was fantastic to be back at the Crown Court Kirk in Covent Garden for our annual Strathallan London Carol Service.

A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful staff at the Kirk, our Chaplain for a thought-provoking service and seasonal address, and to our Captains, Vice Captains, Pipe Major, and Chapel Prefect for their inspiring playing, reading, singing and preparing golden mince pies for our guests!

Results: Strathallan School Team and Individual Show Jumping Competition

2024

Strathallan Riders Shine at Annual Show Jumping Competition

On Sunday, 17th November 2024, Strathallan School hosted its annual Team and Individual Show Jumping competition at Highfield at Howe Equestrian Centre in Fife. The event unfolded on a crisp, icy morning, with nearly 200 rounds of show jumping taking place throughout the day.

Riders from numerous schools and riding clubs participated, showcasing remarkable skill and sportsmanship.

Strathallan’s own riders were out in force, delivering enthusiastic and expert performances that resulted in outstanding achievements. Strathallan School secured two team trophies in Classes 1 and 3, alongside second-place team finishes in Classes 2 and 4.

Standout Performances

Class 3 Victory: Ruby M, Eliza E, Pippa M, and Emily S secured the win in the hotly contested Class 3, becoming the only team to finish on 0 faults.

Class 1 Win: Grace M and Brook B rode fantastic double clears, executing excellent tight turns to secure the top spot for Strathallan.

Final Class Success: Under immense pressure, Ruby M, Emily S, and Lucy B all rode brilliant double clears in the final class of the day, earning a narrow second-place finish on time difference.

Individual Achievement: Ruby M, riding her horse Ayrton, delivered an outstanding performance in Class 4—the largest class of the day—finishing as Strathallan's highest individual performer in second place.

Special thanks go to Tom Myles and his team at Howe for their flawless organisation, Callum Glasgow for his impressive course design, and Jane Calder for her superb judging and commentary, all of which ensured the competition ran smoothly and on time.

Celebrating St Andrew’s Day in style

On Saturday night, over 200 Sixth Form students came together in Harry’s for an unforgettable evening of formal dining and lively reeling to the fantastic Fìobha Ceilidh Band.

Author Shona Maclean

we had the incredible opportunity to host the bestselling author Shona Maclean.

Shona, known for her captivating historical fiction like “The Book Seller of Inverness” and the Seeker series, shared her expertise with our 6th form English pupils.

During her lecture, Shona discussed how 18th-century art inspired her characters and even offered some valuable advice for students considering studying in Aberdeen: don’t forget a thick woolly jumper!

Shona also conducted a workshop for our 6th form English students earlier in the day and had lunch with our Advanced Higher and A-Level English students. It was an inspiring and unforgettable experience for all involved.

Strathallan students debate global issues at Model United Nations in The Hague

Strathallan's Model United Nations (MUN) team recently took part in the 34th annual MUN conference at The International School of the Hague.

Joining 172 schools from across the globe, the pupils from Perthshire represented Iran and engaged in passionate debates and critical discussions surrounding the conference’s theme: "Multilateralism: Building Pathways to Peace and Security."

Over four days, Strathallan pupils tackled pressing global challenges, from protecting democratic elections to fostering peace in the Middle East.

Each delegate played a vital role:

Ben W, Charlie M, Constantin B, and Reuben L debated complex geopolitical issues in their respective committees.

Zoe T served as a diplomat in the General Assembly.

Jess H authored and successfully passed a resolution addressing Combating Opiate Trade and Trafficking.

Eve B collaborated on solutions for challenges in the Red Sea within the Advisory Panel.

Nell M actively contributed to discussions in the Human Rights Council.

Reflecting on the experience, Reuben L remarked, “Bringing our Model UN skills to The Hague was an incredible opportunity. We learned so much, from the effort involved in preparing as delegates to the thrill of debating important global issues alongside peers from around the world.”

Vice-Captain of School, Constantin B added, “Representing Iran on an international stage was a great challenge, particularly at my first conference. Addressing hybrid warfare and energy supply issues pushed me to form alliances and negotiate support for resolutions.”

In preparation for the conference, the MUN team had the privilege of hosting Sir Geoffrey Adams, former UK Ambassador to Tehran (2006–2009), and Lady Mary Emma Adams at Strathallan. This insightful talk offered the students a valuable perspective on Iran’s diplomatic strategies and historical context before their conference.

The intensity and scope of the MUN left a lasting impression on the students. Captain of School, Eva B reflected, “Over three days in The Hague - often called the home of peace and justice. We immersed ourselves in committees, formed alliances, and worked to pass resolutions. It was both intellectually challenging and deeply rewarding.”

The team expressed their gratitude to Mr. Bergin and Ms. Troup for their dedication and guidance, and have returned with a greater appreciation for the power of negotiation along with cherished memories of forging new friendships worldwide.

Ali and Tally Crowned Scottish Canoe Champions

Strathallan School pupils Alistair R and Tally M have ended their 2024 Canoe Slalom season in style, each earning Scottish Championship titles to cap off an exceptional year of paddling.

Alistair R already has his sights set on next season after claiming the J18 C1 Men’s title and the J18 C2 Championship. Tally M triumphed as both the J18 and U23 C1 Women’s Champion, turning it around after a tricky start.

Reflecting on her success, Tally said, “The day didn’t start great - it was the last competition of the season at Grandtully - but I enjoyed it. Considering I didn’t think this was my season, it was really nice to have that moment to feel proud after all the training.”

Ali echoed the sentiment, saying, “Like Tally, my first run was okay, but I pulled it together on the second run. Winter training and hard work have paid off, and I’m excited for next season starting in spring.”

