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ROYAL AIR FORCE SPONSORSHIP

RACE RELATIONS - WE OFFER EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES. Contents 1994 VOL. 15 No. 5

Governors and Staff School Authority, Salvete and Editorial Speech Day and Prizewinners House Reports Music Creative Writing Drama and the Arts Business and Science Girls’ Games Boys’ Games Other Sports and Activities Valete Public Examination Statistics Strathallian Club

Editors: Kim Fowler Catherine Jones Christina Gilliver Katie Yellowlees Susie Dutton Nick Dailey Mrs Adam

Photographers: Mrs McFarlane Mr Barnes Mr Vallott Miss England Mr Crosfield Mr Broadfoot Mrs Clayton Mr Burgess

Art Work: Nick Dailey GOVERNORS Chairman: Ms.S.Hutcheson (University of Professor H.G.Miller (University of J.W.Dinsmore, FRICS Edinburgh) Aberdeen) I.Q.Jones, MA LLB WS R.S.Peters, MA A.A.Arneil, FRICS Professor A.J.Kennedy (University of E.G.M.Targowski, QC LLB Hons J.N.Cochran, LLB WS Glasgow) Mrs R.M.Walker A.S.Cook, Esq. Professor J.L.King Dr A.P.D.Wilkinson, MD BSc ChB Professor P.Gifford (University of St Mrs C.C. Laing Andrews) A.Logan, Esq. J.B.Gray, Esq. His Honour, Judge J.McKee, QC RD Bursar and Clerk to the Governors: J.Hunter, BCom CA W.A.McMillan, BL W.A.Bullard, FCIS FBIM STAFF HEADMASTER - A.W.McPhail MA (Oxon)

TEACHING STAFF SUBJECT Mrs E.M.Adam, MA (Dublin) English D.Armitage, BSc (Manchester) Physics A.R.Ball, BSc (New England, Australia) English Housemaster Simpson D.J.Barnes, BSc (Loughborough) Geography/Maths Housemaster Ruthven G.A.Bolton, BA, Msc (Leeds) Chemistry/Music Head of Department J.L.Broadfoot, BA (Leeds) English Director of Studies J.S.Burgess, BSc (Manchester) Mathematics Miss P.Carlisle, BA, MPh (Glasgow) English R.C.B.Clark, BA, MBA (Durham) Business Studies W.A.Colley, BA (Durham) Geography/Economics C.N.Court, BEd, MPhil (Stirling) English Housemaster Freeland P.J.Crosfield, BA (Durham) French/Spanish N.T.H.Du Boulay, BA (Warwick) History Mrs C.A.C.Duncan, MA (Edinburgh) French/Russian A.L.K.Dutton, Cert Ed (St John’s York) Jnr. Chemistry/Physics S.Dutton, GRNCM, ALCM, LTCL Music P.J.Elliott, BEd (Manchester) MSc (Dundee) Design & Technology Head of Department Miss E.A.England, BA (Oxon) Geography R.H.Fitzimmons, MA (St Andrews) History J.N.Ford, BSc (London) Biology D.R.Giles, BA (Warwick) Mathematics/PE K.Glimm, MA (Berlin/Kiel/Edinburgh) French/German T.S.Goody, BSc (Durham) Mathematics Head of Department P.R.A.Green, MA (Edinburgh) Geography Mrs D.Hunter, DA (Dundee) Art Miss J.S.R.Hutcheon, Dip PE (Dunfermline) Piping P.J.S.Keir, BEd (College of St Paul & Mary) English/P.E. I.J.Keith, BEd (Dundee College Education) English G.C.Kitson, BSc (Aberdeen) Mathematics Rev.T.G.Longmuir, MA (Oxon), BEd Divinity Chaplain C.M.Mayes, BA (Essex) Econ/Business Studies A.E.C.McMorrine, DA (Glasgow) Art Head of Department A.Murray, MA (Glasgow) English Head of Department Miss L.H.Neale, MA (Edinburgh) History/Music L.A.O’Neill, BA (Open) Design & Technology A.M.Pearson, MA (Oxon) Chemistry Director of Studies A.N.Phillips, BEd (Leeds) Design & Technology RJ.W.Proctor, MA (St.Andrews) History Senior Master D.J.Ralfs, BSc (Nottingham) Mathematics F.N.Reed, BA (Reading) GRSM, ARCO, LRAM Music Head of Department G.R.M.Ross, BSc, MSc (Nottingham) Biology/Computers P.Shore, Cert Ed (Christchurch), APTC (Army) P.E. Miss L.J.Smith, BEd, BA (DCPE/Open) P.E. Housemistress Thornbank N.Smith, BSc, MA (London) Econ/Business Studies Head of Department D.R.Sneddon, BSc (Strathclyde) Mathematics A.C.W.Streatfeild-James, MA (Oxon) French/German Housemaster Woodlands P.R.Summersgill, MA (Oxon) Physics Head of Department J.K.Taylor, BSc (London) Physics A.Thomson, BA (Aberystwyth) English/Philosphy Housemaster Riley A.M.Tod, PhD (Edin), BA (Oxon) History Head of Department P.M.Vallot, BSc (Napier) Biology Housemaster Nicol C.N.Walker, BSc (Aberdeen) Biology Head of Department A.J.H.Wands, MA (St Andrews) Geography Head of Department Mrs J.Watson, BA (Leeds) French/Russian Head of Department D.A.R.Williams, MA (Cantab) Careers M.Wilson, RN Design & Technology

PART-TIME TEACHING STAFF Mrs D.J.Balnaves, MA (Edinbugh) Geograph/Engl ish Mrs S.Lamont, (Dunfermline) Games Mrs E.Cairns, DA (Edinbugh) Art Mrs K.L.Maltman, MA (Aberdeen) French Mme M-L.Crane, L Litt (Montpellier) French/Spanish Mrs I.I.M.McFarlane, MA (Edinburgh) English Mrs A.Dorwood (Jordanhill) Games Mrs F.M.Ninham, MA (St Andrews) Mathematics Mrs E.W.Hamilton, MA (Aberdeen) Chemistry Mrs D.L.Raeside, BSc (Rhodes S.A.) Biology Mrs L.J.Innes, BSc (Aberdeen) Science Mrs J.A.Summersgill, BSc (York) Science

MEDICAL OFFICERS J.I.Sinclair, MB, ChB, DCH, DRCOG A.F.Falconer, MB, ChB, DRCOG, MRCGP SCHOOL AUTHORITY Academic Year 1993/94 Academic Year 1994/95

Captain of School Captain of School R.A.D.Graham A.H. Scott

Head of Freeland S.E. Harrod Head of Freeland G.J. McKendry Head of Nicol D.A.M. Dunlop Head of Nicol I.A. Macdonald Head of Ruthven R.A.D. Williams Head of Ruthven D.M. Robertson Head of Simpson R.J. Morris Head of Simpson D.G.O. Fergusson Head of Thornbank R.N. Milne Head of Thornbank K.L. Fowler Head of Woodlands R.H. Mackay Head of Woodlands S.F. McPherson

School Prefects School Prefects M. Barker, A.J.B. Bennett, G.D. Burton, S.A. Cust, D.B. Clement, E.O. Dooley, D.G. Forbes, C.A. Jones, V.J. Forster, J.G .Green, L.F. MacLennan, J.F. Meiklejohn, C.M. Lochore, J.C. Malcolm, L.C. MacKenzie, D. Man, K.J. Turner, J.P. Wallace. E.O. Sutherland, B.S. Ward

SALVETE RILEY FREELAND THORNBANK G.J. Ballantyne, R.J. Bingham, T. Booth, R.J.G. Lee, A.B. Constable, C.H. Eadie, Z.N.R. Holliday, S.L. Murray, C. J. Camilleri, J.R. Coaton, N.W. D.A.S. Walker. Nicolson, N.M.C. Soave, J.M. Watson, Common, J.D. Coull, L.V. Court, R. L. Adam, R. Booth, F.E. Elder, R.P. Crawford, F.J. Crosthwaite, S.E. Currie, NICOL Halliday, D.A. Hansson-Bolt, A. B.P. Dailey, N.C. Edwards, L.M.W. J.S. Adam, C.A.G. Allison, J.W. Lafayeedney, A.E. Lanni, R.M. Robbins, Ferguson, A.P.J. Harington, S. Harvey, Durning, J.B.R. Greenhalgh, G.McK. L.G.I. Sproat. R. Hastings, A.P. Hay, J.A. Hayward, T. Menzies, B.K. Smith, A.J. Turner, P.T.E. Higgins, K. Hoffmann, R.L. Hunter, G.S. Wilkinson, A. Wilson. WOODLANDS Hutton, S.P.M. King, A.C. Laing, S.E.J. H.E. Stewart, R. Haverson, C.M. Pringle, E.F. Anderson, S. Balfour, P.M.K. Blair Laycock, S.M. MacFarlane, F.L. Mackie, RUTHVEN Oliphant, T.E.J. Coombe, A.C.B. G. Manson, 1. Manson, C.F. Marshall, R.S. King, N.W. Coaton, J.-M. Court, Dundas, M.-J. Heslop, L. Johnston, A.C. R.A. Marshall, S.A. McDonald, J. J.-P.S. Fishback, A.G. Peattie, P.L.S. Little, K.E. Martin, R.H. Perrett. McDougall, A.R. Moodie, L.R. Morley, Silver, I.M. Smith. R.J. Pringle, S.A.R. Readman, G.M. STAFF Seddon, G.M.C. Sim, N.O. Sinclair, SIMPSON Mr D. Armitage, BSc K.A. Singer, R. Stevenson, F.M.S. R.A. Connell, S.McN. Connell, S.M. Mr W.A. Colley, BA Stewart, J. Stone, C.A. Thwaites, G.l. Kilfedder, C.C. Millar, A. Bell, I.J. Gove, Miss J.S.R. Hutcheon, Dip PE Whyte, H.D. Whyte, R.C. Whytock, A.E. Rackley, A.O. Reed, A.R. Sheal, Mr A.E.C. McMorrine, DA E.J.D. Willing. G.P.H. Trayner, B. Tveit, R.D. Wallace. Mr P. Shore, APTC

EDITORIAL Writing the editorial, not in the course it is this “security” that those not siderable Oxbridge representation. The mind-jangling months of May and in the know smirkingly comment upon, School’s “ability to understand” is per­ June, but instead in September, I must condemning Strath as “comprehen­ haps more impressive. The pastoral plead forgiveness for the extra reflec­ sive”. Perhaps, however, those seman­ side of Strathallian life, spearheaded by tive bite this will add to an already tically inclined may notice the inherent Housemasters and Mistress, is astound­ pompous tradition. The question of truth behind the “insult”. According to ing. It is the “security” so provided that why Strathallan should command the Collins, “comprehensive” can mean “of is, in its broadest sense, the School’s degree of loyalty and affection that it broad scope or content ... having the greatest asset. It allows for energetic, does perhaps appears redundant when ability to understand.” Certainly, positive response in all fields which, one considers that many leave the Strathallan’s scope is impressive, with outside the sphere of “labor omnia School, only then to realise that it rep­ national-level recorder, violin, shoot­ vincit”, would be suffocated by cyni­ resents, at least in retrospect, one of the ing, rugby, cricket, tennis and physics, cism and “realism”. most secure periods in their lives. Of as well as magnificent drama and con­ Jonathan Wallace

3 STAFF NOTES People come and people go, but the feature of this year is that more people will be coming than going ! You will find a tribute to Torquil Macleod and his collection of paintings elsewhere; he leaves after 29 years of dedicated service and we all wish him well in a happy retirement. Paul Todd, who has made such a full contribution in Ruthven, on the hills and in front of an electric bass amp, leaves to become Head of Physics at Tonbridge, and the only other departure is that of John and Anne Ford, who leave Nicol after 15 years of selfless care and con­ cern. They hand over the House to Paul and Clare Vallot, and will be living in The Whins. John Broadfoot has become Director of Studies (Arts) and Andrew Murray has taken over as Head of Mr McMorrine and Mr Colley English. During the year, Marie-Laure Crane joined the Modern Languages Depart­ ment, replacing Morag Rogers, and in September four new members of staff arrive: Alasdair and Sheila McMorrine join us from Cranleigh, where he was Head of Art - he will take over from Torquil, and they are both clearly look­ ing forward to returning to their roots; Bill and Ann Colley return to Strathallan, with Bill appointed as Assistant Housemaster in Riley House. Bill and Ann were at Strathallan in the 1980s, and after three years in Spain, have been teaching at Rannoch; David Armitage takes over from Paul Todd in the Physics Department and as Tutor in Ruthven, having moved up from Lancaster RGS, and Philip and Josephine Shore join us, with Philip teaching PE and acting as Mr Armitage, Miss Hutcheon and Mr Shore SSI to the CCF. Philip left the Army in 1993 and has been teaching in Kent for for many years. arrival of Caitlin Ball, Ben Giles, Paul- the past year. Finally, Jennifer Hutcheon The McMorrines, Colleys and Shores Joseph Green and Molly Barnes means arrives as Pipe Major, having run the bring with them seven more young chil­ that things are already completely out of renowned Craigmount High School Band dren to boost a booming population. The control!

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4 SPEECH DAY

Six Governors: Good Men and True

Smooth jazz accompanied the morn­ opened by Mr Dinsmore who gave a tired ears. The most entertaining of the ing as dozens of smartly-hatted women, lively introduction reporting on the recitals were the jazzy pieces, which suited men and kilted children entered year’s progress. Most memorable was his received rapturous applause. the huge white marquee that billowed in tribute to Mr Macleod, who is retiring Hilary Moore’s harp piece enchanted the Scottish summer breeze. Unusually, from teaching Art here since 1965. parents and astounded pupils by the the sun shone, there was absolutely no Mr McPhail’s speech was most enjoy­ sheer number of harp strings involved in indication of rain and although sceptical able and a good length. Next up was Mr a tune as complicated as spaghetti. eyes were cast upwards to the sky - Michael Beale, the Headmaster of By twelve, starched ironed shirts were expecting the water to fall at any Craigclowan, a prep school in Perth. His showing signs of wilting, but the moment - they remained disappointed. first task was to award the multitude of Dixieland Band refreshed the audience Under the massive canopy, gowned prizes, followed by an amusing speech with another smooth number, and with masters patrolled the rows of fidgeting delivered excellently, considering the that “phase one” of Speech Day was white-shirted children straining necks to sporadic squeaks and echoes which over. All that was left was to sing the catch glimpses of parents and band play­ could not be erased from the micro­ National Anthem. The crowd rose once ers. phone, despite desperate attempts by Mr more and a chorus of confident voices The chatting hushed and the crowd Fairbairn. sang together “God Save the Queen”. rose as the Governors took their places Following the speeches there was a on the platform. The speeches were musical performance that relieved our Catherine Jones PRIZES 1994

THE SMITH CUP FOR CAPTAIN OF SCHOOL RICHARD GRAHAM THE HOUSTON PRIZE FOR ALL ROUND MERIT JUAN FIGUEROLA-FERRETTI THE SCANLON CUP FOR MERIT (GIRLS) LESLEY-ANNE DEWAR DUX NICHOLAS HARTLEY THE WILLIAM TATTERSALL ART PRIZE EILIDH CURRIE THE ROBT BARR MEMORIAL PRIZE FOR MUSIC RAJ ARUMUGAM THE PATRICK GRANDISON PRIZE FOR STRINGS HILARY MOORE THE WILFRED HOARE SENIOR READING PRIZE LESLEY-ANNE DEWAR THE RICHARD MOFFAT PRIZE FOR HISTORY CAROLINE PROCTOR THE DAVID BOGIE PRIZE FOR ECONOMICS KATE TURNER THE LORD KINCRAIG PRIZE FOR ENGLISH ALEXANDER MACLEOD THE ROBERT RANKIN PRIZE FOR MATHS TIMOTHY GOODY ELLIOTT TROPHY - DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY HELEN SWINBANKS GEOGRAPHY RICHARD GRAHAM FRENCH LINDSEY MOIR GERMAN JONATHAN WALLACE MATHEMATICS HILARY MOORE CHEMISTRY PAUL HENDERSON PHYSICS HILARY MOORE BIOLOGY PAUL HENDERSON ART LUCY QUARRY DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY GEORGE KITSON BUSINESS STUDIES RICHARD GRAHAM Mr Michael Beale MANAGEMENT & INFORMATION STUDIES PAUL JOHNSTON

5 EXTRACT FROM THE HEADMASTER’S SPEECH At my last school, I quickly discov­ stand them in good stead - certainly girls ered that anyone playing in the cricket and boys face more and more pressures match on Speech Day would be able to and the experience of taking responsibil­ miss the speeches. First staff applica­ ity that can be gained in the Sixth Form tions for places in the side were received here is invaluable. by the Master in charge of cricket in the And what of the future? Her previous September; umpiring was also Majesty’s Inspectors re-visit the School very popular and if there was a danger in a few weeks’ time and I look forward that the match would finish early, both to outlining our responses to their recom­ sides conspired to keep things going until mendations. Perhaps the most significant they were safe. Some years it rained, but of these is that next year will see the the game was never cancelled. introduction of two extra periods in the Speeches on Speech Day are, there­ week - I have bowed to pressure from fore, a new experience for me, another pupils - which will allow the develop­ first in a year of firsts; just last week I ment of a programme for the Expressive experienced another first when after Arts and personal and social education; nearly 30 years of keeping wicket I had a the activities timetable is being re­ tooth knocked out for the first time and vamped and will offer more alternatives to boys and girls throughout the School. for this unique experience I am indebted As the Chairman has outlined, improved to the artificial wicket at Kinross, my Mr McPhail facilities will enhance both teaching and failing eyesight and Duncan Camilleri. I extra-curricular activities. Our rugby would thank him personally, but he side will return fresh from a tour of seems to have been avoiding me. Finally, I would like to embarrass some of you sitting out there. The arrival Australia and the girls will have been Faced with the novelty of speeches on of a new Headmaster is a shock for all toiling on the sands of Barbados. Speech Day the danger is that I won’t concerned but I have enjoyed tremendous Yet there is a temptation to believe that know the form on this sort of occasion, help and support from the School in what are usually described as troubled but on this, as on so much else, I have Prefects. They tell me what they think, times for independent boarding schools, been well briefed. I have not lacked they have run the day to day routine of Strathallan has been LUCKY to flourish. advice since my arrival last July and for the School diligently and they have The American humorist, Stephen that I have been very grateful. Parents earned the respect of their peers. In Leacock, had the answer to that when he have told me what they like and do not today’s times, when the old-fashioned said, “I am a great believer in luck and I like about the School and how it should school hierarchies have, I am pleased to find the harder 1 work the more I have of develop in future and 1 look forward to say, largely disappeared, the Prefects’ job it”. the findings of our latest market research has become increasingly difficult. To those pupils for whom this is their survey. Many thanks to parents, pupils Respect has to be earned. Richard last Speech Day until they return as par­ and staff for their prompt response. I Graham and his team have responded to ents, or dare I say it, TEACHERS, I don’t know whether it is a good sign, but the challenge with courage and commit­ would say work hard, be lucky and enjoy the company conducting the survey say ment and I am sure the experience will the years ahead. the response is the best they have ever had. Several members of staff have given me books on how to run a school, or even how to run a business; the Captain of School has explained how things have always been done. Indeed, I should have read the signs when, early on in my first term, I received a letter from one Prep School Headmaster addressed to Mr McPhail c/o Mrs Innes - those of you who have met my Secretary will know the sense of that! All new Headmasters are, I suspect, prone to paranoia which stems from the fact that they are either greeted with the statement, “You’ve got a job on your hands!” or “That’s a tough act to fol­ low.” Both suggest daunting tasks but I am very grateful that I fall into the latter camp and it has been a great delight for Liz and myself to take over such a happy and successful school. Thanks also to all those pupils, staff, parents and governors who have made our children so welcome and helped them to settle in. That they have adjusted so easily to life here is a tribute to the friendly and open atmos­ phere that characterises the School...... RILEY

In October ’93 the contractors arrived. They were a close second ‘on site’ to a brave sentry box which guarded the entrance to the ‘cage’ which delineated the area under construction. On closer inspection, this sentry box advertised on its door “OWEN PUGH, THE POR- TALOO’. A lesson in priorities! The great movement of earth which followed over the next days demonstrated the sense of purpose of the contractors and added to the air of expectancy of the Riley inmates. “Will it be finished by half term, sir?” One year later the answer is, “We’ll see. Probably.” There was a fair amount of to-ing and fro-ing over the year. The boys moved across with Mr Keith to the old Ruthven accommodation in the Main Building, the girls moved into the boys’ dormito­ ries and the contractors moved into the girls’ dormitory. Complicated - but it worked. Sadly, for many of the children whose routines were disrupted, the bene­ fit of the new building and of the refur­ number they seemed to favour. The bishment was not to be theirs and they girls, however, are in threes, fours and have been horrified on return visits to fives, yet the amount of rubbish in each discover that the class of ‘94 - the softies dorm seems to weigh about the same - I - not only have hot water but they have wonder why, girls? basins to put it in! They have also been Do come and have a look - at the highly impressed by the electric win­ House, that is, not the rubbish. You dows which top the barrel-shaped roof of would be most welcome - particularly if the entrance/social hall. Should these be you bring your own screw driver! left open when rain is about, they whir A.T. back down to the closed position. The new Riley Matron is not called Miss Above: Moneypenny but Freda Stewart. Construction Welcome. Meanwhile the ‘old’ Matron, under way Muriel Skinner, has kindly agreed to stay on until Christmas to see us all through Right: Speaks for the move. itself Bill and Anne Colley have made a very welcome return after seven years Below: The new and this time they have brought with wing on the first them their pups, son Calum and twins day o f term Euan and Lucy. They are living in a converted version of what was the Housemaster’s accommodation in the paddock courtyard. They are surrounded by girls: above them, along the length of the building and downstairs in what was Hamilton dormitory. The girls also have their own “sitting room” in what used to be the loos and basins for Hamilton/Moncreiffe and the boot room. If nothing else has, this raised a wry smile on the faces of some ex-Gnome males. The Housemaster’s accommoda­ tion has moved to a ‘wigwam’ attached to the quarry end of the new building. The boys, too, have sitting rooms in Islay and Drumfinn, one for the First Forms and one for the Second. Sadly, not a lot of “sitting” seems to have been done in them yet! Everybody can mix in the Social Hall - somebody please think of a better name - and “everybody” will include, hopefully, children, visiting rel­ atives, staff and so on. There is not a bunk to be seen - yet! The boys are in dorms of ten-ish - a

7 This page is brought to you by mem­ bers of the editorial panel of the Gnominal News. This is an A4 newslet­ ter which has been sent out to parents twice per term during the past year. The idea is that some parents would get some news, some times. It has been welcomed by parents - at least those who have received it! - and we have enjoyed doing it. Sadly, the last issue has come and gone but hopefully this will be replaced by a new paper and a new news team next year. As this year has drawn to an end so also has the life of the Old Riley Buildings. Although the outside of the buildings will remain, the insides will be remade and there is a large extension which is looking more and more as if it is going to be a great bonus for the new­ comers into Riley House next year (Softies!). How come we did not get all this insulation, double glazing, doors that close and non-stop hot water? Anyhow we are shedding our Riley skins and set­ ting off on an exciting future in the Senior School. The Old Order Changeth

RILEY MUSIC RILEY ENTERTAINMENT GNOMES ON THE LOOSE This year the music has been of a very This year Sets 1 and 2 wrote the We were very fortunate to get enough high standard and most people have had Entertainment throughout the Autumn tickets for everyone to go to the a go at some instrument over the year. and Spring Terms. The play was adapted Playhouse to see Les Miserables. For the first time we have had our own from the novel Smith by Leon Garfield. Everybody also wanted to see Walt Jazz Band which is called the We changed the name to Jones and set to Disney’s Aladdin on the big screen in Metrognomes! work. With eight scenes and seven songs Dundee and shortly after we were back The band played in St Mary’s Church, we can safely say it was a musical. It was in Dundee for an afternoon’s bowling. Broughty Ferry, St John’s Kirk, Perth, a great success because everyone put The Second Form went on their Science on Speech day and, of course, during 100% effort into it, from the least person trip to the Scottish Deer Centre and 2J Riley’s own mini concerts. These were in the crowd scene to the biggest part in were taken into Perth to watch the play very successful - after a lot of hard prac­ the play. Many thanks are due to Mr Little Shop of Horrors. The Jiving Lindy tice - and we reckon we received the Murray for directing, Mr Dutton for the Hoppers and TAG Theatre Group came loudest applause on Speech Day! music and Nicol Nicolson (again) for to give us workshops and then put on We would like to express our gratitude some of the words. Because of Senior performances for us. We also went to the to the new Music Master, Mr Dutton, for School exams, Mr Macleod and Mr Zap Zone which was great fun. Mr T giving everybody an incentive to prove O’Neill did the set in three hours the ended up with a total of minus one thou­ their musical ability and to get out there night before we performed. It was defi­ sand two hundred points. We wonder and have a go. nitely one of the best. why!

Assorted entertainers Jonathan Dailey 'IK;

Gambolling Gnomes

Ruth advises H arry... again

Louise, Ruth, Gemma and Tara after lights out!

Gnomes put a smile on the snow

BOYS’ SPORT GIRLS’ SPORT CAMPING AT THE ABERLOUR So that the Contractors could get on The hockey got off to a great start in GAMES with their work we had fewer boys in September but then seemed to dwindle a On Friday, 10 June, all the Second Riley this year and most of us - apart little whereas the netball which was not Form Boys set off for their campsite just from big Brian - were quite small so so strong to begin with got better and south of Banff. We arrived in the early although we played rugby quite well we better and by the end of the season we evening and by 7.00 we had headed for were caught and squashed when we had only lost two of our matches. the beach and the North Sea. Nearly broke through. Still, we enjoyed it and Lacrosse in the Spring Term went well everyone went in, including Mr Keith - we won our last match of the season 32-5 although the weather conditions left a lit­ and that gave the whales a shock. In the against Madras College. The weather tle to be desired. At the St Margaret’s morning, we cooked our own breakfast was so bad, the season ended much earli­ tournament we won four of our games. and then we were off to the games at er than it should have done. In the cricket Not bad for beginners! The Summer Aberlour School. Big Brian Sneddon and the hockey size did not matter so Term was best of all with the tennis and hurled the haggis 50 metres and didn’t much and we got on much better. We the rounders. The tennis team did win! He came second by 3 cms! won most of our hockey matches during extremely well, only losing one match. Anyhow, after the hill race, tossing the the term and reached the quarter finals of At the Kilgraston tournament, Miranda caber, the archery, the dancing, the the Sixes Competition. The highlight of Harington and Ruth Sharp managed to obstacle race and the tug-o’-war, we the cricket season was the nail-biter get to the final and again at the New came back with the trophy for the fourth against Fettes. Eleven runs to score in the Park tournament. On this occasion they time in four years. Thanks to Mr Keith last over. We won off the last ball. Well knocked out Christina Breaden and and Mr Bolton for a great weekend. done Euan Matheson. Anneke Laux in the semi’s. (Mr Murray says the U12s are going to win next year!) These pages have been compiled by the Editors of the ‘Gnominal News’

9 FREELAND

First of all I would like to thank all have found that liberty and all of sing. When Ariel, invisible, plays it those who bring some kind of life to them have disappeared. Now others for them they think the isle possessed the empty island of bricks and mortar will inhabit their studies, exercise of malevolent spirits. But Caliban that lies beyond my study door, now their duties, call their lines down the reassures them that all is well and that the summer holidays have corridors, make entrances and exits will be well: arrived. Jessie, Janet and Mary have through doors where they once made “Be not afraid: the isle is full of battled with the flotsam, jetsam and theirs. The fact that you knew it was noises just plain chaos of boys’ ways; Chris coming doesn’t make the absence Sounds and sweet airs, that give Mayes, Richard Fitzsimmons, Robert easier, doesn’t make any less vivid delight and hurt not.” Proctor and Carol Duncan have given the sense of the swift passage of time I started my report with the notion greatly of their energy and time in and the insubstantiality of our lives of loss, of how insubstantial our providing those in Freeland with a and the connections thereof: school days are, how one bunch of choice of strong and very different “These our actors actors is replaced by another and how characters with whom to relate. As I foretold you, were all spirits all that seems so real dissolves and Lesley has done a huge amount of and becomes as indistinct as water is in food-providing, water-carrying and Are melted into air, into thin air.” water. I don’t really think that’s quite advice-planting to ensure the Third I suppose, like some kind of pro­ the case. The alarms and excursions Formers settle in and that the most ducer, I should acknowledge the cast become the stuff of memories and wayward member of the community, and the production team at the end of anecdotes but the isle remains full of myself, is kept in touch with the real­ the performance. But things break noises and spirits that do not hurt. ity of day-to-day administration and down when deciding to try to give the Why? Because, shipwrecked on a practical view of what can and can­ role of Caliban (a savage and islands, if you want to keep yourself not be achieved. A Housemaster has deformed slave) to Chris Ninham for company and your company is no secret book of knowledge, no his decorating, or Steve Harrod for worthwhile, you’d rather sing a song magic wand to set the world right his rugby courtesy, to J.J. for his love than make guttural noises at the jun­ and anyone who pushes him out of of ballet or to Hugh Dodd pure and gle back-drop. his study and into the world of nature simple. Paul certainly provided us Duncan, Peter and Ewan picked up that will not be taught to perform a with some excellently loud sound the challenge of the Senior House circus of civilised tricks ought to be effects, but what about Andrew Drama and created something of fun thanked. So thanks too, to all the Hodgson as Ariel (an airy Spirit) ? and value. Lots of boys accepted boys who make my life so interest­ That post should surely go to Shane challenges in sport, in activities, in ingly uncomfortable. for his mischievousness or George pastimes and in work and while they When the Freeland Players staged (though he was possessed of a continue to do so, living on desert their excerpt from The Tempest I Caliban-like fishiness on Loch Fitty) islands is always going to be interest­ couldn’t help being struck by Art’s for his delicate music or Tim for his ing for there will be lots of tunes to imitation of Life: Freeland had once ability to disappear into thin air. listen to. again come second in a House Stephano (a drunken butler) could C.N.C. Competition. Moreover it seemed to have some connection with Chaz in a me how appropriate the metaphor of gas mask or Jimmy in free-fall after the island is, not only for the individ­ the final MIS paper. As special- ual in whom savage vices and effects man Jonathan certainly ren­ civilised virtues war, but also for the dered the smoke-machine superflu­ kingdom in which Love and Law ous. The part of Prospero would have seek balance and, furthermore, for to go to Henry for the wisdom of his the boarding house in which the racing tips and B.J. would have a civilised can become vicious and the dual role as stunt man and adviser on savage discover a happy innocence. ballistics. Late August or early September sees None of it will really do, for a storm of activity that brings the Shakespeare’s Dramatis Personae in mellow holiday season to a close and The Tempest are not so much charac­ throws a full ship’s company upon ters as different aspects of humanity the shores of Freeland, amidst a and what echoes around the empty wreckage of trunks and the spilled auditorium is the applause: applause cargo of over-loaded cars. For some for the academic prizes won - the it is a maiden voyage and the island School Dux, the CDT, Mathematics holds both infinite promise and and MIS prizes - the various Duke of unimaginable terrors. For them there Edinburgh golds, selection for repre­ is Stephano’s resolve: “This will be a sentative sides in various sports. brave kingdom to me, where I shall What I shall remember this last year have my music for nothing.” Perhaps for is the way examinations were they will come to know that nothing focused on, while the life of the comes of nothing and that which is to House was conducted with honesty, be enjoyed has to be worked and integrity and a sense of humour and played for. For others, old hands, proportion. knowledge of such islands is, in In the central section of The varying degrees, well-seasoned. Tempest there is a scene of some con­ Knowledge alone, however, does not siderable disorder. Stephano and preclude the journey through ‘pick­ Trinculo are at war with each other, ing grass and thorns’ to ‘the filthy- Caliban is plotting the murder of Bsj 5 mantled pool’, nor secure the path to Prospero and the duo cannot recall happy liberty. Some of the Leavers the melody of the song they would David Nesbitt

