Number 30 Spring 2018
An inspector calls… Editorial ’m sure we aren’t the only school to have blinked to find the second term of the academic year is almost over and I am pleased to report it’s been a busy and Contents Iencouraging start to 2018. 3 The best of TGA online Following on from The Academy’s record higher pass rate in 2017, we had a strong 5 Competitive success in China year for Oxbridge offers. We are delighted for the five extremely able pupils who richly 7 An inspector calls… deserve their offers amidst the enormous competition, not just from Europe, but from around the world. 8 Anecdotage Our annual entrance assessment day took place in January with demand for places 12 Glasgow Academical Club across the School as high as ever. Showcased through our young people, our very 16 Westbourne Section well-supported and successful open events saw a 50% increase in attendance when compared to 2016, with lots of new pupils enrolled for August 2018 in our nurseries, 17 Announcements prep and senior school. 22 Meetings, get-togethers and In November, we welcomed inspectors from Education Scotland for a Quality reunions Improvement and Professional Engagement visit. 24 Remembering Bill Ritchie The inspectors gave a strong endorsement that The Academy is in an extremely strong 25 Obituaries position to live up to its vision and values - to become the best all-round day school in Scotland. The School as a whole was praised for its openness, the feeling of mutual respect and staff dedication to pupils. The report - published in January - commented on the benefits pupils receive from our exceptional co-curricular programme. It also highlighted that The Academy’s approach to ensuring there is something for everyone is evident across the school community. You can read more on what the inspectors had to say about us on page 7. Do we have your e-mail address? It’s how we communicate best! This is the 30th edition of Etcetera and I hope that you enjoy catching up on Academy news, finding out what some of your fellow academicals are doing and working out which event or reunion you would like to attend. Keeping in touch And if you haven’t been back to Colebrooke Street for a while, then you might be The External Relations office is situated in interested to know that we are working on a capital development plan which will take Colebrooke Terrace. Former pupils are always us through the next 10 years. welcome to pop in for a chat and look around In 2025-26 we will be 180 years old, having been founded in 1845 and opened in the school. Just give us a call to arrange a time. 1846. With the support of our community, we hope to be able to celebrate our 180th Our address is Colebrooke Terrace, birthday with improved facilities that support our striving to be the best. Glasgow, G12 8HE. As ever, Etcetera is your publication. If you have news, updates or photographs you You can contact us on 0141 342 5494 or at would like to share with the Academical community, then please do get in touch or [email protected] pop in and visit us on the Terrace - we will be delighted to see you! The Glasgow Academical Club 21 Helensburgh Drive, Glasgow, G13 1RR President: John Mason Email: [email protected] Steven Dignall The Academy Club pavilion is available for Director of Development functions. Academical Club London Section President: Alex Gray Email: [email protected]
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2 Etcetera The best of TGA online
The XL Club Award for best cricket school in Scotland 2017 he Glasgow Academy has been awarded the best cricket Tschool in Scotland for 2017 by the XL club. Historic win for The award function held at The Oval in London on Friday 17 November 2017, was attended by around 125 guests, with The Academy Lord MacLaurin (MCC President and former Chairman of lasgow Academy girls were the fastest women’s The ECB), as the chief guest. Gcrew in both divisions of the Western Head, beating Glasgow University women for the first time in our history in both divisions of the race. The crew from The Academy were Jenny Olney, Holly Allan, Lauren Amner, Anna Colley and Youcef Djoudi (cox). Glasgow Academy also won both the first division and the second division of the Strathclyde University head, our boys quad winning the first race and the boys double the second. Glasgow Academy won every other boat class we entered as well: W4x, WJ18 4x, W J18 1x, WR2 2x, WJ16 4x+ WNov 2x. The Glasgow Academy girls beat Glasgow University women in the Academy’s new £27,000 boat, Atalanta, the lightest carbon fibre aluminium wing eight ever produced by the renowned British boat builders Janousek & Stämpfli (‘Built in Britain, raced worldwide’). Stämpfli was founded in Switzerland in 1896. Manufacturing originally took place in Zurich, Switzerland, but moved to Surrey, England after the Pictured from left to right… company was acquired by Janousek Racing Boats in Vedam Hariharan (Coach), John Oliver (player of the season in 2017), 1991. John Barclay (President of the XL club, who presented the shield), and Ruairidh Russell (Captain of 2017).
iPads in the Lab Our S3 chemistry pupils have been receiving training on how to use pH devices - something not normally explored until University. The budding young scientists had the opportunity to log, in real time, the pH change of their experiments on their iPads. With high precision technology, this took a conceptually challenging lesson to another level. The skills accessed included calibrating the device, data logging, data analysis and quantitative assessment. Pupils also explored the changes in concentration of acids and alkalis. We had proper ‘gasps’ of interest, when pupils were able to visualise (not normally achievable in a standard lesson) the jumps in pH.
Etcetera 3 Fastest boat out of 650 at Walton Small Boats ongratulations to Ru Smith (S6) and Alex Milne (S6) who Cwon the J18 double sculls at the Walton Small Boats Head on 9 December. It was a remarkable accomplishment as their boat was the fastest out of 650 entries in the doubles scull. Ru also won J18 singles, ahead of Alex Sambhav reaches by just 1 second. computing competition Congratulations also to Jenny Olney who came second in the Women’s final at Oxford University Novice sculls and 5th in the J18 sculls. ongratulations to Sambhav Chadha (S3) who Cwas a finalist in the BEBRAS Computational Thinking Challenge at the Department of Computer Science at the University of Oxford. The UK-wide computing competition took place on Sunday 28 January and is designed to get students excited about computing and computational thinking. It is a problem-solving contest with questions inspired by topics in computer science. Reaching the final of the Senior age group is an impressive achievement, as 14,402 students entered the first round of the Senior age group category (14–16). Sambhav was among the top 60 highest achieving students invited to the final round in his age group, and was presented with his finalist’s certificate by Peter Millican, Professor of Philosophy, at a prize-giving ceremony at Hertford College.
Monster March Prep School teacher Mr Rob Williams will be retiring this Magnanimouse – on sale now! summer after agnanimouse is the first children’s book published by our S6 Young 36 years at The MEnterprise Group - Funki Fables. Academy. The book tells a delightful tale that will help teach children moral values as In his final year well as enhancing their vocabulary in a way that is fun for both child and before retirement, Mr Williams has taken on the parent. challenge of running a 10k every month for the next year in aid of Maggie’s - a cancer charity Magnanimouse is available to buy online for £6.99 though our online shop - close to his family’s hearts. theglasgowacademy.org.uk/shop
4 Etcetera Competitive success in China
n September 2017, I front of the packed 400-seater graduated from The auditorium, ten judges from IGlasgow Academy. My several Chinese companies adventure continued, taking listened to our pitch. Following a 13 hour flight to China, significant discussion between where I am currently enrolled the judges, we were awarded at the overseas campus of the a very honourable third place University of Nottingham, – winning ¥400 (£50) in here in the city of Ningbo, the process. With all but one China, studying International member in our team studying Studies. Having resided here politics, competing in a for nearly six months, I could Business School competition, write a whole book about my we were extremely pleased and current enjoyable experiences honoured to be recognised in China. However, I am as the third best team out of going to give you a small 70, in an extremely tough snapshot of what life is like competition. here at the University of One week later, we were Nottingham Ningbo China, in one of the mission: to analyse a Swiss company’s involved in another competition! This fastest advancing cities in East Asia. business situation in China, identify the one was conducted by the University’s problems which faced the company, If you come to China either for study International Incubator. Labelled as the explain strategies the company could or work, one of the main things you ‘Ingenuity@UNNC Entrepreneurship adopt to tackle this problem, and establish will experience from the culture shock competition’, teams had to present new a series of answers the company could is that of competitiveness in Chinese potential business ideas. The prize - ¥1 follow to improve/resolve the issue. I society. Success in China does not solely million (£110,000) investment to must say, this competition in particular depend on fantastic grades – competition ‘kick-start’ your business at the incubator. was extremely intense! and professional networking are Known as ‘Cheveux-Trio’, our business extremely important. Here at university, Often working from 06:00 in the idea consisted of cosmetic genius with competitions are introduced on a weekly morning, to 02:00 the following practical solutions! Our successful basis. You quickly find when applying morning, our team had two days to application to the competition soon led the next day that over 200 students have create answers the judges were looking us to compete in the tough semi-finals already applied for it – demonstrating the for – whilst at the same time trying to – presenting in the same notorious sheer importance of this part in Chinese complete coursework due on the same auditorium we had competed in one week culture. Many international students shy day. As you can imagine, a lot of coffee previously. However, with a perfect pitch, away from such competitiveness – but was drunk during this competition! and the motivation to succeed, our team being an international student here in successfully managed to reach the finals – Our hard work and sleepless nights soon Ningbo, I can tell you that competitions which will be held in April 2018. paid off - successfully passing the hurdle are an extremely enjoyable way to of the semi-finals and competing as one Competitions do not stop there, with the spend your time at university. Having of three teams in the finals. Presenting in three of us from Cheveux-Trio currently enrolled to compete in working extremely hard three competitions already, for the internationally I am writing this article to famous L’Oreal Brandstorm share my experiences, and Competition. With the successes, of competing and opportunity to represent the the pressure and satisfaction University, and China, on an involved. international scale, we remain The first competition we optimistic that our previous entered was orchestrated by competition record will once the Nottingham University again be a success at the finals Business School, here in Paris later this year. in the Chinese campus. We are looking forward The venerable ‘Case to competing in other Competition’ is one of the competitions in the near major competitions in the future! university, with over 70 teams (around 300 students) Nathan Beck-Samuels applying for the ultimate (2017) ¥1000 (£120) jackpot. Our
Etcetera 5 NURSERIES & KINDERGARTENS
Local council funding available from age 3
THE GLASGOW ACADEMY
KELVINBRIDGE | MILNGAVIE | NEWLANDS THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Exciting and inspiring outdoor Small class sizes with specialist teachers learning experiences. for French, Music and PE.