Strathallan Canoe Club boasts a proud tradition of nurturing talented paddlers, many of whom have gone on to represent Great Britain and Scotland.

Led by Jane and Gary Gibson, the club takes full advantage of the school’s excellent facilities, including the swimming pool and nearby riverways. These resources allow students to refine their skills and enjoy year-round opportunities on the water.

Introducing Miss Emily Jack, our new Year 6 teacher in the Prep School.

Miss Jack, who joined the School in September, said, “I’ve absolutely loved it so far! My class is delightful, the staff have been so lovely and welcoming, and I enjoy being part of the wider school community. I’ve also started coaching hockey and swimming, which I’m really passionate about.”

Before joining Strathallan, Miss Jack taught Primary 2 to Primary 7 at a large school in East Lothian.

“I was ready for a change, and the chance to get involved in all the extracurricular activities here really drew me to Strathallan.”

Big Sleep

Our #BigSleep was certainly a night to remember!

Fun, food, and friendships made for unforgettable memories as our senior school community came together for our annual sleepover to celebrate the start of the new academic year.

Introducing our new Director of Cricket

Strathallan School is thrilled to announce the appointment of Brock Ditchmen as our Director of Cricket!

With over 20 years of competitive cricket experience as both a player and a coach, Brock, who hails from Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, now calls Scotland home. He brings a wealth of expertise from his work with Cricket Scotland, where he has served as both a Head and Assistant Coach within the Scotland Pathway Programmes. Brock also dedicates his time to coaching at Perth Doo'cot Cricket Club and Rossie Priory, supporting player development for all ages.

Brock's passion for cricket, combined with his extensive experience and genuine enthusiasm for working with young players, makes him a fantastic addition to the School. His unique career background, which spans cricket coaching and social work, has equipped him with an invaluable skill set that he is eager to bring to Strathallan.

Brock is dedicated to inspiring and developing aspiring young cricketers, and he said he is looking forward to contributing to the growth and success of cricket at Strathallan, across Scotland, and on a national level.

Welcome to the Strathallan family, Brock!

Settling into Strath

Our Headmaster caught up with our exchange students from South Africa and Australia, who are already leaving their mark on our Scottish community.

We’re thrilled to host partners from St Andrew's College and Hilton College in South Africa, as well as Kinross Wolaroi School, Canberra Grammar School, and Pymble Ladies' College in Australia.

We look forward to seeing new friendships blossom and unique experiences unfold as they embark on this exciting journey alongside their Scottish counterparts.

Tatler Awards Shortlist

We are absolutely delighted to share that David Barnes, former Senior Master and a cornerstone of the Strathallan School community for over 42 years, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Tatler Schools Lifetime Achievement Award.

This honour, which recognises educators who have dedicated their lives to the profession, comes from a combination of public votes and recommendations from Tatler experts.

David’s lasting impact on generations of students and families across the globe, from Scotland to Kenya and beyond, makes him truly deserving of this recognition.

KiltWalk

Incredibly proud of our #StrathFamily today, who turned out in huge numbers to complete the Kiltwalk in Edinburgh, raising well over £2500 already for Prostate Cancer UK.

New Housemistress

We are thrilled to see the Laird-Portch family settle into Woodlands House as they make it their new home.

Mrs Clare Laird-Portch, our Head of Business Studies and Careers, was appointed Housemistress before the summer and brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for her new role.

Over the past week, Clare and her family have been busy getting settled and warmly welcoming both new and returning students to Woodlands.

Clare told us, "We are incredibly grateful to the entire Woodlands community for making us feel so welcome. This is an exciting new chapter in our Strathallan journey, and we look forward to making Woodlands a thriving and happy

New Housemaster

We are delighted to welcome the Simon family to Ruthven House!

A familiar face in school, as one of our dedicated English teachers, Ian Simon steps into his new role as Housemaster, together with his wife, Sarah, who already inspires our students in her music lessons.

With their two delightful sons, Theo and Hugo - the Simon family are starting a new chapter in Ruthven House

Whilst welcoming new and returning students to the House, Ian told us, “It’s an incredible privilege to step into the role of Housemaster of Ruthven. The chance to work with and help guide this group of young boys, shaping their lives in a positive way, is truly special. As a family, we’re thrilled to be here and to make Ruthven our home. We can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Winter Wonderland

Academic

Hands-on science in action

Our brilliant Sixth Form biologists are diving into the incredible world of proteins, constructing 3D models of proteins to reveal how these molecular powerhouses take on such unique shapes and vital roles.

Arkwright Scholarship

Congratulations to Daniel C who has been awarded a prestigious Arkwright Scholarship, sponsored by the Douglas Bomford Trust!

Daniel’s focus on hydroponic vertical farming, showcased in his GCSE Design & Technology project, earned him this remarkable opportunity and marks the start of his scholarship journey.

A Visit from Sir Geoffrey Adams

Our Model UN pupils had the privilege of welcoming Sir Geoffrey Adams, former UK Ambassador to Tehran (20062009), and Lady Mary Emma Adams to our school. The session with Sir Adams, provided a unique opportunity for our students to gain invaluable insights as they prepare to represent Iran at the upcoming Model UN Conference in The Hague this November.

Vice Captain of School, Constantin B, shared, “He gave us a great insight into Iran’s perspectives and arguments, its history, and its general attitude toward the West. Given the current situation in the Middle East, he helped us understand the motives that Iran might have when involving itself in conflicts in Israel and beyond. I particularly enjoyed hearing about his experiences as an ambassador, as it offered us a glimpse into day-to-day life in Iran. We had so many questions, and we collectively wished for more time with him.”