10 NICOL This is the fifteenth and last of these Haenle and Struan Fairbairn represented in facilities, academic standards and co­ notes I shall write, and, even after some school tennis. education have brought more sophisticat­ 12,000 words, I’m still not sure what a The ubiquitous Raj Arumugam was ed and caring attitudes and Strathallan is House report is meant to be. Is it a eulo­ again a star in his own jazz band and the undoubtedly a far better place to spend gy of the ‘all my geese are swans’ type orchestra, and made a fine Peter Quince the formative years. But with the 'soften­ so favoured by vibrant young in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. He was ing of the edges’ has come a worrying Housemasters, or is it the objective joined there by Paul Henderson as side to individualism which is too often truth? (none of us could stand up to that Theseus, and a fetching King of the concerned with rights rather than duties. !) Perhaps it should be a ‘state of the Fairies from Noel Charlier. As a musi­ What has not changed is the friendliness nation’ review of the social and moral cian Juan Figuerola lost nothing in lumi­ of staff and pupils which marks progress in the year. (Even cynical old nosity to Raj, playing wonderful solos at Strathallan, and I can look back on many Housemasters might feel there has been a several concerts. Working in his second smiling faces. bit of this !) Ought it to be an exhortation language, Juan achieved so much in his So goodbye and, oh yes, thanks for all to do better next time ? (This is someone two years with us that he merited the the fish ! else’s problem!) Or should it be one of Houston Prize. Paul Henderson picked up J.N.F. those incredibly witty articles dropping two academic prizes, and he, James Steel lots of nicknames and ‘in’ jokes just to and Ali Bennett led the CCF. As usual, show how in touch the Housemaster real­ Nicolites figured strongly in the Pipe ly is ? (A style I’ve reserved for Band. In spite of his customary ‘wobble’, Christmas entertainments !) James Steel was second in the inter- In the event most reports come down school drumming, and Andrew Scott was to a pot pourri of these notions, and this the smartest piper. Ross Cumming is what follows. grasped an internal piping award. One thing I’m sure would be included The Junior House Play was conceived, is thanks. The support I have received written and almost entirely performed by since Nicol finally moved into its new Colin (Puttnam) Perry, who gallantly house has been magnificent. The ‘girls’ arose from his ‘flu bed only to be com­ (Davina and Jean) battled, usually suc­ mitted to an appendectomy ward the next cessfully, to keep brewing rooms, com­ day! In a strong senior competition Nick mon rooms and corridors spotless. Morley, Peter Yeates and producer David Despite Phil’s, Cami’s, Jim’s and even Man paced their menacing performances the illustrious Skeg’s inability to under­ immaculately. stand the function of wardrobes, studies These were the heroes of 93/94, but have been tidy. Mrs Murray has kept there have been few who have not con­ Mr Ford - on the run ? cool under fire, and dispensed sheets, tributed to the positive feeling abroad. fines, tuck and Sudafed with good Most occupied their time gainfully, At the end of the Summer Term we are humour and efficiency, while still find­ behaviour was sensible and there were to lose our Housemaster. Having served ing time to keep the Nicol tartan immac­ mercifully few frictions. All this can be his sentence as the Nicol Housemaster ulate. Out visiting tutors, Mr Wands and put down to excellent leadership from for the past 15 years, the Fordist penance Dr Tod, have been equal stalwarts. Each Prefects. Duncan Dunlop was a sympa­ comes to an end. in his inimitable way has done much to thetic, well-organised and utterly com­ Just as we shall no longer be woken by add to that indefinable Nicol atmosphere. mitted Head of House. He goes off to a his mellifluous tones at absurdly early As I hand on the mantle to Paul Vallot New Zealand school to do a not dissimi­ times in the morning, neither shall he be I cannot thank him and Clare enough for lar job - our loss, their gain. He was overwhelmed by the multitude of all they have done to make recent years enthusiastically supported in the sty by sonorous stereos at all hours throughout so enjoyable for Anne and me. The next Ali Bennett and, when not out canvassing the day. However, he will not be able to generation of Nicolites are in safe hands, for the Tory party, John Green. An inter­ entirely escape many lively (if not exu­ and I wish them all the luck in the world esting bunch of House Prefects usually berant) Nicol pupils, as he will be as they embark on their ‘life sentence’. got things right. The next litter of piglets remaining in the Biology Department. Although it was not a good year for look equally promising, and we congratu­ Having been party to only three years cups (we collected only one for team late Andrew Scott in breaking Ruthven’s of his reign, I cannot reflect completely sport, Nick’s swimmers again proving stranglehold on Head of School. on Mr Ford, but I believe that I can safe­ Nicol ownership), there were a number To all who leave and all who remain I ly say that he has been an ebullient, stal­ of outstanding sporting, musical and aca­ wish the best of futures. Anne and I will wart, forbearing and at the same time demic personalities. James Henderson always be glad to see you at The Whins guileful pedagogue and Housemaster. received national press coverage for his (particularly if you fancy a spot of gar­ Although we are to relinquish him, per­ remarkable recovery from his awful road dening !) haps all is not lost, as Mr Vallot will be accident in Chile to play rugby for I expect my fans (if there are any left taking over as the Nicol autocrat. As Scottish Schools. John Green popped up reading) will want a few final sagacious soon as Winter Term 1994 starts, it will everywhere, like a bad joke, to play words, so here goes. be a challenge for the Upper Sixth to get President’s rugby, captain hockey again What are my reflections after fifteen him under control, or should I say on and win the coveted Campbell Award. years of Housemastering ? When I first side! The changes do not end here: we Big Jim reappeared briefly in the cricket came to Strathallan conditions were bar­ shall see Mr Fitzsimmons moving into XI, only to be overtaken by the viciously barous. The dorms were intolerably the flat, and into the position of House spinning Duncan Camilleri. Ali Bennett scruffy and cold, the showers glistened Tutor. Another new presence will be captained athletics, and let few right with green algae, and, worst of all (pace seen in the guise of Mr Ross. We shall, wingers past in the hockey team. There Miss Smith) there were no girls ! of course, be retaining the services of Dr was the usual heavy presence in shooting Nevertheless, the old guard had their Tod (one d as in God!) and Mr Wands. with Jeremy Turner, David Taylor and merits. People were straightforward, hard Finally, we all extend a wholehearted Neil Melville all in the team. Alastair working, proud of the School, and, if thank you to the omnipotent Mr Ford and Wanless captained squash with typical caught doing wrong, accepted punish­ wish him all the best. efficiency, and Duncan Dunlop, Phil ment gracefully. The huge improvement Christopher Dorman

11 RUTHVEN That this year was such a success is a entertained in style to reach the final of “starred” in the outstanding School pro­ great credit to the Senior members of the the Cricket and the Middles and the duction of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. House, the often remarkable efforts of Seniors led the way in our retaining the Ali Gaw (Pipe Major) and Alex Macleod the Juniors and the dedication of all Inter-House Cross Country, Squash and set the standards in the Pipe Band, those involved in the guidance, teaching Tennis Cups. As for the Juniors, they Ruthven having representation from and care of everyone in Ruthven. showed terrific spirit and skill throughout every year group in the Band - Third In Richard Graham we had an out­ the year, converting the pressure of being Formers Timothy Elliott and Robbie standing Head of School, one who con­ favourites into some top class perfor­ Gemmill making their debuts. Russell tributed in all areas of School life, mances. Perhaps we saved the best for Griffiths and David Macleod flew the showed remarkable resilience when last, winning the Sports Day Inter-House flag in the Orchestra, Robert Ionides in times were hard and one who received a Athletics with many memorable contri­ the Jazz Band, and it was encouraging to standing ovation from his peers both butions throughout the age groups, points see so many Ruthven-ites in the Choral before and after an excellent speech at being won by “athletes” of all shapes and Society. the Leavers’ Dinner. We wish him luck sizes. Collecting the Rowan Cup for On a personal note, three things. Many in his bid to read Law at Cambridge. Rod Standards was indicative of the spirit and thanks to all those who have helped in Williams, despite being Welsh, proved to commitment shown by the members of whatever way to make the arrival of and be an excellent Head of House and, sup­ the House. first few months with our daughter, ported by a talented and idiosyncratic Academically, the ’93-’94 Ruthvenites Molly, so enjoyable. Secondly, to the body of Prefects, we managed to negoti­ covered a broad range of abilities. We Tutors and Staff of Ruthven - sincere ate the many tricky moments without had four Oxbridge candidates amongst thanks for all your support, encourage­ permanent damage! Good luck to the leavers, and others who will have ment and dedicated hard work. To Paul Jonathan Wallace, reading History and found the Highers a real challenge! This Todd - we will all miss you - good luck German at St John’s College, Oxford; to diversity provides many and varied as Head of Physics at Tonbridge School, Alex Macleod, teaching in Africa next opportunities - the large majority rise to Kent. To my wife and daughter, an extra year and to Martin Fitchie, working for the occasion. It was encouraging to find special thanks! Finally, to the Leavers, Operation Raleigh in Malaysia. that most of those who find the work thanks for a great five years. It was a It was a very successful year on the more difficult were sticking to the task, pleasure to be involved with you all and sports front - Ruthven winning 12 tro­ whilst those at “the top end” set appropri­ thanks for sharing so much with us. phies in all! The efforts of the seniors ately high goals. Good luck, keep in touch and I hope helped to inspire the younger brethren, On the cultural front, we produced two things are going well as you read this. the Juniors completing a unique “Grand excellent and critically acclaimed perfor­ Let us hope that we can continue to Slam” by capturing the Rugby, Indoor mances in the Inter-House Drama com­ harness the positive aspects that were to Hockey, Basketball, Cricket and Football petitions. Gordon Duncan and Nicol the fore this year and build upon what we trophies. The Senior XV played with Nicolson won prizes at the Edinburgh have already worked hard to achieve. great spirit in the Rugby, the 1st VI and Perth Festivals, and Finn Syme DJ.B.

■ J J* !SS*~ f t «

i

James Macdonald and Michael Halliday

12 SIMPSON When I accepted the job as where he will go to read Music. Graeme Kettle, Roderick Murray and Housemaster of Simpson, I had a fair None who saw the School Play could Scott Mitchell on the abbreviated Sports idea of what lay ahead. Certainly, any have failed to be impressed by the perfor­ Day at the end of the Summer Term was grey areas were, as the year progressed, mance of Alistair Duncan as “Bottom”. a fitting end to a year of excellent sport­ well and truly clarified by some of our In an outstanding production of A ing performances. more colourful coves. Simpson has been Midsummer Night’s Dream, Ali per­ It has been a different place this year - a source of much enjoyment for me ... formed superbly and, for me, stole the Caitlin instead of Toddy, barbecues in things happen here! show. Laurie Crump and Jamie Stirling the snow, Sky instead of Paul Heslop’s New ideas are not always welcome, also represented the House in the play. videos! Things have gone very well. This but they do soon become de rigueur, and With such talent being unearthed in the is only possible with good help. Simpson I am grateful for the tolerance shown by School production, we were eagerly owes much to the efforts of a few people Simpsonites to the changes that needs awaiting the Senior Drama production, over the past twelve months. Rich Morris must accompany a new Housemaster. Mr which ultimately fell foul of the examina­ was an excellent Head of House - Du Boulay’s greatest legacy to me has tions. Our juniors showed that they too always willing to help and offer sugges­ been the fierce loyalty to the House, and have much to offer the dramatic world. tions. The House Prefects were equally ultimately to one another, that is evinced Alasdair Grieve starred in a production able, and helped make things run by the young men of Simpson. It has that saw Tom Forster impersonating smoothly within. Special thanks must go given me a very secure base upon which Schwarzenegger, and Mark Sutcliffe to Mr Crosfield, the Senior Tutor, for his to work. impersonating Carmen Miranda. Well unending loyalty and devotion to duty. Simpson has taken its fair share of done, Thespians. His efforts this year have been a tremen­ glory this year. When all were fit, no Although there were notable successes dous help to this fledgling Housemaster. fewer than seven players in the 1st XV throughout the year, it is wrong to think And where would we have been without came from Simpson. Garry Burton (our that only our “wins” can be defined as the smiling face of Mr Clark? Ever pensioner) had an outstanding year as successes. Some really outstanding per­ cheerful, his efforts with the Fifth Form Captain of Rugby. Lee Walker won a formances that saw us come second, or boys were appreciated by all. Mr Scottish Schools’ Rugby Cap, and the indeed second last, were as important to Summersgill continues to carry the man­ Senior XV won the Inter-House the House as anything else in which the tle of sanity, and his thoroughness and Competition. For the second year, Mark boys competed. The mass participation of good humour are one of our special Ironside’s men won the Senior Football the seniors in the House Cross Country assets. Thanks, too, to Mr Ross, whose competition. Dougal Fergusson’s pres­ was one such occasion. Although they long association with Simpson ended this ence was significant in that victory, and resembled a flock of swamp parrots as year. We hope he enjoys Nicol. To that augers well for next year’s matches. they descended upon Little Acre, their Grace, Ella and Maree, a special thank Zak Thomson led Simpson to a success­ efforts managed to lift Simpson off last you. Your task is immense and you do it ful defence of the skiing trophy, and the place. It was good clean fun, and that is with a humour I could never maintain return of Phil Hodgson, Clark Cooper as important as any win. Similarly, the under the circumstances. and Scott Mitchell should ensure a junior Rugby XV lost to Ruthven in the To the boys in the House - a personal fiercely contested event next February. final of their competition, but did so in a thank you. You accepted us warmly and Nev’s Globetrotters retained the Senior manner that can only be described as “a have been a delight to work with. Louise Basketball trophy - no doubt, Gilbert gutsy effort”. Performances in the Senior and I are especially thrilled by the way Stevenson will be keen to carry Nev’s Indoor Hockey, Junior Cricket and you accepted Caitlin. She is certainly mantle into next year’s competition. As Football were all worthy of praise, as of fond of her big brothers! Thanks for a the year progressed, Simpson were able course was the Tennis team’s effort in great year. to retain two other trophies - Senior the final of their competition. The Junior Cricket and Golf. Congratulations also 4,400-metre relay win by Andrew and A.R.B. to our Curlers - Tom Edwards, Logie Mackenzie and Allan Clark - who won the Miller-Drummond Trophy in March. Special mention must go to Colin Mitchell, whose outstanding golfing per­ formances earned him another Scottish Schools’ Cap. Reporting these sporting successes is a pleasant task, but it suggests that the men of Simpson have only a limited sphere of ability. Nothing could be further from the truth. A cultural potpourri flourishes in the House, and this was evinced by some excellent performances during the year. Led by “Mr Culture” himself (Laurie Crump), Simpsonites were at the fore at numerous musical performances, including Headmaster’s Music and Speech Day. Laurie has assumed the limelight often in recent years, and it was very pleasing to see Duncan Smith per­ form on the horn at the second Headmaster’s Music evening. Exciting too, is the fact that the younger Crump, Harry, will join Simpson in September. Congratulations must go to Laurie on his offer of a place at St Anne’s, Oxford, Mr Ball has taken on the House

13 THORNBANK As 1 write this report in the relaxing Tennis competition but like in the So, all in all, it has been a good year setting of Cultybraggan Army Training Hockey Competition the Juniors won the although a few in the House have taken Camp, a former prisoner of war camp, day. However, sadly we have a space on up much of my time - time which cannot Thornbank House and its inmates takes our shelf where the Badminton trophy be devoted to others. Even more time on a completely new complexion! could s it..... would have been lost had the Upper Nevertheless, I can be positive this year, Two thirds of the House have now Sixth not been working away quietly in as most of the girls made a very pleasing either been mentioned by name or have the background to solve problems before contribution to both the House and the contributed in these sporting team suc­ they reached me. This Upper Sixth leave School. cesses. There is some overlap in drama as the first Third Formers in the House. An excellent Junior House Drama and sport, with the remainder of the They were the ones who started with the Competition play, The Butler Did It, House contributing on the musical front. House motto of: written by Angela Higgins, produced a The Winter Headmaster’s Music, as it Coming together is a beginning Best Actress prize for Sarah Drury as should be called now, saw wonderful Keeping together is progress cook and Best Supporting Actress for performances from those in the String Working together is success. Polly Sutherland as Geraldine. Our next Orchestra and the Orchestra and there They have certainly been a wonderful theatrical contribution was in the School were solos from Agnes Bradley on vio­ bunch. They, too, have had their ‘words Play, A Midsummer Night's Dream, star­ lin, Camilla MacDonell on clarsach, of comfort’ from me in the past - they ring Kirsty Palmer, Lesley-Anne Dewar, Kristine Burr on clarinet and Kirsty are not all angels - but they had that Rowan Pearman, Abigail Barlow, Buchanan on cello. Many sang in the instinct when to draw the line and they Camilla MacDonell, Marijke Hansson- Highland Suite or in the Choral Society’s never stepped over it. Working together Bolt, Angela Higgins, Sally Burrell and first public appearance. Others sang or with them has been a success and 1 wish Olivia Wands. Helping backstage were entertained in a most memorable them well in the future. Lucy-Anne Bryans, Hanna Kranenburg, Christmas House Party, at least that was Working with my tutorial team of Mr Emma Dooley, Kim Fowler, Catherine what Thomas McPhail said at the end of Smith (no relation before rumours Cochran and Tui Sang. The backstage the evening despite sleeping through spread), Miss Carlisle, Mrs Summersgill crew were so obviously inspired by step­ most of it. The same group of talented and Mrs Watson has been most success­ ping on to the boards to help with props musicians took part in the St Andrew’s ful also as they really all pull together that they volunteered their services for Night celebrations. The additional and are eager to help the girls in any way the Senior House Drama Competition as Headmaster’s Music at the end of the they can. Mrs Barnes has been leading a actresses - and not a bad job they made Summer term featured a solo from Agnes quiet life away from us since Christmas of it. Rowan transformed from Puck to on violin, a piece from Camilla which and we thank her for her work till then Margrit; Hanna moved to front of stage Lucy Webster accompanied by voice, and more recently for the entertainment with a very convincing monologue; Rosie Clegg in a recorder group and the her daughter is now providing the girls Lucy-Anne, we knew, had backache, but Orchestra members again. with on a regular basis. Morag took over as Mrs C she had us all in pain; Eilidh Still on the cultural side, many in the as Matron in January and, strangely Currie played a most sympathetic House found time to take part in festi­ enough, seems keen to carry on after Doreen; Marijke shed her Fairy outfit to vals. November saw Burns celebrated by June. Liz and Moira battle away each be a music-crazed visitor to the laundry Catherine Gdula, Claire Ketcher, Natalie day lifting the same games kit off floors, with Kirstine Lawson lugging baskets of Young and Lesley-Anne Dewar. At the clearing the same sinks and trying to washing around. A good back-up team of Perthshire Festival Verse Speaking hoover Tui’s floor at least once every Sally, Vicky Henderson and Kim Classes Helen Nesbitt was awarded a dis­ month - well done. Fowler, together with Caroline Frame’s tinction for her Shakespeare piece; at the In Thornbank life goes on and I only well designed programme, all con­ Edinburgh Festival Verse Speaking hope the few fighting against the system tributed to Thornbank winning a Drama Competition Emma Dilger, Claire will now channel their efforts in a posi­ Competition for the first time. Just Halliday and Claire Ketcher gained tive way as many of them have their rewards for Lesley-Anne as Director Standard Awards for dramatic scenes; names listed above and can make a great who has been involved in every form of followed by Claire Ketcher and Kristine contribution to House and School life in drama within the House and School. Burr being first equal and awarded the future. Well done on the Drama front, girls. Merits in Prose-Reading. LJ.S. More to be positive about - the sport­ Despite C.J., Hanna and Tui gaining ing success this year. I am loathe to say credits and Kim, Clare Lochore and “again” as Woodlands gave us a run for Rowan being awarded passes in the our money all through the year. The Young Enterprise Examination, we came Hockey produced a close match between last in the Stocks and Shares Competition the Seniors with the Juniors having to - a mere £80,000 odd behind Woodlands. hold their own which they did with sev­ Numerous Art Distinctions were shared eral goals. The roles were reversed in the by girls in the Senior years. Marijke won netball when our Juniors were convinc­ a Drumming Cup, Louise Duncan won ingly beaten and the trophy depended on an effort prize. Eilidh Currie the William our Seniors. Woodlands insisted the Tattersall Art Prize and Lesley-Anne the match be played on a date which did not Reading Prize along with the coveted please some in the House and this obvi­ Scanlan cup for all round Merit - Girls. ously inspired them to the narrowest of How the girls managed to fit all this in victories. The Cross-Country team, who and visit Molly Barnes for hours on end I always love to see their names posted on don’t know. How did the Upper Sixth the team list came out on top as did the find the time to put together their outra­ Athletics team which contained a large geous dress for their Bad Taste Dinner let number of individually sound perfor­ alone cook a most splendid meal enjoyed mances, including good efforts from by several members of the Masters’ those who normally play tennis. Common Room and several non-mem­ Woodlands were ahead in the Senior bers? Marijke Hansson-Bolt

14 WOODLANDS There can be no doubt that those who ning against Thornbank. The Cross School. These charitable efforts are not take on the most challenging workload Country runners did particularly well, with unusual, but they are very much worth and the most additional activities are Lucy Quarry coming second in the Girls’ recording and congratulating. eventually the most successful and not Senior event, Melissa Gillingham winning There are doubtless other worthy events infrequently the happiest people in the the Intermediate and Alison Hunter the and personal achievements which time House, and the House tutorial staff have Junior. In the Tennis, the seniors did well and space (and perhaps memory) will made efforts over the year to ensure that to win their half of the competition whilst exclude from this report. One which adequate opportunities for quiet personal the juniors, despite a good win from Elise should be mentioned, because it has a study have been available and have been Rankin and Kirsty Glimm, went under direct bearing upon the success of girls in used to advantage. It may seem to the with just too few points to gain the trophy. the School, was the participation for the casual observer that there is too much Perhaps we shall do even better in the year first time of a Strathallan Girls’ Team in emphasis on work and insufficient time ahead, but by any standards the House has the Highland Cadet Tactical Competition, for television, discos and social life; expe­ done well on the games field, and this a testing two-day event in September. The rience shows that those who leave their reflects the effort of the participants as remarkable aspect of this competition was exam preparation later than they should well as the able organisation of the indi­ not that they ended as second-placed girls’ are also those who make the most fuss vidual games captains. team and beat several teams of boys, but later on about the amount of work they On the other hand, Woodlanders have the enjoyment and confidence which they have and how everyone else is disturbing always been in the forefront of the cultural gained from the whole process. them and preventing them from doing it! scene at Strathallan, and this year has been What else? Well, of course, there was At any rate, the award of eight academic no exception. An excellent entry for the the Ball - though reports have been exag­ prizes to members of the outgoing Upper House Drama Competition swept away gerated, - there was the epidemic, and Sixth shows that all that repression had the opposition to win the coveted “Best there was Mrs Ninham’s wig at the some effect. Hilary Moore won the Production” prize, a tribute to all those Christmas Party. Physics, Maths and String Prizes; Lindsey who wrote, acted and directed it. There Many thanks to the Prefects - it can be Moir the French (she also has an offer have been too many musical achievements hard work to keep a House running from Magdalene College, Cambridge); to list them all, but as usual Hilary Moore smoothly, but it does offer you the most Lucy Quarry won the Art Prize; Caroline had a high profile and the Choir and important leadership training you will get Proctor the History; Helen Swinbanks the Orchestra members made memorable con­ in your school days - provided that you Elliott Memorial Design Technology tributions to St Andrew’s Night and the take it seriously. Many thanks, too, to the Prize and Kate Turner the Economics two evenings of Headmaster’s Music, the Tutors, without whose help we would Prize. There have been good perfor­ latter containing fine ensemble and solo both have collapsed well before the end of mances from all years in exams and playing from Abigail Carswell and Kate the year, to Ruth Mackay, who led the orders this session, and so this aspect of Miller, among others. Even Lindsey Moir House with integrity, and lastly to Betty House life can be said to be in good health was tempted back to play in the String and Vicky. pending the dread dates of August. Orchestra, and Lucy Quarry reminded us Here are the farewell prizes awarded Woodlands has never had a high repu­ that she really does play the violin. Anne this year: tation for sports, something which is per­ Wilson took on the Riley Orchestra as haps a reflection of the diversity of talent well as her GCSEs and other musical Karen Bishop The Dutton Chemistry in the House rather than any deep truth, commitments, while the capable team of Prize yet the Swimming Team scored a con­ Kananu Kirimi and Catriona Maclean Alison Bruce The Gray Memorial Hacksaw vincing win over Thornbank while the were honing the gnomes’ thespian skills. The Quarry Quaich for Inter-House Ski Race saw a remarkable Although Kananu and Karen (the new Sally Cust Shooting performance in which Louisa Graham- Woodlands’ secret weapon) shared in and Marie Hamilton The Wooden Spoon for Campbell won the Duncan Trophy with made major contributions to the School Canoe Racing the fastest individual time, closely fol­ production of A Midsummer Night’s Katy Haslam The Pipe Band Cup lowed by Melissa Gillingham and Abi Dream. Lucy Kitson and Karen Wilson Carswell, and ably supported by the Lisa Haslam The Bullard Bowl for thrived on the Verse Speaking scene, and Bursar’s Chits Rankins and Heather Scott; this placed us the Third Year dramatists performed their Vicky McMahon The Doc Marten’s second to Simpson by about four seconds. pieces with success at the Festival in Award We fared less well in the Hockey, despite Edinburgh. for Sartorial Elegance a strong performance from the senior The measure of any community is the Lindsey Moir The Teetotallers’ team, spurred on by the promise of a trip degree to which it collectively thinks of Tankard to Paco’s if they won, and a very spirited other people, and painful though it is I Hilary Moore The Final Solution effort from a mixed side of juniors, not all want to record the collective response to Prize for Discipline of them Hockey players, which certainly the tragic deaths of Jeremy and Anne Rachel Nicholls The Tonsil Trophy allowed us to hold our heads up. In the Gillingham earlier this year and the posi­ Tizi Nicholson The Burton Bowl Netball context, usually as much of a for­ tive way in which the whole House and, of Caroline Proctor The Pimms Poultry mality for us as the Hockey is for course, the community at large did its best Prize Thornbank, the juniors had a convincing to help in a situation which no one knew Lucy Quarry The Lee Harvey win but the seniors elected with a team how to help. Oswald Sniping Cup which was under-strength and paid heavi­ It is entirely in keeping with those Stephanie Ralston The Blarney Prize ly for their presumption, losing not only efforts to see all the members of the Cari Silver The Avon Art Prize the game but also the competition and the House, all the tutors and even the cleaners Julie Simpson The ERM Prize for cup on the aggregate score of both match­ participating in the Non-Uniform Day, MIS es. The Shooting Cup came our way for contributing over £160 to UNICEF; at the Helen Swinbanks The Telly Addicts’ the third year in a row, and on behalf of Christmas Party the raffle raised a further Trophy the Club and the School I would like to £50, while the Hunger Day for Famine Kate Turner The Matthews thank Laurence Blair Oliphant for donat­ Relief, originally suggested by Eleanor Memorial Milk Crate ing the Ardblair Cup for the Inter-House Wiseman, raised £160 and the House con­ Gillian Barr The Mary Poppins Shooting Competition. Our Badminton tribution to the Inyathi Appeal, standing at Prize players had their moment of glory, win­ over £300, was the highest total in the A.C.W. S-J.