First-class resources and Come and meet our children and staff and see award-winning facilities. The Academy’s Pre-Schools for yourself.
0141 342 5494 | theglasgowacademy.org.uk
6 Etcetera The Glasgow Academy is an educational charity registered in Scotland: Charity Number SC 015368 An inspector calls…
NURSERIES & KINDERGARTENS
Local council funding available from age 3
THE GLASGOW ACADEMY
KELVINBRIDGE | MILNGAVIE | NEWLANDS THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Pupils and staff at The Glasgow Academy have received high praise in a glowing report from Education Scotland. nspectors visited The Academy in The report highlighted: “At the senior The Academy’s Higher pass rate was the November and said the children are stages, young people respond well to the best in the West Scotland and rose to 97.3% I“enthusiastic young learners, engaged strong focus on the achievement of high for the 2016-17 year. Forty-one Academy and feel confident in their environments”. quality passes in national qualifications. boys and girls achieved five or more A They speak of how much they value grades at Higher and 67.3% of the Higher Education Scotland noted that learning the support and commitment of their presentations were awarded A grades. and teaching is highly effective, with teachers, often citing how they go above very good outcomes for children and Children and young people also benefit and beyond to support them. Support is young people. In all three nurseries and from outstanding provision to achieve in offered on a one to one basis and through kindergartens, the learning environments The Academy’s co-curricular programme. regular ‘clinics’. Children and young are built on positive, nurturing and The school’s approach to ensuring that Exciting and inspiring outdoor Small class sizes with specialist teachers people also benefit from high-quality appropriately challenging relationships there is something for everyone is evident learning experiences. for French, Music and PE. pastoral support.” with all staff, which leads to high-quality across the school community. learning outcomes for children. The senior school curriculum has been As a result, many children and young enhanced through the addition of a The embedding of outdoor learning people excel in their choice of activities. number of subjects, including Highers in as an integral part of the provision has Of particular note is the commitment classical studies, drama, music technology, supported this well and, across the prep and drive shown to the development of philosophy, politics and psychology. A school, children benefit from high-quality elite rowers in the senior school who variety of bespoke learning packages are learning experiences. achieve national and international success. in place to support the needs of young The Academy makes very good use of the The school is proud of its success in a people. These include individual curricula expertise of teachers, deploying specialist wide-range of sporting and outdoor and working with partners. Senior school staff in the prep school to teach subjects activities such as hockey, rugby and leaders emphasise the school’s on-going such as Physical education to Nursery/ climbing. commitment to providing appropriate, Kindergarten and right up through the personalised learning for young people. The arts also play a vibrant part in the life school, French and Music from Prep 1, of The Academy with young people in Spanish in Prep 5-7, Food Technology in The report added: “At all stages of the First-class resources and Come and meet our children and staff and see the senior school performing to a high Prep 6, Art in Prep 6 and 7, and Drama school, children and young people attain award-winning facilities. The Academy’s Pre-Schools for yourself. standard in drama and musical productions. in Prep 7/Transitus. This ensures that very well…Young people in the senior children benefit from subject-specific school perform extremely well in national Rector Peter Brodie said: “We are delighted expertise long before their entry to examinations. The school’s results are by the inspectors’ very strong endorsement Senior School, and enhances easy significantly above the national average and of our nurturing school and its capacity to transitions. they show signs of continuing to improve.” go on continuously improving.” 0141 342 5494 | theglasgowacademy.org.uk
The Glasgow Academy is an educational charity registered in Scotland: Charity Number SC 015368 Etcetera 7 Anecdotage
An incident on A belated thank you etter late than never, I would like but not the name of the distinguished Colebrooke Street to give my thanks to the members visitor. We were on the bus on Colebrooke Bof my Morrison House platoon The story now jumps some 25 years Street about to head off for rugby who won the Lowson Shield for ‘the Best when, in the course of downsizing, practice. I guess the year was around House Platoon (Drill)’ at the 1969 Annual my mother came across the Chronicle 1965. Madame Faid passed by and I CCF Review. Following my commands of November 1969. She spotted the instinctively noticed her by stating her with perfect precision (or at least with report of the 1969 CCF Review and name. She had the ears of a Parisian more precision than the other three house realised that, in the interval, the said gendarme. She mounted the bus and platoons managed), you impressed the Vice-Admiral Sir John Hayes had become enquired with a piercing stare asking Reviewing Officer, Vice-Admiral Sir John my father-in-law! who had said her name. Hayes. I added the occasion to my bank of happy memories of Glasgow Academy, So, thank you to the members of that I felt I should own up before someone Morrison House platoon for called out my name with an accusing: allowing me to give a good “It wis him, Miss.” first impression to my future I raised my hand and admitted my father-in-law! And if you can’t outburst. remember whether you were in this platoon or not, here is ‘J’ai appelé votre nom, Madame. a photograph to refresh your Ce n’était qu’une observation rien memories. méchant.’ David Dow (1969) ‘Hmmm votre français est bon. Qui est votre professeur?’ ‘Madame, vous êtes mon professeur.’ Class 3B photo taken in 1944/45 Thank you to Colin McKenzie who sent in this photograph of Class 3B taken in At that, Madame Faid smiled and left 1944/45. the bus. I suspect she knew all along that I was in her class and that she had Colin and William Carnegie are looking for contributions as to the names of the no grounds to reprimand me. unrecognised and would be most grateful if you could help fill in the gaps. Ah of such memories make school days Front Row - Unknown ‘the happiest days of our life’ as said Second Row - ?, John Dichton in the play of the same Colin McKenzie, ?, name in which I acted as Hopcroft Donald Blair, Douglas Minor once a long time ago. Weatherhead, Ian Riddell, ?, ? Miller Caldwell (1969) Third Row - Alan/Roger Cannon, ?, ?, ?, Miss McEwan, ?, Douglas Class 2A of 1955 Low, ?, ? Thanks to Iain Christie and Kennedy Howden who have provided an update on the photo from Etcetera 29, featuring Class 2A of 1955. Back Row: Jim Kernohan (deceased), ? Stevenson, ? but known as “Aggie” McClure, Jock Fleming, Hamish Good, Iain Christie, ? Coutts, Campbell Macniven. Second Back Row: Bernard Jefferies, Brian Parkes, Scott Bilsland, Gordon Dunlop, David Calder, Douglas Murray, John Garland, Peter Bannatyne, Godfrey Taylor. Second Front Row: John Young, David Salmond, Hugh Hopkins, Gavin (?) Couper, Mr. (Bruiser) Engledow, Martin Brolly (deceased), Ian Thom, John (Jo) Kerr, Peter Price Front Row: David Donaldson, Harry Draffan, Ronnie Low, John (Joe) McGhie, Kennedy Howden
8 Etcetera Five Days from Defeat PRESS INFORMATION FIVE DAYS y seventh book - Five Days from Defeat - was published FROM DEFEAT Min November 2017. I left the Five Days from Defeat Academy in 1962 and worked in law Walter Reid HOW BRITAIN NEARLY LOST for thirty years, but combined legal £16.99 hardback THE FIRST WORLD WAR practice with other activities, which ISBN 9781780274904 Published 11th November 2017 WALTER REID now include growing sheep and Also available as an eBook cows in Argyll and olives in France.