Exploring Careers in Chemistry and Life Sciences

Our Third and Fourth Form Science students recently headed to Edinburgh for an inspiring day at the Life & Chemical Sciences Careers Event.

The trip offered our pupils the opportunity to meet industry experts and academic representatives, giving them insight into the wide variety of courses and career paths available in the sciences. From cutting-edge research to innovative industry roles, they left inspired and excited about the possibilities ahead!

Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Competition

We’re excited to announce that Strathallan pupils Iona F and Ben W have been selected to represent the School at the prestigious Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Competition, Scotland’s premier schools’ debating event.

Named after Scotland’s first First Minister and a former World Student Debating Champion, the competition is run by the Law Society of Scotland and invites 60 schools to battle it out through multiple rounds. The journey culminates in a grand final at the Scottish Parliament, chaired by the Deputy Presiding Officer.

Strathallan’s debating team is no stranger to the competition, having reached the finals in 2018. This year, Ben and Iona are ready to bring their A-game as they face Kinross High School in the first round on Thursday, 21st November. The motion: This House Would Ban All Zoos.

Ben W, the Captain of Debating, shared, “It’s a tough competition, but I’m really excited and hoping we can go far. This is my first time competing in the Donald Dewar, and I hope we can follow in the footsteps of former pupils who put their best argument forward years ago.”

For Iona F, who is aiming to study Law after she finishes school told us that it is a great opportunity to test her skills. She said, “I’m very excited. I’ve not done a competition before, and this is a great challenge for my public speaking.”

Sierpiński Tetrahedron

Our A-level students have been diving deep into the world of complex numbers and their fascinating connection to fractals!

As part of their Open Day project, they took on the challenge of creating a Sierpiński Tetrahedron—and the results are absolutely stunning!

Their hard work, creativity, and understanding of mathematical beauty are truly inspiring.

Check out the geometric wonder they brought to life!

V&A Visit

Our A Level 3D Design students travelled to the V&A Dundee to see first hand examples of Scottish Design, amazing architecture and the eye-opening Kimono exhibition.

They spent the morning doing a sketching workshop, and had free time to explore the exhibitions and the architecture in the afternoon.

Piping

World Solo Drumming Championships!

Our talented Strathallan drummers competed at the World Solo Pipe Band Drumming Championships in Glasgow, delivering strong performances.

A special shoutout to Surina C, who finished 2nd in the 14 & Under Tenor Drum March competition despite playing with a broken finger!

Congratulations to Alfie P, who placed 3rd in the 14 & Under March, and to Struan R for also qualifying for the final in the same event!

Well done to everyone involved, including Bertie M for a fantastic effort, and a big thank you to Harry T and Oscar P for their brilliant piping to support our drummers.

And a massive congratulations to our Tenor Drum Instructor Mr Jordan Bailie who became World Solo Champion for the second time after he took 1st place in the Adult World Solo Tenor Drumming.

Balvenie Medal

We are delighted to share that Ian Duncan, our esteemed Piping Tutor, has been awarded the prestigious Balvenie Medal at the 51st Annual Glenfiddich Piping Championship, hosted by The National Piping Centre and the William Grant Foundation.

The Balvenie Medal is awarded annually to individuals who have dedicated their lives to the study, performance, and appreciation of the Great Highland Bagpipe, promoting piping as a vibrant cultural tradition. This honour, presented to only one recipient each year, celebrates a lifetime of commitment to Scotland’s piping heritage, with each recipient traditionally unaware of the award until the ceremony itself. This year's award is a testament to Ian’s exceptional contribution to the art of piping.

Our Director of Traditional Music and Scottish Culture, Craig Muirhead, had the privilege of helping present the medal to Ian on stage. Craig said, "It was an immense honor to present the Balvenie Medal to Ian, recognizing his lasting impact on the piping community."

Congratulations Ian, on this well-deserved recognition!

A Royal Weekend

Performing on behalf of The National Piping Centre, Mr Craig Muirhead (Director of Traditional Music and Scottish Culture) and Mr Howie (Piping Instructor) were invited to perform for King Charles III, an honour they had been privileged to have previously.

North of Scotland

Congratulations to Rory M who was the overall U15 and U18 Champion at the North of Scotland Solo Piping Championships.

Germany

Our Upper Sixth Pipers and Drummers have been getting into the Christmas spirit and are having a blast over in Germany!

They have been performing at Christmas Markets in Aachen, Valkenburg in the Netherlands and in Cologne, including playing for the midday prayer in the world-famous Cologne Cathedral!

Thank you to our friends The Castle Pipers for allowing us to join them at these amazing events!

CCF Quartets and Trios

A group of 14 pipers traveled to George Heriot's School to compete in the annual CCF Quartets and Trios Piping Competition.

We’re thrilled to share that our B Trio placed 6th out of 17, and our A Quartet achieved an impressive 3rd place in a highly competitive category, with all groups performing to an exceptional standard.

Alfie P

Congratulations to Alfie P for his fantastic results at the City of Brechin Solo Piping and Drumming Competition. Alfie won the 15-18 & Under Novice Drumming and was 6th in the 16-18 & Under Intermediate Section.

Year 3, 4, and 5 piping

Our Year 3, 4, and 5 pupils are enjoying a taster block of piping lessons, and they began learning the iconic 'We Will Rock You' by Queen.

It turns out the rock legends might have missed a golden opportunity by not including bagpipes in the original!

A big thank you to our Department of Traditional Music & Scottish Culture for hosting these fantastic sessions in the Free Play room at the Prep School.