15 “In Quires and Places where they sing...... ” with eager anticipation, whilst his singing voice has been exercised frequently, both in a solo capacity at the Summer Headmaster’s Music and daily in Chapel. He is in the “rare breeds” league, along with Viola players, as a real Tenor. Consequently, from my eyrie in the organ-loft, the now complete and audible blend of four-part singing during services wafts upwards as a pleasure indeed. The School has demonstrated its willingness and ability to sing in harmony on a num­ ber of occasions, and the strong soprano and alto line makes a really splendid con­ tribution to hymn-singing. Four-part singing was no better heard than in the contributions made by the Choral Society in its Lent Term pro­ gramme. The Faure Requiem seldom fails to make its impact on either listener or performer, and together with the excel­ lent orchestra “fixed” and led by Bill Baxter and the uplifting music of Mozart’s Coronation Mass in C, the Lent Term ended on a real high. The pro­ gramme for the new season, which will include the Psalmus Hungaricus of Kodaly and the Gloria by Poulenc will test those parts where Mozart failed to reach. Any reader who can pitch the “A”, three octaves beneath “Middle C” is urgently requested to get in touch with me, and a car will be sent to collect the prodigy. Perhaps it takes a cross-curricu­ lar request to a biologist to explain how a Hungarian can reach such unexplored areas of the vocal range ! The year has again seen music taught in the timetable at all levels - namely GCSE, Highers & A Level. Laurie Crump has convinced the musical wor­ thies at Oxford to include him in their thinking and is set to take his place in October at St Anne’s College to read Music. Their initial holiday reading list came rather as a shock to his system, but it will be as nothing compared to the real one later! These are the shocks of arrival in the real world after the cossetted com­ forts of our green and pleasant lands in Juan Figuerola-Ferretti and Nick Morley Forgandenny. Music should reach everybody some­ The year began with the arrival of two into the task with great determination and where along the line, and it is a great of the most influential people in the run­ enthusiasm is to understate the situation pleasure and constant source of delight to ning of a department - a new Headmaster considerably, as has been demonstrated try new musical tricks each year with and a new Assistant Director of Music. It by the performances of various junior new groups. The range of music-making ended with the departure of some musi­ groups already this year. I look forward at Strathallan is often commented on, and cians who seem to have been a mainstay greatly to further new initiatives and suc­ perhaps the full menu should be listed. of music-making since time began, so cesses. The Orchestra, reliant totally on the household have their names become. The Headmaster, it is known, has number of strings in the School at any Stephen Dutton joined us from King “many strings to his bow”, and one of one time, although unable to boast a full William’s School, Isle of Man. He soon these he demonstrated publicly at his first complement of brass, has played Haydn’s discovered the pattern of life on the main­ Headmaster’s Music, when he performed Symphony No 99, Albinoni’s Adagio for land, where both ends of the pool are with three other violinists the most Organ and Strings, Boyce, and Marcello deep ends! His primary role is to bring demanding Concerto for Four Violins by and more. The String Orchestra under the another pair of hands to the music-mak­ Vivaldi. His prowess on the guitar, both direction of Bill Baxter, our violin ing in Riley and the junior part of the electric and acoustic, has been discov­ teacher, has performed and rehearsed School. To say he has thrown himself ered, and we all await further appearances throughout the year with a range of

16 demanding styles including Mozart’s of a “winner” by that stage seemed a could have dreamt of. Imagine the panic Divertimenti and Rossini String rather needless task, and although Laurie stations when with only one boat destined Symphonies. From within the strings, a gave us a beautifully finished and a more for the island before our evening concert, most convincing string quartet has carefully presented “real” performance, I watched the personnel coach head east­ rehearsed under the direction of Martyn inevitably there were seen to be more wards for Oban! Cross-curricular chal­ Bennett, and although their performance notes in the Liszt! lenges, I thought! However, they were in the Edinburgh Competitive festival Hilary Moore, a fleet-fingered pianist only taking the scenic route to the west­ was thwarted by a conflicting concert as well as harpist, was sleeted by the ern metropolis, and we made the boat engagement, their standards were not. Perth Youth Orchestra to play with time for the busking party to wet Chamber music groups meet to perform a Shostakovitch’s 2nd Piano Concerto with their whistles on the quay-side. Thanks range of styles - Grade 8 and upwards, to them. She performed this with piano are due to trusting Caledonian GCSE groups, and brass bands. Scottish accompaniment in a Concert she gave at MacBrayne for permitting an unknown folk music is played on whistle, fiddle, School with her harp teacher Eluned party to take over the main space on the clarsach and harp, and it is sung in Gaelic Pierce, aptly entitled “Harp-to-Harp”. passenger deck and play to the travellers. (with difficulty). Ragtime is whistled by a Included also were her sparring partners Harry Crump (who during the Easter hol­ consort of recorders, and Cats by the in the “Cuthie-men” folk music group and idays had tried his hands at busking on wind-band: in short, a good start! the Dixiemen. To be able to flit between the pavements of York, only to return Choral styles are represented by large piano and harp quite so deftly, and to play home almost able to pay his next term’s groups such as the Choral Society, draw­ such differing styles on both instruments fees) together with his elder brother set ing members of the School in for its bodes well for her as she departs to take the party going, and drummed up an rehearsals and performance, and aug­ up a place to study Harp at the Royal audience for the evening’s concert at mented by members of staff, parents and College of Music in London. Glengorm Castle. The concert party’s friends. The Chapel Choir continues to Raj Arumugum’s trumpet-playing has antics are more fully exposed elsewhere, explore the riches of the repertoire, even become a legend already. Whether it was as was the Director of Music on emerging if performances are often jeopardised by the Last Post on Remembrance Sunday, from the cool northern waters of Loch ‘leave-outs’ of crucial members. Gaelic concerto movements or wild improvisa­ Mingary, only to be caught on film by the singing tests the ingenuity of most, and tions in Dixieland Jazz, he has made con­ “Page 4” team. But suffice it to say that the memories of all, and through the verts. The Law Society will have a most the point of the visit was made, money understated power of these hauntingly talented practicioner of both line and Law was raised for worthy island charities, beautiful songs has resulted in some of in future days. Likewise, Juan Figuerola- much fun was had by all, and productivi­ the most sensitive choral singing. The Ferretti has not only shown us all what a ty on returning was doubled! No doubt Headmaster’s Choir, formed for the sum­ soprano saxophone is, and what it can do, future planning of events will bear this is mer HM Music, offered a choice of but has shown exactly what can be done mind. Renaissance to Reggae, in the form of a with hard practice and a determination to Thanks are due to all the patient mem­ Caribbean Calypso. enjoy his and others’ music-making. bers of the visiting staff who have taught To suggest that the same pattern of With this wealth of music just waiting the players their skills and tricks, and in music-making is offered by Riley would to be played, it was not difficult to select particular to two leavers, Andrew Dickie seem to be a touch fanciful, but their per­ enough music and players to fill the ten who goes to London for a spell of Post formances have confirmed this claim. engagements in the Summer Term alone, Graduate study, and also to Stephen They have given us lunchtime “Mini-con- from the Ladies’ Guild of Dunbog and James under whose guidance the certs”, ushered, programmed and per­ Abdie three days into the Summer Term, Dixielanders first learnt to weave their formed with style and enthusiasm. Even a to the Headmaster’s Music three days brand of magic. The year has seen some house-staff jazz-band showed willing. before the end. The Lunchtime Concert in very fine performances and, better still, They sent in a representative group of the Perth festival of Arts and our now despite the departure of some apparently players to the Prep Schools’ Orchestra customary performance on Speech Day in irreplaceable talent, visions of what is to Day in May. Their musical high points the “Tent” had the feel of the professional come in the future. To all those members this season have been the formation of a band on tour! albeit not quite as much as of the team, my thanks and sincerest con­ real rival to Raj Arumugam’s “All Stars the day we packed up our stands, music, gratulations, and all good wishes to the Dixieland Jazz Band”. The composition “best bibs and tuckers” plus the two dogs, leavers for their futures. of, and their rehearsal and performance in for our away match on Mull! F.N.R. a record-breaking six weeks from com­ The preparation required for three days mission date of a musical for the Summer on a Hebridean Island for 15 filled me The Robert Barr Memorial Prize for Parents’ Meeting is a tribute to their abili­ with greater admiration for the military Music-Raj Arumugam ties. Stephen Dutton’s two-week famil­ men who stage march-pasts on Horse- The Patrick Grandison Prize for iarisation period with his new Korg M-l Guards Parade and “Desert Storm” than I Strings-Hilary Moore keyboard completed the West-End spec­ tacular minutes before curtain up. Watch out Lloyd-Webber, your days are num­ bered! Agnes Bradley, Raj Arumugam and Laurie Crump competed in the Edinburgh Competitive Festival Concerto Class with Mozart’s Piano Concerto in D Minor, K466, Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto and Summaritini’s F Major Recorder Concerto respectively. Surrounded by some stunning playing in the opposition, Laurie Crump returned to play in the Final “play-in” against Dvorak’s Violin Concerto, Crusell’s Clarinet Concerto and Liszt’s Piano Concerto No 1. His performance in the evening’s final round, accompanied by a most excellent orches­ tra, along with others, gave the audience a rare package of pleasure. The selection Hilary Moore and Anne Wilson

17 CHORISTERS

Practices began at the start of the ished practising the turbulent forte notes fied the audience’s anticipation as it Spring Term and were held in the Chapel of Mozart’s Coronation Mass, it was a sounded even louder and more impres­ every Wednesday evening between six pleasant change to proceed with the har­ sive than any Wednesday practice. After and seven thirty. An impressive number monious placidity of Faure’s Requiem this dramatic first half of the perfor­ of people appeared on the first (with which we usually finished the mance a responsive audience could Wednesday - most enthusiastic and ready evening); apparently people have been unwind in the second half to the tranquil­ to start singing. After some amusing known to have seen Angels when singing lity and grace of Requiem. Throughout ‘warm-up’ exercises Mr Reed introduced or listening to ‘In Paradisium’. the two pieces the singers received Mozart’s Coronation Mass in C which The Sunday of the performance even­ encouraging glances from the expert and was followed by a lot of stopping and tually came and it was time to have the accurate conductor, Mr Reed, and no-one starting as many of us had to learn how final rehearsal with the hired orchestra made any noticeable slips. Hamish to sing certain difficult passages and how and soloists - both were exceptionally Forbes and Mr O’Neill were particularly to pronounce some of the unfamiliar good. With just one break in the last good in their arduous solos. Latin. three hour rehearsal, those with sore The tremendous success of these two The soprano group was without doubt throats were recommended to take a trip pieces would not have been possible the largest of the four and had nearly all to the San to see Sister before taking their without the patience and dedication of the female members of the choir; thus it places for the actual performance at 7.30 Mr Reed who taught and guided us was not too evident when people like pm. through these difficult classics. Thank myself made mistakes. However, unfor­ Even though there was hardly any you, also, to Mr Dutton who accompa­ tunately for the tenors (who were the room behind the orchestra, the choristers nied us with the piano at every minority with just five people) it could managed to position themselves in an Wednesday practice and played the often be rather obvious when they made agreeable space where they were not Organ at the actual performance. Well only minimal errors; therefore continu­ likely to over-balance or be crushed by done to everyone who took part! ous correction proved to make them the fellow singers. The concert began with most accurate section. Once we had fin­ The Coronation Mass which easily satis­ Katherine High

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Mull in the month of May for the unini­ tiated would probably mean mud, midges and moorland - but musicians ? It was with slight apprehension, countless mis­ takes, quickly re-arranged (or started ?) practice schedules and some serious “note bashing” that we began, or, rather, Mr Reed got us sorted out. From Marcello to Mozart, sleeping bags to swim suits, barbecues to beer and musicians of differing sizes with instru­ ments of equally varying proportions, the date crept - no, cantered - towards us. Mr Crosfield was “bagged” as our “Roadie Extraordinaire”. He did a tres bien job and even managed to get through many miles without complaining about our dire renderings of off-key “variations” on Beatles melodies (?). The ‘natives’ were very hospitable and friendships were quickly formed - I thank them all for being so kind. It was great to see genuine pleasure on the faces of those w;ho came to our concerts in what couldn’t have been a nicer setting - we had glorious weather all week-end. From a private castle to Chateau Reed (complete with its newly-shaven owner) and Salem Kirk, the diversity of the venues matched that of the music - and Whistling for seals? magic as the Master of juggling balls and ‘floating’ £10 notes held our attention It was a credit to Mr Reed and his team side-by-side as we were all too quickly while the adventure ran smoothly except that the die-hard swimmers, hill-side jazz, back at School. Thanks. for a certain forgotten piano lead .... buskers and concertos sat comfortably Duncan Forbes

18 PIPES AND DRUMS

In many senses this was a year of either the Piping world or to the academ­ Our internal Piping Competition was mixed fortunes. We” were fortunate ic world. A champion solo piper in her judged by Roderick Barron, a regular enough to have two Piping Instructors, own right, a Bandsman (sic) playing face at these occasions. Pipe Major Barron and Mr Claude with a Grade 1 Band, she has instructed Miller, but were aware of the fact that at Craigmount High School, Edinburgh, Junior March: Pipe Major Barron’s health was in ques­ where her several Bands have become 1st Ewen McMaster tion. It came as no surprise, therefore, world-famous. She joins the established 2nd Tim Elliott when, acting under medical instructions, team of David Clarke and George Braid Pipie reluctantly tendered his resigna­ and thus Strathallan’s Pipes and Drums Senior March, Strathspey & Reel: tion after some 15 years of selfless and can look forward to the future with great generous involvement with the School. 1st Ross Cumming confidence. 2nd Alex Macleod There are many pupils, past and present, We had some 40 pupils undergoing who treasure the silvery medals person­ 3rd Andrew Scott piping instruction this year and some 15 4th Duncan Culliford ally awarded by Pipe Major Barron. drummers. Inevitably our first engage­ There are many pupils, also, who trea­ ment was at Dewar’s Rinks, Perth for an Senior Hornpipe & Jig: sure the many stories told to them. International Curling Championship. When Bert came to the School, piping Our Band tunes and appearances at 1st Alex Macleod was at an all-time “low”. The Band con­ Dewar’s and on the television screen 2nd Ross Cumming sisted of a mere 7 pipers and even fewer have become regular features. 3rd Andrew Scott drummers. Through his enthusiasm and The Pipe Major and Pipe Sergeant his contacts, the number of pupils under played at HMS Scotia’s “Burns’ Supper” Drumming Competition: instruction grew and grew. When the before a distinguished audience of Naval Band took part in engagements outwith personnel. Again, in March, they played Bass Section: the School, 15 playing pipers became at the Scottish Inter-Divisional Dinner at 1st Jennie Perry the norm. His ability to provide each Pitreavie before an even more distin­ 2nd Robbie Gemmill piper with a magnificent set of antique guished audience. pipes at almost “knock-down” prices In the Summer Term we were Side-Drumming: will be missed. deprived of playing at Alyth Agricultural 1st Marijke Hansson-Bolt Starting off the Group Band Tuition Show (where we were drowned and 2nd David Smith on two evenings a week, latterly Bert mud-spattered last year) because of an 3rd Chris Dorman was teaching in School for three and a administrative hiccup by the Show’s half days, often not leaving on organisers and found ourselves instead at Pipe Band ties were awarded to: Ewen Wednesday evenings until 9.00pm. His Auchterarder Gala Day where, to every­ McMaster, Jennie Perry and Chris crowning glory was undoubtedly the two one’s horror, we found that we had to Dorman. successive wins by our Band at the lead the procession from one end of “the Scottish Schools’ CCF Competition 7 lang toon’s” High Street to the other end. and 8 years ago. Many schools have This was, without question, the longest commented to me that the overall performance the Band has ever endured. improvement in Piping in the Scottish Closer to home, we, of course, were the SCOTTISH SCHOOLS’ CCF PIPES & Independent Schools was due to Bert star performers at the Forgandenny DRUMS COMPETITION 1994 Barron who set the highest possible Village Day, marching and playing from (held at Glenalmond) standards and spurred our competitors the School gates to the Village Park. on. Pipe Band Competition (out of 9 com­ We wish Bert and his wife, Winnie, peting Schools) improved health and a long and happy Strathallan: 3rd retirement. We also said goodbye to Claude Drum Majors’ Competition (out of 6 Miller who succeeded Bert at very short competing) notice. His style of teaching was radical­ James Steele: 2nd ly different but equally successful. He instituted a small ensemble group of Band Dress and Drill (out of 9 com­ novice pipers who joined the Band on peting Schools) Speech Day and practised every Monday Strathallan: 1st evening. He chased - with vigour - the “slackers” and “non-practisers” - and to Individual Dress and Deportment (out his credit and our unexpected joy our of 42 competitors) fortunes at the CCF Competition this Andrew Scott: 1st year were much better than we dared - becoming the first winner of the new hope. Scots’ Guards Trophy which was pre­ By the time The Strathallian is pub­ sented to him by Brigadier Kim Ross, lished our new and full-time Piping CO the Scots’ Guards. Instructor will have taken up the reins. Again, Strathallan will have set new Congratulations go to the boys and goals for our competitors in that we are girls and their Instructors. It just goes to the first Independent Scottish School show that with a little more practice and (other than Queen Victoria School with commitment from one or two senior its Army involvement) to have on its pupils we could well have gained a 1st staff a full-time Piping Instructor. in the Band Competition. Jennifer Hutcheon is no stranger to Pipe Band on Speech Day T.G.L.

19 ST ANDREW’S NIGHT

Had it not been for the ubiquity of tar­ tan that evening those present may have thought themselves in a Parisian Bistro: the soft candlelight, the small, intimate tables, the gay laughter, the wine - and the French department in particular rev­ elling in all of these. As ever, Mr Broadfoot cooked up a splendid Bill a’ faire on the poetry front - with various injections of prose. The Wee Cuthie Men (who I’ve heard have an almost cult-like following within the School) set the mood for the evening - in this case the Crump brothers, Laurie and Harry, on both occasions allowing us to marvel at their speed and proficiency on the fiddles - both of them excellent. Then Riley’s verse speakers - Lucy Green, Duncan Broadfoot and Katherine Charlier - displayed their mastery of Scots colloquialisms to amusing effect. “The Battle of the Braes” followed - a light-hearted piece showing the defiance of the women during the Highland Clearances - starring Clair Ketcher and Lucy Kitson who sang the closing duet very nicely. “Mhairi’s Wedding” couldn’t fail to be every step correct with Prizewinners at the Perthshire (Competition) Festival Mrs Nureyev-Hamilton as coach. “Gin I was God” by Charles Murray, read by Gordon Duncan, was particularly memo­ rable and entertaining. The guest of honour for the evening was the multi-talented Martyn Bennet SHYLOCK IN A KILT?! who, though having confessed to being “no speed merchant” went on to prove otherwise on the pipes. Mr Young was Once again the verse speakers have John Butler (Bible Reading, 13-14), not only responsible for co-ordinating a excelled themselves in performances and Duncan Broadfoot (Burns, 10-12), delicious hot buffet but, as now is the competitions, gaining a large number of Duncan McCredie (in both English Strathallan St Andrew’s Night tradition, merit and distinction certificates, and this poems, 12-14 and speech from sang admirably. Sadly, Mr Macleod’s year, also 2 silver trophies (for recitations Shakespeare, (12-14), and Helen Nesbit rendition “O Rowan Tree” may not be of poems by Robert Burns). (speech from Shakespeare, (12-14). such a regular occurrence after the end of For a vivid rendering of “Address to a The Shakespearean speech which the this year when he leaves the Art Louse” Lesley-Anne Dewar was the boys had to perform was by Shylock, in Department. But, who knows, perhaps overall winner of the senior class in the The Merchant of Venice. The adjudicator his people can talk to our people and, Perth Burns’ Club’s annual festival in remarked that she had never before seen agent allowing, he might perform for us November, and won the coveted trophy. Shylock played in a kilt. It certainly gave again in the future. (This success led to an invitation for new meaning to “and spit upon my So, as ever, it was a variety pack of Lesley-Anne to perform the poem at the Jewish garbardine”. Scots culture which we enjoyed. Not Burns’ Club’s annual dinner in January). At the Edinburgh (Competition) just the more traditional but a true cross Lucy Kitson won the under-15 section Festival in May, merit certificates (over section of poetry from Burns to Liz with a mouthwatering “Address to the 85%) were awarded to Claire Ketcher Lochhead. Haggis” and Duncan Broadfoot was the and Kristine Burr, who were first equal Mr Broadfoot will already be starting P6 and P7 winner with “The Boy in the in the prose reading class, for which to conjure up another such feast for ‘94 - Train”. All three performed their poems Nicol Nicolson and Gordon Duncan what a daunting task. at the School’s St Andrew’s Night. received standard certificates. Standard Catriona Maclean At the Perthshire (Competition) certificates were awarded to Ruth Sharp, Festival in March, The Burns’ Club Tara Laing, Katherine Charlier and Fiona Rosebowl was won by Nicol Nicolson Macfarlane in the Scots poem under 14 who chilled the spines of the audience section. Merit and standard certificates with the description of the haunted went to Lucy Kitson and Gordon Duncan Alloway Kirk in “Tam o’Shanter” Lucy respectively, for recitations of a Scots Kitson came a close second and received poem “Winter Time” by Marion Angus. a distinction certificate (over 85%). But pride of place went to the ubiquitous Other distinctions at Perth went to Ruth Nicol Nicolson who, in that class, gained Sharp, Nicol Nicolson, Katherine a splendid Honours for “an outstanding Charlier and Lucy Green, for poems by performance”. In commending the per­ Perth poet, William Soutar. Gordon formance the adjudicator commented on Duncan was placed first and achieved Nicol’s “excellent long vowels” and the distinction in the Burns (Senior) lad didn’t even know he had them! Competition. Distinctions also went to I.McF.

20 OBITUARY: GARRY ROGERS

Garry had a rare love of life that was senior Creative Writing Prize, was a seri­ Strathallian’s study. Bewildered parents reflected in everything he did. His tragi­ ous achievement which surprised him as were consequently led into a study bed­ cally premature death was indeed due to much as everyone else. room of impossible garishness. As they his refusal to settle for half: Garry Furthermore, his attitude on the rugby opened the door they were met by a sur­ always insisted in draining the last drop field was revealing - he would not so real conjunction of bright orange and of enjoyment from life through pushing much tackle as throw himself head first at lime green. things to the limit. “Life is not a the opposition like some maniacal human This final memory has a moral. Garry rehearsal” would have been a suitable sacrifice. He also had a remarkable abili­ was not an exemplary Strathallian. epitaph for him. ty to dress down so that on the occasion Indeed, he was not “an example” of any­ Garry’s life was full of fun and he did of House photographs one would look at thing. He was a wholly individual mix­ his best to ensure that others got their fair Garry in disbelief: most of the garments ture of youthful vigour and kindliness share of the same. So much did he enjoy he wore were borrowed and all of them who will be greatly missed by all those his first Strath Ball that he had an over­ produced an incongruous effect. who had the pleasure of knowing him. whelming urge to share his feelings of Garry’s sense of interior decor was It is a touching tribute to his creativity pleasure with his House tutor in the similarly individual. The Headmaster that he will be remembered here in the small hours of the morning. Further evi­ discovered this to his cost when he asked future by his parents’ generous endow­ dence of his ironic sense of humour was Garry to leave his room decorated over ment of an annual cash prize: £100 for enjoyed by all in The Strathallian last the summer holidays so that he could the senior winner of the School Creative year: Tyrpanophobia, which won the have an exemplar of the typical Writing Competition. CREATIVE WRITING COMPETITION

WINNERS

Forms I and II Ella Bird First Tara Laing Runner-up

Form III and IV James Henderson First Colin Perry Runner-up

Form VI Catriona Maclean The Garry Rogers Prize Joanna Malcolm Runner-up

CRESSIDA’S PARCEL (From the painting The Woman in the Green Jacket - August Macke)

The morning was a cold one. immature - were the kindest words “I-I’m not to wear it out of the Although the sun shone kindly said of her. She rushed up the cold house.” Her aunt sighed yet again through the maples, the cruel October grey steps and bumbled over to the making Cressida fell less comfort­ air bit savagely at the fingers and toes pale, worn face of her aunt. able. Her mouth quivered and a of those who ventured outside. “Cressida,” Hannah began, “you ringlet of rusty copper hair sprang out “It’s one of those mornings,” forgot something.” of her crimson imitation velvet hat. thought Cressida, “where everything “Yeah, I know.” she let her Boston “Cressida, why do you do these is in immaculately sharp focus. Were drawl seep casually into conversation. things? It’s not as though you forget, I to paint this, a deceiving canvas She eagerly held out her arms like a I mean you do some pretty dumb would portray a warmer day.” forklift truck with her eyes tightly things, but you’re not ...... ” Cressida Pleased by her power of perception shut to receive the package she was to could no longer hold her tongue. she skipped down the steps leading carry. “Not that dumb?” she questioned from her aunt’s house. Elated by the “Open your eyes,” Aunt Hannah angrily. “You complain that I never dazzling beauty of the colours of sighed. She had no time for games. grow up, but you treat me like a little Autumn and sparkling frost she forgot Obediently Cressida opened her eyes kid!” Aunt Hannah forced the pack­ the subject of her errand. - she didn’t mean to aggravate her age into Cressida’s arms and shouted, “Cressida!” A small, stout woman aunt. By her stance Cressida could “Keep your goddam coat!” appeared at the door she had only just see her aunt held the package behind Exhilarated by the heat of the argu­ closed. The figure was of her aunt. her back. She reached forward. ment Cressida ran down the steps, Being the youngest of Cressida’s rela­ “Uh-uh. Cressida, what have I told through the gate and kept sprinting tions it was Aunt Hannah who was you about that vulgar jacket?” The until the row of identical houses lumbered with Cressida after the loss fervour and excitement leapt from her where she lived merged into the col­ of the rest of her family. A burden eyes as her aunt prodded the green lage-like colour scheme of the area. was exactly what Cressida was - felt lapel of her best loved and most Her eyes danced in amusement. She affectionate, yet clumsy, slow and comfortable item of clothing. breathed in the air as though it were

21 some exquisite perfume, letting her felt insanely frustrated - as though or make pleasant, superficial conver­ lungs blaze in the fiery coolness of it. she would be brainwashed into sation, only to be alone - perhaps to Gradually the glitter like frost was becoming one of them. She managed recover, definitely to despise. melting - the satisfying crunch under­ to giggle though. She imagined their The ice skates were old and outdat­ foot was replaced by the gentle idea of an initiation test being to ed. They lay comfortably in her lap. squeaking of the liquid frost against remove beetroot from deep-pile car­ Her legs were crossed, her back was her old leather boots. She sighed in pets. hunched over them protectively. the sheer beauty of it all. Surrounded Gradually the surge moved for­ Cressida had never, throughout her by the brilliance of the coppers, rusts ward. entire life, possessed an air of grace and auburns of Autumn, she found Now the casual atmosphere dis­ or femininity - yet she was attractive herself wandering as if transfixed, persed. These women were now - not physically. Her face was full of across sidewalks and through open hunters. Whether it meant elbow jab­ expression. It wasn’t the type of face expanses of grass. Cressida never bing or shin-kicking each of them you tired of. Her features were inter­ tired of that which surrounded. Being was a predator ... for bargains. Had esting. Her hair was now almost allowed out so infrequently she could they known that Cressida was no completely out of her crimson, flop­ remember each trip she took alone competition perhaps her parcel py 20’s style hat. It spread across her individually. wouldn’t have been flung powerfully shoulders on her green felt jacket - as The stabbing cold of the air had from her hands. But none knew she the copper leaves spread across the lessened somewhat. Yet a gentle was an innocent bystander. It landed green of the grass. breeze caused the bees to rustle and amongst a group of schoolboys - no Cressida didn’t need to be told she Cressida pulled her jacket tighter doubt playing truant, and was was out of place there - there in around her waist. She wore a long received with a “Wow, how neat!” ‘August Park’. All the people walk­ black skirt, at her Aunt’s insistence, She pushed her way forcibly through ing about were either couples, or and a pair of heavy black boots the stampede of women and gazed businessmen finishing their sand­ which caused her feet to tire quicker down at something she wished she wiches whilst reading the financial than they should have done. hadn’t seen. The brown paper was section of the ‘Boston Times’. ripped and muddied by trampling feet “I don’t care.” she said aloud. Her It was only now, as she rested on a and the string was nowhere to be voice sounded so decisive, so final - newly painted green wooden bench seen. The shoe box was ripped and it almost scared her. A stray cygnet that she became curious about the out of shape, but there amongst the paddled up to her expectantly. She contents of the parcel. She fumbled murky puddles and wrinkled stock­ looked into the eyes of her compan­ about in her pocket until she felt the ings was something more dear to her ion. warm, crumpled piece of paper her than life itself. As if she were whisk­ “I ain’t gonna do nothin’ dumb,” Aunt had written her instructions on. ing up her child after an injury she she began, but even the cygnet bore Cressida read them slowly and out scooped up her beloved ice skates no interest in the matter and moved loud, “Deliver wrapped to the follow­ and clutched them to her chest. Her on to a group of children a little fur­ ing address ...” To her surprise, vision was blurred with scalding ther on. Cressida felt comforted by Cressida didn’t recognise the address tears, her face distraught with unre- the sound of her voice, as though and tried to guess the contents of the strainable cries. She tore away from someone cared. Her voice wavered,”1 parcel. It was heavy. Brown paper the crowd and ran in her gawky, mean, what sort of a person takes which had been used before sur­ clumsy fashion through the sidewalks somethin’ away that’s all someone’s rounded the shoe-box sized package. and streets. Only semi-conscious got left of someone. Know what I String secured it and was knotted was she of where she was going. mean? Oh, I don’t even know what I several times. Her aunt used shoe Something drove her on. She felt bit­ mean ....” She mumbled feeling her boxes for everything - so that was no ter, angry, betrayed, hurt - all these efforts were wasted. clue. There were hardly any people feelings. It wasn’t just a pair of ice- Cressida had been one of three - about - it was well past time to be at skates. It was what was connected three girls. The eldest - Imogen, the work, yet the loneliness was no with them. Aunt Hannah knew all youngest -Sophie. Cressida was a longer a pleasurable feeling. It had this. There was no explanation for freak. She was a red head, tall and become almost worrying. So such a wrong doing. clumsy, whereas the other two had Cressida ventured on. She hadn’t lost Exhaustion calmed her hysteria. green eyes and straight sandy hair - her way, she had simply meandered She made her way towards the park they looked delicate and moved with about the usual route. She had money she hadn’t been emotionally capable elegance. for a savoury snack. She always went of facing for years. ‘August Park’. She slipped her hand under the to Ernie’s Diner. She knew the prices The name had puzzled her on previ­ insole of her left skate. A smile of there. ous occasions - “Was it the month or relief spread across her face, still “I’d better do Aunt Hannah’s simply a person it was named after?” stained with red blotches from cry­ errand first,” she thought generously. Yet today she had no room for her ing. She withdrew a grubby piece of “This can’t be it,” she said doubt­ usual irrelevant thoughts inside her paper. She could recite it word for fully as she stood beneath a dirty confused and troubled mind. The word - and did so. looking stone building with ‘Boston trees in ‘August Park’ were always “Dear Cressida - at last you are six­ Ladies’ Auxiliary’ engraved in the the last to lose their copper leaves. teen, almost an adult! But Cressy, blocks of granite. A large piece of Their vibrant colours would always childhood is sacred, never lose the card swung vigorously in the wind - give Cressida a warm feeling inside. child in you ... all my love, Imogen.” “Jumble Sale Today!” A bustling The man-made lake looked as deceiv­ Sophie’s name was also written confusion surrounded the unappeal­ ingly natural as ever. Stray leaves lit­ beneath, but in younger handwriting, ing entrance. The chipping brown tered its opaque blue surface. The with squint kisses. She couldn’t paint of the door was being ‘coaxed’ plush, fresh greenery of the well- restrain her tears, they rolled off by tired children. The railings kempt grasses had splashes of colour unashamedly down her smooth, were being leant upon by gossiping generously donated by the shapely freckled cheeks, then some down her housewives. Cressida, in an attempt trees above. long neck and most onto her green to plough through the swell of chat­ Instead of sitting on one of the con­ felt collar. Like globules of dew they tering women was swallowed up by veniently placed benches, Cressida lay at first and were then smothered the hungry tribe and engaged in chose to sit on the grass by the lake. into the material. recipes and embroidery hints. She She was not in the mood to be polite Her family - her parents and two