On 21 March 1918 Germany initiated one of the most In tandem with that, I have written ferocious offensives of the First World War. During the a number of books on political and so-called Kaiserschlacht, German troops advanced on the British section of the Western Front in a series of blitzkrieg military history with a special interest assaults which caused massive casualties, separated British in twentieth-century British imperial and French forces and drove the British back towards the Channel Ports in the Great Retreat. policy. I was elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society in Five days later, as the German advance continued, one of the most dramatic summits of the war took place in 2017. My interest in history was the small town of Doullens. The decisions made there kindled by an inspirational history determined the outcome of war. For the first time an allied supreme commander – the French General Foch – was teacher at The Academy, Colin appointed to command all the allied armies, with unity Bayne-Jardine, and developed in of purpose taking precedent over national interest. Within a few months a policy of defence became one of offence, the course of hours talking about paving the way for British success at Amiens and the series anything other than history with of unbroken British victories that led Germany to plead for armistice. my friends in the history library, which was then upstairs in the Victory in November 1918 was a matter for celebration, all the more so given how close Britain was to ignominious Cargill Hall. ‘Historians must talk,’ defeat just eight months earlier. As Walter Reid argues, said the Rector of the time, Basil the sweet taste of victory was not to be marred by the unpalatable memory of putting the British Empire under Holden, and we were allowed a lot of MEDIA ENQUIRIES: the command of a Frenchman. Both the perilous proximity freedom. Jan Rutherford of defeat and the unconscionable step that had been taken Publicity & The Printed Word to avert it were never publicly acknowledged. In telling the Tel: 0131 337 9724 story of these five days at Doullens, Reid disturbs much Walter Reid (1962) Mobile: 07710 474308 of what British readers have been taught about the First [email protected] World War. This book provides a timely reminder for the Or Kristian Kerr necessity of international cooperation and its subsequent Publicity Officer, Birlinn Ltd. acknowledgement. Tel: 0131 668 4371 [email protected] Walter Reid is the author of a number of acclaimed works of military and political history, with a focus on British imperial Birlinn policy. He was educated at the universities of Oxford and Edinburgh. In tandem with his career as an historian, he and Tel: 0131 668 4371 his wife farm in Argyll and grow olives in France. He is a Fellow [email protected] of the Royal Historical Society. He lives in the UK and is www.birlinn.co.uk available for interview.
We were delighted to welcome back Douglas Burt (1973) and his wife Rosemary to Colebrooke Street. Douglas lives in Australia and he brought with him some of his class photos. Back Row - Left to Right: Burnside, Kyles, Allan, Hall, Campbell, Gunn, Stakis. Middle Row - Left to Right: Gray, Harding, Paul, Marshall, Turpie, Sanjana, Haniford, Semple, McGregor. Front Row - Left to Right: Cowie, Marr, Tannahill, Doak, Mr Prouse, Burt, Manderson, Gibson, Paton.
Etcetera 9 London Section Dinner Friday 23 March 2018 The Caledonian Club, London
Join us for a night of great food and catching up with GAC members including complimentary pre-dinner drink and sabrage demonstration by Champagne Piaff.
Guest speaker: Mahi Muqit (1992) Consultant vitreoretinal surgeon
Tickets: £57 (£39 aged 30 or under), available from External Relations at The Glasgow Academy T: 0141 342 5494 or book your tickets online at www.theglasgowacademy.org.uk/shop
10 Etcetera Bill Mann awarded CBE in Queen’s Birthday Honours
ampaigner, philanthropist and former Academy Chairman The William Mann Foundation has gifted more than £2m of Governors, Bill Mann, has been presented with a CBE to charitable causes since it was set up in 1989 including: the Cby Glasgow’s Lord Provost. University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital, the Chapel Organ Appeal and funding scholarships for Scottish students The presentation was made at Glasgow City Chambers by the studying abroad. Lord Provost Eva Bolander, in her role as Lord Lieutenant. The Foundation also supported the Kelvingrove Organ Mr Mann received the Commander of the British Empire Appeal, the Royal National Scottish Orchestra and musicians’ (CBE) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sports, sponsorship. recreation, the arts and charity. Meanwhile, Mr Mann saved the Scottish Football Association millions of pounds, following fierce campaigning, securing Scottish clubs the same rate reduction as their English counterparts. Similarly, he successfully championed the cause of amateur sports clubs. Calling for a VAT exemption for membership subscriptions – leading to a windfall, in years of backdated funds, for local clubs across the UK. In addition, he secured further tax benefits for local sports organisations in his campaign to prevent the sale of prime-site facilities to developers for personal gain. Mr Mann was joined at the ceremony by his children Ainsley, Bruce and Sarah. Bruce said: “I know, he’s very proud to be receiving this award. Although he would never say it. “The two things my father is proudest of is the William Mann Foundation, which my late mother, Aileen, encouraged him to set up, and saving the Western Baths. He’s still the Western Baths Secretary and has been since 1977.”
Royal Society Medal awarded to Academical Neurologist
iratul Muqit, who left school as the War Memorial Scholar in 1991, has received the 2018 Francis Crick MMedal and Lecture of the Royal Society. Miratul is a Consultant Neurologist at the University of Dundee and becomes the first practising physician to receive the Crick Medal, one of the most prestigious awards in Biological Sciences. His research group have made seminal discoveries into the causes of Parkinson’s disease, including the co-discovery of a new chemical messenger in the brain called Phospho-ubiquitin (together with Richard Youle of the National Institutes of Health, USA and Noriyuki Matsuda of the Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan). Miratul said: “I was fortunate to be taught by three outstanding teachers in the Chemistry department in the 1980s who sowed the seeds of my career as a medical researcher. Mr Stark and Dr Armit introduced me to the elements and the periodic table and laid the foundations. Mr Milne was a fantastic mentor especially ranks of Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin and been elected in my later years who steered me through Advanced and Fellows of the Royal Society (FRS) including chemists Sir S-level Chemistry and gave me the confidence to become an William Ramsay FRS, Thomas Stevens FRS and Daniel Brown experimentalist. I published my first scientific paper in 1995 and FRS; physician Sir Carl Browning FRS; pharmacologist William Mr Milne took the time to read the paper and express his views Douglas FRS; physicist David MacDonald FRS; and politician on it with wit and humility in a letter that I still have to this day.” and polymath Walter Elliot CH FRS. The Royal Society is the oldest scientific academy in continuous Miratul will deliver his lecture at the Royal Society in existence. At least seven Glasgow Academicals have joined the December 2018.