Maverick Chanters

Rory’s got the scoop on our piping hot new chanters from Maverick

Rory M

Huge congratulations to piper Rory M who came 2nd in the Piobaireachd Event and 4th in the March, Strathspey and Reel at the Northern Meeting.

Performing Arts

Amélie

The Scottish school’s premier of ‘Amelie’ provided a quirky, joyous and uplifting conclusion to the term, transforming the theatre into a Parisian wonderland. The eponymous Amelie, played by Olwen H, captured all of the whimsical romantic and comedic charm of her cinematic predecessor. In fact, the whole cast rose to the challenge with some spectacular stand-out moments, from Isla C’s beautiful solo as Gina to Max E as Elton John making a brief but unforgettable cameo. The beautifully realised set, lit magically, lent itself to the whimsical storyline with the Windmill Café moments providing a real highlight. Bronte C’s Dufayel and Freyja D with her early solo made lovely use of the space behind the clockface. Yet it was in the strength of the ensemble cast that the true magic lay. From George B and Ivy’s roles as Monsier and Mme Poulain, to Erica M’s dance moments, the whole performance moved seamlessly through each surreal moment. Francesca W certainly won the award for most convincing French accent! The character of Nino, however, is integral to this performance, and in the more than able hands of Ali S, this was met with sublime charm, making the whole performance a delightful romantic spectacle.

At the heart of the performance are the trio of Georgette, Gina and Suzanne – Emma K and Megan C playing the other central roles – and this was perfectly cast. What was extraordinary, however, was the skill with which some of our key players swapped roles for the Saturday matinee – and then switched back again for the evening. This reviewer was thrilled to see Megan A delight in the lead role and was astonished to see her playing an entirely different role in the evening finale! It was a bold and wonderful decision by the directorial team of Mrs C-B and Hammy – one which allowed the up-and-coming talent to showcase their skills.

Of course, in true Strathallan style there was as much magic behind the scenes as on-stage. Our live band was a showcase for the talents of the Music department and the stage-crew ran the whole production with their customary attention to professionalism – this time attired to a satisfyingly high standard. Well done to Natalie, Matthew et al for all that they do in this capacity. And upstairs, to see the costuming and make-up coordinated by Freya and Ailsa was simply extraordinary. And finally, to Iris M who stepped in to cover illness for the Saturday performances – well done indeed!

Strathallan Prep School

Lights, Laughter, Nativity!

Year 1 to 4 in the Prep School flipped the script on tradition, delivering a modern adaptation of the Nativity that was full of fun, flair, and festive cheer.

With cheeky lines, lively songs, and plenty of personality, it was a performance to remember!

Introducing Our New Captains of Strathallan Prep School

We are thrilled to announce the leadership team for this year:

Isla A and Jock B will lead together as our new Prep School Captains

Alfie M will help his peers find their groove as Music Captain Phebe M and Findlay P will guide our teams as Sports Captains

David L and James P take to the spotlight as our Drama Captains

Head of Strathallan Prep School, Mrs Emma Lalani said, “At Strathallan Prep School, we believe in nurturing leaders who inspire through passion, dedication, and teamwork. It is with great pride that we announce our Captains of the Prep School, Sport, Music, and Drama. I am confident they will lead by example, inspiring their peers both on and off the stage, field, and in the classroom.”

Laser Run

Huge congratulations to Strathallan Prep pupil Henry G, who won the schools laser run championship for his age group in Cumbria. Henry also came 2nd in the U11 age group!

Aero Space Kinross

Strathallan Prep pupils enjoyed an inspiring day at Portmoak with Aero Space Kinross, exploring the world of aviation and getting to know G-OLOV the plane built by Strathallan School pupils with supervision from Aerospace Kinross last year!

They had the chance to sit in the cockpit, power up the engine alongside a pilot, and even chat over the radio. With G-OLOV preparing to take flight in Spring, it was amazing to see our junior pupils excitement and curiosity take off!

Thank you to the Aerospace Kinross team for another fantastic STEM experience.

A heartfelt thank you to Toppings Bookshop

We’re incredibly grateful to Topping & Company Booksellers of St Andrews for the generous donation of books for our pupils in the Prep School.

Our pupils are thrilled to have new books to explore. Thank you for supporting their love for reading!

High School of Dundee Tournament

Well done to both our U12 hockey & rugby teams who had a great afternoon at the U12 HSD tournament

Boys Rugby: 2 wins, 1 draw & 1 loss

Girls Hockey: 3 wins, 2 loses & 8 goals scored.

Rude Science Live!

Years 5 & 6 had a brilliant time at Perth Concert Hall and the teachers can definitely confirm that the Rude Science Live! show lived up to its reputation as the naughtiest, funniest, most revolting science show in the world.

There were enormous bottoms, fart machines, urinepowered fireworks and vomiting mannequins. Of course the children loved it! (and secretly the teachers did too).

Diwali

When one of our students shared their family’s Diwali traditions, our Year 1 and 2 class in the Prep School embraced the opportunity to celebrate together!

Our pupils loved exploring the joys of Diwali and learning about their classmate’s cultural celebrations by creating beautiful rangolis, crafting diyas, and immersing themselves in stories and music from the Festival of Lights.

On Remembrance Sunday, we remember them

Our Prep School have created their own poppy tree for remembrance. Every pupil has made a poppy and written a message on it for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Lest we forget.

Geography

Shoutout to Riley T and Rory S in the Prep School for the amazing wind vane they created for their Geography class!

As part of their lessons on weather and climate, the class was given an optional challenge to design their own weather instruments, and these two absolutely nailed it!