22 sisters were travelling up to see her at school. The weekend had been TOWN KEEPERS planned for months down to the very They stand Friends of morning; last detail. Her sixteenth birthday, Upon a sea of grass. Worshippers of sun: what a terrible time to look there, Silver shadows crown them, In the dead of night “The impact would have meant they A deadly silence cloaks them: They shiver, felt no pain,” the doctor had whis­ Ragged, untouched. pered comfortingly to her. “I wish it Dominating all. had hit me, too,” she whimpered Too quiet, Life giants. pathetically. The parcel - her skates Not one sleeps- Watching, was the only contents of the car left All turned to where the sun Invincible, undamaged. It was retrieved and Will rise, For ever there. given to Cressida when she was as Reaching for the sky. Ella Bird emotionally stable as it was thought she’d get. Cressida looked out towards the lake. It was the lake she had skated upon arm in arm with Imogen. She’d had to borrow Imogen’s old ones then. She’d never worn these, not the ones which lay upon her lap. How could she? The pain was still as fiery and intense as all those years ago, she probably couldn’t even skate any more. “..Never lose the child in you, Cressy...” and she hadn’t lost the child in her. As though pain had pre­ served her, as though time had stood still for her to grieve, she had ceased to grow and develop. She got up and walked on, forgetting to brush the grass from her skirt. Her figure, still visible at a great distance partly . V-v*>v , because of her bright green jacket, mainly because - even for a thirty- seven year old - she was terribly tall. — ' 1....~ ' V — — Catriona Maclean PORTRAIT OF AN ASSASSIN

Briskly, he walks, head bowed, In an opposite building, a man pre­ In fear of recognition pares to leave home: His gait is nervous, his footstep loud. The assassin’s victim, unknowing yet His mind focused on his mission. unknown. His incoherent thinking Across the road, death waits Loosely follows his instructions In the form of a hitman: an ugly fate, But between ideas there’s little link­ For his bullet is betrayal and coward­ ing ly hate. Save the similar deduction. The door opens; finger to trigger. Always he arrives at a new location A gentle squeeze can release the Always quiet, always secluded, vigour Reflecting his vocation. To shatter complacency and so much Upstairs he lays his suitcase down more: and against the wall he sits To end a life, and leave others to Waiting patiently, relaxing, gathering mourn. his wits. His time draws near; he stands to his A distant peak, once reached, A flood of apprehension and a frenzy feet of fear, Is the precarious balance We struggle to hold, And delicately he opens his case. A reckless dismantling and a hurried His apparatus, he assembles, careful departure. The mountain that is confidence. and neat, Quickly, he trots, handkerchief to With a frown of intensity upon his face, face. Fearing suspicion because of his haste. He puts rifle to shoulder and shifts to His nerves are shot and he must get be steady, away, But readjusts his hold for his weapon But for his security the assassin must is heavy. pay, With a glance at this target and a cau­ And the currency of isolation is the tious aim, only way. And a final movement the assassin is ready. Colin Perry

23 ROOF-TOPS

The street was damp from the last rain. into the last alleyway before I came to mocked for those things. Puddles glittered and clear rain-drops fell the main street. My footsteps echoed 1 stepped onto the pavement tentative­ on my head from the roofs towering eerily in the alley and I looked round ner­ ly and looked around. above. A lone pigeon scuffed its feet and vously. As I came to the end of the cob­ An old skeleton of a man in a brown looked around beadily, its black eyes bled path, light seeped in from the street duffle coat sat hunched on a bench, his popping out of its small head. Gulls and I squinted out onto “the other side”. eyes staring unseeingly at the grey stone wheeled in the clear blue sky above the Cars tooted and braked, shouts and beneath his feet. A sharp-looking woman roof-tops of London, squawking their laughter wafted round and the pigeons in in a blazer and matching skirt hurried strange cry of “Tero, tero”. the park opposite cooed. past, her high heels clicking rhythmical­ There was a strong contrast between I had known it would be like this: ly. Children played in the park and a this grey place, damp and dripping, and colourful signs; music filtering from the punk whose hair stuck up in different the merry bustle of the main street on the open doors of trendy shops, but there had colours leant against a wall nonchalantly. other side of the houses onto which I had always been something holding me back. Everything went on as normal, no one once dared to look from a far off roof­ My mum, pleading with me not to, say­ stared or pointed at me and my heart top. A bit like my life, I thought. Always ing I would be ridiculed and talked about. began to ease a little. Maybe they had something blocking me from going into “Look, there’s that young Strutt girl, forgotten. that world where exciting things happen, ooh, her mum was right wild once back I walked up the street heading for a lit­ where people can love and laugh. The in the sixties, look where it got her.” tle paper shop I could see in the distance. thought of my mother, ill and sad at I would buy a magazine and then, as home, almost changed by mind about “That young lady’s Eliza Strutt’s child. always, 1 would disappear into an alley­ what I was going to do. I remember her!” “No, you are going to do this, you My mum was ashamed of her past, of way like a cat, into the gloomy shadows have to see what it’s like, if they remem­ what she had done and of how she had on the other side of the roof-tops. ber,” I told myself. 1 turned the corner behaved and she didn’t want me to be Tara Laing

ACCIDENT

It was dark, and there was a chill in the didn’t really notice the person wrapped in by the lamp-post, two got away the other air but I liked being out in the dark: it a blanket crying, I was just trying to catch meant being up past bedtime and that glimpses of what was happening behind “What happened?” I said. meant a treat. We were going to the engine. “Oh, nothing,” said my Mum, “Here, McDonald’s because Mum and Dad had “Looks nasty ...” my Mum said. have some chips. Look, you got a free gone out last night and left me with a We sat down in McDonald’s. It was toy.” babysitter, so they said they would take warm and bright and jolly but we could “Was anyone hurt?” I asked. me somewhere to make up. see outside, into the dark. The fire engine “No, you shouldn’t worry about it!” I snuggled in between them. Mum looked bigger from in there. “Come on,” smiled my Mum, “Eat up “I’ll go and see if I can find out what smiled at me and squeezed my hand — and not just the chips!” tighter. The bright lights of the shops happened when I get our food,” said my So I picked up a chicken nugget and stood out in the dark as shadowy people Dad as he went to the counter. chewed on it thoughtfully. bustled past. We rounded the corner and When he came back I was looking at the first thing I noticed was the fire the small menu on the table, looking for The next day the headlines said engine. It was outside McDonald’s, the words I knew, especially sausage. I had “Teenager Crushed in Taxi Accident”, red, glossy paint catching the light and just learnt that at school and I was very but I was too young to read it. I only the blue sirens lazily swinging round. proud because it was a long word. I start­ noticed the picture of the engine and There was an ambulance there as well ed listening to my parents, and I don’t McDonalds. and I could hear people talking and the think they knew I was listening. “We were there last night, Dad!” occasional shout. I didn’t notice the street “They think it was a taxi.” “Yes, we were,” he replied. He didn’t lamp was at an irregular angle. As we got “Was it out of control?” sound very interested. closer the fire engine blocked the view. I “Yes, three teenagers were standing James Henderson

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24 CHAPLAIN’S THOUGHTS This was a momentous year. ensured that the preparations for and Harry Riley. After the main school The questions: tidying up after Communion Services service was over, five young people Firstly, a new Headmaster. How were efficiently dealt with. along with an intimate congregation did he view the prospect of 8 or 9 Thirdly, Richard Graham was of family and friends, gathered at the Services a week ? Would he be a tra­ scrupulous in his attendance at Chancel Steps for a quiet and sincere ditionalist, espousing the comfortable Chapel, quietly overseeing Alistair’s act of commitment in participation in words of “The Authorized Version” team, and ever willing and ready to a Service of Confirmation, presided of the Bible ? Was he a “trendy” read lessons. over by The Revd Charles Robertson, hoping that guitars, long hair and Fourthly, every time I went in to Minister of the Canongate Kirk, kaftans would decorate the Chancel the Vestry or the Chapel, I discovered Edinburgh and a Chaplain to HM the steps ? Might “Chapel” become a that both areas were immaculate - a Queen. Alison Bruce, Joanna tiresome part of “School Routine” ? difficult task to maintain at the best Malcolm, Tizi Nicholson, Julie And what of his view of the role of of times. I am very grateful to the Simpson and Kate Turner, confessed his Chaplain in the School ? - Clown Chapel cleaning team. their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord ? Converter ? Conservator ? Com­ So, the Autumn Term progressed according to the ritual of the newly forter ? Confuser ? Communicator ? quietly and efficiently. published book of Common Order, Secondly, a new Chapel Prefect Come January, the School was dev­ were confirmed and received whose own role had become that of astated to learn of the deaths of Drs Communion. Their quiet dignity in Vice-Captain of School. Would he Anne and Jeremy Gillingham, parents the peace and simplicity of the can­ warmly welcome visiting preachers of Melissa and Mark and GPs in dlelight Service were a fitting end to in the Chaplain’s absence ? Could he Perth, in the avalanche in Val d’lsere this year. be trusted to organise his team to which robbed the medical world in Autumn Term Preachers: The ensure that discipline was maintained England of other doctors. I had the Revd W U Macdonald JP (Perth). in the Chapel ? Would Orders of solemn and moving experience of The Revd Maxwell Craig, Chaplain Service be available for every pupil ? arranging and conducting their ser­ to HM The Queen, ACTS (Scotland). Would the correct hymn numbers be vice in St John’s Kirk in Perth. There The Revd Gavin Elliott, Minister, on the boards ? were delicate negotiations between Daliburgh and Howmore, South Uist. Thirdly, a new Captain of School. not only the press but also TV and The Very Revd Dr David Steel Would the position of Chapel Prefect radio, to ensure maximum privacy (Moderator of the General Assembly, jeopardise his position ? Would he be both at St John’s Kirk and afterwards. 1974). The Very Revd Dr David alert to the necessity that when called It was moving to see former pupils Smith (Moderator of the General upon, he could deputise as Chapel occupying the Choir Stalls of St Assembly, 1985). The Revd Bob Prefect, read a lesson audibly and John’s, and other pupils and former Fyffe, Rector of St John’s Episcopal convincingly with five minutes’ members of staff as well as present Church, Perth: Hon Episcopal notice ? And would he be open to the members of staff in that congregation Chaplain. The Very Revd Dr Fraser Chaplain’s promptings about “blips”, of over 1,000. McLuskey, MC (Moderator of the “hiccups” and “earthquakes” which A further note of strength which General Assembly, 1983) Minister might assault pupils and the School? became most apparent not just in the of St Columba’s, Pont Street, Fourthly, could Mrs Wylie and her long days before the service but also London. The Very Revd Dr Andrew team manage to curb the Chaplain’s in the days and weeks afterwards, Herron (Moderator of the General gross lack of knowledge of what it was the sense of community and Asembly, 1972) former Clerk to means to be tidy ? In other words, sharing shown by pupils and staff to Glasgow Presbytery. The Revd Mary would the Vestry resume its tranquil those most closely involved. Mark Levison (Minister of St Andrew’s and spacious outlook after the depre­ and Melissa’s home was constantly and St George’s, Edinburgh dations of Sunday ? filled with Strathallians, past as well (Chaplain to HM The Queen). The resolutions: as present. Spring Term Preachers: The Revd Firstly, within the opening minutes A trying and fraught Lent Term D D Ogston, St John’s Kirk, Perth. of the Academic Year, it was made was beginning to draw towards its Mr Christopher Syers-Gibson, perfectly clear that the Headmaster end when a second piece of devastat­ Headmaster, Butterstone. Canon P was not only relishing the prospect of ing news broke. Garry Rogers who Crosfield (formerly Provost, St worship in Chapel but was also will­ was on a GAP year at Healdsburg Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh. The ing to support and encourage the High School, California, had been Very Revd Professor Sir R A S free-spirited work of Chaplaincy. No killed in a skiing accident. Yet again, Barbour, MC DD (former Dean of flags were flown: if “Authorized” it the School was called upon to draw the Chapel Royal). The Revd Charles were to be: acceptance. If “long hair” on its spiritual and physical reserves Robertson (Canongate Kirk, and kaftans were to be an occasional and eventually we gathered in West Edinburgh, Chaplain to HM The part of Chapel worship: acceptance. Kilbride (many who had been at St Queen). The Very Revd Dr Andrew However, it was also obvious from John’s Kirk) for Garry’s service. Two Herron (Glasgow). the start that “Chapel” was anything pipers from Ruthven played at his Summer Term Preachers: The but routine. What the Headmaster’s graveside Committal. For me, the Revd P J Allen, St Ninian’s expectations of the Chaplaincy were loneliness of conducting another Episcopal Church, Edinburgh. The .....I have yet to discover. young person’s service - particularly Revd Andrew MacLellan, St Secondly, Alistair Bennett’s confi­ since he had been such a lively char­ Andrews and St George’s Church, dent and efficient management of acter with us on the School Trip to Edinburgh. The Revd Dr J Miller me, the Chapel, and the Captain of Chamonix in Easter 1993 - was Scott (formerly Minister of School along with his team of Rod somewhat eased by the presence and Jerusalem). The Revd R Fyffe Williams and Tory Forster, was mag­ visible support of so many of the (Rector, St John’s Episcopal Church, nificent. Visiting preachers extolled young. Perth. The Very Revd Professor R A his friendliness, efficiency and wel­ Another strengthening moment was S Barbour KCVO (Moderator of the coming manner as he “talked them the very last Sunday Service of the General Assembly, 1979). The Revd through” the ritual. Rod Williams’ Year. The Valedictory Service and Charles Robertson. excellent training as an altar-boy Commemoration of the Founder, T.G.L.

25 A DREAM OF A “DREAM” Packed houses welcomed the first major conflicts ahead. were highlighted by dressing the major production in the new Theatre, The woodland set, designed by “upper class” characters in officer with a sparkling and innovative A Greg Ross, and constructed by Leslie uniforms. A parallel was made here Midsummer Night’s Dream. O’Neill with a team of pupils, was in the fairy world by dressing Oberon It was directed by Mr. Murray and masterly - enabling maximum use of in martial boots. The mechanicals, on Mr. Broadfoot. The Dream is popu­ all the available space. From a high the other hand, were depicted as larly thought to be about fantasy and branch a regal Oberon (Noel scruffy “demob” private soldiers, love, but a closer reading of the play Charlier) observed the proceedings who all had distinctly different char­ uncovers deeper, more threatening and could descend to the stage by acters. Angela Higgins made a lum­ layers of power and control. The swinging down on a rope. A nimble bering, stuttering Snug, Karen dream, for many of the characters, and energetic Puck (Rowan Pearman) Wilson a vacant-faced, shell-shocked can almost be seen as a nightmare exited the stage by diving through a Snout and Duncan Forbes a nervy where they are under the power of ‘rabbit hole’ in the bank and Titania Flute. Laurie Crump was a slow, forces both human and supernatural. (Kananu Kirimi) could rest and enter­ gawky Starveling and Raj Where there is seeming harmony, tain Bottom in a magical leafy bower, Arumugam a well meaning, frustrat­ there is actually disharmony. into which her fairy attendants could ed Quince. To highlight this interpretation, the secretly come and go. Skilful use of But rightly, the “king” of the play was set in the period of uneasy lighting (designed by Mr. Goody) mechanicals, and very popular with peace between the First and Second highlighted the subtle mood changes the audience, was Bottom (Alistair World Wars. Dramatically, at the in the play. Duncan), played as a loud, overbrear- start, soldiers clambered over the There were particularly fine perfor­ ing, bawdy Scottish ex-private sol­ bank at the rear of the woodland set, mances from the female characters. dier who contrasted superbly with the evoking the trenches in the Great Kananu Kirimi’s Titania was serenely beautiful, gracious Titania. War. This was done to martial music poised and intensely moving. Paul Henderson’s Theseus was by Holst which gradually faded into Catriona Maclean and Lesley-Anne staid and upright and Kirsty Palmer’s the gentler strains of Butterworth. Dewar gave highly believable por­ Hippolyta, sulky and resentful. The uneasy peace had begun and trayals of the confused Helena and Live music of the inter-war period Theseus arrived on stage with Hermia. Their particularly intelligent was provided by the Strathallan Jazz Hippolyta, whose hand he had ‘won’, handling of the verse in the “argu­ Dance Band and choreography was having defeated her in the recent bat­ ment scene” allowed the audience to by Perth Theatre’s Tony Ellis. tle. At the end of the play, Puck, appreciate fully the changes in mood. standing like a puppeteer over the Their performances were well com­ The high standard of A Midsummer other characters, reminded us that we plemented by Finn Syme and Peter Night’s Dream places it firmly with are constantly under the power of Watson as Lysander and Demetrius. our recent dramatic successes such as forces beyond our control and this The military theme was continued Tartuffe, which was performed in the was reinforced by the closing music in the costumes designed by Mrs. Edinburgh Festival Fringe. by Shostokovitz, giving hints of other Hunter, while social class differences I.McF.

w H e « .e A « r r >> TM oo L-VSAjvineft? vt's w it y WAFTING THE FOG

It was a hot stuffy night backstage, pressed the red button to end the world. stale smoke floating up on the ceiling The ‘smoke’ spurted out at high speed from the night before. Then suddenly the and David and I started moving the cards Stage Manager came through. “Can I up and down to get the ‘fog’ out into the have Wafter 1 and Wafter 2?” he hissed audience to make them cough. It worked! in a whisper. David and I got up from the They gasped and puffed and were flap­ carpet where we were lying exhausted ping their hands to get rid of the suffoca­ from nights of practice and nervousness tion. We used it to make the audience a and tiptoed over to the vile brown table part of the stage, and in the dream, whilst with dry paint marks splatted all over it. I Lysander and Demetrius were chasing lifted two pieces of torn off white card after each other. Meanwhile, Puck was and moved quickly and quietly over to leading Lysander and Demetrius on the edge of the camouflage netting behind (thinking that Puck was Helena) to chase the wrinkled old tree. him around the auditorium. Puck suddenly jumped up on to the After wafting for five minutes we quiet­ wooden platform which was meant to be ly moved away and went back into the a hill, and ran up it to the top. Then, workshop. “Why did you put it on for so swaying her hands backwards and for­ long tonight?” I asked the Stage Manager. wards she said “Up and down and Up and He told me that the Director wanted more. dow n..... ” That was our cue. “But that’s the last time,” he said. “They “Take a deep breath lads,” the Manager nearly smothered out there. From now on said “or you will be zapped by the deadly we stick to the book.” smoke invaders.” Ahhhhh..... Crazy job, wafting! We took a last gulp of air and then Jonathan Goody

26 . . . BY W. SHAKESPEARE Since my knowledge of that writer It wasn’t without theatrical apprehen­ Duncan) who managed to be amusing (Shakespeare) is but scant (“For God’s sion that I entered the all new, technolog­ even when wearing a kilt and string vest! sake let us visit upon th'e carpet “A ically advanced, lighted ‘Exit’ sign Lesley-Anne Dewar (who was wearing horse “O horrible, mostly horrible Strathallan School Theatre. It certainly T-bar shoes) gave a soulful performance “Now is the autumn ...” etc.) I must made a change from wall bars, ropes and while prize for the two bricks short of a proclaim (in all modesty, of course) medicine balls although the play was not load must go to Karen Wilson. Others myself and hereby find myself imbued short of gymnastical feats (thank good­ did well in challenging roles - the walk­ with most excellent credentials as well ness the fairies didn’t have access to ing carpet was particularly convincing equipped for the undertaking of such a spring boards - thinking mainly of the and so, too, was Tarzan (in task you here see evidence of. floorboards!). At first I felt some confu­ Shakespeare’s time he was known as The play was, 1 believe, set in the sion - not with the plot - the storyline Oberon). Angela Higgins evoked a 1920s - forests haven’t changed so much remained lucid throughout but what with degree of terror as ... a lion (watch out since Shakespeare’s time - apart from the people disappearing and reappearing the Oberon), Raj Arumugam wore a floppy odd picnic table or “No Litter” sign - play (magical as Shakespeare intended) hat and sported a cockney accent while although apparently all fairies now wear was full of theatrical delusions*. The Laurie Crump played his penny whistle. (and this is compulsory) Doc Martin special effects were amazing and the set Well done to everyone. boots! cleverly constructed with the addition of On the subject of whistles, this year’s I feel obliged at this point (with all due Mr Broadfoot’s symbolics of a metaphor­ production definitely had something of respect to the author) to modify and ical nature: that tree (how shall I put it?), the Lloyd-Weber tone - with jazz, dance imbue with a certain poetic quality the its salient branches and a squirrel. The and, best of all, a sudden, unexpected opening of our play - we hear music moving sky was especially interesting rendition o f ... I feel a song coming on ... which was thunderous and rapturous - and contributed to a great deal of visual “Birds do it, bees do it ...I really don’t and behold! Great spears and arrows expectancy* though I found the Marks think trees do it” etc. (I hear there are flew all ^sunder - the sky was that red­ and Spencer pot plant less convincing. sweatshirts available, Mr Broadfoot dish tone (they do call orange) - that will I feel anxious at this point to exagger­ might be interested.) suffice to say: It was war. ate and imbue with a certain epic quality All round the production was a great Being no stranger to the theatre I an incident in our play - we slowly success and 1 might just mention that quickly felt dramatic tension, the lan­ became aware of it. That strange hissing. they are bringing it out on video. Special guage was never short of ironic and was It hissed. Hiss..sss. And gradually there thanks must go to all those backstage laced with beautiful and most lovely, arose a strange and terrible mist - a and, of course, to Andrew Murray and nice and good rhetoric. treacherous fog and poisonous vapour, John Broadfoot. horrible, dreadful, awful, terrible, bad At this point (before must farewell bid Left: Bottom and Puck (Rowan Pearman) (excuse me while I reach for my the­ thee..I) I feel it necessary to imbue with a Below: Karen Wilson as Wall saurus) I became dramatically tense and certain Shakespearian quality the closing Right: Kananu (left) and Catherine Jones cinematically eluded** (found it), abhor­ of our play - we heard music that was entertain Bottom rent, heinous. jovial, jovial the music was - the sort Turning now to those who, on finding these English country folk called: themselves on stage, were able, with Morris. The movement was of that frivo­ utmost clarity of speech and movement, lous kind (clapping) and there was much to convey the sentiments of this play: the rejoicing about. Or, as Shakespeare actors. might have put it - There were excellent performances all “Mortals, what fools these be.” round - perhaps most notable Catriona Lucy Quarry Maclean as Helena, Kananu Kirimi as *apologies to those who are not famil­ Titania and who could forget the expres­ iar with the language of the theatre. sions of Rab C (sorry that’s Alistair ** further apologies

27 BACKSTAGE MANAGED Thursday, 2.00 pm: 12 naive naked swimmers wandering the halls pupils walked jauntily into a bare of the main building was simply room that was full of endless oppor- “one of those things ” experienced in tunites for constructively avoiding the world of artistic creation when, the damp, dreary games pitches, lit­ by technical fault only, the clouds of tle knowing the enormity of the task smoke, used as a dramatic effect, yet to face them ..... had choked not only us but the fire Perhaps it was because I was a alarm. teacher in Design Technology that As is often the case, those mem­ someone thought I would be “quite bers of the stage crew who were good” at building a set for the next unsure and confused at the start of production. However, I soon discov­ the process, became both confident ered that there was a group of will­ and self-critical as they began to see ing, if somewhat apprehensive, the end in sight. What had begun as pupils who were keen to get an interesting diversion from study involved in the full range of back­ and other less appealing activities for stage requirements, including the some became a challenge to be over­ building of the set. All I had to do come, and a job at which to excel. really was help them along a little With the advantage of overview, I bit, look after the health and safety could clearly see what the crew had aspects, teach them about shearing managed to achieve in a relatively factors, load-bearing ratios, etc. etc. short time and there is no doubt that Well, that was the theory anyway. what they did achieve was superb. Three months later twelve haggard The finished set would have been a and slumping figures stumbled out of credit to a professional theatre com­ the room over the hoover, leaving pany, and the backstage organisation behind them a stage exhibiting cre­ during the performances was smooth ations fated to destruction not half and efficient. an hour after their last appearance. Admittedly, amid this chaos there The motley gang of inexperienced was some sense of order. It seems amazing to us how the professional- craftsmen (and women) were Mr O ’Neill showed them the ropes! whipped into shape by Mr O ’Neill, looking set emerged from the “gag­ an old-hand at stage management. gle of girls ” of three months before. Our first priority was, of course, crew. It was not queries of “When?” We had completed a task which had translating the design concept for the and “Where?” but of “What?” and seemed impossible to us at the start set into a workable reality. The con­ “How?” that filled the minds of the and were, needless to say, chuffed. struction of the set model on our din­ usually chatty gaggle of girls and the The funny thing is that when all is ing room table, however, caused my alarming delivery of a truckful of said and done, the hassles and wife great concern over our dietary wood caused great consternation stresses of constantly meeting time intake: balsa wood lay strewn every­ amongst the group who had so far limits are forgotten as the better where despite my unskilled efforts managed to escape the serious work moments shine through. It is a pity with the hoover! through surprisingly numerous dri­ that life can’t always follow these The endless opportunities for con­ ving lessons and “Pilgies tracks. structively avoiding games had The greatest challenge was that Next year we intend to involve the turned into manual tasks previously someone had decided he wanted a pupils in more of the stage manage­ unheard of and unanticipated by the solid-looking wall that wasn’t solid ment function, from organising set mostly female crew. at all — because Puck had to dive design to construction, from props to The reaction of the stage crew to head first through it! Piece of cake, production meetings, from perfor­ the finished set model was, to say really! The amount of chicken wire mance organisation to running times, the least, interesting. The normally we used to produce the “bootiful” and I, as an on the spot Consultant, articulate and self-possessed group Athenian columns would have bank­ look forward to a few knocks on my of willing hands suddenly disinte­ rupted Bernard Matthews, but my door from crew members wanting to grated into a collection of doubting request to the local hospital’s check shearing factors and load individuals who gasped in alarm. (It orthopaedic department for Plaster of ratios, and all of those things that was at this stage that I discovered a Paris was met with a great deal of make a safe and effective produc­ rapid upsurge in the number of polite scepticism. “Honestly,” I tion. I can’t wait for the first desper­ senior pupils who just had to take explained, “it’s for Bottom to sit on ate cry of “Don’t touch the blacks!” driving lessons or go running around in the Fairy Bower while Titania to waft through to my office where I the famous “Pilgie” route - for the strokes his furry ears!” “Ah, I see ..... will be sitting supremely confident sake of their health of course!) and what school did you say you that things will be all right on the Having seen this reaction before, I were from .....?” Thankfully, a gen­ night. As someone called knew that once the shock had faded erous parent in the medical profes­ Shakespeare once wrote, “To show the complications and difficulties sion donated a supply. our simple skill, that is the true would become yet more challenges Amongst the effort of construction beginning of our end”. to be overcome and that they would and creation there were a number of My thanks to the various pupils simply roll up their sleeves and get those moments which, in retrospect, and staff, especially to my colleague on with it. can be looked on with laughter - Roy Sneddon, who has promised to After the initial showing of the set such as the time when great pleasure give the crew a hand next year! plan, there was nearly good cause was gained by the crew in watching L.A.O’N. for a 999 alarm as shock grasped the masters in charge explain to the (with help from Kim Fowler and even the most experienced of our Headmaster that the shoal of half- Vicky McMahon)

28 HOUSE PLAYS attempts to put most bosoms (effectively) and most bottles (predictably) on stage at the same time. Pace and timing let them down, despite some fine performances - notably from the Woman in Red and the snappily synchronised Wands twins. Woodlands, therefore, won the Best Production Prize for Blame it on the Janitor - a tightly scripted school farce which sometimes reflected the real char­ acters of the pupil-actresses quite hilari­ ously, if outrageously. The controlled hysteria of the Headmistress, the prim and proper teacher, the antics of the Jannie and the good girl’s smirks were most effective. Not only the energy that went into the leading parts, but also the excellent acting in the minor parts made this the outstanding production of the evening. Best Actor Prizes: Andrew Forbes; Karen Wilson, Sarah Drury. Special mention must be made of: Fiona Hamilton, Gerry Kerr, Lyndsey Allison and Neil Hutton. E.M.A.