Etcetera 11 12 Etcetera Glasgow Academical Club The section Golf records are being up-dated for next year, but anyone wishing to be included in future events, or to be considered for the ‘scratch’ matches of the Grafton-Morrish and/or the Queen Elizabeth tournament, please advise Liz McGowan at the School - [email protected]
John M. Watson OBE (1965) New Anniesland Rugby Academical Golf …. Update Jack McCready on the run he Golf Section has had a busy oth the 1st and 2nd XVs have had Curie as the primary shirt ‘sponsor’ and season beginning with the annual a very promising start to this season the players have proudly worn the famous fixture in June against the School T and the mini-section is going from logo. for the Deighton Trophy. The match B strength to strength too. was played at Killermont and won by But the tie-up extends beyond the logo the School in a hard fought and friendly The 1st XV, after running Musselburgh, on the shirt and it has proved to be a very spirit. who are two leagues above them, very rewarding experience for the players as it close in the 1st round of the National has given them a focus on looking outside The Scratch Team qualified for the final League Cup, have only lost one of the the club and supporting a charity that 48 team match-play field of the Grafton 12 matches played so far in the league. does so much good work. Morrish Tournament playing over At the time of writing they are in second both Hunstanton and Royal Norfolk, place in National League 3 and have 3 The players organised a bucket collection Brancaster. Accies put up a spirited games in hand on the team at the top. The outside Debenhams and raised a four performance, finally succumbing to 2nd XV also lie second place in Reserve figure sum and several of them also took Heriot’s in the semi-final. The Scratch League West 1. Promotion is a clear target part in the 10k Edinburgh run, to raise Team also played in the Queen Elizabeth for both teams; however, the coaches and more funds. We also had a raffle at New Coronation Tournament at Royal players are taking nothing for granted and Anniesland on Boxing Day. Burgess. Our ‘scratch’ team, all with continue to train hard and to take one It has proved to be such a success that impressive handicaps, included the game at a time. the other sections in the Sports Club following: Player recruitment is key to this ongoing have now joined in and are sporting the Dougie Hunter (Captain) +1 success and Head Coach Andrew Jackson ‘Daffodil’ logo on their respective kits. James Wilson +3 is key to this in terms of the atmosphere On Saturday 20 January, the ladies of the Martin Hamilton +2 that he and the rest of coaching team have rugby section held a lunch as a prelude Alastair Frood 1 created. This culture has encouraged a to the home fixture against Perthshire. Angus Watson 2 number of new players to join this season. Unfortunately, the weather put paid to Andrew Mason 3 It’s also important and great to see the the rugby; however, the ladies’ lunch went conveyor belt of talent from TGA feeding ahead anyway and they raised over £1500 The Annual Match against Kelvinside the 1st XV with the likes of recent for Marie Curie. Academicals took place on the 24 leavers Jack McLean and Jack McCready September 2017 at the usual venue of performing very well. If there is anyone who would like to Prestwick GC. This twelve-a-side match receive the match reports please contact was won 7-5 by Glasgow Accies, and The quality of rugby is outstanding and Donald Reid at [email protected] after ample sustenance and the infamous entertaining, with a high level of skill and we will make sure you are kept up to Prestwick Lunch, foursomes followed in being shown by all 15 players on the date. the afternoon. A great day was had by all! pitch. The players have also been greatly encouraged by the level of support that The Club annual outing took place on a appears on a Saturday, which makes a real magnificent day at Pollok Golf Club on difference to whole club both on and the 5 November and there were indeed off the pitch. However, more support is some “fireworks”! The Scratch Club always welcome so please check the SRU Champion was Alistair Frood with a fine website for the fixture list. par round of 72. The Quaich winner was Derry Allan with a spirited 37 Stableford Two seasons ago Accies rugby teamed points, and the Seniors’ Cup (over 55’s) up with the John Watson Foundation was won by John M. Watson with 35 and Marie Curie. John’s generosity has points (BIH). enabled the Rugby Section to have Marie
Etcetera 13 Steve Begley – Memorial Day “Begsfest”
t was with great sadness that funds towards helping former on 10 September, Glasgow rugby player Paul Curtis who IAccies RFC lost one of its tragically is now paralysed former players, Steve Begley, at following a mountain bike the all too young age of 42. accident. Steve was a robust lock Paul will spend the rest of forward for Glasgow Accies, his life requiring medical Glasgow Hawks, Glasgow, and support and the fundraising Brive amongst others. target of £100,000 is to He grew up on the Isle provide extensive renovations of Sheppey and played his to his family home to enable early rugby at the local club, wheelchair access and specially Sheppey RFC, and then to Blackheath. In made facilities in order that he 1995, Steve joined Glasgow Accies. can return home from hospital. off the field. Universally recognised as Representative recognition followed and the life and soul of any party he attended, You can read Paul’s story by clicking on he was capped by Scotland at both under he maintained an exceptionally wide the following link. 19 and under 21 level. circle of friends all over the world and http://www.telegraph.co.uk/rugby- importantly mentored a string of younger With the advent of professionalism, he union/2017/05/12/paul-titch-curtis-hop- players. played with Glasgow Warriors making a ing-fight-life-will-inspire-others/ number of appearances, thereafter moving In 2012 and in search of a fresh challenge, https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ to France, joining Brive, the former he moved to Singapore where he worked PaulCurtis59 European Champions. He also had with St James’ Place Capital and played periods with Lyon and Strasbourg. veterans rugby for local side the Bucks. A fun day of Touch rugby followed by He died of a suspected heart attack while Following the end of his professional an evening of music via The John Beattie competing in a triathlon. rugby career, he returned to Glasgow to Band, friendship and a charity auction resume playing at Glasgow Accies and He is survived by his parents, Frank and witnessed over 200 people attend and Hawks, to study and eventually to set Jacqueline, his brother Matt and sister £18,000 was raised towards the Paul up his own Financial Services business Claire, and his nieces Niamh and Erin. Curtis Just Giving crowdfund. – Begley Brown with former Accies Following the tragic news, it was agreed A very special thank you goes to John teammate – Chris Brown. by friends and family to hold a Memorial Watson of the John Watson Foundation In contrast to his strong, robust image on Day at New Anniesland – Begsfest on for his very generous support towards the the field, he was jovial and affectionate the 28 October and to raise charitable total raised.
14 Etcetera The Glasgow Academy Foundation Canada Inc.
The Glasgow Academy Foundation The prime reason for making contact is Canada Inc. was established on 30 June to be in a position to solicit donations 2011 and subsequently was registered as for our school; however, The Foundation a Charitable Organisation on 30 March could also be used as a directory. Distances 2016. in Canada may prevent the arranging of annual dinners; however, it may be It is the first Glasgow Academy associated possible to create localised opportunities corporation to be registered outside of for kindred spirits to re-kindle memories the British Isles. of Colebrooke Street. Since its inception as a Charitable The Directors of the Foundation are: Foundation in March 2016, The Foundation has provided a vehicle Dr. Iain Lemay (1954), Calgary, Alberta. for former Glasgow Academy and Graeme Young (1962), Edmonton, Westbourne students resident in Canada Alberta. to make a financial donation to the Fergus Chisholm (1976), Saskatoon, school while receiving a benefit on their Saskatchewan. personal income tax. Bill Hutchison (1957), Thornbury, Ontario. The Foundation Directors have become Academicals are not even aware that such Peter Price (1960), Toronto, Ontario. aware that due to the Privacy Laws in an opportunity is available. Sandy Ferns (1960), Taber, Alberta. Great Britain it is not possible to obtain personal information, for example the In order to rectify this situation it For information on The Foundation and mailing address and e-mail address of was decided to open a direct line how to donate to The Academy, please Canadian Academicals, in a direct manner. of communication with Canadian contact Sandy Ferns at [email protected] Consequently it is possible that some Academicals via Etcetera.
Etcetera 15 Westbourne Section
Updates Pam Biggart Obituaries (Westbourne 1960) (nee Patricia (Pat) Spence Allan Young) (Westbourne, 1946) Pam recently enjoyed a visit Very peacefully, after a short illness, from daughter Suzanne, on 24 September, 2017, in her 90th son-in-law Neil, and year. Sister of the late Doris and granddaughters Keira and a much loved friend, cousin and Kirsty from their home in neighbour. Atlanta; Georgia, they are pictured on the Swilken Mrs Kit Davies Bridge by the Old Course at Mrs Kit Davies, a long standing St Andrews where Suzanne member of the Westbourne Junior and Neil were lucky enough School staff, died on 6 October to play during their time here. Pam and family at the Old Course 2017 at the age of 98. She retired from Westbourne at Christmas Fellow wearers of Elizabeth Finlayson (Former 1978 to Largs. Mrs Davies was a Westbourne Staff) much admired teacher of the infant purple… I taught in the English Department at department. Children’s early school years are so important and those in I am very lucky to be loving life in Westbourne from 1980 till 1988. My her care quickly gained confidence Devon. We live by the sea so are able to daughter, Laura Finlayson, was a pupil in themselves and so progressed walk to the ocean and it’s only an hour or at the school from Primary 1 till she left steadily. Every young child deserves so to St Ives. in 1987 and is mother to George who recently took up a lead role in Menotti’s the happy learning atmosphere My day life is spent working with Amahl & The Night Visitors at Ely Kit created in her classroom. Such Dementia and Sexual abuse. One thing I Cathedral, Cambridge, where I now live. thoughts were expressed many times do is to support people to write poetry by pupils, staff and parents. Sadly for healing, which is ironic as I remember Gillian Waddell (Westbourne, her eyesight deteriorated in the last a Head of English in 6th form telling me 1978) few years and so she was unable to my A grade was a fluke, so I wonder what Gillian recently got engaged to continue a number of her many she would make of my use of poetry! Charles McLeod, a half-Scot living in activities, one of which was raising Gloucestershire. money for her church and various I have a Native Canadian Elder, she charities, by knitting beautiful taught me to make and work with drums. shawls, garments etc on her machine. I travel to Canada for teaching when life permits. You can often find me sat by a Mrs Margaret McIver fire drumming and singing. Mrs Margaret McIver (1934- 2017) was a member of the Junior School Life is good down here in sunny Devon. Staff at Westbourne School, from I would love to hear from any old girls 1979 to 1984.She ensured at all down here. Predictably you can find me times her young charges were given on Facebook. a sure and sound beginning to Lorna McTavish Coulson (Westbourne, their formal education. She was an 1978) accomplished pianist and played for many School productions. Mrs Lizanne McKerrall writes she first got to know Margaret when they both served on the Board of the John Currie Singers and as members of the Board of Westbourne Music, the leading Chamber Music organisation in the West of Scotland. Margaret was a great supporter of the Arts in Scotland. Lorna McTavish Coulson
16 Etcetera Announcements
Left: Remy A.J. Low, Myles (9) and Births Cameron (6) Robbie Low (1993) Tanja and I would like to announce the ‘unexpected’ but thrilling arrival of our wonderful third son, Remy Below, left: Naomi Faith Akua A.J. Low. We welcomed him into our clan on 21 March Below: Chloe Joyce Valerie Strang 2017. Here he is surrounded by his older brothers, Myles (9) and Cameron (6).