Pigeon on the Paddock

A big shoutout to Janie T, Philippa W, Kate M and Lucy B from the Prep School who found an injured pigeon on the Paddock and carefully moved it to a safe location while contacting the SSPCA.

It’s heartwarming to see our students looking out for pigeons – once trusty messengers, now often overlooked. Well done, girls, for showing some love to our feathered friends!

Children’s Choice

Some of our First Form pupils have been taking part in the 2024 ‘Children’s Choice’ vote, diving into shortlisted books for the School Library Association (UK)'s Information Book Award.

Taking their role seriously, they even developed their own judging criteria and, after much thoughtful discussion, unanimously chose 'Unspoken' by Kwame Alexander as their standout favourite.

Skills for Life

This term saw the start of our Skills for Life Programme for Years 1-6, marking the introduction of the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate (PSB) across the rest of Strathallan Prep School.

Throughout this programme, our pupils rotated through a diverse range of activities designed to equip them with essential life skills. From sewing and financial literacy to public speaking, cooking, team-building, environmental awareness, and IT, each child gained hands-on experience in practical and valuable areas of learning.

A Huge Thank You

Our Prep School is thrilled to announce that we raised £661 for the Scottish SPCA at this year’s annual Riley Bingo and Raffle!

A big thank you to the generosity of our parents and pupils who made this possible

We were delighted to welcome Claire Burns from the SSPCA to our Assembly where our pupils proudly presented her with the cheque

Celebratory treats

Our victorious U13 Ardvreck 7s squad were invited to the headmasters study for some celebratory treats.

A well-deserved recognition of their hard work, teamwork and achievement in winning the tournament

Called Up for Caledonia!

Congratulations to our U13s selected for the Caledonian Regional Rugby and Hockey Teams!

We’re incredibly proud to have 4 Hockey players and 7 Rugby players from the Prep School representing themselves and the School in the IAPS Scottish Regional Tournament tomorrow, as they go head-to-head against the Thistles and Saltires.

Our Sports Captains, Phebe M and Findlay P, shared their excitement about being selected.

Phebe said, “I am really grateful for this opportunity to play for my Regional Team and I can’t wait to play next week against the Saltires and Thistles.”

Findlay added, “When I first found out I got selected for Caledonian Team I was so excited that I would be getting the chance to represent my school and my district. I am also looking forward to playing with new people and making new friends along the way.” Let’s go Cale!

Biathlon Championships

Congratulations to our 8 Strathallan Prep pupils took part in the Scottish Schools Biathlon Championships in Aberdeen.

Well done to you all - you were all amazing!

Sports

Meet the pupil making waves in the world of sailing

Strathallan student Olivia F has charted an impressive course in the sport ever since she first set sail at the age of 8 at Tighnabruaich Sailing School. After honing her skills at St Catherine’s Sailing Club in Jersey, she’s now making a splash on the European stage.

Recently, Olivia secured a career highlight, placing 9th against some of the best sailors in Europe at the Hobie Cat 16 European Youth Championships. Olivia also navigated her way to 2nd place at the Jersey Channel Island Championships, outpacing the current national champions and finishing as the top junior.

For her next adventure, Olivia has already pre-qualified for the Hobie Cat 16 European Championships in Poland next year, and has her sights firmly set on the World Championships in Spain in 2026. Good luck, Olivia!

New mates, new memories

Delighted to welcome Sunshine Coast Grammar to Strathallan!

Thank you for the great games of Netball and Rugby. We hope the rest of your tour is fantastic!

David Bond

We were thrilled to welcome David Bond, Head of Performance Sport at the University of Stirling, to our campus.

David took a tour with our Director of Sport to see our topclass facilities and to chat our student-athletes.

With the focus on sleep, stress & nutrition, all underpinned with communication & planning.

A big thank you to Mr Webb for running our Introduction to Lifestyle workshop.

Resilience and Results: The Rugby Success Keeps Rolling In

What an incredible few weeks for our #StrathFamily!

Current student Charlotte L stepped up for Stirling County RFC at Murrayfield, helping her team secure the Scottish U18 Girls National Cup with a 25-12 win!

Former pupil Aicha Sutcliffe also represented Stirling County in the Arnold Clark Women’s Premiership final this weekend, battling hard in a nail-biter, just missing out by 2 points.

Aicha has also been selected for the Glasgow Warriors Celtic Challenge team, alongside former pupil Abi Evans. They’ll face off against former pupil Charlotte Russell, who has been selected for the Edinburgh Rugby squad for the highly anticipated game this Friday night.

FP Cairn Ramsay earned a call-up for Emerging Scotland’s first fixture against Italy U23, alongside FP Ollie Smith, who made a huge return to the game similar to the triumphant return of his former teammate Cameron Henderson, who returned from 369 days of injury to help the Leicester Tigers win 56-17 over the Sharks.

Speaking of his game against the Italian U23, Cairn told us: “It was a fantastic opportunity against a well-drilled and skilled opposition.”

Across the pond, FP Charlotte Gilmour helped Harvard Women's Rugby squad become back-to-back Division 1 15s Champions last month! What a way to end the year!

Closer to home, FP Archie McMichael was selected for the Scottish U20 development squad as they faced Wales in a challenging clash.

IAPS Scottish Regional Tournament

Well done to our 12 Strathallan Prep pupils who represented the U13 Caledonia Regional Rugby and Hockey Teams in the IAPS Scottish Regional Tournament. You were all amazing!

Jeffrey Webster

Thanks to Jeffrey Webster for a very helpful sports psychology session for our pupils, examining and recognising our thoughts & feelings on court and the impact of positive self-talk on performance. Lots to work on before the next session.