The Winter Term came and went with­ out any sign of the much-awaited Senior House Plays. Were they, or were they not, to be? As the term progressed the question grew in importance for the clos­ et actors and actresses who were eagerly anticipating the chance to reveal their Andrew Forbes as The Woman in Red hidden talents which modesty and previ­ ous lack of such events had kept at bay. However, just as all hope of this competi­ Mrs McPhail and Mrs Adam were very voice and carefully sculpted facial expres­ tion ever existing again was beginning to nearly bamboozled by their job of adjudi­ sions. Indeed, this “treasure” coped dwindle away, news of the event began to cating this year’s Junior House Plays - admirably with an increasingly confusing reach us and it looked as if it was indeed with so much fun and talent and effort office drama. In the end, the boss got pro­ to take place. But when? With both the how does one judge merit? Five out of motion and his wife returned to him but Autumn and Winter terms behind us, it six Houses produced plays written entire­ .... this play lacked consistently clear didn’t take much brain power to figure ly by third and Fourth Formers. delivery and the staging was somewhat out that they would simply have to take Congratula-tions to Colin Perry, Mike static. place in the Summer Term; an idea which Burrell, Angela Higgins, Jemma The same could not be said of many simply could not fathom. How Hepworth and Alison Hunter but the Best Ruthven’s Scooby Doo and the Gang, could this be? Summer Term is the exam Script Prize went to Simpson’s Captain which appeared to have so many stories term. And this is how it came about that Tadpole by Alastair Grieve and Jonathan running concurrently that there was no the Senior House Plays took place amidst Hepworth. discernible plot! What did Reagan and much complaining by those examinees Although this play lacked pace on Gorbachev, well-characterised as they who were also would-be actors. stage and they had some trouble coming were, have to do with Daphne and The weeks building up to the Plays to a satisfactory resolution of their plot Shayne? Bizarre, but fun. were a recipe for disaster. Time was of after it had taken unscripted directions, a Thornbanks’s Poirot-parody The Butler the essence and fast running out and yet huge cast enjoyed themselves mightily: Did It was well-scripted and produced a still it was difficult to assemble all actors Captain Berk managed his mindless data- runner-up in each category. The casting and directors for the much-needed men, the constipated Mentor’s voice-con- was good and a wide variety of scenes rehearsals. Moaning and griping, most trol was memorable and Captain Tadpole were presented by using off - as well as Houses managed to get together some­ himself kept the heroism more or less on - stage areas. Although it was hard to thing, although Woodlands must have felt under control until the Terminator zapped hear some of the minor characters, there defeated for their absence was felt from them all out with really sinister sound were others such as the vindictive daugh­ the very beginning. (Not that any of the effects. ter, the cook and the gardener, who pro­ other Houses were complaining about Nicol’s play What a Great Guy opened duced some of the finest characterisations that, as this simply meant one House less well. A delightful secretary with a femi­ of the evening. to compete with. Hence, for those mathe­ nist approach to hairdressing (bathing Freeland’s Tintin With a Twist should matically minded, the probability of win­ cap?) but traditional housewifely have been excellent, but they suffered ning was higher.) footwear (fluffy slippers!) conveyed char­ from last-minute actor substitutions With just a few days left, the groaning acter through well-modulated tones of because of illness as well as ambitious decreased as excitement began to take its

29 place. A fiercely competitive air settled The next play was a very ambitious, if perfectly into the role of Glaswegian over those involved and although some not controversial, version of an extract busybody washer-women. complaining could still be heard, it was from The Tempest by Shakespeare. It was The last play of the evening was more for pride’s sake than anything else. put on by Freeland House with much help Ruthven’s version of The Homecoming, However, soon not a murmur of discon­ from Mr Court. This extract was extreme­ which produced two excellent perfor­ tent was discernible for the night of the ly amusing and at times embarrassing to mances from Russell Griffiths and Chris performances had arrived. Everyone had watch (I am referring to a certain incident Marshall. Although it was the same forgotten their qualms and were pulled between Pete Watson and Euan Harrison extract as done by Nicol, it was very into the excitement of it all - or was it which I am sure everybody has heard interesting to see the different ways in nervous tension? These feelings about by now). The acting here was which they tackled it. Ruthven’s play was increased as word found us that Simpson extremely good and the production was of very high standard and they too, han­ too were pulling out - although credit certainly inventive and very entertaining. dled a difficult extract extremely well. must be given to them for at least trying. This left Thornbank which was next, In the end, however, Thornbank won It was now curtain time and a hush fell with a lot to live up to, and I’m sure every the competition. Of course, it is not the over the audience as Nicol opened up the single nail was bitten down to the quick winning that counts - it’s the taking part; evening with an extract from Harold before the curtains finally opened and but well done to Thornbank !!! Pinter’s The Homecoming, which turned they came on with the modern day ver­ I can safely say that, after all that out to be rather long, consisting of many sion of The Steamie, a Glasgow comedy. moaning and groaning prior to the event, tense silences which often grew to be Apart from my Walkman flying across the Second Senior House Drama of tedious. However, hard as the extract the stage at the beginning, all went Strathallan School was a success, and 1 was, Nicol House acted it out as best as smoothly and the Glaswegian accents hope it will be equally successful for they could, uncovering a group of very were memorable - especially that of many years to come. Thank you to the good actors, the performance of Dave Lucy-Anne Bryans, who played the old directors, actors and all those who came Man being notably of very high quality. woman with back problems amazingly to watch - all I can finally say is that I’m Well done, to the actors, director and well. Lesley-Ann Dewar, once again, did never wearing a shell suit again. their lighting man who certainly managed a wonderful job as a director and Rowan to shed light on a few areas of the play! Pearman and Hanna Kranenburg fitted Eilidh Currie CURTAINS During the summer of 1992, the a lot of help from his wife, Mr Reed it be claustrophobic memories of the School held a fete to try and raise and many other members of staff, a whole cast crammed into that little enough money to build a greatly- memorable performance of O liver make-up room screaming that Mrs needed new theatre. Well this year, was enacted to a responsive and, dare Hunter was doing their make-up next, after two long years of waiting, it was I say, “faithful” audience, many of or more placid memories of “crashing opened with a wonderful performance whom are still attending plays today. out” on the old sofa backstage during of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. But Since then the School has watched a performance, waiting for “your this article is not to pay tribute to hi- remarkable performances of M acbeth, call”. tech lighting and sound systems, the The Boyfriend, Tartuffe, The I cannot tell you what life was like TV transmission screens and inter­ Happiest Days of Your Life and The on the Old Stage before Oliver, but I coms between the stage and the dress­ Crucible (to name but a few), and no have no doubt that it was as much fun ing rooms, the comfy fold-down matter how hard those plastic chairs and as successful as it has been ever chairs for the audience or even the were, the audience showed nothing since. But, as they say, “The old must “celebrity lights” that surround the but great enjoyment as they sat make way for the new”, and I’m sure mirrors in the make-up room. It is to through hours of entertainment each that, in the years to come, the plays remember the Old Stage and some of year. will continue to get even better. Good the great performances that took I will always have fond memories luck to all those who plan on getting place on it. of that Old Stage, as I’m sure every­ involved! In 1987 Mr Broadfoot directed his one who has been involved with plays first Strathallan School Play and, with at one time or another will. Whether Lesley Dewar

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30 HISTORY TALKS Strathallan was fortunate enough this (Professor of Austrian Studies - indeed In addition to these talks designed for session to welcome a number of outside the only one in the U.K., at St Andrews) the entertainment, interest and occa­ speakers who came either to talk about - entertained an appreciative audience sionally instruction of the Sixth Form, topics of general interest and signifi­ to his thoughts on “Mozart and Vienna”. the School was host to three history lec­ cance to the Sixth Form or to deliver There were three talks in the Spring turers in each of the winter terms:- more specialist papers to those interest­ Term and they, too, generated a healthy ed in history. interest in their varied audiences. Dr Iain Scott (Edinburgh) Our programme began with a fasci­ Professor Bonny McDougall (recently “How close was Britain to Revolution nating talk by Sue Arnold, the distin­ appointed to the Chair of Far Eastern 1790-1830?” guished Observer columnist who, in Studies at the University of Edinburgh) addition to the numerous insights she provided an authoritative guide to the Prof. Bruce Lenman (St Andrews) provided to the workings of the “fourth issues involved in the opening up of “The Jacobite Enigma” estate”, selected Burma as an example China to the West in the aftermath of of an issue involving human rights con­ the Tiananmen Square massacre. Dr Rory Watson (Stirling) veniently forgotten by the media in the Professor Busuttil, who holds the Chair “Robert Louis Stevenson” more developed West. This led on to of Forensic Medicine at Edinburgh, fas­ an examination of the issues involved in cinated us with some of the details of Dr Mark Ellis (Strathclyde) the Northern Ireland question, which his grisly craft but left no doubt at all of “Harriet Beecher Stowe and the Civil were examined by the next guest speak­ the vital role his branch of medicine War” er, Owen Dudley Edwards from the plays in modern society. University of Edinburgh; his thought- One talk, which was geared to the Prof. Hew Strachan (Glasgow) provoking survey certainly helped more specialised interest of those study­ “Blitzkrieg” many of his audience to a greater com­ ing modern literature, was given by the prehension of all that has occurred there Northern Irish novelist, long resident Dr Andrew Pettegree (St Andrews) this past year. here, Bernard McLaverty; much of “Calvin: Saint or Sinner?” Professor Trevor Salmond from St what his excellent talk singled out for Andrews gave us a guided tour round emphasis complemented the earlier These proved to be a stimulating and the intricacies and implications of the speaker on the province’s troubles. worthwhile series of talks, but perhaps Maastricht Treaty; a team from Perth Finally, the Rt Hon. Iain Sproat MP the most memorable occasion this ses­ Prison led by John Kelly introduced returned to Scotland to describe in sion was the visit by the History most of the audience for the first time to intriguing detail his life and work as a Department to hear Professor Linda current developments in their world government minister; two of his current Colley (of “Britons” fame) lecturing in where headlines tend to feature bad briefs involve Sport and the National Edinburgh. It is hoped that a similar rather than good news; and our autumn Lottery, so there was a certain amount blend that will interest staff and pupils programme ended on a civilised note of informed questioning from both staff will continue to be a feature of the when Professor Peter Branscombe and pupils. Strathallan year. THE GLENISLA COTTAGES

Lying in the heart of the Angus coun­ tryside is a row of cottages, converted to accommodate up to 35 pupils and leased by George Watson’s College in Edin­ burgh. They very kindly allow us to use the cottages on various weekends through the year and the popularity of this delightful spot next door to a farm has grown steadily with staff and pupils here. Third Formers from Simpson and Ruthven have enjoyed a number of sun- and fun-filled weekends there (to which the report below bears testimony), whilst a group of Lower Sixth A level pupils spent a study weekend there in June. This proved to be a huge success; the pro­ gramme covered many aspects of English and French literature as well as leaving plenty of time to enjoy the peace of the countryside, to relax by the fire or join in a frenetic game of football on the front lawn. The cottages offer an ideal and very inexpensive way of escaping the rigours of School life for 24 hours. A change is as good as a holiday. PJ.C.

31 THE FRENCH SPIRIT As if by some curse, the first glori­ French exchange without mentioning The crazy crane, the pedalo boats and ous sunshine of the Easter holidays the language. It may seem to you that the locals’ passion for poodles are appeared over Scotland's eastern what I am about to say is merely likely to stick in our minds, as will horizon on the morning of April there to please our teachers, but it our dramatic change in dress sense 15th, the very day we were to board must be said that everyone’s under­ when the sun finally made an appear­ the plane, heading for sunny France. standing of French improved vastly ance. What a thrill it was to wear Despite the gloomy forecasts for rain during the stay. It was pretty intimi­ shorts and a T-shirt in April! across the Channel, everyone in our dating, living with people who did The pancake party, the disco and, group seemed suitably excited about not speak our language but it was unforgettably, French school were all the fortnight ahead of us. easier to get used to than we had sup­ great fun, too. The whole time we At first we really weren't sure what posed and once we had picked up seemed to be out and about, doing to expect of our destination, everyday expressions, we were going enjoyable things and, at the same Montbrison, or, indeed, of the people just fine. time, improving our French. The whose houses we were about to I hate to admit it, but I suspect our constant jokes from the heart of the invade. They were sure to be pleas­ visit to France will perhaps be group kept us chirpy and looking for­ ant; we knew this, but we were remembered, not so much for the ward to each new day. Everything dreadfully concerned about their cus­ improvements we all made in French, was so much better than any of us toms and whether or not we would fit as for the brilliant outings and amus­ had imagined. We can only thank Mr in easily. ing occurrences we all enjoyed dur­ Crosfield, Mrs Crane and everyone in We tingled with tension on step­ ing the trip. Memories will be made Montbrison very much. Who would ping off the plane at Lyon, knowing of those small aspects of the trip that ever have thought that learning could that our first impressions of made it such a good one. Our group be such fun? Fancy taking us again Montbrison stood just beyond cus­ visits to the mountains, the zoo and next year, Mr C.? toms, in the arrival hall. These Lyons were certainly the highlights. Nicol Nicolson impressions came in the shape of teachers, parents and children, the majority of whom would play a major role in our lives over the next two weeks. What a surprise their welcome was! I had certainly not known any­ one previously to be so friendly on a first meeting. How strange it was, too, to have embraces flying at you from every direction. They certainly knew how to make people feel appre­ ciated and we were soon to discover that our airport meeting was not a one-off. Every morning for fourteen days, there were kisses and hugs from people we had never seen before in our lives. It was all very cheery, to say the least. Another nice surprise was awaiting us in our hosts’ homes. We knew, of course, that they would all be doing a lot to make us feel at home, but none of us thought for a second that we would be waited on hand and foot. There was nothing we could do to stop it, and it was great. We could only hope that it would be possible to repay them on their visit to Scotland. I cannot write an article on a Jennifer Maxwell and Nicol Nicolson PARIS

The Paris trip began for me with the us outside the Station. Never have I had arrived at the ferry. It was nice to be able discovery that our hotel was delightfully to spend so long on a coach and never to uncrick our necks and walk about a lit­ named the Hotel Frot (“Or would it turn have I been on such a cramped one. tle bit although efforts to do so were out to be the Hotel Grot?” asked Mrs Furthermore, the heating didn’t work. I hampered somewhat by the gale-force Duncan optimistically.) It was a grey think Mrs D. and Mrs Maltman had made winds raging round the boat, but as the March morning when the gang assembled the right move when they chose their chill light of early morning grew stronger at Queen Street Station. The first mishap clothing, and how I wished I possessed a we realised that we had made it to was, of course, Tim Hunter’s - he had sleeping-bag style coat or a Jackson’s hat. France. forgotten his passport. Luckily someone had the sense to bring Actually getting to the hotel was rather But we were destined for no mere pub­ along the video of The Terminator 2 to difficult. Our coach driver had never been lic transport on British Rail (as it was cheer us all up. to Paris and, perhaps inevitably, we got known then). Our “luxury” coach awaited After many miserable hours we finally trapped on the peripherique and had to do

32 a complete tour of the city. However, we separated from the group, though not by though the officials seemed determined made it eventually and the hotel was design (although Mrs D. thought we not to let us in, we eventually made it - friendly, if not luxurious. were doing it deliberately). Mrs D. gained a few new children - and I It was time-to take a proper look at The first night was meant to be an think everyone enjoyed it. Paris. After a quick snack for lunch we early night and we headed back to the Dinner was paid for with reduced headed for the Eiffel Tower. The view hotel. Somehow, though, various people means. Some of us opted for McDonalds; towards it from the Place Joffre was got their room numbers muddled and the Lucy and I told a waiter we were breathtaking - one of the most spectacu­ Germans arrived at about three o’clock in Scottish, and as a result got a bowl of hot lar things about Paris is its architecture. the morning. It was an eventful night! mussels free. We then went to the cinema This impression was reinforced by our We greeted the next morning, therefore, to watch The Three Musketeers, which trip down the Seine on the Bateau- less than our usual selves. Then we had turned out to be really quite a funny film Mouche (Mrs D. used her winning smile to go to our all-day conference, where we though I have to admit it was in English to get us a discount). However, the were confined in a massively expensive - mind you we put our fingers in our ears impact of this trip was reduced for most shopping centre/cinema/nightclub/hotel/ and only read the French subtitles! of us by our fatigue combined with the office block/conference centre, having to Dominic and Phil preferred to buy their heat and the gentle rocking motion of the listen to various failed or would-be own video recording - how boring! boat. In other words, we fell asleep. politicians. Our last day began with a guided tour Once back on land the bracing wind The next day was devoted to major from the most sexist guide I have ever soon woke us up and we headed up to the sightseeing. We hit Sacre-Coeur first. I had the displeasure of listening to. We Latin Quarter for dinner. This area of the was startled by its vaguely middle-east- visited Notre-Dame, and then “unfortu­ city contrasts starkly with the formal lay­ ern appearance from a distance and also nately” our guide had to leave us just as out around the Eiffel Tower. Opting for a by the massive number of steps one we had a collision with a car. We all safe French restaurant near the edge of needed to climb. Moving round to leapt off the bus and went shopping in the ramble of meandering streets, we ate Montmartre, Lucy and I were accosted Galleries Lafayette. The few hours fairly well as a group. (On the next two by two pushy “artists”. Finally we man­ remaining were left to our own discre­ nights we were to be let loose on the aged to escape them and their unduly tion. Lucy and I went to the Gallery of Quarter, and Lucy and I did amazingly flattering portraits. We visited the Arc de Modern Art, which was fascinating. This well for food, while others were Triomphe, from the top of which Vicky experience alone would have justified the unlucky.) However, our intrepid searches was pleased to find a Rue McMahon, and agony of travel. for menus of excellence caused us to fail we observed the interesting Parisian Paris deserves much more than a three- to make it back to the bus - despite the interpretation of the highway code. For day visit, and I think all of us fell in love help of two very suspicious-looking the first time during our stay the sun was with it. Thanks must go to Mrs Maltman young men - and we caused Mrs D. to shining, and we glowed in the rays while for keeping us sane and Mrs Duncan for have one of her legendary panics. Lucy strolling down the Champs Elysees. The keeping us amused, but safe. and I were consistent in managing to get Musee d’Orsay was the next stop, and Caroline Proctor COLOGNE AT LAST

After waiting for five months, we Camouflaged in kilts, our first prepared by each “mum”, and we were finally there. Armed with organised trip was to the cathedral. enjoyed demolishing each platter that German dictionaries we were let The trip up the workmen’s lift, fol­ was laid on for us, and we were each loose in Cologne for ten days. We lowed by a cruise across the scaffold­ allowed a small beer. arrived on Sunday (looking a tad ing 150ft above the ground, proved We spent a relaxing Monday conspicuous in our kilts!) to finally too much for Emma. We’ll never (recovering from Sunday) matching see the faces behind the letters we know whether she really does suffer the photos we had taken on the Rhine had been writing. Nick certainly had from vertigo or whether she just to the stories of doom, gloom and no trouble finding his hosts, as the wanted a head start at the shops. despondency we had written. The huge yellow sign made it blatantly Then we set off on a boat trip down photos caused many to shriek, “Rip obvious. the Rhine. Our destination - Roden- that up now!” The first afternoon was spent on kirchen. On the trip we were to pose Tuesday arrived all too quickly for introductions to families and brief and take photos to match the despon­ tours of Cologne and after letting us all of us - it had seemed as though dent stories we had written a day pre­ we had only arrived a day ago. Then struggle painstakingly through our viously and yes, we did enjoy pre­ personal details, we were relieved to the reality of it all fell on us like a tending to be love-sick, half-drowned brick. We were leaving. Mr Glimm find that at least one family member damsels-in-distress. spoke good English. Doug soon literally dragged us from the arms of decided that he might be able to cope The next day we went to the our hosts (if he hadn’t we would with the four-storey, five-star man­ “Germanish-Romanish” museum that have missed the train). The journey sion, fully equipped with indoor showed us objects made centuries to Dusseldorf was spent checking jacuzzi, sauna, pool and multi-gym, ago when the Normans lived there. that our eyes weren’t too puffy, each that he had been landed with for the Sunday morning was spent with the of us trying to put on a brave face. next ten days. Poor soul ! families, but then in the early evening Some were better at it than others The next morning we woke early, we assembled at a disused club that it (yes, well, Emma was never too some earlier than others. Jo was the took Fiona and Kirstine an hour to ashamed to show her emotions!) first to start the Cologne stage of the find. Still angry at the fact that they This trip will never be forgotten. It Tour de Germany to the Leibfrauen- had passed the club at least twice, was a 10/10 visit to Cologne, and we schule, and others joined her within they were able to unwind by joining will probably never have such a care­ half an hour. It was definitely a us for a dance .... Scottish style! fully planned and arranged trip ever change from our two minute walk Robed in our kilts, which never again. Thank you very much, Mr across the causeway, but don’t seemed to be off us, many were heard Glimm, from us all. worry, we made up for the exercise at enquiring “W hat’s The Dashing Haagen-Das. White Sergeant ag ain ?” Food was Heather Swinn & Emma Dilger

33 DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

This has been a year of consider­ SIXTH FORM DESIGN VISIT visit to the Picasso Exhibition and a able change for the subject of Design TO LONDON visit to the Science Museum. & Technology, with the introduction (Combined Design & Technology As light relief we were able to see of both National Curriculum and Art) two musicals: Miss Saigon and Technology courses and a new mem­ This has now become a well estab­ Buddy. The whole visit, lasting four ber of the team of staff, Mr Leslie lished, indeed essential part of the days, provided a tremendous oppor­ O’Neill, who I met on my “year out”. Sixth Form Courses for both depart­ tunity to expand work started at I certainly found the experience of ments. The schedule this year includ­ School and served as a platform for a working on the “national scene” ed a workshop with a designer in the great deal more. It is made all the within the University system Design Museum, a workshop at the V more enjoyable by having superb extremely refreshing. The opportuni­ & A 20C Room, a visit to the famous accommodation and great company. ty to step outside the school situation Fleming Collection of Scottish Art, a P.J.E. can be extremely helpful and infor­ mative. This subject has probably seen more changes over the last five years than any other. Within this sea of change, it is vital that we maintain both the excellence and the sensible direction for which Strathallan is renowned. We have had to take on board a large amount of Information Technology work as an integral part of both of the new courses. To this end we have redesigned the layout of the design studio, built computer benching and installed an extension to the school-wide network system. This provides immediate hands-on experience for all aspects of comput­ ing; particularly for robotics, design, graphics and data recording. Yet the nature of the subject remains funda­ mentally the same, and our philoso­ phy is still one of providing an active learning environment for all aspects of Design & Technology. To this end, pupils are increasingly involved with outside bodies, as visits to industry and commercial institutions become compulsory parts of all courses. Having looked at the end-product of these courses “from the other side” of the school-leaving hurdle has re­ emphasised for me the benefits that are to be gained from such stretching experiences, whatever the chosen course of study thereafter. It is with a great deal of enthusiasm and expecta­ tion that I look forward to the success of our new courses, which promise to be particularly suited to the style of learning being introduced to all Colleges and Universities. I would like to thank the team of staff for all their very hard work throughout what has been a very busy and interesting year. PJ.E. Guy Stephens completing his boat trailer GEOGSMILES

The original site of Quantoxhead .... windmills are out. A new form Northern Scotland — and some of was probably 20-30 miles out to sea. of wind is now used — called them suffer badly. The reason for this is longshore drift Netherlands. The coastline of Bangladesh is much and heavy swells. .... latitude mostly affects people in nearer the sea than any other country.

34 SUGAR AND SPICE AND A 40% DIVIDEND

Back in September a group of keen for our product - Christmas decorations been pleased with them. I have heard that Lower Sixers looked forward to doing for the tree. Although we approached the two McPhail boys liked the mobile Young Enterprise! We 'were to set up a many shops in Perth, none were willing so much that Flora, for whom it was company, sell our product to the public to take our product which, after their intended, has been forced to give it up. It and make a fat profit in the process - extortionate mark-up, would cost too is now hanging in their room! sounded perfect. But it wasn’t to be. much, “and besides,” they would tell us, Over £100 was made from mobile After one meeting we were to learn that “we’ve already got all our stock in for sales, more than enough to cover materi­ it was all off for this year as no advisers Christmas”. al costs and taxes, which were a massive were available. Before you could say Now what could we do? We resorted 17.5% VAT followed by an even greater “stocks and shares” there was no longer to a Toy Fair in Perth, not very success­ 25% sales tax. a company, a product, a profit.... That fully, and the parents after our Carol Our unconfident shareholders were was, until a couple of us had the bright Service at the end of the Autumn Term. happy, too - wouldn’t you be if you had idea of writing to Y.E.S. (that’s Young Here, to our great relief, we managed to a 40% dividend?! A share that cost 25p Enterprise, Scotland) asking them to do sell them all and we made a total of £97 ! in October was now worth 35p - something. On returning in the Spring, we had to “Enough for a can of Coke!” a share­ After a great deal of to-ing and fro-ing think up a new product. We came up holder ex-claimed, delighted. we were finally able to set up, thanks to with the idea of designing mobiles for Each member of the board received a three members of the Perth Rotary Club nursery ceilings - very easy to make, if a huge executive salary of £3 and our who were to be our advisers: Mr Sime, little time-consuming. All of the Young remaining money has been given to char­ Mr Thompson and Dr Wood. By this Enterprise members busied themselves ity via the Chapel collection. time it was late October and we would with manufacture towards the end of We succeeded financially despite start­ have to get our skates on so as to catch term. We began to sell. Each mobile was ing very late, thanks to our combined the Christmas market - a pretty essential £12.50 - rather expensive for your aver­ business talents and teamwork, and the time of the year for selling. age pupil who, we thought, might not be invaluable help of the advisers, particu­ Our company was christened “Spice” terribly interested in a baby’s mobile. larly Mr Sime (to whom the “financial” - catchy monosyllabic words can be Fortunately, a huge increase in the popu­ team should be extremely grateful), quite good, we thought. Our shares were lation of Staff families created a demand “Spice” was a success all round - albeit a all sold at 25p each, which gave us more and, in the end, it was mostly Staff who vast task to take on. than enough money to buy the material bought the mobiles and have, we hope, Catherine Jones STOCKS AND SHARES At the beginning of the year, under the auspices of Messrs Mayes and Vallot, the Inter-House Stocks and Shares Competi­ tion took form. On the first Wednesday of each month, each team had their “decision day” to buy, sell or hold on to their stocks. With the initial sum of £100,000 to invest, each of the teams met with varied success. On 24th May - the last decision day - the final standings were, in reverse order:

6 Thornbank £ 79,828 5 Simpson £112,236 4 Freeland £116,950 3 Nicol £135,149 2 Ruthven £161,096 1 Woodlands £161,915

Hopefully the competition will be as successful next year, under the supervi­ sion of the Business Studies Department, as it was this year (N.B. Thornbank!)

Right: Joanna Malcolm at the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, where she attended a course on “Women into Science and Engineering”.

35 CAREERS

The opening of the new Careers including RMA Sandhurst, RAF Law Society and Bar Association, and Computing Centre in September Cranwell and BRNC Dartmouth. London Twenty-three pupils have taken the has put the Careers Department liter­ Law Society of Scotland, Edinburgh ally at the heart of the School. This opportunity to have an individual move from the periphery, together interview with the ISCO Director for Loughborough University (Engineer­ with an increase in the number of Scotland, Miss A.C. Ritchie, who vis­ ing course) facilities, has led to a noticeable its the School at least once a term. Nottingham University (Medical increase in the use being made of the Over half the Lower Sixth have course) material available. taken advantage of the experience We have introduced two major courses arranged through this office, Nottingham University (Psychology national computer programs: ECC- and institutions visited — several on course) TIS 2000 and microDOORS. residential courses — include: ECCTIS 2000 has details of all Ove Arup Partnership, London higher and further education courses Andersen Consulting, London Procter & Gamble, Durham in the UK, offering a rapid search through about 100,000 courses. BP Chemicals, Grangemouth Radio Workshops, London microDOORS is for careers what ECCTIS is for courses, and the pro­ British Airways, Heathrow Royal Institute of Architects, Edinburgh gram contains extensive information Cameron Markby Hewitt, London on about 1400 different careers. Royal Institute of Chartered Survey­ Both programs are networked, and City of London (various financial ing, Edinburgh the information is updated several institutions) times a year. Wimpey Construction, London The provision of a TV/VCR has Coventry University (Geography course) led to much more use of the growing A number of pupils, certainly more number career and institutional Crieff Hydro than a handful, have of course used videos we have available. their initiative and made their own The visits of speakers on topics of Edinburgh School of Agriculture arrangements to visit universities and general interest are reported else­ ESSO Petroleum, Abingdon colleges or acquire work experience. where, but two talks of immediate There is a lot available for the indi­ relevance to seniors have now European Business Management vidual, and I hope that by drawing become almost a tradition: two Old School, London attention to specific areas, the general Strath-allians, Mr David Biggart and Gleneagles Hotel level of awareness will rise, and that Mr Ronald McNaught, have given each year a greater number will make excellent financial advice to those in Institute of Chartered Accountants, profitable use of what is on offer. their final year, and Mr Bill Baird, Edinburgh D.A.R.W. Schools’ Liaison Officer at Dundee University, has again given a most useful overview of the university Below: The new Careers and Computing Centre in what was originally the main dining scene to those about to apply. room of the house, later a Nicol dorm. Once again there have been group visits to Higher Education conven­ tions in Dundee and at St Leonard’s School, and to the Dundee University Open Day. However, everyone has different hopes and aspirations, and the most useful advice is, in my view, that acquired on an individual basis. Senior pupils and their parents are now familiar with the Guidance Report, and they will appreciate it is tailored to the individual. But this is only a start, and while there will w uiiari'*. always be those who make little iriarftiaiifm fei. , effort to widen their knowledge of careers and institutions — at least until the last minute — it is pleasing that there are many more who seize the opportunity. Thirty-six members of the Lower k*irr ii«:-vwn Sixth have again been put through the mock interview mill by members of the Perth Kinnoull Rotary Club, about forty volunteered for the COURSE FINDER 2000 exercise, designed to help with selecting uni­ versity courses, and a similar number have discussed Service careers with Liaison Officers. In this last group several have visited service bases,

36 In s u r a n c e A dvice

For Bo th Local &

G lo bal C lien ts

Bowring

- Insurance Brokers to Strathallan School

Bowring Marsh & McLennan Ltd, The Bowring Building, 151 West George Street, Glasgow G2 2NZ Telephone 041 304 4300 Fax: 041 221 5409

Did you know the African elephant Here’s a tip, never bet on an elephant Sahara if you haven’t brought along an ele­

is the only animal in the world with four to win gold in a high jump competition. phant. It can use its trunk to sniff out water

knees? That it makes a pillow for itself from 3 miles away. Clever thing an eleph­ before it goes to sleep? Or that it’s hard to ant's trunk, it can pick up pins, pull up

insult one because it’s so thick skinned? trees, even uncork bottles of wine. (And

(One and a half inches thick to be precise.) you thought your labrador was clever.)