Sarah-Lynn (nee Ballantyne), (2000) Sarah and Yaw Nyadu would like to announce the birth of their daughter, Naomi Faith Akua, born on 23 August 2017 at 0523. A wonderful little sister for Isabella.
Grant and Jenna (Weir) Strang (both 2002) It was an extra special Christmas in the Strang household this year with the arrival of our beautiful baby girl Chloe Joyce Valerie. Chloe, weighing a healthy 9lbs 3oz, was born on 21 December 2017- a fantastic early present for all the family to enjoy! Below, left: Megan Jean Wilson
Callan Alexander Withers and Olivia Cammy Wilson (1999) Jenny and I are delighted to announce the birth of our second child, Megan Jean Wilson. Megan came out singing on 3 November 2017, at Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London. Mum and baby are happy and in good health, big sister Anna is excited and Dad is knackered!
Jane Withers (nee Crawford) (2001) Myself and my husband Gareth welcomed our son Callan Alexander Withers on 6 August 2017, brother to big sister Olivia.
Etcetera 17 Engagements Ricky Munday (1994) I’d like to announce my recent engagement to Camila de Almeida. We were engaged on 1 January 2018 shortly after reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro (5,985m). This was Camila’s first time on the summit, and my second. Camila is a mathematical modeller and works for a pharmaceutical consulting company. Originally from Brazil, she gained her PhD from Aberdeen University and has lived in the UK for the last 10 years.
Scott Thorburn (2000) Scott got engaged to Linsey Jordan on 13 May 2017 and they are being married on 20 July this year, with two school mates as joint ‘best men’.
Marriages Gregor Ross Gordon (2009) Gregor married Sharon Elizabeth Skipper (Dollar Academy) on 9 September 2017 at St John’s Kirk in Perth, Scotland. The Academy was well represented with Scott Perry, Jonny Calder and Findlay Hyde (2009) as Groomsmen.
Samantha Kay (2003) I married Martin Findlay on 15 September 2017 at Top: Ricky and Camila St Mary’s Parish Church in Kirkintilloch. A few friends Above left: Gregor and Sharon from school were also in Above right: Gregor’s Groomsmen attendance. Right: Samantha and Martyin
Sandy Meldrum (2001) I got married to Robin Lynn Meldrum (nee Hurst) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA on 31 March 2017.
18 Etcetera Updates
David Comins (Rector1994- 2005) I am sure there are plenty of Accies who have climbed all the Munros (Scottish mountains over 3000 feet or 914.4 metres). Indeed the first recorded ‘compleatist’ (in 1901) was Rev. Aeneas E Robertson, a Glasgow Academical. I began climbing the Munros in September 1975 and finally ‘compleated’ in October 2017, a mere 42 years later. I can claim to have been busy in between times, I suppose, but I have been in no rush to finish off the 282 climbs. As far as I can tell, there has only been one other Rector to ‘compleate’, that being my immediate predecessor, Colin Turner. He finished in 1973 whilst working at Edinburgh Academy. Niall Dickson (1970) Niall Dickson received his CBE for Libby and Niall Dickson Jillian Hamilton services to patient care at Buckingham Palace in October, accompanied by his wife, Libby. Heather Duff (2004) Friends since 1993 I didn’t realise when I joined The Academy I would make friends for life. Despite us all living in different cities, and at times different continents, we have managed to maintain great friends over several decades. Between us we have accrued several degrees, a tour card, seven weddings, two babies (with another on the way) and even overcome cancer. Here we are celebrating our 30th birthday together up Goatfell, Arran Daisy Duncan (2017) Daisy is travelling to South America this year, starting in Ecuador volunteering in an animal sanctuary for six weeks, L-R Heather Duff, Emma Ritchie, Hazel Buncle, travelling to Machu Picchu, Bolivia and Shiona Borthwick, Jacqui Davison, Kylie Henry & then ending her trip in Chile where she Jen Harvie is hoping to catch up with members of the Hardy family, who donated the J W Shaunagh Hendry (2012) Hardy Trophy for Tennis to The Academy Shaunagh graduated from Heriot-Watt (see Etcetera 17 for more on this story). in June 2017 with a BSc in Psychology. She is very interested in helping Jillian Hamilton (2012) individuals with mental health issues I graduated from The University of and rejected offers to study for an MSc Aberdeen in June 2017 with a Bachelors in Neuropsychology at Bristol and in Medicine and a Bachelors in Surgery Strathclyde, to instead undertake an MSc and I am now a junior doctor working at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. Shaunagh Hendry
Etcetera 19 in Psychology of Mental Health at her first choice, Dundee University. Nick Jewell (1969) and Rod Little (1968) Nick, a Professor of Biostatistics and Statistics at the University of California, Berkeley, and previously the Vice Provost at Berkeley, has been elected to the prestigious US National Academy of Medicine. Fellow Glasgow Academical Rod Little, Richard D. Remington Distinguished University Professor of Biostatistics at the University of Michigan, was previously elected to the US National Academy of Medicine in 2011. These elections were not entirely independent events (in the language of statistics), since there was a “common was nominated by the West of Scotland The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, cause” in the person of Mr E.B.C. Regional Equality Council, of which he congratulates Bobby Low on his achievements Thornton, who taught Jewell, Little and is also a Board Member, and he continues many others higher level maths at The summer, although the highlight was to represent the Polish diaspora in Academy in the 1960s. A somewhat shaking the hand of the Duke of Scotland in national forums such as the eccentric character with a volatile temper, Cambridge, Prince William with a glass of Scottish Parliamentary Cross-Party Group Mr Thornton had boundless curiosity and his own champagne in the other. on Poland. enthusiasm for maths, which rubbed off To Bobby it all makes perfect sense. ‘ on many of his students. In Nick’s case, Dr Bobby Low (1958) Birth is one of the greatest celebrations in this translated into BA and Ph.D. degrees It would be safe to assume that Bobby anyone’s life’, he explains. ‘Now my BLB’s in mathematics at the University of Low has been responsible for more can celebrate all of their special occasions Edinburgh, before moving to California, babies than any other man in Glasgow. with our own champagne. It’s my way of where he researched statistical methods Following in his GP father’s footsteps, still being part of their lives.’ related to epidemiology and infectious Bobby set an age record taking a diseases, including AIDS, survival analysis consultant’s post at the age of 32, going Ainsley Mann (1983) and stochastic processes, and genomics. on to be responsible for the delivery of Ainsley has been appointed trade envoy Rod did a BA in mathematics in more than 20,000 ‘Bobby Low Babies’ to Indonesia. As announced in the Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge during his 40-year career as a Consultant Programme for Government, Ainsley (with his fellow-Academical and twin in both the NHS and private sector. will promote and represent Scotland’s brother Chris), and a PhD in Statistics Bobby was a leading pioneer in infertility export interests, and strengthen local and Operations Research at Imperial treatment in Scotland, having driven the market knowledge. He is former CEO College, London. He eventually landed fundraising to establish the specialist IVF of Coca-Cola Bottlers (Holding) Co in Michigan, where he chaired the clinic at the Glasgow Nuffield Hospital Ltd in China and now heading up Department of Biostatistics for eleven in 1985. He finally retired from full-time Hong Kong-based Swire Properties in years. He has a highly cited book with practice in 2012. Indonesia. Don Rubin on statistical analysis with But a quiet retirement was never on the missing data, and spent some time at the Andrew MacLeod (1977) cards for Bobby. He has been actively My GB Patent was granted on 30 US Census Bureau developing research involved in founding the world’s newest January 2018 in respect of “A Gear there. Perhaps it will surprise no one Champagne House, Champagne PIAFF, System” which I co-own with my that yet a third academical, Colin Aitken (visit them at www.champagnepiaff.com) business partner, Omer Bndean AK. The (1969), has also had a distinguished career which launched in the UK in 2017. ‘If invention can create the world’s fastest as Professor of Forensic Statistics at the you think that IVF is complicated, you mechanical rotation applicable to all University of Edinburgh. Both of us owe should try building a Champagne House’ industries. More details are available at our academic careers to Thornton, an says Bobby. Working with French growers www.gearpowergroup.com example of the seminal influence a great and European bureaucracy, Champagne school teacher can have on all our lives. Shiona McCallum (2004) culture and international distribution I am now a broadcast journalist reading Antony Kozlowski (1962) while continuously monitoring quality the news on BBC Radio 1 and the only Antony has been elected to a three-year have been keeping him very busy, with Scottish member of the team. term on the Board of Directors of the frequent trips to France and New Glasgow Council for the Voluntary York where PIAFF was the star at New Colin McCash (1984) Sector (GCVS). In this post, he follows York Champagne week. He personally Colin has been appointed Partner and in the footsteps of fellow Academical, presented PIAFF at Hampton Court Head of Valuation Scotland at Cushman the late Donald Dewar (1957). Antony Palace and the Tower of London this & Wakefield.