Central Open

Great to see current 5th Form pupil Thomas D pairing up with Strathallian Marcus M, and defending their title in the men’s doubles event at the Central Open.

Rugby

Huge congratulations to our U13 boys who were victorious at the Ardvreck School 7s tournament!

The boys were outstanding throughout, winning all six games against Gordonstoun, Loretto, and Belhaven Hill in the group stages. They then beat St Mary’s Melrose in the quarter-finals, Merchiston in the Semi-finals, and Sedbergh by 12-7 in the final.

This is the first time that Strahallan Prep School has won the Ardvreck 7s.

A huge thank you to Ardvreck School for hosting a brilliant tournament!

Here's our squad heading to St Joseph's College National Schools Rugby Festival!

Captain of Rugby, Adam W, said, "Strathallan is really excited to go down to St Joe's this year, for the third year running and excited to bring the Scottish spirit."

Head of Rugby, Andy Douglas added, "Our boys are gearing up for a thrilling challenge at St Joe’s this year! This prestigious tournament offers a fantastic opportunity to test their skills against top-tier rugby teams from across the UK. It's a chance to showcase their hard work and dedication on a national stage, both in front of a live audience at St Joe's and a televised audience."

Let's show our support for our talented players as they take on this exciting challenge!

Cricket

Following recent trials, Reiya M, Lauchie O’F, Hugo J & Peter W have been selected for the Caledonia Cricket winter training squads.

What an atmosphere at our first ever Friday Night Lights at Home!

Huge thanks to Howe of Fife RFC for the fantastic first game under the new lights on Big Acre.

Netball

The #RoadtoGlasgow continues

Congratulations to our U15 Netball team on a fantastic Scottish Cup game win against last year’s finalists, North Berwick High School.

Director of Netball, Louisa Walker praised the team, “Facing a determined North Berwick side required us to bring our best game. The defensive pressure across the court, led by player of the match Harriet S, created crucial turnovers, allowing the attack to find their rhythm and secure goals steadily. Excited for the next round!”

Our girls head into the next round of the cup, featuring the top 16 schools in Scotland!

A huge well done to Harriet R who stepped in as a last minute guest to play for the English Universities netball team in matchplay v Wales Feathers long squad as part of their prep for the upcoming Celtic cup.

Congratulations to our first ever Strathallan ‘Gold’ team who took part in the first ever Strathallan Netball League event. The team started off strong with two wins with v Angus Netball Stars & Storm.

Swimming

Strong Performances from Strathallan Swimmers at Tayside Schools Championships.

A huge well done to our swimmers for their outstanding results at the Tayside Schools Championships in Dundee!

With thrillingly close races and a host of personal bests - well done to everyone who took part.

Equestrian

Congratulations to Strathallan students Pippa M and Lucy H on their impressive achievements at the annual NSEA Championships in Buckinghamshire.

Competing against top riders from across the UK, Pippa qualified for the 1m Show Jumping, while Lucy qualified for both the Novice and Prelim Dressage classes.

Pippa delivered a clear round in the 90cm warm-up, earning 5th place out of 30 riders, and rode confidently in the 1m class, finishing on 4 faults and securing 36th place out of 68 competitors.

Meanwhile, Lucy performed well in her dressage classes, achieving a solid 66.55% in Prelim (placing 20th) and 64.63% in Novice (placing 23rd) among 30 riders in each class.

This event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase their talent on a national stage, and we’re incredibly proud of both riders.

A brilliant day at our Strathallan Show Jumping competition at Howe Equestrian Centre. Our riders had a great day, winning two out of the 4 classes! Well done to all and thank you to the staff involved in organising the event.

Basketball our U18 Basketball team celebrated an excellent 54-41 victory over Arbroath Academy in the Scottish Schools Cup!

Congratulations to our U18 Basketball team who enjoyed a brilliant game with Dollar Academy today, winning an epic encounter by 59-56 in the SISBA cup! Well done, boys!

Clays

Top Team in Scotland!

Congratulations to our talented Strathallan shooting team for their stellar performance at the Millfield Senior School Invitational Cup held at Mendip Shooting Ground in Somerset.

Competing in challenging, cloudy conditions, the team showcased impressive skill and resilience in their first competition together and placed third.

Team: Hunter S., Duncan G., Fin G., and Jasper F-I. Single Competitor: Fraser S. Coaches: PMV and John M.

This marks an exciting start, and we can’t wait to see them build on this success in the 2025 season. Well done, all!

The team got off to a strong start, quickly taking the lead and maintaining it throughout the game. Their defense was particularly impressive, holding Arbroath to just 4 points in the first quarter.

Fencing

Double British Sabre Champion!

Huge congratulations to Joshua B, who not only claimed the U17 British Cadet Men’s Sabre Championship but also secured a remarkable 2nd place in the U20 category at the Cadet & Junior National Championships!

This victory makes Joshua a back-to-back champion, holding both the British U16 and U17 titles for two consecutive years!

Reflecting on his success, Joshua shared with us, “Winning the U17 felt amazing - it was one of my big goals this year. As for the U20, I wasn’t sure what to expect, so I just gave it my all. Reaching the finals was a surprise, and though I narrowly missed out, it was great to fence against my club mate, Miller, from Salle Ossian.”

Cross Country

Huge congratulations to Findlay B for his outstanding performance at the East District Cross Country Championships on!

Findlay secured an impressive 2nd place overall with a time of 11.41. His team, Perth Strathtay Harriers, also clinched the 1st team prize!

Findlay has earned himself a spot representing East at the Inter-District Championships in January. Well done, Findlay!