The African elephant is very proud of Anyway, what has all this got to do

its skin actually, massaging it, powdering it with banking? Well this multi-talented

with dust, and bathing as often as possible. pachyderm also has a phenomenal memory.

(Is this why it’s so wrinkly?) And that’s the point. When the time comes

Maybe the bath water it uses isn’t hot for you to open a bank account we’d like

enough, because the African elephant also you to be a bit of an African elephant and gets a lot of colds. (So if you ever see one (They’re the only animal on earth that can’t remember this name. with an elephant size tissue, duck. Its get off the ground.) Oa Clydesdale Bank sneeze is so powerful it’s been likened Now, this could be useful. Never

to an exploding boiler.) find yourself stranded and thirsty in the MIST VINCFNTPLACE.GLASGOW

37 GIRLS’ GAMES The Midlands’ Hockey Championship mination from all competitors, and Riley winners trophy; the Independent NETBALL reached the final in the Junior Section Schools’ Hockey and Netball trophies; I must say that I am proud of the 1st (and again in the New Park several girls selected for Midlands’ Netball Team’s success this season. We Tournament). Gillian Anderson and Hockey squads, (one making the pool of continued the Perth Ladies’ League and Kirsty Walker reached the final in the 40 for Scotland), and Netballers gaining improved so much that we won a trophy U16 Section. Diane Meldrum and Scottish trials plus good swimming and for the most improved team, ending the Carolyn Wilson reached the semi-finals badminton performances.... kept us all season on a high note by almost reaching in the Senior Section to be drawn against busy! This is evidence, once more, the semi-final in the league tournament. fellow Strathallians, Melissa Gillingham despite a season of mixed weather and For the third time the Independent and Tizi Nicholson, who went through to health, of the commitment by both pupils Schools’ Tournament was played and we the final but unfortunately did not tri­ and staff. My thanks to all concerned. won it for the second time at Dundee. umph. However, team spirits were high The Summer Term saw better weather Our group had a clear run - through beat­ and there was contentment with the and many enjoying success in tennis - ing Albine 19-3, Gordonstoun 11-8 and results obtained. Runners-Up at U14, 16 and U18 in the Kilgraston 12-4. We reached the semi­ I have enjoyed playing in the team this Kilgraston Tournament, Runners-Up at finals against Rannoch and beat them by year and for the past four years and I U14 in the New Park Tournament, and 16-9. Playing Fettes in the Final, we won hope this enjoyment continues for others. very pleasing results for all teams in their 17-6. We came back to School full of I would like to thank all of those who fixtures. The athletes worked very hard, contentment - and with the trophy. participated in the matches and I would as usual, and are to be praised for their Throughout the Autumn Term we had like to thank Miss Smith for her organi­ regular attendance and match perfor­ a very successful season as we were sation and support. mances. Canoeing, sailing, rounders, rid­ unbeaten, playing the usual matches. Our Good luck in the years to come. ing, swimming and golf also saw girl over-all scores against other schools was Diane Meldrum participants. Many girls who leave us 130 goals to 33, remembering that it is this year from Upper Sixth have repre­ one point per goal. HOCKEY sented the School in teams in all sports During the season we lent our two Seven fixtures in all had to be can­ throughout their school career. They shooters, Amelia Blair Oliphant and celled due to poor weather this season have been an excellent example to others Hilary Ross, to play for the U16 Fife but those played went well. Riley and I trust they will continue to play in County Team. The standard of Netball seemed to be worst hit but this did not the years to come. has improved greatly as we have 1st, 2nd, dampen their enthusiasm. The Third LJ.S. Junior and Riley teams, thanks to our Form had a stormer of a season - coaches Miss England and Mrs Dorwood. UNBEATEN: just a shame they did not Also thanks to three other members of the get more fixtures but, nevertheless, they ATHLETICS 1st Team who have dedicated five years look like a strong team moving up the to the sport putting in so much effort and The Athletics season was “christened” School for future seasons. Well done giving me a lot of support: Tory Forster Kim Finlay for successfully reaching the on the first day, when the heavens (my vice-captain), Caroline Healy and opened. This proved to be an omen. Our U16 Midlands’ team - keep up the good Rachael Tilford. These people helped pro­ effort. season was not a complete wash-out, but duce a very good set of results throughout running times were certainly below aver­ Fourth Form had the fixtures and those the season. Thanks to all the reserves who not drawn were good wins such as 3-0 age. helped, too. The bus journeys to and from matches over St Columba’s and getting 1-0 up I’d like to wish next year’s team the against Dundee High School, our friend­ were the most memorable aspects of this best of luck and hope you keep up the year: they were always eventful to say ly rivals. undefeated trend. The 3rd XI did well on those games the least! Tilli would quietly (!?) munch Half Colours: away on her cheese and noodle sand­ played but their fixture list is always Vikki Henderson light. As for the triumphant 2nd XI - wiches and Kirsty would practise her Full Colours: sprinting up and down the bus aisle, GOOD EFFORT! Captained by our Sally Cust, Tory Forster, Caroline illustrious Lesley-Anne Dewar who, dur­ exchanging tapes each time, (none of the Healy,Rachael Tilford and Vikki girls appreciated the boys’ taste in ing the season, had to play every position Henderson. on the field, they did extremely well, as “Rave” music). Sally Cust Hanna made a guest appearance for we kept poaching, borrowing or stealing one match, and she sat on the bus with her players due to various illnesses and Lesley waving at “good-looking” TENNIS injuries in our own team. Their most passers-by, while Eilidh Currie and I feel that Girls’ Tennis has reached a excellent win must be that memorable 5- “sprint coach” Lindsey could always be high and very pleasing standard this year. 0 victory over Loretto, not to mention the found sitting among the lads at the back. The overall results were good, the team well-battled 3-2 win over the Eilidh Nicolson, however, was always finishing the season with the knowledge Glenalmond 1st XI. found happily sitting next to Lee Walker, of a high percentage of good wins behind Before moving on to the 1st XI season, whose coaching enabled her to qualify them. These victories are even more sig­ congratulations go to Kate Hodgson and for the Scottish Schools’ Competition in nificant when it is recalled that the teams, Lizzie Outlaw for gaining places in the Glasgow. both Senior and Junior, varied from Midlands U16 team with Kim and to Well done to Jo, Lyndsey and Kirstine match to match because of examinations. Hanna Kranenburg (alias or code-named for surviving middle distance!! Some of Our victories in matches were encour­ Helen Kronenberg), Ali Bruce and Lynn the other Juniors will be well worth aging. The seniors played 12 matches, MacLennan for playing at Midlands’ watching next year. Hopefully Hanna winning 8 of them, losing 3 and they U18 level. Further tributes go to our will join in next year and put Rachel’s drew 1. The Juniors won all 6 of their goalie, Ali, who moved on even further spikes to some good use. Next year will matches. Riley played 5 matches, win­ getting selected for the Scottish pool, hopefully bring better weather and with ning 4 of them and losing 1. This year though (to their great loss) unfortunately some luck new high-jump mattresses our participation in tournaments was missing the final cut. will appear ! even more encouraging: the Kilgraston Many full and half colours were Ashley Smith tournament showed great skill and deter­ awarded and re-awarded this season:

38 Half colours went to Hanna, Kate Turner planters and social reformers - a fasci­ and Caroline Proctor and were re-award- BARBADOS 1994 nating cast of characters has shaped the ed to Catherine Low. Full colours went In true Judith Chalmers style, this destiny of the tiny coral island of to Ali, Lindsey Moir and Kate Turner report has been put together in an effort Barbados. On our tour of the island, we (equally well deserved), and were re­ to let readers understand why the staff were fascinated by the contract between awarded to Lynn, Rebecca Milne and took little persuasion from the girls to the chattel houses of St Lucy and the Diane Meldrum. arrange a return tour to Barbados - that platinum coastal area of St James, Top goal scorers were Tamsin singular island, the gem of the Caribbean famous for its wealth - its hotels hosting Stevens, Sally Burrell (when we nabbed Sea, paradise! in their time Princess Margaret, her from the 2nds), Hanna and Lindsey - Booked through Ramsay Travel, Perth, Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis and Mick resulting in a fairly triumphant season for and Airtours, as there are no flights direct Jagger. The tourists found out what sugar the 1st XI with quite a few 4- and 5-nil from Scotland, the inevitable bus journey cane looked like, the whole tour party sat wins against Rannoch, Gondonstoun and to and from Manchester had to be on a lion while R.C. Tours “gofer”, Kilgraston, not to mention in the cup endured, so having left Perth at 7 a.m. on Julian, and I took pictures. We left the matches leading to our beating Monifeith Sunday the 3rd of July, we duly arrived Chalky Mount Potteries with many a in a very close match to win the at the Coconut Court Hotel to shouts of souvenir and a good idea of how to Midlands trophy and go on to the approval at midnight UK time. throw a pot should we ever appear on the Scottish Championships. This match was The Coconut Court is a friendly, fami­ Generation Game. Standing in Scotland definitely the most enjoyable in the sea­ ly-run apart-hotel in an idyllic setting by District, we could see the similarities, son and many thanks to those cheering a sandy beach within minutes of a good apart from the lack of rain and the 20 for us on the side lines, including Miss selection of supermarkets and restau­ degrees increase in warmth. The small Carlisle who nearly lost her voice! It all rants. Accommodation for us was in stu­ town of Bathsheba on the east coast with helped immensely - thanks. dios which have private bathroom and the Atlantic rollers sweeping in, remind­ As for the Scottish Championships - balcony plus kitchenette with fridge and ed one of the Fife coast on a really good well - we all have our off days, and cooker. As pre-arranged, the rooms were day, and then it was time to drink some things are better left unsaid. The all on one floor with interconnecting coconut water. Down Harrison’s caves Independent Trophy stays yet again at doors. Relaxation was the order of the we looked very chic sporting our build- Strathallan, but the battle was most cer­ day. Simply stretch out on the soft gold­ ing-site helmets. Did anyone’s pictures tainly harder this year. en sand and soak up the sun, or enjoy a come out? Last but not least, many thanks are due cooling cocktail in the shade of a palm. If The tour of the Mount Gay Rum to Miss Smith and all the other ladies and too exhausted to make it to the beach, Distillery is memorable for its free sam­ to Mr Giles for helping with their respec­ especially after one of P.K.’s training ples and waiting for the bus to return for tive teams throughout the season - runs along the coast in approximately 88 us. Normally one would become impa­ arranging and getting us to and from fix­ degrees, then relax on the sun beds - if tient, but we were well into Bajan mood tures. It was greatly appreciated: so you can get hold of one - then in the now and we were smiling happily, not a many thanks and all the best for many warmth of the Caribbean sun enjoy a worry in our minds. The fun continued triumphant seasons to come. cooling dip in the freshwater pool. with a day out on a catamaran, cruising Lynn MacLennan Cannibals and convicts, pirates and on the Caribbean up the west coast with

39 water sports and hobie-cat sailing, jet in our first game, coming away pleased staff on several occasions on a super skiing, banana-boat riding and pedal with a 1-2 score against the top women’s bunch of girls; we were asked to take boating. This acted as an extra training team in Division 1, we felt the games part in. the International Schools’ day, as many took advantage of much would get easier but, alas, they produced Tournament to be held next Easter; the activity plus beach volleyball with the their U19 team, who wanted a warm-up local press came to take photographs and locals. The Jolly Roger outing provided game before leaving that weekend for a a reporter did an article on our tour for another opportunity to sail on the national tournament in Trinidad. Score 0- the local Sunseeker magazine. We Caribbean with entertainment on and off 2. What was coming next? The best worked hard on our holiday both for the ship - some splendid diving off the women’s team from all the clubs! 0-5, School and Scotland. Barbados has a plank and more training in the form of followed by a women’s club side who place in every tourist’s heart now, and I deck aerobics. scored 3 goals in the first half and then know for a fact that some tourists have a Despite the comments of “have a good were held for the whole of the second place in Bajan hearts. holiday” and “the boys will take part in a half. The squad of 18 worked hard on the L.J.S., P.K., S.K. rugby tour of Australia whilst the girls pitch and those not selected to play in a will visit the beaches of Barbados”, the game were a great back up team on the staff and the 18 girls were well aware side line. All had the chance to play in they were representatives of Strathallan our final match as the opposition were School and Scotland, and they did us still in Trinidad. A P.K. select side proud. It is always a danger when “going played against an L.J.S. select side on on holiday” to somewhere you have been what must have been the worst pitch ever before that it doesn’t live up to your seen, including a raised cricket wicket expectations. If anything it was better right in the middle of it, making Thorney second time round. The hotel staff were Shades look like the Lawn - now there’s delighted to see us again, and from day an idea, now we know how to play on a one we were on first name terms, so wicket! P.K.’s team won 2-1. They did much so that when they required assis­ have the goalkeeper, and my team was tance at reception with French-speaking hampered by the fact I play hockey the residents they called on our party to help way I wish to see it being played, the with anything from booking families in way I hope we shall play it in the future! to trying to get nuns to leave! And so, this ends our not “Wish-You- The hockey was better second time Were-Here”, but “Sorry-You-Were-Not- round, too - theirs, not ours. They had There” report on paradise island. As the been practising since 1990, and their sun set on the water lapping on to the Association has really got its act together shore on the last night, one could reflect now. Teams turned up on time and with that the tour party had enjoyed their “hol­ 11 or more players. Having only lost to iday”. The hotel management, who asked their full International side on our last us for a signed hockey stick and our Lion visit, we were certainly given much Rampant flag, had enjoyed our company; stiffer opposition on this trip on less well other residents came to see our matches prepared pitches. After a terrific display and to see us off, and complimented the Lucy-Ann Bryans! Take the strain out of buying School Uniforms OFFICIAL OUTFITTERS TO STRATHALLAN SCHOOL

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42

RUGBY Overall the Strathallan Rugby Club had up over the St Aloysius line five times but tackling and rucking we stole the ball a very successful season but it is clear were unable to score. The final result flat­ back. This set the pattern for the rest of that in the future we rnitst emphasise the tered the visitors 1 1 -0 . This was a good the half. The fringe defence was out­ basic lateral pass and a fifteen-man run­ performance by the side and, despite the standing, closing down the Scottish ning game. This is the only way forward. score, the signs were positive that the for­ Schools’ scrum half, James Weston. The wards were capable of matching anyone bigger Merchiston centres found life dif­ 1st XV and the backs, with Meiklejohn moving to ficult against the small but big-hearted The season started in August with a centre, started to create space and many Meiklejohn and MacDonald. Garry week of pre-season training at the School. more scoring opportunities. Burton and James Henderson were again Thirty five boys returned with various On a very wet, windy day we travelled outstanding - although to single them out degrees of fitness but by the end of the to Fettes College. This was a below-par from the pack would be unfair. One great week the 1st XV and 2nd XV started to performance, mainly due to over confi­ moment was when tight head prop, Lee take shape. We played Selkirk Youth dence. Nick Russell (who replaced Kip Walker, covering deep, retrieved the ball Club and held a pre-season tournament Kirkland after he broke his collar-bone in and sent it flying into touch. “Bally” and involving Madras College, Morrison’s the previous game) and Lee Walker myself also believe we witnessed one of Academy and Marr College. These scored good tries from close range and the best schoolboy tries we have seen: games helped us focus on the weakness James Meiklejohn and Henry Horsfall after softening up by the Merchiston for­ and strength of the team: very strong from distance. Fettes rucked well, but wards, involving about nine phases of committed forwards and small backs with could not match our powerful forwards. play, the ball was spun wide for James moderate pace. Garry Burton, returning Nick Russell started to show signs that he MacDonald who looped to score in the from the successful S.S.R.U. tour to was going to make the Loose Head Prop’s corner. This brought the score back to 11 Australia, captained the side and with his position his own. The final score was 28 - - 11 at half time. The second half saw the lead the boys approached training with 9. game swing back and forth. Merchiston vigour and pace. This set the tone for the It was a fine day for the Glenalmond scored a good breakaway try late on in rest of the .season. match, and a fantastic performance by the the half to bring the score to 11 - 16. The first game was played at home side gave Glenalmond few scoring Again, the forwards came back and we against Rannoch - no easy way to start chances. Henry Horsfall marked the were rewarded with a penalty to make the the season. Our forwards rucked superbly Scottish Schools’ winger James Gemmell score 14 -16. We ended the game putting and denied the ball to the very useful out of the game, while our back row trio real pressure on the Merchiston line but Rannoch backs which included five of Garry Burton, John Green and James were unable to score. Although we lost Midlands U18 District players. Paul Henderson dominated the strong the game, this was a good performance Johnston kicked superbly and Lee Walker Glenalmond break-away forwards. If the by the team and showed the other boys in drove over from a short penalty. The final game had been played under the old laws the School that we can be beaten. It is score was 19-0 against the finest I am sure the score would have been high­ always a delight to watch Merchiston Rannoch side I have seen during my five er. A good back row move provided a try play because they are committed to 15 years at Strathallan. for Garry Burton and James Meiklejohn man rugby and they execute the basic We then travelled to Glasgow to play went over for an opportunist try. The skills well. This must be the way forward Glasgow Academy, always a tricky highlight was the look of delight on Garry for Strathallan. proposition. The boys started slowly but a Burton’s face after tasting victory for the The following Saturday produced an finely worked try by the backs sent first time against Glenalmond. The final adequate performance against Edinburgh Douglas Clement in for a score. This score was 24 - 8. Academy. There were good scores by calmed nerves, the forwards showed their Phil Ainsworth, last season’s Captain, Burton, Hall, Johnston, Barker and verve for rucking but also started to con­ once said about the next game against the MacDonald. Despite a poorish perfor­ trol the ball in maul and from there they North and Midlands U18 “Why do we mance we ran out comfortable winners. created some fine driving play. Alan Hall play for the McCaffer trophy? We will The next three weeks we were frost- and Guy Stephens (both second rows) never beat a district side.” This was bound, thus our fixtures against went over for scores in the second half. backed up by Garry Burton and James Morrison’s and Dollar Academy were This was followed up by a fine score for Henderson. Well, Phil, you were wrong ! cancelled and we were also unable to winger Henry Horsfall. We ran out win­ The forwards were outstanding with train as often as we wished. ners by 28 to 7. James Henderson and Garry Burton play­ At the start of December we played The next match on the agenda was ing out of their skins. Paul Johnston had against Kelvinside Academy. Because of against Loretto, a game our boys always his kicking boots on and the midfield the enforced lay-off we were very slug­ want to win. The forwards were outstand­ tackled very well against much stronger gish against a committed side. We drifted ing and outplayed the Loretto forwards in opponents. The rucking and mauling were in and out of the game and only increased all facets of play. Sadly, the backs, out of the top drawer and, as a conse­ gears occasionally. The final result was despite the odd good break, did not quence, we dominated the second half. 46 - 5 with good scores from James reward them and they were comprehen­ Henry Horsfall went over for a well- Meiklejohn (2), Burton, MacDonald, sively outplayed by the Loretto backs. worked score and we ran out eventual Henderson and Walker. It was a satisfy­ The only change in the team for the St winners 23 -19. ing end to the Christmas Term. Aloysius match was the absence of Garry The second half of the season started Our final matches were played in Burton who had been injured in the clos­ with our game against Merchiston Castle. January. We were very rusty against ing stages of the Loretto game. John For the first time for many seasons we Robert Gordon’s but won comfortably 27 Green moved to open side and James had a set of players who had all experi­ - 0. This game was essential before we Meiklejohn came in from the wing to enced, at some stage, victory over played against Lindisfame College, New inside centre. Harry Hensman played his Merchiston so we had nothing to fear. Zealand, a team which contained ten first game on the right wing. This was a The game started badly. Within four min­ leavers and nine boys with a six-month game in which we dominated both backs utes we were down 11 - 0. In the past we age advantage. They were a very power­ and forwards. A good strike against the would have folded but this team were ful side who had beaten Napier Boys’ head by Steve Harrod meant Paul made of stronger stuff and had a great High School back home in New Zealand. Johnston broke to the blind side and self-belief. From the kick-off, after (They also produced John Timu of All linked with James Meiklejohn who drove Merchiston scored their try, they took a Black fame). Their captain and fly-half over for a score. The team were then held clean catch but with some outstanding was over 6ft 4ins and 15 stone - and he

43 was not the tallest! Yet, here, our for­ huge number of players. There were good 6th XV and 7th XV wards were outstanding, and during many victories against Loretto, Fettes and A great return victory by the 6th XV phases of play dominated the New Glenalmond. The side was made up with against Merchiston was the highlight of Zealanders. James Henderson was every­ boys from V and LVI, many of whom the season. By the end they were playing where and he was ably supported by will feature in the tour to Australia. some great rugby - illustrated by a 20 - Garry Burton. Sadly, however, by the end P.M.V. and R.C.S.C. were very commit­ 10 victory against Gordonstoun. The 7th of the game the powerful New Zealand ted to the cause, despite the number of XV fared less well, but were able to keep backs had knocked the stuffing out of our players who passed through their hands. the interest of the boys, and they did backs. In the last two minutes they scored Many thanks. record an excellent 5 5 -5 victory against two tries giving them a flattering score of Gordonstoun. 9 - 25. I feel it was more a lesson in 4th XV Well done R.J.W.P., A.T. and G.A.B. A very good season, despite the large “feeding” than technique. The 1st XV U15s season ended in a dinner with the New number of boys used, mostly from the Fifth Form as U16s. They had very good The U15s were very ably coached by Zealanders and their parents - an occa­ D.J.B., A.M. and J.L.B. They had a small sion which was enjoyed by all. results against Merchiston 8 -3 and Glenalmond 11 - 10. The Backs and the pack but rucked well and had a powerful The overall results this season were runner in Richard Wallace on the wing. outstanding. By the end, the naivete Forwards complemented one another so shown against Loretto would never be that on many occasions they played some U14s repeated and many of the boys matured exciting 15-man rugby. N.T.H. DuB.’s nightmare happened into good rugby players. It is my hope The coaches did a great job with their after three seasons: only one loss. This that many of these talented boys will be team. Thanks to G.R.M.R., C.M. and was the season where they managed only picked up by Scottish clubs. It was a sea­ R.M.F. The boys who passed through two wins! However, size was the biggest son dominated by forwards but the their hands will play a major role in the problem and there were many signs that Backs, despite being small, contributed lst/2nd XVs next year. the boys could handle and ruck very well. immensely to the team effort. Garry The final two games resulted in a draw Burton was an excellent captain and this 5th XV and a win, signs perhaps that the future was illustrated by his approach to train­ Victories against Loretto and will be better. ing: everything was done at pace and Edinburgh Academy were contrasted with Finally, many, many thanks must go to with aggression, which was a great lead performances which could have gone Helen Clayton and the Sewing Room, for all the boys in the side. either way, losing to Merchiston 1 1 -1 5 Isobel and the San, Craig and the rest of The following boys were selected to and Glenalmond 0 -9 . the catering staff. We are indebted as a play for Scottish Schools: Garry Burton - G.C.K. and A.J.H.W. felt the team had club to all those who help to organise at S.S.R.U. tour to Australia, James talent which was not realised on many of whatever level. Henderson, Lee Walker and Steven the match days. P.G. Harrod. The following boys were selected to play for the President’s XV: Douglas Clement, Garry Burton, James Henderson, Kip Kirkland, John Green, Steve Harrod, Lee Walker. The following boys were awarded Full Colours: Steve Harrod, Garry Burton, James Meiklejohn, Paul Johnston, Douglas Clement, Lee Walker, John Green, Matthew Barker, James Henderson. The following were awarded Half Colours: Guy Stephens, Alan Hall, Kip Kirkland, Gregor Watt, Nicholas Russell. K Kirkland was also selected to play in the Scottish Schools’ U 18 trial. Well done to all: it was a thoroughly enjoyable season. 2nd XV The 2nd XV played some very good rugby and they won all their games except the first of the season. The high­ lights were wins against Merchiston away (Euan Ovenstone’s face was a delight), and a hard-fought win against Loretto. Many thanks must go to C.N.C. and P.K. who played a major part in this success. It was a good breeding ground for the 1st XV and it always meant that they were looking over their shoulders and were unable to slack at any moment. There were notable contributions from the fol­ lowing players: Juan Figuerola Ferretti, Mark Drummond, Duncan Dunlop and Euan Ovenstone. Many youngsters were given a chance and this will be good for the future. 3rd XV There were very good results in the 3rd XV despite the fact they had to use a AUSTRALIA REVISITED

Taking a large party abroad is fraught One ended up in stocks and the other Terrace were going to run the ball from with hazards. A party of 40 boys and received a two foot by two foot medal­ everywhere. The 1st XV took to the field four staff met at 9.00 a.m. in lion to wear for the evening. A.R.B. and and played under floodlights. Our worst Forgandenny in early July (well, two P.G. are still far too young to be involved nightmare occurred within 30 seconds, staff! The other two had flown to in Golden Oldie matches!! Terrace had scored a try. A simple but Heathrow several days previously). Not The 1st XV played a Darwin U19 team well-executed back move carved up the that they were opting out of the responsi­ who were very physical and committed defence and they scored in the corner. bility of an eight- hour bus trip, b u t... So to the cause. It took fine performances For the rest of the half it was backs to the we left the beautiful country, closed the from Burton, Henderson, Green and wall. Tackle after tackle had to be made. windows and headed for Heathrow. On Meikle-john to subdue them. We ran out Lee Walker, despite being ill, was out­ this venture abroad we took Leavers - eventual victors by 23 points to 8. standing. During the half we broke out unlike our tour to South America. We We departed the next morning at 4.00. once and a try for Logie McKenzie felt the likes of James Henderson, Garry R.C.B.C. and his hat were delighted. resulted. We turned round at half time 7 - Burton and Steve Harrod (all Scottish Cairns was our next stop and the Barrier 5 down. Our forwards then started to Schoolboys) would bolster the side and Reef beckoned. We were met by the take control, but only after Terrace had give valuable experience to the younger same people who greeted Strathallan on in-creased the lead to 10 - 5. We clawed boys. With 40 boys taking part, this was their previous visit with a game which back to make the score 10 - 8, but it was a big undertaking and great credit must we lost. Despite the early start we trained too late! Despite the loss, the result was be given to staff, parents and boys that it in the afternoon on a local park. Euan encouraging. St Joseph’s had only lost was possible at all. McKay was introduced to fly-half which one G.P.S. game and in their Upper and We left Heathrow at 22.30 Thursday, was/is novel for a 16-stone prop. Lower Sixth they have more boys than 30th June. Next stop Singapore! After 14 The 1st XV played the next day at we have pupils. St Joseph’s obviously hours we arrived, said goodbye to Mrs Trinity Bay High School against a Cairns run the ball all the time and their support Ball and Caitlin and ventured over the U19 select side. The side made amends play was excellent. A good learning Equator towards the Northern Territories for the defeat in 1988 with a convincing experience for our boys. and Crocodile Dundee country. Arriving 3 6 - 5 victory. Good forward play led to Tuesday was a day of rest but the tour at 4.40 a.m. Darwin time, we were met tries for Guy Stephens and good back party got bigger, with Paul-Joseph and by Bruce Kennon and our hosts. The play to tries for Clement and Meiklejohn. Brenda arriving to join Caitlin and idiosyncrasies of the Northern Territory The evening saw the Junior side play a Louise. That evening the staff were were to greet us. Woolly jumpers, claims Cairns U16 select, and they won 1 9 -9 , “treated” to an existential Japanese meal that winter had set in - all this from a with good tries from Ross Cumming, Ali where the service could have been a little temperature of 21°C! - heaven to a blue­ Duncan and Peter Seymour. In the last 15 quicker. This received a score of minus skinned Scotsman. The rest of the week­ minutes of the first half they played very 20 from D.J.B. end the boys had with their hosts. (1 am good continuous running rugby, but dur­ On Wednesday we took one of sure Garry Burton enjoyed his stay with ing the second half display they went A.R.B.’s five-minute walks and one hour an eight-year-old.) So the squad went down to the level of the opposition. That later we arrived at Ballymore, home of their separate ways to sightsee in evening the staff were entertained by the Queensland Rugby. The forwards were Darwin. Australian National Bank in the Hilton coached by D. Hall, a former Wallaby On Sunday most of the group were Hotel. captain, and the backs were given a ses­ entertained at a Beer Can Regatta. The The next morning we were up bright sion by M. Braid, the Australian schools’ Northern Territories drink the highest and early to visit the Barrier Reef. Ninety coach. This was beneficial to coaches quantity of beer in the world and they do minutes by “cat” away from Cairns. This and boys alike. The speed and attention not know what to do with the leftover was an unforgettable experience, enjoyed to detail was an eye-opener for everyone cans. They came up with the obvious by the whole tour party - even Logie concerned. answer - build boats with them, run McKenzie, despite his green face The next day we visited the Sunshine along the beach and win prizes. An throughout the trip. A goat herder he is, Coast and Maroochydore where Australian Cultural attraction! but not a sailor. “Boogie” boarding was the order of the We next met as a whole group on Sunday, 10th July, we had another day. That afternoon we returned to Monday morning, 4th July for a fruitful very early morning. R.C.B.C. and his hat Brisbane to be met by our new hosts - session at Marrara Park (Scotland played were openly enthusiastic about the rise. Marist College, Ashgrove. Peter the Northern Territories here in 1991) Maybe one or two words were exchanged Tuckwell and David Robertson were and the teams were selected for the next between Cairns and Brisbane, certainly excellent hosts. The school site and facil­ two days. We then visited the Northern no smiles. We arrived in Brisbane at 8.00 ities were absolutely magnificent. The Territories Wildlife Park, where we a.m. First stop St Joseph’s College - the Wallabies train at Marist during their hoped the salties were not the sign of first of our hosts during the week-long stay in Brisbane. You could see why! things to come on the rugby field. stay. Mr Ball made his first return to his On Sunday, after a good few days’ The following day the Junior XV old school and his old coaching partner, rest, we played Marist College. It is played a Darwin U18 side. Despite the Michael Broad. Despite being built on a another huge school - even bigger than age difference, our youngsters put up a postage stamp, St Joseph’s facilities were Terrace - and the school rugby is built great show, although eventually down 17 as impressive as we had been led to in the Barry Horan traditions. They play to 8. A good try by Ross Cumming and believe by A.R.B. ten-man rugby, using their back row and strong performances from Euan McKay, Training commenced in the afternoon seven backs to great effect. Our Junior Simon Chown and Ali Duncan gave a but it was very sluggish; tour weariness XV were downed by their second XV 19 great deal of hope for the future. was setting in. The boys returned to the - 0, but there were good performances The next day we visited Casuarina training field the next morning. After a from Chris Burnett and James Barlow, again and enjoyed the delights of an good night’s rest, spirits were high, and whose covering tackles were excellent - extensive shopping complex and swim­ they looked forward to the task against St he will be a good prospect if he learns to ming pool. The Senior XV were to play Joseph’s in the evening. come up on his man quicker and not under lights in the evening but this was The Junior XV played first, going hang back. preceded by a Golden Oldies game. Mr down 29 - 0 to a very powerful Terrace The 1st XV from Marist then gave a Clark and Mr Barnes were excellent. 2nd XV. It was obvious the boys from great show of running rugby. The score