20 Etcetera Euan McLeod (2016) Music department. It’s a big challenge, couple of years ago with a programme Euan collected his Gold Duke of but I am looking forward to it. I’m also about the early twentieth-century British Edinburgh award at St James’ Palace hoping that the new job will allow me composer Arnold Bax, and his links with London. Presented by Alastair Stewart to renew my links with RTÉ Lyric FM the leaders of Ireland’s Easter Rising in (ITV news broadcaster), the highlight was (Ireland’s version of Radio 3), with whom 1916. meeting Helen Glover. I made my radio presenting debut a
From left to right Past Captain of the school Matthew Smith, Chief Organiser Neil Mcglaughlin, Skinny Calder, Chief Purse Roddy Mackintosh, The White Knight, Pedro Carlioni, The ever youthful Ned Anderson, and Swanny!
Euan McLeod
Philip Niedermair (1979) On 2 November 2017 in Washington DC - Ground Breaking of the Eisenhower Memorial took place, as a Strategic Advisor to the Eisenhower Memorial. It was a distinct privilege for me to join Senator Pat Roberts our Chairman, and members of the Eisenhower family as we broke ground and celebrated the life of President Eisenhower. I am so fortunate to be involved in this and I have been Happy helped enormously in my work for Days his time last year I sold my bar business and embarked on a year of travel. I started working as a tour guide for Scotland and the UK and have hosted Tfamilies and friendships from all over the world who have come to enjoy the sounds and sights that our beautiful country has to offer. At the end of our summer I travelled to Indochina for a two month tour of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar. On my flight out of Glasgow, I bumped into fellow academical Dr Abid Faqir and his beautiful family, a face I hadn’t seen for over 20 years, but instantly recognisable! I had the pleasure of meeting up with Paul Hossack, another past student, the day before my flight home, in Bangkok, another face not seen in over 24 years! Then on the 28 December, I met up with 9 others from my year in school for a Xmas curry night, the Commission by my dear friend Lt. more beautiful faces from over 23 years ago! General Rhett Hernandez, including So for me it really has been a wonderful year appreciating the excitement of new arranging for the guest key note speaker challenges and new friends bolstered by the experiences and memories of old! to join us from West Point - Simone Askew who marched into history as the Here is a photo of me at a charitable organisation in Luang Prabang (Laos) where first black woman to lead the Long Grey tourists, who can spare a couple of hours in the evening, are encouraged to meet Line at the U.S. Military Academy as First and talk to local students looking to improve all aspects of spoken and written Captain of the Corp of Cadets. English, a very rewarding experience for both parties! Aidan Thomson (1992) I also attach a copy of our curry night photo, where we enjoyed light After fourteen happy years in the School refreshments in The Doublet followed an excellent meal in the Shish Mahal, past of Music at Queen’s University Belfast, I haunts from our Academy days! will be taking up the position of Senior My travel blog for anyone interested in following my adventures is roddyallover- Lecturer in Music at the National theworld.blog University of Ireland in Galway, where Roddy Young (1994) I will be in charge of setting up a new
Etcetera 21 Reunions and get-togethers The Glasgow Academy Circa 63 Group On Friday 6 October 2017 sixteen Circa 63 Group members attended an informal lunch at the Private Dining Facility, Oran Mor, Byres Road Glasgow. Thirty-nine apologies were recorded. The Group has a circulation list of about one hundred members and up to sixty attend landmark events. The next annual gathering of the Group is on Friday 5 October 2018 for a further informal lunch at Oran Mor, a venue that Standing (L to R) - Colin Winter, Stuart Patrick, Harry Jackson, Alistair Wilson, David Deas, Peter has proven to be popular and convenient. Jensen, Neil McDougall, Michael Hirst, Douglas Mack, David Blair, John Byers, Gordon Wilson, John Couper Seated (L to R) - Robin Lang, David Grieg, Tony Kozlowski Class of 2007 It was great to welcome back some of the Class of 2007 on 3 November. A terrific afternoon of catching up with former classmates and staff.
Save the date! Class of 1966-1967 James Gilchrist (1966) and Gordon Jack (1967) are organising a further Class of 1966-1967 reunion which is proposed for Friday 23 November 2018 at The Academy. The plan is to commence with welcome refreshments in The Well Upcoming Events from 4pm, followed by tours of Friday 23 March 6.30pm GAC London Section Dinner, the school, then a drinks reception Caledonian Club and dinner in the new science and technology building, the Saunders Friday 8 June 2.00pm Class of 1998 Reunion Centre. Monday 18 June 6.00pm Annual Donor Reception, Saunders Centre Class of 1998 Friday 29 June evening Westbourne Class of 1983 Reunion, 2018 marks 20 years since the Class The Bothy, Ruthven Lane, Glasgow of 1998 left the Academy, so we’ve Friday 14 September afternoon/ diarised the afternoon of Friday 8 evening Class of 2008 Reunion June 2018 for a get-together and catch up at The Academy. Friday 9 November 6.30pm 136th Glasgow Academical Club Dinner If you haven’t received email or Friday 23 November 4.00pm Class of 1966-67 Reunion, postal notification of any of the above Glasgow Academy reunions and would like ensure you For details on any of the above events, contact Liz McGowan at the External are in the loop for future details, Relations office. just contact Liz in The Academy’s External Relations team.
22 Etcetera Sydney Reunion Jim Murray, School Captain in 1949 - 50 and Montreal based, came to Brisbane for the Ashes Test match. During his six-day visit, he graced us with his company for lunch in Sydney. At 86, he flew down for the day. Turner Massey (1953) produced Academical 1st XV photos of the 50s. I had not seen Jim since we travelled to school on the 10 tram from Hyndland in 1949. Brian Cannon (1952) and Philip Tam (1990) joined us. Ian Lochtie (1953) sent his apologies.
A Memorable Lunch Last November, Kerr Chatfield organised a lunch at Cockle Bay in Sydney for five Academicals. We gathered to meet Jimmy Murray in his mid-eighties and you can see from the photo (centre standing) he does not look it! Kerr, who is sitting on the right with Brian Cannon (brother of the late Alan and twin Rodger with whom I played in the 1952 School 1st XV), also organised the photo shoot and who keeps in touch with Jimmy. Now the remarkable thing was not only the age disparity with four of us in Jimmy’s peer group who knew him as school captain in the fifties and Dr Philip Tam half our age, but Jimmy, who lives in Montreal, flew day return from Brisbane to lunch with us! None of us could remember exactly when we last met but it would have been more than 50 years ago. Predictably we all chose seafood as it was recommended and all enjoyed meeting and discovering how our GA education and various careers turned out. Philip gave us a most interesting view of his work and setting up his own practice in today’s world. All together a fine reunion.