Mountain Biking

Best of luck to Hector C, Hamish B, Justin K and Max S who are shredding the slopes at the Scottish Schools Mountain Bike Competition in Comrie

Squash

Our boys squash team enjoyed a hard fought 3-2 victory with Fettes. It was excellent match with many impressive rallies from both teams.

Well done to Matthew, Alec, Hector and Oliver!

Badminton

Congratulations to our Senior Badminton Team on a fantastic performance at the P&K Secondary Schools Badminton Championships!

Gregory B: Junior Boys Champion Mini L: Senior Girls Champion

In Doubles:

Gregory B secured the Junior Boys title Mini L & Sophia G won the Senior Girls title

Each of our players reached the semi-finals, showcasing impressive skills and determination. Well done to all—an outstanding achievement for our badminton team!

Hockey

Semi-Finals Inbound

Congratulations to our 1st XI, who delivered a 3-1 victory over George Watson’s at home tonight! With Hanno S smashing a brilliant hattrick, the boys are now through to the Scottish Hockey Cup Semi-Finals!

Congratulations to our U15A Hockey team! A hard-fought 4-3 win against Hutchesons’ Grammar School sees the girls through to the Scottish Cup semi-finals in the new year!

Well done to our U12 girls hockey team who finished 2nd at the Morrison’s hockey tournament.

The girls won three games against Robert Gordon’s, Morrison’s & QVS before losing out to Mary Erskine in the final!

Congratulations girls!

We were delighted to host day 1 of the Scottish HockeyBrave Cup 2024. Well done to Anna G, Anna H, Jing W & Rachel F who represented the Aspiring & Emerging Brave teams.

U15 Midlands Hockey Tournament.

Huge congratulations to our U15 girls hockey team who became midlands champions.

Congratualtions to Sophie D on her first G3 tournament win! Sophie produced some great performances throughout the week, earning a place in the final against the number 2 seed. In the final, Sophie played some fantastic tennis to record a 6-2, 6-2 win. Well done, Sophie!

Well done to our pupils Freya & Jed, who were competing in this weekend’s CountyCup. With 88 teams playing in 22 groups across the country, it’s one of the biggest tennis weekends in the calendar.

A doubles masterclass with Maia Lumsden!

We were thrilled to welcome Great British Doubles Player Maia Lumsden to School for a coaching session with our pupils.

Maia gave up her time to share her Grand Slam experience and doubles knowledge - thank you Maia.

Congratulations to Freya C & Jed M on their selection to represent their counties at the upcoming County Cup.

A good week for pupil Ali E at the Newlands Junior open, in Glasgow. Ali and partner Oran M, were winners in the U14 boys doubles.

A massive congratulations to Thomas D on winning the TS Open Tour TS500 Stirling Uni. In the final, Thomas won a deciding match tie-break to seal the win.

Thomas now qualifies for the TS Open Tour - Scottish National Open Championships. Well done, Thomas!

Another good day for Ali at the Scotland Tour event, at Dalgety Bay S&TC - winning the U16 boys singles title.

Ali defeated the top seed on the way to the final, before overcoming the second seeded player in the final. A great couple of days for the 3rd Form pupil.

A winning weekend for Sophie D! Competing in the U14 singles at the Scotland Tour L&K Tournament, in Kelso. In the final, Sophie played Eilidh W, winning 4-3, 4-2. Well done, Sophie!

Things you love to see. Great to see teammates smiling together after competing against each other in the final of the G3 Fast4 Open Regional Tour Event in Glasgow.

Congratulations to Sophie D on finishing as runner-up in the U16 girls singles event at BellField Park.

North of Scotland County Cup team

A huge congratulations to Findlay P on being selected for the U12 North of Scotland County Cup team, for the third time!

Findlay’s passion for tennis started at just four years old, and his dedication is paying off. When he’s not honing his tennis skills, our new Prep School Captain of Sport said he enjoys spending quality time with his friends at school.

Awards

Colours

Huge congratulations to all our pupils who received Awards and Colours in Assembly. Fantastic to see our students recognised for their hard work.

Prep Sport

Congratulations to our Prep School pupils who received individual awards at assembly this morning for their contribution to sport this term.

The awards were presented by our senior rugby and hockey captains, Adam W and Lucy T!

Celebrating LAMDA Success

We're incredibly proud of our 43 pupils who were presented with their well-deserved LAMDA certificates, following their amazing performances last term in Acting, Speaking in Public, Reading for Performance, The Speaking of Verse and Prose and Choral Speaking.

40 of the 43 achieved Distinction, with marks of 80% and over, and none achieved less than 78%.

CCF

Strathallan CCF competes in the 51 Brigade Military Skills Competition and the Royal Marines CCF Pringle Trophy Competition.

From 13th to 15th September, a team of Strathallan cadets showcased their skills at the 51 Brigade Military Skills Competition, held at Barry Buddon Camp. This challenging event, open to both CCF and Army Cadet units, saw our cadets sleep out in a tactical harbour for two nights and cover a gruelling 40km trek over two days. Along the way, they tackled a range of tasks, including deliberate and hasty section attacks, withdrawal from contact, signals, navigation, and first aid exercises.

The Strathallan team delivered outstanding performances, winning awards for their Harbour and Sentry routines and achieving the fastest time in the final physical test—a 3km stretcher carry.

More recently, on the weekend of 12th-13th October, another team from Strathallan competed in the prestigious Royal Marines CCF Pringle Trophy at the RM Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, Devon.