45 was 13 - 13 with 10 minutes to go, but 1st XV prospects looked good. Sadly, for our flight to Hong Kong. Sadly, we then very slack defence allowed them to three days in Sydney were not enough to left R.C.B.C. and his hat behind; early score two very quick tries. We lost capture the delights of the place. I am morning starts had become too much for Meiklejohn and Burton and we reached sure many of us will return. him. David McLeod almost joined him, the point of no return. The final score Next stop Canberra and Daramarlon but why he was late for the flight was 39 - 19. Although a hard lesson to College. On arriving in Canberra we remains a mystery. learn, the inventiveness of the Marist were greeted by a huge drop in tempera­ In Sydney we left Garry Burton, James backs with their “fancy” moves and link­ ture and ground frost. Our hosts were Henderson, Steve Harrod, James Meikle­ ing with the back row were a joy to excellent and we renewed friendships john, Andrew Stevens and Nick Russell. behold. To run with the ball is a question when Anthony Coles and Sam Haddad Tears were shed when they realised they not only of skill but a question of philos­ came to support the team. We knew we were now on their own and would not ophy. This was by far the best side we would be up against it because return home for a year. I am sure these played on tour. Daramalan had beaten St Joseph’s in a young men will be a credit to the School R.C.B.C. and his hat were dreading the Gold Coast tournament. during their Gap Year as student teach­ next day - another departure at 4.30 a.m. Our Junior XV took up the challenge ers. We moved on to Sydney and a cruise and won 27 - 0 - a very poor perfor­ The trip to Hong Kong became event­ round Sydney Harbour awaited us. mance where the team went down to the ful and there were a few worried faces Fantastic! Manly Beach was a welcome level of the opposition, but a win is a when the plane started to drop dramati­ break in the afternoon before we moved win. cally during our descent into the city. on to Barker College (another school The 1st XV then took the field with no which was having a great season), to be less than 12 boys who would be returning However Hong Kong provided us with met by lan Moyes. A much improved to school. Again, they started slowly and welcome R and R. The variety of visual performance was needed. Ian Moyes Daramalan, with their Australian experiences was dazzling and the con­ helped with training the next morning, Schoolboys and A.C.T. representatives, trast to Australia could not be more which again was very informative. He stretched our defence and went into a 13 marked. A vibrant place. The boys had spent his sabbatical year coaching - 0 lead. The team fought back and, with attended a function for past, current and rugby with Haileybury and Sherbourne our forwards outstanding, we narrowed future Strathallan students and parents. College, England. the lead to 13 - 12. Again missed tackles This was an excellent evening. The view On Wednesday we played Barker, our and individuals failing to hold up the from the function room was stunning. Junior XV going down 8 - 5 to a contro­ team resulted in Daramalon breaking On Wednesday 27th July we returned versial try in the last few minutes. Ali loose - a position they scarcely deserved. home. Everywhere we went we were met Reekie and Simon Chown played very The team fought back to 27 - 19 - a dis­ with kindness and made long-lasting well, and Robert Barr started to show his appointing end to the tour. friendships. Everyone will have their undoubted ability. Put in perspective, however, the result own special memories of what was an The 1st XV played much better, with and tour can be viewed positively. We unforgettable tour. 1 am sure we will James Henderson and Garry Burton now have a very strong foundation for return. dominating aspects of the game. Euan the coming year. We played teams Lastly, I would like to thank A.R.B. MacKay played exceptionally well at fly which, on the whole, were way stronger for organising the tour, R.C.B.C. for his half and Doug Clement played a superb than our usual opposition. Some of the money management, D.J.B. for his med­ game. A cruel injury to Meiklejohn left Australian schools run 20 plus teams in ical expertise and enthusiasm. (He even gaps in our defence and Barker managed their open age group (this is only the ran a half marathon on the Gold Coast.) to sneak a 15 - 11 win. This, however, Upper and Lower Sixth). Our boys were A special thanks must also be given to all was a good performance by the team, a credit to the School and a credit to the groups who sponsored us, raised who played with great heart and spirit. Scottish Rugby. At no stage were we money and supported us in whatever By this stage of the tour we had managed outgunned. way. Many, many thanks. to introduce many more returnees, so the After Canberra we returned to Sydney P.G.

46 SOCCER

Soccer 1st X!

SENIOR TEAMS 2nd XI Term, and as usual resulted in some exciting matches, with Simpson finally This year it was decided that all senior v QVS 1 - 3 Lost v St Serfs 5 - 2 Won winning. soccer games should take place during v Stewart Melville 1st XI 0 -5 the second half of the Spring Term. In the past, we have usually only fielded Form III Soccer School v MCR one team and it was expected that there A Third Form team training on Wednes­ This match had not taken place for a would be a few games. In fact, there day afternoons and coached by P. number of years (is that how long the were 10 matches arranged to take place Watson and G. McKendry (Freeland staff take to recover ?), but proved to be in a period of just over three weeks! If LVI) provided a number of boys with an a most enjoyable occasion, with plenty one team had played all the matches opportunity to learn and enjoy soccer. of exciting play from both sides and a there would have been a very exhausted Unfortunately, this year it was not possi­ total of six goals. In the end the result group of pupils. Because of this, and also ble to arrange many matches. The team was a draw (3 - 3), which brought calls to give all those who opted for soccer joined the 1st XI for the indoor competi­ of “extra time”, “penalty shoot-out” and from Forms IV and VI an opportunity to tion against Merchiston. They did very “re-match”, all of which might have play in some matches, it was decided to well, drawing one game and winning the proved something, but none proved to be field both 1st and 2nd XIs whenever pos­ other three (the last 8 - 2!). In the possible, so that at least both sides can sible. This became a daunting task as Summer Term there was an opportunity claim something from the contest. many other schools could only field one to play Merchiston again, but outdoors, My thanks to all those who have team. This meant that the 2nd XI some­ and the result here was a well-deserved helped with Soccer this year, in particu­ times had to face the best team from draw. another school, in view of which, these lar C. M ayes, N. Smith and R. results were not bad. Riley Fitzsimmons for their work in coaching There was one match this year - against teams and refereeing matches. Without Results: Pringle House (Merchiston) - and this their efforts, it would not have been pos­ 1st XI resulted in a 2 - 0 win, although the Riley sible to achieve as much as we certainly v Glenalmond 3 - 2 Won Team dominated for most of the game did this year. My thanks, also, to Michael v Merchiston (indoors) 1 - 3 games Lost and would have scored more goals if Halliday (Ruthven UVI), whose help as v Merchiston 5 - 2 Won their finishing had been a bit stronger. Captain of Soccer has been much appre­ v Stewart Melville 3 - 1 Won ciated. v St Serfs Match cancelled Senior Inter-House Soccer v QVS 1 - 6 Lost This took place early in the Summer G.A.B.

47 HOCKEY Indoor Hockey seen them defeated by Glenalmond we was the real winner, 29 games being lost The lead up to the Glenalmond chal­ were confident of victory. Six goals from owing, in the main, to adverse weather lenge went very smoothly with wins over Clement led us to an 11 - 1 victory which conditions. A 2nd XI with a mixture of Rannoch and Glenalmond. In the tourna­ should have been more but for a lack of youth and experience played with enthu­ ment itself we won our group relatively passing mid-way through the match. siasm - being unbeaten up North. The easily, and after easing past Glenalmond Throughout the season the team gelled 3rd XI never really got started: playing in the semi-final we faced Watsons in the together very well, showing a real deter­ only two games - winning one, losing final. A fine team performance and a mination to succeed and in the process the other. The Senior Colts never really Duncan Elder hat-trick saw us with the playing attractive and positive hockey. settled and lack of a goal scorer led to a trophy for the first, and hopefully not the Tim Hunter had a superb season in goal, disappointing season. The Junior Colts A last, time. gaining representative honours with the finished the season unbeaten; they have Midlands U18 and U21 squads. At obvious talent and credit must go to their Outdoor Hockey sweeper, Logie Mackenzie played out of ever-youthful coach, John Ford. The With nine of last year’s 1st XI avail­ his socks or should I say “shoes”, and other junior teams were hardest hit able this season there was an air of confi­ opposition centre forwards were made weatherwise. dence about the squad. The season began well aware of his presence. Alistair In what has been a hectic and disjoint­ with our half term visit to Campbell Bennett, at left back, rarely found a right ed, but nonetheless enjoyable, first sea­ College, Belfast for their Centenary wing to trouble him. In midfield, Ben son in charge I must thank the many staff Tournament. An under-strength and Ward controlled most games and he for their time and dedication - especially under-prepared team improved as the rarely wasted an opportunity to set the RJWP for his many hours umpiring in weekend progressed, the highlight being attack moving. Up front, Douglas the most adverse of weather conditions; our 0 -0 draw with King’s School, Clement was an inspiration. He caused PMV for putting up with losing players Macclesfield in our final game. problems for all defences and 24 goals in and fixtures at the last minute; JNF for The season proper began with a tough 12 games speaks for itself. Euan his support and guidance and the ground fixture against the Scottish Under 16 Ovenstone adapted to his new role at staff for ensuring at least some hockey squad. Although a more skilful side, they centre back very well, and on the wings got played. seemed to lose heart when they failed to James Macdonald and James Meiklejohn With the laying of an Astro-turf pitch capitalize on their early pressure and we provided Clement with plenty of ammu­ planned for next season, exciting times ran out comfortable 3 - 1 winners. nition. Of the newcomers, Robert Barr, are ahead for Hockey at Strathallan. Against a weak Fettes side who rarely the baby of the side, made the right back troubled our goal we ran out 5 - 0 win­ position his own, Duncan Elder looked a Full Colours: ners. The first leg of our “Northern natural at left midfield (finishing the sea­ J. Green, A. Bennett, E. Ovenstone, J. Tour” brought us up against a young and son as second top scorer), and Alasdair Macdonald, B. Ward, T. Hunter. talented Robert Gordon’s side. After a MacDonell proved himself to be a more Half Colours: tough first half we managed to get on top than useful utility player. Jack Finlay, L. Mackenzie, J. Meiklejohn, D. Elder, and power to a 4 - 1 victory. With a goal Graham McKendry, Robert Horsfall and D. Clement. from a penalty corner by Douglas Jonathan Ward all made appearances and Scottish Chameleons: Clement we overcame a strong should all have a part to play next year. A Gordonstoun side. The final game of the U 18: final mention must go to the Captain, T. Hunter, J. Green, A. Bennet, B. Ward. “Northern Tour” came against Aberdeen John Green. He has led by example and Grammar School, and with a fine exhibi­ U 16: has helped my first season in charge run D. Horsfall, S. Mitchell, R. Barr (Capt). tion of one/two touch hockey we ran out as smoothly as possible. 2 - 1 winners. The following day saw us For the rest of the teams the weather D.R.G. defeat Gordonstoun in the final of the Glenalmond Outdoor Sixes, a fine per­ formance considering this was our fourth lot of matches in as many days. The one black mark of the season came in the 3 - 1 defeat at the hands of Loretto. Playing on grass did not suit us and with Ben Ward injured we seemed to lose our way in midfield. We soon picked ourselves up to defeat East District Champions Watsons 2 - 1 , com­ ing back from a goal behind. Our next encounter saw us pitted against touring side Barnard Castle where fine goalkeep- ing from Tim Hunter and a good passing performance led us to a 3 - 0 victory - probably our best of the season. Against the Old Boys we fell to our second defeat. Fine goalkeeping from Rabs in the Old Boys’ goal kept them in the hunt and a fine solo goal from former Scottish Internationalist Donnie Hay saw the Old Boys snatch a 2 - 1 win. Against Monifieth HS both sides were fairly evenly matched and a competitive game ended one all. In our final game we played our sec­ ond touring side - Sedbergh. Having Richard Wallace at McDiarmid Park

48 CRICKET humour contributed much. The balance sheet of played 15, won 5, lost 2 and drawn 8 looks perfectly respectable, but just a bit more bowling penetration would have turned it into a really good season. On four occasions 9 opposition wickets were taken. Weaker opposition batting was destroyed with some impressive-looking statistics but stronger sides, through no lack of deter­ mination, were rarely bowled out. The two losses of the season were at the hands of Loretto, who thoroughly deserved to win in a run chase following a challenging declaration, and Merchis­ ton, following the one team batting col­ lapse in conditions where the toss was all-important. The best performances were a great run chase following rain at Dollar, impressive team batting at Stewart’s Melville and Edinburgh Academy, and an excellent M.C.C. match in which the School reached 226- 8, chasing 244. There is every reason for optimism regarding 1995 with 10 of the final 11 players returning. Those who played for most of the matches were Andrew Jeffery (Captain), Dougal Fergusson, Duncan Forbes, Ben Ward, Robert Barr, Peter Watson, Duncan Elder, Douglas Clement, Alasdair MacDonell and Graham McKendry. Several appear­ ances came from Alastair Duncan, James Bird, Jonathan Ward, James Henderson and Duncan Camilleri. The Second XI, captained well by Paul Johnston and managed by the age­ less J.N.F., performed consistently well. The batting showed both skill and deter­ mination. The bowling, particularly that of the spinners (several of whom appeared for the First XI) could be dev­ astating. The blend of experience and youth worked very well, although there is little doubt in my mind that an Under- 16 circuit would be of great benefit to Alasdair MacDonell all schools. Once again the Third XI round by C.N.C., with Machiavellian cunning, was enormously successful, After last year it was bliss to have a James Henderson for most of the season although I regard with great suspicion season almost free from the ravages of deprived the side of the main potential C.N.C.’s request for “a kit bag of our the weather. This produced wickets strike bowler. Peter Watson (27 wickets own”. much more favourable to the scoring of at 19.33) and Duncan Elder (16 at At the junior level things were also runs and most of the School teams bene­ 22.38) bowled very well on occasions, very pleasing. Both Senior and Junior fited from this. In fact, the First XI was but rarely broke through good sides Colts showed character as well as ability only bowled out on one occasion and (P e te r’s 7-60 against the Old and brought off some very good wins. very rarely failed to have a good start Strathallians being a notable exception). There is a good stock of young talent provided by openers Dougal Fergusson The support medium-pacers lacked and a number of promising players (570 runs - average 47.50) and Duncan penetration and consistency (Robert emerging from B and even C levels. Forbes (362 - 30.17). Congratulations Barr “lost it” - hopefully just for the We are very lucky to have so many are due to Dougal for his excellent per­ season). All the spinners used produced staff willing to help out and to put in an formance for Kent Club and Ground and some good performances and towards enormous amount of evening as well as his selection for Scotland Under-19. The the end of the season Duncan Camilleri afternoon time. Now that we have a other main scorers were Robert Barr, looked very promising indeed. Alastair bowling machine, together with Ben Ward, Graham McKendry and the Duncan headed the bowling averages, increased and improved indoor net facil­ Captain, Andrew Jeffrey, whose own with 16 wickets averaging 11.38, but for ities, there is no reason why the future unselfishness provided a great example, various reasons was only able to bowl should not look good. My thanks go to considerable entertainment and almost 57 overs in the season. The fielding per­ all those who have helped including the total disregard for the coaching manual. formances varied considerably with, ground staff, the kitchens and the ever- Others scored runs and showed determi­ once again, the captain setting an excel­ helpful Earnside Coaches. nation when it mattered. The loss of lent example. His enthusiasm and RJ.W.P.

49 TENNIS The season was off to an excellent they tend to lose concentration on our exit in the second round of the start even before term had begun, critical points ! Scottish Schools’ Cup to Dunblane with Richard Wallace winning the Newcomers to the team, Laurie High, where their extra experience of Waverley Junior singles titles in Crump, Duncan Dunlop, Alan Hall singles play proved decisive. There Edinburgh at U16 and U18 levels. and Struan Fairbairn, all improved was some consolation to learn that With elder brother Jonathan, the splendidly through the season in Dunblane went on to finish third Wallace brothers once again formed range and strength of shot, but partic­ overall, losing only to Heriot Watt in a formidable first pair and few won ularly in court-craft. the semi-final. more than a single game against Fixtures during this frantic, short, Special mention must be made of them. This laid the basis of a very summer term are very difficult to captain Jonathan Wallace, in his fifth successful season, with the team arrange and two of our usual oppo­ season with the team, playing in the unbeaten in any of our traditional fix­ nents were unable to meet us this sea­ first pair for the fourth time. tures. In particular a rare victory over son. It was particularly welcome New colours were awarded to Stewart’s Melville was most wel­ therefore to renew our fixture with Laurie Crump and Duncan Dunlop come. It depended on our second Fettes, after a three-year gap, on their and colours confirmed for Jonathan pair, Hall and Haenle, winning the splendid new astro-turf courts. Wallace and Richard Wallace. deciding set — a nail-biting set, as The low point of the season was D.J.R.

ATHLETICS There’s no point in trying to use the excuse of it being a wet season this year to explain why we seemed to fare rather badly against all five schools we competed against. So why bother? It was not all doom and gloom — there was some light at the end of the tunnel. Indeed, the “throwers” became the main pillars of our team as they were the only people to consistently win, whereas the runners consis­ tently lost, although there were some very commendable perfor­ mances: James Barlow came fifth in the Scottish Schools’ Pentathlon, missing a medal by a mere 23 points and also managed fifth place in the 800m Scottish Schools — five must be his lucky number! — and Dalton Hamilton, who, after over­ coming his aversion to training, went on to win all of his 400m races. This year’s Athletics team seemed to be prone to injuries, bad attitudes and a symptom known as “fear-of-long-bus-journeys”, which was peculiarly rife when I was try­ David Robertson hands over to Cameron Wood ing to raise a team to travel to Rannoch. This may have accounted for our heavy defeat at their hands. Yet although we lost all five SPORTS DAY matches this year, we lost them with pride and I’m sure all con­ The clash with A level and GCSE The Rowan Cup for Standards was, cerned found this season a charac­ examinations meant a much-reduced once again, part of the Monday Calendar. ter-building experience. Sports Day. It was decided to run a The competition this year saw the intro­ I would like to end this report by Junior House Cup with no Victor duction of a Girls’ Trophy. The boys saying the traditional thank you to Ludorum because of the lack of seniors from Ruthven won the Rowan Cup and all members of staff who put in the competing. There were some fine indi­ the girls from Thornbank won the Girls’ time and effort necessary to hone vidual performances by the athletes but it Trophy. the skills of our exceptionally tal­ was a disappointing end to the season. Next year will see a return to normal ented Athletics team. Ruthven ran out clear winners in the competition. Boys’ Junior Cup and Thornbank tri­ A.J.B. Bennett umphed in the Junior Girls’ competition. P.G.

50 CROSS-COUNTRY the Beast). We returned to Sedbergh for their 10-miler. It was brilliant fun. Highlights included a snow blizzard 5 miles into the fell and a vertical climb appropriately named “muddy slide”. Everyone truly enjoyed the “experience”, even myself who almost collapsed from dehydration with two miles to go. I wanted to let you know what it feels like to beat me, Fish! Thanks for taking us, Headmaster, and for putting up with the smell of cheese ’n’ onion crisps. Everyone who participated this term had loads of fun. All credit goes to Mr Crosfield (or is it Mr Cross­ country?) and to Mr Summersgill. Cross country colours were award­ ed to Richard Graham, James Gammack-Clark and Ashley Smith. We finished off the term perfectly w ith a Chariots of Fire run on St Andrew’s beach, followed by a small party, courtesy of Mr and Mrs Summersgill and Mr Crosfield. Those who were old enough got beers. Maybe next year, Drew! Good luck to next year’s runners, stay fit and go crazy on the cross­ RAD, the Running Man country. Martin Fitchie This year witnessed the biggest Our first race was at Merchiston, turnout yet, with over 30 runners opt­ where the senior team brought us our ing for cross-country as their games first victory in a long time. The sec­ option. Being lucky enough to cap­ ond race was at Sedbergh. We were tain the team for two years running, I doing okay until we reached the Fell had the chance to spend one year where the Sedbergh runners pulled begging for a cross-country team T- away due to the advantage of having shirt and then to wear it the next one leg shorter than the other. I was year! second out of Strathallan and St The team looked very smart in the Aloysius, yet I didn’t beat even the new strip with its individual image. slowest Sedbergh runner! Most of us Indeed, as far as image was con­ found it worthwhile going just for the cerned, newcomers this year included after-match meal. Drew, however, the Captain of School and Head of especially enjoyed the communal Ruthven! Rich Graham definitely bath and is bringing his rubber duck proved his running talent by giving next time! I realised the journey had some pretty impressive perfor­ affected Mawdsley in a bad way mances. We also managed to steal when he mistook Stirling Castle for some talent from 3rd Form, 4th Form Edinburgh Castle. and even Riley. These included As with most of our runs, the Stephen Scales, Ewen Adam, senior team for the Merchiston Alastair Christie and David Fisher, Relays consisted entirely of “Ruthven with his expensive running spikes Runners”. On the bus we argued over and trainers that have to be pumped who was running on their last legs — up by a computer! oops, I meant to say “who was run­ I won’t bore everyone with the ning the last leg”! At Rannoch we inter-house cross-country statistics. had notable performances from Nick Instead I will just tell you that and Stephen Scales who have demon­ Thornbank won the girls’ race strated a lot of potential. Ashley and (Ashley probably beat most of the Melissa also deserve a mention. boys, too) and that Ruthven won The girls had a good turnout for the overall, thrashing Freeland by over Scottish Schools this year and 50 points (hard luck, Mr Court!). achieved a respectable team result. Special mention should go to Ratty and I checked out the course on Christopher Wands who got a new arrival. It had a pleasant sea breeze, course record in the junior race and probably Force Ten, at -5 degrees C! to Rich Graham and Ben Ward who On the way back Ashley was in tears didn’t let any “Marines” beat them! (but only from watching Beauty and

51 BADMINTON The Autumn Term started with the Teams calling off. Unfortunately this Alexis MacGregor, who turned up on arrival of new shuttlecocks — an occa­ means that next year hardly any of the the coldest, wettest and windiest of sion worth mentioning - possibly team will have had match practice, as nights, and also made great progress rarer than the arrival of a new this was to be their one outing. I hope with the racket as a result. In fact, it Headmaster. this does not discourage them and I was pleasing to see the progress The numbers taking Badminton as a wish them the best of luck. everybody made over the season, games option were as high as ever The facilities will be improved next from humble beginnings to a promis­ with players often having to wait for year, and I trust the players will be ing standard. courts. The juniors were especially inspired by their new surroundings. 1 The boys only played one match enthusiastic despite the lack of formal would like to thank my Team for their this year against Glenalmond and, coaching. continued support, and also Mrs although we lost 11-4, D uncan With the approach of a match, it Duncan and Miss Neale for supervis­ Dunlop performed extremely well and became necessary to select a team. ing so many chilly practices. Robert Dundas showed great promise Choosing who to play was difficult, Emma Procter for the future. but deciding on couples seemed The House tournament produced an impossible. Despite our complicated As well as badminton being chosen excellent standard in general, with selection process, we were beaten 9 - as a games option in the Spring Term, Freeland’s top pair, George Kitson 0 by St George’s. Some of the games the Badminton Club runs for both and Duncan Forbes, proving a formi­ were very close, though, and every­ Winter and Spring Terms with three dable partnership, although it was one played well. Subsequent matches sessions per week: one for 3rd years, Nicol who took the trophy with a were more successful, the team beat­ one for 4th and 5th years and one for stronger team overall. Woodlands ing both Loretto and Fettes 9 -0 and 8 6th Form. We cater for 16 players came a creditable third. - 1 respectively. each session, and it proves to be a We look forward to welcoming new A 2nd VI match v Loretto was can­ popular and enjoyable activity. members to the club next year. celled because of rain and the Hockey The loyalty medal has to go to G.K. CANOEING Once again we have had a superb term of canoeing with approximately forty pupils enjoy­ ing the thrills and the spills of the white water. It is all too easy to underestimate the enormous benefits of this type of pursuit. Some are immediately obvious — physical fitness, excite­ ment, working together — while others are impossible to state or to quantify. It is certainly worth a chat to any of those who have excelled themselves in one way or another, about the power of the water and all that it can offer. The rivers and the coastline of Scotland are quite simply a canoeist’s dream, and we are particularly for­ tunate in having one of the best rivers, the Tay, so near at hand. Most of the groups work toward, and gain, qualifications from the Scottish Canoe Association Award Scheme, which is carefully built around personal experience and ability. We are also very fortunate to have a group of enthusiastic staff who are carefully working their way through the S.C.A. Coaching Scheme. At this point we have Mr Burgess almost ready for Senior Instructor, Mr Taylor for Instructor and Miss England for Trainee Instructor. These quali­ fications representing many years of experience, achievement and hard work are invaluable for the safe conduct of the sport. It is most of all great fun!! P.J.E.

52 STRATHSKI at the Scottish event in Glenshee which qualified them for the British snow event. Louisa made a clean sweep of the Strathallan trophies, winning the House race - the first victory for a girl - and easily winning the Butchart Tankard for the best Strathallian performance at Scottish and British levels, before fin­ ishing off the season nicely as part of our mixed CCF team at the Army in Scotland Champion-ships, where she did a “Boris” by thrashing out of sight all the women soldiers and most of the men. With Melissa back next year as well, and the promising Kimberley Cooper moving up to the Senior Team, the boys are going to have their work cut out. The House race was run in perfect conditions on the “Ski Sunday” Cairnwell GS course as a curtain raiser to the postponed Scottish Schools’ event. We even had a British Paralympian along to close the course as part of his training for Lillehammer. Ronald “Boris” Duncan having retired, married and produced a son, all at a brisk downhill pace, it has been left to J.F.C. to keep the Strathallan flag fly­ ing internationally, both with the International Schoolsport Federation and as Chief of Championships for the British Seniors in Tignes for the last two years. A parting thought: What, we ask, hap­ pened to the planned Strathallian Club Ski Day? Could it be, Hamish, that the club are frightened of taking us on? See you next year. Neil McKenzie-Blatherwick and J.F.C. A crazy notion, to begin with, skiing on the Summer Solstice in Scotland. But it was done, and bravely done, by 8 Strathallan pupils, and the photograph on the back page of The Guardian proved it. We set off from School in a chauffeur-driven mini-bus, heading for Nevis Range. Low cloud greeted our After three dreadful years, this season portions. arrival at the resort. For those who had could hardly have been better or more As usual we participated in a full to, skis were hired and we joined the of a contrast: the snow came early, in range of races both on dry slopes and other 36 intrepid skiers in the bubbles time for Christmas, reached impressive snow. Neil McKenzie-Blatherwick was and on the chairlift to the Snowgoose depths and left late. The skiing went on an ex-cellent Captain of Skiing, a com­ Bowl. Apart from the photographers well into April in Glenshee and, as we petent and enthusiastic organiser. It was from the National Press and the TV write at the end of May, the latest news by no means his fault that the Boys’ cameras, what awaited us was still is that they have just dug out the top lift Team were rather short of racing talent. shrouded .... Then came the blood-chill­ at Glencoe! It is rumoured that the Rev, It was left this year to the girls to keep ing truth. We had to walk up if we were has forsaken his fishing rod and keeps the Strathallan flag flying on both sur­ to ski down! on sneaking off to Cairngorm with B-J. faces and at both Senior and Minor lev­ And walk most of us did - right to the Weather conditions at weekends were els. It was the Girls’ Team that qualified top of the piste - in boots - carrying our indifferent, hut midweek days, with blue for the British events at Hillend and skis - stopping frequently “to admire skies and hardly a snow fence to be Aonach Mhor, and it was the impressive the view”, said one of the party. Our seen, were fit for a Warren Miller video. performances of Louisa Graham- Leader was assisted up the hill by The School was very fortunate to travel Campbell and young Abigail Carswell Louisa Graham-Campbell, and there­ to Glcnshee on three of the planned four that brought us close to the medals; none after the fun began. Thursday Ski Days; on the fourth, closer than the Girls’ Minors Team, who We made history, or claim to have Glenshee was storm- bound. Most secured a fourth place in their event, done so, by challenging Old Sundays saw a small band of enthusiasts with Abigail mounting the rostrum for Strathallians to disprove the fact that we profiting from the widespread snow an individual silver. It was a meritorious were the first pupils to ski Scotland on which kept queues to manageable pro­ eighth place for the Senior Girls’ Team the Longest Day.