Etcetera 23 A wonderful man who always had our Remembering Bill Ritchie, Head of Music best interests at heart, often expressed (From 1975–2003) in his unconventional, inimitable way. 27 June 1946 – 30 December 2017 Anytime I sing a hymn, I think of his bellowed instructions from the organ pit in the Cargill Hall, whilst the whole school epically failed to get it right for the third time in a row. “Tell Out My Soul *massive breath* the greatness of the Lord *massive breath*”. He was such a warm and charismatic man who wouldn’t take any nonsense. Saw straight through you. Often shouted abuse through a fug of cigarette smoke out of the staff-room door. But a really supportive and brilliant advocate for music and drama at the school. A true mentor to many, and someone who you knew would always have your back. Rest in peace, Mr Ritchie. Sandy Nelson (1998)
Mr Ritchie was a great teacher and a He was definitely one of my favourite my talent and nurtured my confidence. gifted musician. Listening to him play in teachers that taught me and he shaped I will miss him personally for all these the Cargill Hall letting loose with Toccata and developed my musical skills that I reasons and more. He was my friend. and Fugue was pretty impressive even to an underperforming class 2C pupil yet now use in my everyday life. Jim Prime (1978) to heed advice about his potential. End Sandy Meldrum (2001) I have many fond memories of him and of terms were brilliant. He’d listen to the I remember Mr Ritchie’s classes his unique style of teaching. I attended singles we brought in and then talk about vividly - his sharp sense of humour and Colebrooke Street in 1992-93 and was how the song was constructed simply enthusiastic personality were infectious one of the few students undertaking decrying it as nonsense. Not sure he really and left us in no doubt as to the passion higher music, indeed I was the only appreciated my proclivity for Heavy he felt for all things music, not to mention student in the lessons for the history of Metal of that era. May he add some fun his own expert ability across so many music module, one of these lessons was and music up above. instruments. His regular hymn practice on a Tuesday and I would attend in my Iain Breckinridge (1984) mornings in the Cargill Hall were (ill-fitting) CCF uniform and he would legendary! call me ‘P.B.’ short for Private Benjamin I always remembered Bill as one of the most interesting, extroverted and trustable Murray Strang (1999) every time I wore it. Here, we would study pieces of music by ‘Joe Green’ and teachers during my time at the school. When I joined the school, I was terrified Stravinsky, although I never did get to Crikey he even managed to persuade me of singing in public. Thanks to Mr listen to the latter as he would quickly to perform in The Pirates of Penzance Ritchie refusing to let me hide away, eject it from the tape recorder with a which he put on towards the end of my I ended up regularly singing solos at volley of expressions about how awful schooling. He was passionate about music assembly, various music recitals and won it was! When practising sight singing for and performing and I will remember him the cup for singing in 1997. His unique the practical element of my examination, with great fondness. As we grow older, teaching style was fun and really allowed something in which I lacked confidence we realise that teachers are just the same young musicians to come into their own. and conviction so would be hesitant to as the rest of us, but he was a person that He will be very much missed. sing, he would shout “Sing, girl, sing! you couldn’t forget, especially that big I’m doing all the work here are you’re grin when you did something correctly! Vicki Boddice (nee Jackson) (1998) just standing there!” Needless to say this Deepest condolences to Craig and the rest of the family. An inspiring musical talent and persona. motivated me to open my mouth and have a go and my sight singing greatly Richard McKnight (1995) Leonard Tam (1993) improved under his tutelage. My love of A legendary man who inspired and As an ex pupil of Bill’s I wouldn’t have music was encouraged by him, he was entertained almost every Academical and been driven to do what I have been doing a fantastic, inspirational teacher and he every parent for who passed through the for over 30 years and as Deacon Blue’s will always have a special place in my school for generations. And a wicked keyboard player he constantly pushed me memories. grumpy mischievous old bugger to boot! and encouraged me throughout my time Fiona Hutchinson (Morrison) (1993) Much beloved. there. He played at my wedding and was a superb musician. More than that he saw Murray Will (2001)
24 Etcetera I do recall that on occasion Bill used to take unofficial requests for what he played Obituaries prior to assembly. At exam time when assembly was held in the Well he favoured career. Having trained in Glasgow and piano classics such as Beethoven’s John Blanche (1947) 10 July 1929 – 31 July 2017 spent time in London mentored by Sir Moonlight Sonata on the Grand Piano, Donald Insall he moved to Newcastle to but would from time to time throw in John Blanche OBE - Suddenly at home work with the famous Danish architect, an Elton John number. My personal on 31 July 2017, aged 88. Loving Professor Arne Jacobsen, and after favourite was his version of Whiter Shade husband of Fiona, dear father to Graham Jacobsen’s death he worked for two years of Pale on the organ in the Cargill Hall. and Nicola, amazing grandfather to on the redevelopment of the waterfront Wilf Sinclair (1985) Richard and Edward and brother of in Kingston Jamaica. Returning to Ronald and Bill. Glasgow he worked with Jack Notman, I recall Mr Ritchie as being one of the subsequently opening his own office more entertaining teachers; however, before a final move to Berkshire where there was also the serious side to him. he saw out the rest of his working life I had the great privilege and honour designing business, industrial and retail of being awarded the ‘flying 500’; I parks in the firm Barton Willmore. He later found out that this was a written retired in 2003 and was then able to punishment containing 500 words devote time to painting and to the love in formal English prose. It would not of music which he shared with Julia, a surprise if I received this for having no retired singer and music teacher. He died musical talent whatsoever. in September 2017 in his eightieth year Julian Richmond (1987) survived by Julia, their sons Duncan and Douglas, and four grandchildren. Bill was a wonderful man. He had a sense of humour and was a positive, inspiring Andrew Calder (1962) influence on me throughout my years at the Academy. He contributed so much to Dr Forbes Macpherson CBE, D school life: playing at pantomimes, school George Scott Calder (1957) Univ, OStJ, CA (1943) 23 May 1926 – 16 December 2017 musicals, and church services. 2 July 1938 – 7 September 2017 He played the organ at Prayers every Scott was the eldest of three brothers Forbes joined The Glasgow Academy morning and Widor’s ‘Toccata’ featured from a Kilmacolm manse who moved to in 1932 before moving to Merchiston regularly - YouTube it and you’ll be the school from Greenock Academy in Castle School in 1940, leaving in 1943. In back in Colebrooke Street at 920am 1954. He had already shown his potential January 1944 he joined the Navy through in the mid-eighties. Bill, thanks for the on the rugby field and became a regular the RNVR. Qualifying as a CA in 1949 memories. You will be missed. fixture in the first XV throughout his he became a partner in Touche Ross & three years at The Academy, forming a Co. He became a Trustee of Glasgow Duncan McPhie (1986) notable centre three-quarter partnership Savings Bank in 1967 and eventually I joined The Academy staff at about the with Scott Nelson. He subsequently Chairman of TSB Bank Scotland plc for same time as Bill. He was always great played for the Academicals and ten years from 1984. represented Glasgow in the Scottish fun with a wealth of good stories and a He was President of Glasgow Chamber inter-district championship. His other chuckle that readily became a raucous of Commerce between 1980 and 1981 sporting talent lay in athletics: in his final laugh. He provided inspiring musical when Glasgow’s renaissance began, school sports he won the 100 and 220 assistance with our Junior Plays in the highlighted by the “Glasgow’s Miles yards sprints, the 110 yards hurdles and late 70s and was the long-suffering Better” initiative. His dedication to the high-jump. In the latter two events accompanist of our pantomimes. No service was recognised by the award of matter what friendly abuse we hurled he broke school records which had stood The Herald at him from the stage he returned it since the 1930s. with interest. He was, of course, a He played the title role of Alladin in highly respected musician. Would he Widow Twankey Carruthers’ Christmas recognise the latent musical talent of a pantomime of 1956 in which Donald colleague? When I asked him whether Dewar was a memorably lugubrious I could join the staff/pupil choir for a Genie of the Lamp. Later that session he Commemoration Service in Glasgow was Mark Antony in the Globe Players’ Cathedral he replied reluctantly, “On production of ‘Julius Caesar’. Throughout one condition; stand next to someone his teenage years he was a keen member who can sing and just mouth the words.” of the Scout Movement, the principles Advice I have heeded ever since! which it taught forming an important John Cummings influence on his life. (Academy Staff 1975 -1980) The influence of Wallace Orr was crucial in his choice of architecture as his