Representing Scotland and Strathallan, our team consisted of Angus C (Section Leader), Monty A (2iC), Daniel C, Amiee A, Oliver DH, George M, Sasha P, and Ivianna Y.

Competing in Tier Two of the competition, which featured nine schools, the Strathallan team placed third overall. Notable achievements included 3rd place finishes in the endurance and assault courses as well as close quarter battle stances, 2nd place in camouflage & concealment and section attacks, and an impressive 1st place in observation and drill.

As the only CCF Royal Marine detachment in Scotland, this was undoubtedly the youngest team Strathallan has fielded in this event, and as such their performance here and at the Military Skills Competition suggests that we will continue to represent both Strathallan and Scotland proudly in the coming years.

Meet our CCF Leadership Team

Our Senior Cadets received promotions and new rank files at parade, taking on new roles in our Combined Cadet Force Contingent.

Charlie M, Cadet RSM, said, “It’s a great responsibility, and I’m looking forward to the challenge of leading my cadets and developing their leadership skills.”

Caspar S, Cadet QMSI, added, “This is a huge opportunity for us as Section Leaders, and for me personally, to go even further, especially since most of the key skills which I will have to apply as fast jet aircrew, once I have left Strath, I actually learned at CCF.”

Zoe T, Head of Navy, told us, “I’m really proud to be Section Head, and excited to grow the Navy, giving others the same opportunities to develop and lead like I have done.”

Layla A, Head of Army, said, “It feels great to be Head of Army. I’ve been committed for some time now, and I’m excited to see how I can help others build transferable skills for the future."

Angus C, Head of Royal Marines, added, “This leadership role is a fantastic opportunity, and it’s going to open up more opportunities for my section and myself in the future.”

Strathallians

Matt Fagerson

Huge congratulations to former pupil Matt Fagerson on his upcoming 50th Cap for Scotland.

Matt will take to the field alongside fellow Strathallians Jamie Ritchie, George Horne, and his brother Zander Fagerson as they face Australia in the final game of the year! Good luck Scottish Rugby - your Strathallan family are cheering you on!

Starting a new chapter in New Zealand

Huge congratulations to former pupil Logan Williams on making his debut for the Crusaders U18 squad as they took on the Hurricanes

In a thrilling 41-41 draw, Logan made an impact, scoring his first try from the opposite wing and playing a big role in the final third of the match. His impressive runs and an aerial take from a Hurricanes restart highlighted his skill and tenacity. Logan described it as the fastest and most physical game he’s ever played, and his performance certainly caught the commentators’ attention.

With teams like these developing the next generation of Super Rugby stars, we wish Logan all the best on his rugby journey and look forward to seeing him rise even higher in the future!

Dreams in Motion: Andre Signs with Nairobi City Stars!

Andre Kalama, who spent two years at Strathallan and Freeland House, has achieved his goal of signing with the Nairobi City Stars FC in the Kenya Premiership League. Andre’s dedication and hard work have truly paid off. During his time at Strathallan, he played at the Glasgow Rangers Academy and successfully completed his SQA Highers.

David Barnes, former Senior Master, shared his thoughts: “It was an emotional day when we heard the incredible news about Andre. His dream is to play in Europe, and I’m confident he will achieve it.”

Duncan Farmer

Delighted to welcome back former pupil and Odd Balls Ambassador, Duncan Farmer to the school,

Currently, Ambassador for The OddBalls Foundation at the University of Aberdeen, Duncan spoke to our senior boys and staff, raising awareness of testicular cancer — the most common cancer in men aged 15-47.

What a journey for Dalmas!

Yesterday, we learned that our former pupil and friend Dalmas began University in Kenya.

Many of the Strathallan Community will have met Dalmas or read about him. He lives in Kibera, the biggest slum in Kenya. Fifteen years ago, the StrathKenya Team met Dalmas.

He had just started at Mashimoni Squatters Primary School along with a group of 40 destitute children. Thanks to the Strath Community, we began the fund these youngsters for all their education needs. Dalmas thrived, becoming Captain of School in his Primary, Middle and Secondary schools. He has become a young leader within the Kibera Slum, focusing on inclusion, equality and human rights.

Thanks to the Strathallan Community and Kenya Children’s Home, Dalmas spent three months at Strathallan, boarding in Freeland House.

Dalmas began his undergraduate degree at Daystar University, Nairobi, reading Politics, International Relations and Security Studies

Dr Tessa Dunlop

We were delighted to welcome back former pupil Dr Tessa Dunlop for our first Sixth Form Lecture of the season!

After two History workshops with our students throughout the day, Dr Dunlop spoke about the ‘Roots,’ of her own journey, from her days at Strathallan to becoming a bestselling author and historian.

She encouraged our students to discover their own unique ‘superpower’ because, as history shows, life can be tough and due to current wars, climate and politics, it’s arguably getting tougher than it has ever been for future generations.

William Lyburn

Great to see former pupil William Lyburn continuing to enjoy his sport, competing and achieving amazing things.

Duncan Scott

A stunning swim in Singapore from Duncan Scott, breaking the Short Course British and Commonwealth Record in the 400m Freestyle (3:34.36) on his way to World Cup gold

Another one

Duncan Scott lowers his own British Record in the 100m Individual Medley at the Shanghai leg of the World Aquatics World Cup

Duncan Scott adds 200m freestyle gold to the 400m freestyle he won earlier in the week to complete a successful short course World Cup outing in Shanghai.

Scottish Sports Awards 24

It's been a standout year for Scotland's most decorated Olympian who caps off an incredible year with two awards

Duncan's record number of Olympic Medals in the pool are testimony to his hard work and training. He is a true ambassador for his sport and country.