Etcetera 25 a CBE in 1983. After retirement Forbes the end of the North African Campaign Alistair Murray Barclay Reid was appointed Chancellor’s Assessor of and was awarded the Africa Star in 1944. (1951) the Court of the University of Glasgow Their unit intercepted a message about a Alistair passed away on 19 August 2017. and was awarded an honorary degree. German attack for which they received Husband of Gill and father to Robert and He chaired the Veterinary School a commendation stating it was of ‘the Michael. Development Fund and was involved in highest military value’. many other charities. In 1995 he was Ronald James Tindal Reid (1943) While in Italy, he was mentioned in elected as Lord Dean of Guild of the Ronald passed away on 14 September Despatches for his work on German Merchants House of Glasgow. 2017, just after his 92nd birthday. Ronald parachute regiments and at the end of the was the eldest of five brothers - David, He is survived by his wife, Margaret (nee war received the oak leaf. Andrew, Barclay and Graham - who all Roxburgh) and his son, John, Andrena, He married Barbara at the end of the war sadly pre-deceased him. He moved to John’s wife and their three children, Áine, and returned to Cambridge to finish his Australia in 1966 with his wife, Loraine, Freya and Charlie. studies. In 1946 Andrew took up his first and their five children. They enjoyed a William David McIntosh (1955) teaching post at Wirral Grammar School, very happy life there, where Ronald was a 16 January 1937 – 24 December 2017 but returned to Glasgow Academy to much-loved Canberra GP. The family has teach German and French 1951-1960. He now grown to include 16 grandchildren, Bill passed away peacefully at Hospice, served in the naval section of the CCF 10 great grandchildren and one to come. Isle of Man on Sunday 24 December while there. 2017. Born in Glasgow on 16 January Douglas Risk (1959) 1937, he attended The Academy and In 1960 the family moved to Nottingham 23 January 1941 – 20 November 2017 armed with a great education, played where Andrew taught German and Douglas was born in Glasgow, the elder for the first fifteen. Bill left school and French and returned to the army section son of James and Isobel. His father was did his National Service in the Army, of the CCF, finally becoming Lt Colonel. a well-known solicitor, a partner in where he served in an Army/Royal He retired in 1981. the firm of Brechin, Welsh and Risk, Navy Liaison capacity, which included Ian Duncan McNicol (1943) which subsequently underwent various sea time on board the Aircraft Carrier, 31 July 1924 – 27 December 2017 amalgamations. HMS Ark Royal, on completion of which he joined Power Petroleum and Shell Ian left school during 1943 to join the Brought up mostly in Bearsden where the as a trainee accountant. Bill married Army and served as an officer in the 44th family moved when Douglas was nine, Morag McLaren in 1961. They had three Royal Tank Regiment in France and he attended Glasgow Academy. There daughters, Deirdre, Alison and Catriona. Germany. His working life thereafter he acquitted himself well academically Sadly Deirdre died in 1993. The family was spent with the family business, John and enjoyed playing rugby, cricket and moved to the Isle of Man in 1979 where McNicol & Co (Electrical Engineers) tennis. Studies at Cambridge University Bill returned to working for Denholm Ltd. He participated in a number of followed, at Gonville and Caius College, Shipping and later joined Shell Tankers, sports of which golf, mountaineering and where he read classics and law. in Castletown as Finance Director. His skiing were the most prominent. Ian was Having obtained his BA degree, he extended family all live on the Island and a regular attendee at the annual Gasbags returned to Glasgow to undertake an were his world. lunch until the drew to a close in 2016. accelerated law degree at the city’s Andrew McMurchy (1939) He died on 27 December 2017. university, graduating in 1965. After 1920 – 2018 work experience in a solicitor’s office, he moved to Edinburgh to begin his Andrew died in February 2018, aged 97. Ian Duncan McNicol devilling for the Bar. He was a pupil at the school in the 1930s. He won a scholarship to Caius College Cambridge to read modern languages. His studies were interrupted by the war. He was enlisted at Yeovil in July 1941 and originally signed up to the Royal Artillery but was transferred to Special Intelligence Duties in April the following year. He worked with the Special Wireless Section Y service, with the US army in North Africa, and the 8th Army in Italy and Austria. Working with signals, his duties included dealing with codes and ciphers, classifying and decoding. These were non-Enigma ciphers and Andrew felt he was able to get to know some of the individual hallmarks of the Germans sending codes. With the US army, he dealt with German Army traffic right up to
26 Etcetera Through his involvement with Bearsden do well’. North Church he met Jennifer Davidson, Suffice to say that Ramsay did do well a primary school teacher, whom he and graduated from Glasgow University married in August 1967 . They went on with a 1st Class degree in Mechanical to enjoy a happy and fulfilling marriage, Engineering and became one of the celebrating their golden wedding four youngest directors of Weir Pumps in months ago, and had four children, Cathcart. In 1975 he was awarded an Kenneth, Helen, Malcolm and Colin. OBE for services to the British export He was admitted to the office of advocate industry whilst still at Weir Pumps. on 22 July 1966, having undertaken a Thereafter, he joined The Wood Group period of devilling to James Milligan, later taking a position as a Board Director and Lord Milligan, Court of Session and High played a major part in the transformation Court judge. of that business. He was Sheriff Principal of Grampian, On retiring Ramsay returned from Highland and Islands between 1993 and Aberdeen to settle in Newton Mearns David Lawrie Thomson 2001, having previously served as sheriff for his remaining years. Golf was always Given a Letts’ day-by-day diary for at Aberdeen and Stonehaven. prominent throughout his education years 1958, he began the practice of logging and life thereafter, managing to obtain a Although family and professional every single journey by bus, tram, train, playing handicap of 1. Ramsay played in commitments meant little free time, he Subway or steamer, noting time, date, the British Amateur Golf Championship managed to pursue various interests. He destination and number of every vehicle. at St Andrews whilst he was still a student, joined Holburn West church where he The curiosity is that however pernickety a Captain of East Renfrewshire Golf Club was a highly regarded elder for more he was in lifestyle, when he turned the and club champion at Western Gailes than 30 years. Encouraged by Jennifer, he events into print, he wrote with a warmth Golf Club in 1959 & 1963. He was also took up golf and became a member of and a style of reader appeal that turned invited to join the elite 32 Club and had Royal Aberdeen. He was also a member dry records into engaging travel writing. fond memories of competing for the club of the Bench and Bar Golf Society, all over the UK. More than 35 years ago, he moved to taking part regularly in their outings. Gourock to be closer to his lifelong An individualistic style sometimes saw Ramsay was one of life’s ‘nice guys’ with interest in Clyde steamers, and from him stand still for longish periods over a great sense of humour and was hugely his home in Clyde Road, he’d head to the ball, resulting in a colleague labelling respected by everyone who knew him all points on the western seaboard. As him affectionately, ‘the man with the through business or just socially – he with tram journeys, every voyage was semi-permanent address.’ will be sorely missed. After suffering carefully listed – and in one of his regular from dementia for several years, Ramsay He and Jennifer were staunch supporters contributions to the journal Scottish passed away peacefully at The Queen of Friends of Scottish Opera and hosted Transport, he described Scotland’s Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow. Dearly parties in their garden to raise funds. steamers from a different standpoint – beloved husband of Bernice and his They also enjoyed taking part in amateur how the weather affected services, telling loving daughters, Karen and Lorraine operatic productions, mainly at the Barn the tale in a fashion that held reader and a devoted grandfather to his seven theatre near Methlick, where he enjoyed interest throughout. grandchildren. He is also survived by his female character portrayal in roles such elder and loving sister, Noreen. A very private person, he divided his life as Maddalena in Verdi’s Rigoletto and not just into work and hobbies, but into Carmen. Douglas is survived by his wife, David Lawrie Thomson (1958) the completely separate compartments of children, grandchildren and brother Alan. 6 August 1939 – 25 August 2017 his law career with McGrigor Donald and Jack Davidson David was born in Glasgow, moving latterly Stenhouse. His involvement in the from The Glasgow Academy to graduate church, his interests in trams, railways, the James Ramsay Spence OBE in law from Glasgow University. As a Glasgow Subway and Clyde steamers, and (1950) schoolboy, he was studious to a fault, the people involved rarely overlapping 7 December 1932 – 6 September 2017 and this included a passion for Glasgow’s from one sector to another. trams. With the co-operation of Eric Born in Langtree Avenue, Whitecraigs, For all his self-containment, he was rarely Fitzpayne, then general manager of Glasgow, Ramsay was educated at self-effacing, and readily made clear his Glasgow Corporation Transport, the Belmont Academy Primary School; reluctance to suffer fools in any form. He teenage David spent Saturday mornings thereafter he attended The Glasgow could be forceful in committee work, not on the sports field but recording Academy with his elder brother, the late and rarely hesitated from vouchsafing an traffic logs by hand in the transport head Barclay Spence, from Autumn 1943 until opinion. In turn, he did not appreciate office at 46 Bath Street. It was this work Summer 1950. having his views queried. which helped provide the basis of his Ramsay was a keen and talented golfer Handbook of Glasgow Trams, and then a David, who never married, had been ill from an early age and in fact one of his generation later with assistance from his for some years, and died in hospital in report cards stated: ‘If Ramsay were to pay friends Brian Longworth and Ian Stewart, Glasgow of bone marrow cancer. as much attention to his school work as the foundation of his detailed and lavishly he does to his golf swing then he would illustrated book Glasgow Tram Services. Gordon Caseley
Etcetera 27 Prominent & Practical
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