53 GOLF The 1994 season proved even busier games against other schools and it is sional, Frank Smith from Craigie Hill. than the previous one as some additional pleasing to report on the return of the He is a first class teaching professional fixtures gave more pupils the chance to Fettes fixture were we managed an and all golfers would do well to heed his play outwith the School. emphatic 5 - 1 victory at Bruntsfield advice. Even the top professionals have The four-man “league” team finished Links. The one dark side to the year was lessons - no one should feel embar­ runners-up to a very strong Glenalmond the heavy defeat received at Blairgowrie, rassed about coming to these sessions side, who went on to win the Perth and where a weakened Strathallan side were and asking for help and advice. It could Kinross League. Colin Mitchell was his put to the sword by a competitive make all the difference! usual steady self and won four out of Blairgowrie team. I would, though, com­ The Inter-House Golf Trophy was five games. He received good support mend the fighting spirit of the No. 8 won, once again, by a strong Simpson from Alex Macleod, Jamie Stirling and player who, despite being three down team (Mitchell, Clement and Milne), Andrew Milne. with five holes to play, managed to show with Colin winning the individual com­ After finishing second and third in sufficient fighting spirit to draw his petition with a score of 70. The competi­ previous years in the Perth and Kinross match and gain the team’s only consola­ tion was played, as is usual, over the Individual Championships, Colin tion on the day. Some of the more senior Auchterarder Course. Mitchell this year managed to win the players in the team could benefit from Much earlier in the season the School Trophy over the King James VI Course. showing some of this spirit. played the Old Strathallians at Panmure This victory gained him automatic entry The 36-hole St Columba’s Trophy was Golf Club. On a very difficult day for into the County Schools’ side to play in won this year by Bruce Martin, who golf with strong winds coming in off the the Scottish Schools’ final, which, this shows a great deal of promise as a sea and heavy showers, the School lost a year, took place at Troon. Despite a very golfer. Indeed there are a clutch of very competitive match by 4 - 3. Doug steady round of golf, he narrowly failed golfers in the fifth Year (at the time of Clement won both his matches (the only by one place to gain automatic entry to writing) who could make an impression player to do so), and we all enjoyed an the Scottish Schools’ Team (he is first on the golf team, if they can do some excellent meal in the clubhouse after­ reserve and may yet get an opportunity), work on their handicaps (please note wards. We plan to return to Panmure for finishing 13th. We wish Colin well as he Messrs Martin, Mackay, Milne and the 94/95 fixture and hope for the weath­ leaves the School and who knows he McClure). er to be a little kinder. may follow in the footsteps of previous We also held a Juniors Competition at It would be remiss of me not to men­ winners of the County individual trophy, Strathallan over a revamped version of tion the help I have received in running namely Brian Marchbank and William the School course, which was won by the golf this year, especially from GCK. Guy, who are currently earning their liv­ James Donald with a very respectable Without his help we would not have ing as professional golfers. 71. The School has a number of promis­ been able to offer as much and School In addition to the league matches, we ing young golfers who have been golf would be the poorer for it. had a number of six and eight man coached by our regular visiting profes­ N.S. •Windows*Doors»Conservatories* 60 years servingTayside Replacement uPVC and Aluminium windows FREEPHONE 0800 234 400 19 Feus Road Perth SIDEY

54 SHOOTING Ardvreck’s 1551 and Dollar’s 1471. We also visited Kinross and Milnathort on a snowy night in February, and this time it was they who had problems turning out a full team (despite the full range of food provided by Robbie and Adrienne Taylor!) A reduced team competed at the Perth Indoor competition: Fiona Hamilton, Mark Hunter and Ian Senior were first- timers, and the usual reprobates (Jenny, Jeremy, Alastair and David) came along for the ride. Robbie Taylor did his best to put us all off with his demonstrations of Positive Thinking Techniques (but was a point or two short at the end of the day); Jenny won the Junior Competition and was 3rd in the Ladies”, Fiona was 3rd in the Junior ahead of Alastair and David - she was also 3rd overall in Class D. Last results show that Jenny Littleford was placed third in the Junior Section of Amelia Blair-Oliphant the Scottish Short Range Championship, with Fiona Hamilton fourth. In the Summer of 1993 the five teams scores suggest. Lose one shooter in one Social notes must include several vis­ entered in the Perthshire Summer League round, and you lose the round: lose one its: Amelia, Nicky, David (and Duncan achieved respectively 2nd position in round, and you have little hope of win­ Taylor, too) were bullied into driving for Division 2, last in Division 3 (this is the ning the division - and we had people hours on end to a training weekend at team I was shooting in) and 1st in divi­ who were ill for several weeks! Chesterfield under the aegis of the sion 5 (Dundas, Melville, Taylor and I did say “bar one”, because five of my National U21 Squad; Amelia was select­ Turner). However, in the summer holi­ colleagues, possibly more intrepid or ed to shoot for Great Britain in her first days a select team attended the Scottish more foolhardy than the rest, expressed full International at the ISAS meeting in Open at Blairgowrie, hosted this year by an interest in learning to shoot. Within Dortmund, where she acquitted herself the Blair Oliphants. Amelia went on to two weeks they found themselves as very well. The organisers of the National shoot in the British Open at Bisley, Strathallan “E” in the Perth Leagues, and Squad, Liz Cowell and Brian Woodall, where she broke the Junior Women’s five months later finished third in visited the School on the weekend of St record for Prone Rifle with a score of Division 5. Mrs Vallot will probably be Andrew’s Night and gave a coaching 589 out of 600 at 50 metres. shooting for the A Team next year .... session on the Sunday after impressing The Winter Term saw the usual flood An intrepid bunch of bounty hunters on Mr McPhail the desirability of setting of new faces, and a selection procedure gave up their Saturday morning lessons up an air rifle facility. which had been considerably streamlined on the last weekend in November in That’s about it for another year: suc­ since the previous year. Eventually we order to compete in the Watsonians’ RC cess in its share and problems too. The ended up with a total of sixty shooters Open Shoot; as last year they brought average pupil on the street probably does who had either shot last year or had tri­ back a good deal of silver: Sally Cust not realise how much time and effort aled this year. The drop-out rate there­ won the Under 21 and the Ladies’ Cups, goes into shooting (since the range after was quite appalling. However, Amelia the Under 18, David Taylor the opened in January 1992, scarcely two those who did shoot tended to do well, Under 15. Everyone had something to be years ago, we have won over twenty five and the most consistent new recruits may pleased with, even Nick Gibb who could cups, lost one match, sent three pupils to read their names with pride: Lesley hardly believe that he was placed 6th in shoot for Great Britain and had over Crow, Nichola Malcolm, Edward Class D (medals were awarded down to twelve shoot for Scotland or for Phillips, Andrew Bishop, Alison Hunter, 5th place - hard luck, Nick!) Perthshire, and shot two hundred thou­ David Man, William Constable, Ian The Spring Term’s snow was good for sand rounds of ammunition), and if there Crooks (sort of), David Corrie (occasion­ skiers, but less so for us (probably is a message to those who want to shoot, ally) and Jennie Perry (once her various because the shooters were all skiing); then it should be as follows: turn up on illnesses were dealt with). Mock exams, Netball and (again) illness time. There is nothing more irritating The highlight of the winter was the and absenteeism took a toll. We failed to than organising something for pupils achievement predicted in the last report: carry off the Strathcona Shield (a mythi­ who forget, who don’t read notices, who The “A” Team (Sally Cust, Amelia Blair cal trophy which we have won twice in a have other commitments and who expect Oliphant, Jenny Littleford, Alastair row but have never seen) by five points, to get better without effort or practice. Dundas and David Taylor) won the but then the Captain of Shooting didn’t Shooting is only 10% a physical sport; NSRA Junior Winter competition, mak­ quite shoot her card. The same happened the other 90% is a mixture of psychology ing them the Under 18 champions for the to the Junior Spring Competition: and of analysing performance. Some UK. This was a great achievement, but through to the final with no trouble, but have a better start than others in their the cause of much nail-biting. The ’flu big problems getting people to turn up to basic 10% of sporting ability, but they epidemic played havoc with most com­ shoot it. The cards were never submitted don’t necessarily make the best shots in petitions undertaken between September in the end. We did host a home match, the long run. and January, and since the Perthshire versus Ardvreck and Dollar (funny how Many thanks to Tom Colvin again for Winter League runs continuously from people always turn out for shoulder to his coaching, to Sally Cust for her cap­ October to March, the performances in shoulder matches - is it the orange taincy, and to all those who did their all teams (bar one) on the results sheet squash and sandwiches?) and won by best. look much worse than the recorded five points with 1556 ex 1600 to A.C.W. S-J.

55 FISHING CYCLING FENCING A larger than usual number of The graceful retirement of Julia pupils were engaged in fishing activi­ Wanless from the Captaincy of ties this year, beginning with Richard Fencing saw her role pass to another Philps’ popular fly-tying classes in Mistress-at-Arms, Cristina Burns. the Autumn and Spring Terms. Despite the introductory activities The Pond was again stocked with programme, which gave all the new Loch Leven trout, though the algae Third Form a chance to sample growth, earlier than on previous Fencing, membership was low at the years, conspired against us. beginning of the Autumn Term. Outings were regular as well as Interest grew, however, and at the end varied: Ballo Loch and Sandyknowes of term we were able to stage our own being the most popular venues. Some handicap foil competition. The pupils were also invited to accompa­ Ladies’ Event was won by Ella Bird ny the Masters on their Tuesday just ahead of Cristina Burns. Iain evening outings. Others were regular Senior took the Men’s prize, a mere sights on the banks of the River Earn. hit or two in front of Jonathan Dailey. T.CJ.L.

Strathallan has been bitten by the cycling bug! Ten Sixth Formers have formed a small Cycling Club, master­ minded by Peter Yeates, and they regularly head “off road” on their steeds of steel and 21 gears. Local forests have provided a wealth of dirt tracks and, by extension, great enter­ tainment. An hour’s cycle through the labyrinth of Pitmedden Forest has proved a popular and exhilarating Sunday afternoon pursuit. We even managed to institute it as a Summer games option one day a week. In the Spring Term, two of our It is hoped to develop the club still Fencers performed quite creditably in further next year, although for logisti­ a public competition, considering their cal and safety reasons, membership own lack of experience and the con­ will only be open to those in the siderable experience of their oppo­ Sixth Form. As I write, boys are busy nents. knocking a trailer together out of var­ To Derek Titheradge, our coach, go ious bits of bizarre-shaped metal, so our thanks not just for his coaching that we can trail bikes to further-flung skills but also for his unstinting sup­ destinations. port, enthusiasm and advice. SWIMMING P.J.C. Cristina Burns Our first match was at home against Rannoch School. Despite the junior boys and senior girls both swimming well, we RIDING were beaten 183 to 155 points. The sec­ ond match we had lined up was the Riding started in September with a small Senior Girls’ Team against Dollar disaster... four people fell off in the second Academy, but due to bad weather condi­ week! Other than this and a few other tions the match had to be cancelled, as mishaps, everyone has seemed pleased with the School Bus literally could not leave Perth Equine Centre, which is on the out­ the gates for heavy snow. Our third skirts of town. match was definitely the most demand­ Fiona Hamilton, surprised all by canter­ ing - the Glenalmond Challenge, where ing for the first time in her second lesson the Senior Team was competing against and jumping in her fourth. Well done! Mrs Glen-almond, Dollar and Loretto. Vallot, however, twice got bucked off a very Although we came fourth, there were small pony called Kiwi who is used for the many good individual efforts, and after toddlers’ group and, later, Katie Smith the match I awarded colours to Nick invented a new method of riding by doing a Russell, Zak Thompson, Euan full length of the school lying across her Sutherland, Julia Wanless and Rachael pony’s back while cantering! Tilford - well done! Congratulations are due to her, Katherine The Inter-House Swimming also took Charlier, Karina Combe, Kirsty Glimm and place in February. Nicol House won Suzi McPherson who were the winning again - for the fourth time in a row! team. Rebecca Dover Suzanne McPherson

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57 LAND MANAGEMENT

It hardly seems a year since Nick Gibb this roundel was used to build a curling ed last year has given the group extra and I were writing the first report for the pond. The parks were used for folding areas to keep up and the strimmers have group and so it has been really nice that stock and planting basic crops. The been very busy. The old rose garden has Nick Gibb carried on into his second house was served by a large garden area been cleared for the first time and prun­ year in charge before passing on his role which ran from what is now the main ing has brought life back to most of the to Logie Mackenzie who has carried on drive to the houses at Eastfield along the original roses. They will recover to their in the same vigorous and innovative main road. The estate manager lived at original splendour over the next few manner. As a result, we have moved on the original house at Eastfield, cleared years. much faster than planned. but for the outhouses to make way for The area cleared has been divided into An enormous amount of time has been the machinery centre. The outhouses twelve distinct areas now and the plans given to the project by all the group form the cottage on the other side of the are for a nature trail to link these habi­ members and we have reached the point road and the track by the cottage is the tats. Unfortunately, there are still times where the responsibility and enthusiasm original road to Glenearn House on the when individuals are oblivious to their of all the members have come together then main road to Stirling and Glasgow surroundings and have little appreciation towards a single goal. I know that the from Fife. The lime trees of the drive of the effects they can have on the area. original planners of the estate would are the back garden of the old house but, Such a trail will go a long way to redress have understood the feelings and emo­ sadly, all the beeches that lined the old this imbalance and bring back the wood­ tions of the pupils if they could see the vegetable garden have gone. If you want peckers and the red squirrels. Did you effect of the group’s work over the sea­ to see what an 18th-century country road know that a vixen had raised a full fami­ son. looked like, take a trip along Silver ly of three behind Woodlands by Easter? Meanwhile, we have been tracing fur­ Walk at Pitkeathly Wells. 1 hope that we As last year, we have to thank many ther signs of early planning here: the can all take part in protecting the trees people for all their help. Our thanks go to estate was already enclosed in part by that are all that’s left from those days. Mr Bruce-Jones for all his attention and 1680 through the work of Thomas Unfortunately, there are those who guidance; to Mr and Mrs Gibb for arrang­ Ruthven, who was made First Lord of would like to get rid of even these. ing another wonderful day on the hills; to Freeland by Charles II. His daughter, One of the emotions felt by the origi­ Mr du Boulay for seeing us to the races; Lady Jean, and her niece, Lady Isobel, nal planners, and shared by this year’s to Mr White at the Scottish Agricultural were a formidable pairing in the area and group, is to feel and see their activities Museum; to Mrs Ross for giving up her saw the estate through the troubled years as an investment for the future. Other garage; to all those people who have been until the destruction of the old house in emotions are for the creative changes patient when tired and dishevelled pupils 1750. Isobel’s grandson James, third which are already in evidence, especially arrived late or have given them the time Lord Freeland, had the new house and at the Coventrees pond. This area has to follow their own interests. estate remodelled from 1783. been transformed from a stagnant And for the group themselves, this The original park was enclosed on four wilderness to a living and growing gar­ year has provided some immortality in sides by avenues of trees and divided den within a year. The pond has recov­ Gibb’s Field, Jonesbank, Clarkstone, into 12 parks, all about 12 acres each, ered and the dam has been rebuilt to Stewart’s Linn, Mackenzie Bridge, Path after the grand cross design of the fash­ complement the many new features. o’ Tom and Wilson Way. I can only look ion of the time. The 150 or so acres of Further plans involve a second pond area forward to next year when the strimming the whole park probably relate to the and re-establishing the original stream as begins again. original medieval “daroch”. The beech a winter floodwater. The work complet­ G.M.R. tree on the field at the back of Nicol is the only remaining tree of the inner line of the vertical part of the cross. It lies Below: the Land Management group after a successful day's stalking in near the top of the cross at the centre of the Perthshire hills the top four parks; Foul Steps and Lady Hill to the east, and West and East Parks, which contained the house and gardens, to the west. The remaining eight parks cover the land to the north of the beech tree, with the vertical driveway passing between them down to the Boatmill on the river. The original driveway consist­ ed of two lines of beech trees with a fur­ ther two lines of oaks on either side. One oak remains near the bottom of the play­ ing fields near the last house on the Freeland Farm road. The horizontal park limits running east-west can be seen more clearly as the farm track up to Gallowmuir wood and the Freeland Farm road. Many of the original tree stumps can still be seen with a small search and the solitary surviving oak by the quarry has come back to life this year. Other oaks on mudflats clearly show the park limits. Where four parks met on the estate the planners had created roundels with ash trees. The fork at the bottom of the hill by Coventrees is one side of such a roundel. In 1926, the sunken area inside

58 FALCONRY Tom Hayward and Roy Duffy (two would have almost preferred them to quiet and retiring types) nagged be fed alive to the fearsome talons. Robert Proctor and myself for so long That has changed a little and the and so loudly that something had to ‘macho’ image of the sport has be done. They gave me the telephone diminished for them, replaced to number and asked me daily if I had some extent by a sense of the power managed to make contact. and grace of the birds themselves. Eventually, contact with Philip at The The boys were able to employ Falconry Centre at Kinross was some of the skills they had learned made. In exchange for some tidying- during an excellent day’s hunting up and various pieces of gardening, provided by Mr Eadie and his team at they learned the names of different Finderlie. They handled birds and hunting birds, the nature of their ferrets, made a kill, caught some habits and how to fly and handle trout and ate more in a day than I them. They rehearsed the mysteries thought possible. and intricacies of the various knots I hope that next year they will fol­ and pieces of equipment that were low this up with more expeditions needed. They even learned not to and some hard work and that we can gaze with quite such horrid fascina­ add one or two other members to the tion as hawks, falcons, eagles and club. Many thanks to Mr Proctor for owls ripped day-old chicks to pieces. his car on Wednesdays. I’m not quite sure but I suspect they C.N.C.

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59 CCF Much has occurred in the last twelve loyal supporter of the CCF, and under his By the time this is in print, the months in terms of studies into the wing the only RM troop in Scotland has Contingent will have had its biennial Ministry of Defence funding and policy flourished. The whole Contingent was review by Major General M.J.E. Scott, under the “Front Line First” and inspected by Lt Cdr Macleod on his han­ C.B.E., D.S.O.. the General Officer “Defence Cost Study”, to name but two. dover to Mr Glimm. The cadets and offi­ Commanding the Army in Scotland. I am None of these policy statements directly cers with whom he has worked presented sure he will have seen cadets taking alter the way the CCF does its business him with mementoes of his time with us responsibility for various aspects of their in School, but outside School there are and we all wish him a long and happy training and learning a great deal about many knock-on effects which are finding retirement near Stanley. I am sure 1 speak that elusive skill - LEADERSHIP. It their way down to us at present and will for all concerned with the CCF in the remains for me to thank, on behalf of all continue to do so into the future. The past and the present, when 1 simply say, cadets, the Officers of the CCF and Mr most obvious are the closures of Royal “Thank you, Torquil, for your outstand­ Eades for all their hard work. Naval and Royal Naval Reserve units in ing service”. C.N.W. Scotland - as I write we have lost H.M.S. CAMPERDOWN, our parent unit in Dundee, and no replacement has been found, due to further RN closures in Rosyth. Our waterborne activities have to change direction, due to the closure of the RIB School in Port Edgar. The Army Cadet Training Teams were due to be cut severely in Scotland to only two teams, but a reprieve has just been announced with the same number of teams, each with slightly reduced manpower. OHB Al Pressure will be on establishments to provide space for camps and courses, yet all around it is harder for service person­ nel to assist us, as they are being asked to ONLY do more-with less personnel and funding. All is not gloom, as I am sure you will see in the Section Reports. The people 'l-ncrt'iMctU' that did take part in courses and camps did well and seemed to enjoy them­ selves. on\v£<^> time here. Times have changed indeed during his tour of duty, but he has been a

60 ROYAL NAVY At a time when out there in the real slimming down of the Section, which shaping and making of the all-rounder, world the Service is being shaken up by leaves us with a core of cadets who are that person who can cope with the vicis­ the so-called “Options for Change”, it is both able and willing to get back to busi­ situdes of life. not surprising that some of these changes ness. Many of you will have heard that Lt. eventually filter though the system, right What then is this business and what is Cdr. Macleod retired from Strathallan at down to the level of CCF Sections. this Navy Section trying to achieve? For the end of June of this year, and will join It was to be expected that the numbers many years, under the enthusiastic lead­ me in wishing him a long and happy in the Navy Section would drop with the ership of Lt. Cdr. Torquil Macleod, the retirement. You will also, I am sure, introduction of voluntary CCF at guiding principle had been to challenge agree that Strathallan CCF, and the Navy Strathallan. Unfortunately, some of the Cadets in the development of individual Section in particular, owes him a debt of volunteers appeared to join the Section skills and of leadership qualities. There gratitude for all his work, his dedication for not quite the right reasons and, as the are, of course, other agencies at a school and for the support which he has given year went on, began to make work a bit that pursue similar aims, but none can every individual Cadet who ever joined difficult for those members of the offer a young person the same responsi­ his Section in all those many years. We Section who were trying to maintain the bilities, the same need to accept and carry shall have to try very hard to meet the standards of the Navy in the time-hon- out difficult and, at times, even hard exacting standards of training, turn-out oured fashion. It is therefore with a cer­ tasks as the CCF. Thus the Corps con­ and general attitude which he has set. tain relief that we can announce a further tributes in a not insignificant way to the K.G.

ROYAL MARINES

The start of this year saw the introduc­ Nevis and an exercise based on a training, but abseiling also featured. The tion of ten new recruits to the troop. Helicopter Crash. Everybody gained from highlight came at the end of the term These Fifth Formers had been carefully the experience and some of the Lower when we were visited by Brigadier selected the previous summer from the Sixth showed their potential to be NCOs. Taylor. For his benefit we arranged a Pre-Marines Troop, the training squad The final exercise of the term, which demonstration involving the whole troop for potential Marines. was planned by the NCOs, was designed and we felt that he left impressed with Their first taste of training included an to test everything that the new recruits the Royal Marine Section. introduction to drill, campcraft, weapon­ had learnt. The task involved a four man The Summer term was mainly taken ry, patrolling, ambush skills and reaction terrorist team hiding out in the Ochils - up by restoring the School assault course to ambush techniques. The new Marines and culminated with one of the ‘enemy’ to its former glory and the last thing left soon found out that these skills were not being massacred and the other three run­ to do was the potential recruit’s tests for always as easy to master as they had first ning amok amid the anti-terrorist force’s the pre-Marine hopefuls. These were appeared. For instance, was your ‘oppo’ bergens. We were joined on this exercise conducted by the Lower Sixth and we are telling you to double-time, or insulting by WOII Bell from the RM CCF sure they have made the right choices. you ? Training Team. He was very impressed All that is left to say is thank-you to This short training spell took us up to by the level of professionalism from the Mr Glimm who made all this possible half term and a Winter Exercise on and whole troop. and thanks to the RM Training Team for around Ben Nevis, accompanied by After Christmas, the pressure of exams their invaluable advice. Royal Naval Reserves. A surprise addi­ forced the Senior NCOs to take a ‘back Finally, mention should be made of tion to our number was Lt Mann, the new seat’ role and hand over the running of Alec Burrell (1993) who has obtained his officer in charge of RM CCF school the Troop to the Lower Sixth. David Green Beret and Jonathan Ireland who detachments, and we were very glad to Robertson and Michael Greshon proved has been accepted into Royal Marine welcome him into our close-knit team. to be more than ready to take charge. Recruit Training. Well done ! The Exercise included ‘doing' Ben Again this term consisted mainly of Alastair Bennett and Rod Williams

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61 ARMY

The year began with last minute training for the annual Highland Cadet Tactical Competition (HCTC). This year was different, however, because there was a small group of female cadets who were not going to be denied their chance of putting one over on their male counterparts. After numerous phone calls and an eleventh hour change of mind by the organisers (due to Glenalmond pulling out), the first Strathallan Girls’ Team was entered. 1 was very pleased at the decision for two rea­ sons. Firstly, I did really want the girls’ team to go in, but equally important, Sgt MacLennan and CpI Tilford et al decided that if they were not allowed to enter, it would have been my fault (being a mere man) and were going to throw me into the pond as a form of retribution for being so feeble!! May I just finish this section by saying that both teams performed extremely well. The boys, under WOl Steel, finishing second in the CCF competition and fifth over­ all, with the girls’ team finishing sec­ ond in the girls’ competition. An excellent effort overall. Well done! Field day this year saw the whole section go down to Glencorse outside WOl Man, Sergeants Shepherd, Mr Streatfeild-James coped well with Edinburgh. Here we practised Marshall, MacLennan and Senior, as the pressure of House Reports. Much ambush drills as a section, with the well as Corporals Tilford, Bryans, of the reason for this was down to help of the Training Team, on a cold Seymour and Marsham, are all to be UO Steel,who took on the burden of October night on the Pentlands. We congratulated for their efforts. responsibility for stores and general were well looked after by Major In the Easter Term 23CTT sent us organisation with relish. I only hope Colin Dunbar (Old Boy and Parent), two sergeants to conduct Adventur­ that next year runs equally smoothly who runs the camp, and I would like ous Training, in which cadets found I to thank him as well as the CTT for themselves climbing, abseiling, The activities at camp continue to their organisation and support. The canoeing and shooting on full bore improve every year. This year cadets following day, after No 3 Platoon ranges. This allowed the contingent were taught to survive, use radios, won the Inter-platoon Competition, to get a broad introduction to these build bridges, carry out Section we returned to School via Edinburgh skills and gave them a break from the Attacks, canoe, rock climb, use Castle where we were shown round military training of the first term. power tools, shoot and many other the new Jewel Room and many other The range days proved very success­ activities. As well as this the cadets recently renovated areas. Overall the ful, with the majority of cadets gain­ entered a girls’ and boys’ team into exercises went well and the tired ing creditable scores and some show­ both the March & Shoot and Assault bodies of the section arrived back at ing marksmanship skills. Course Competitions and acquitted School 36 hours after they had left, a During the second half of term, the themselves well. The most pleasing little wiser and a little more experi­ Recruits were taken on their Camp thing was watching individuals, who enced in the ways of the Army. and Fieldcraft weekend. This was were not normally associated with While we were surviving on 24hr conducted at Mr Douglas Sinclair’s such events, try so hard for the rest of Ration Packs the MT Section, under farm at Rams Heugh; my thanks to the group and themselves. Mr Wilson and Mr Walker, we went Mr Sinclair for the use of the area Finally, I would like to take this to Redford Barracks to be trained by again. There the Recruits camped out opportunity to thank all the people the Battalion in such things as axle and practised their Night Navigation who have helped in the running of changing, brake maintenance and skills. The evening will be remem­ the section this year. Along with the other mechanical problem solving bered for the Cordon Bleu kitchen previously mentioned NCOs, I would exercises. set- up by Sergeant Hall from the like to thank the CTT and especially All the Recruits, bar three, passed Training Team ! After very little Sergeant Andy Hall. Mr Streatfeild- their weapons test first time round sleep, the group returned to School at James and Miss Smith continue to which was very pleasing. Their initial noon after a dawn attack on some of support the section despite all their training was carried out well, as the seniors who were out playing the other commitments, while Mr Wilson always, by the senior NCOs who enemy. now moves to power boating next deserve congratulations for their Finally, we left for Cultybraggan year and Mr Streatfeild-James takes efforts and my thanks for their sup­ Camp with twenty two cadets and over the MT Section. Last, but by no port. I was very pleased that James three officers. This year seemed to be means least, 1 would like to thank Mr Steel was appointed Under Officer, more fraught than ever with two (and Eades who continues to run the stores the first time for a member of the soon to be three) Housemasters in the with efficiency and good humour. LVI in a long time. He, along with Section. Despite this, Miss Smith and P.M.V.

62 IN COMMAND Little boy, little boy Why do you cry? I'm crying because My father has died.

He fought in a war In a far off land A land of tigers, elephants, sand. He showed me his gun When he came home last. He talked of the snakes That crawled in the grass. He spoke of the monkeys That climbed in the tress. 44 Mr

My Pa gave the orders To men who would fight. He looked at the maps. He made the plans that were right. If he said to charge They did as he said. My father fought The war in his head.

He commanded great armies With thousands of troops. He told them to run. He told them to shoot. He made the decisions. He had the last say. But my father is dead They shot him today.

Jo Malcolm

63 DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD

With Silver training and all the Bronze expeditions as well, this has proved a very busy year and we thank Miss England for her presence and support on virtually all the trips. The Service Section has produced a range of activities with First Aid, Lifesaving and the Police Course fig­ uring prominently. 32 people gained the St Andrew’s Ambulance Junior First Aid Certificate, 8 the RLSS Bronze Medallion and 2 the RLSS Award of Merit. Many activities were undertaken for the Skill and Physical Recreation Sections. My thanks to all those col­ leagues who run the games and activ­ ities used. Particular thanks go to Mr Taylor and Mr Sneddon for their help on Wednesday afternoons. Finally, here is a list of those who have completed their awards thisyear: BRONZE: Gordon Duncan, Andrew Kettle, Rosie Clegg, Geoffrey Wheeldon, Alan Senior, Claire Bethune, Sarah Caird, David Taylor, Neil Grosset, Helen Miller, Kate Miller, Gillian Wallace, Lyndsey MacEachern, This year has seen continued Jonathan Goody, Alasdair Grieve, growth in interest in the Scheme, with Tom Forster, Fiona Hamilton, Jenny our largest-ever numbers now Littleford, Katie Butler, Louisa involved at the Silver and Gold levels. McLardy, Alan Gibson, Graeme Two successful Silver assessment Kettle, Roderick Murray. expeditions took place. In October an SILVER: intrepid group braved very low tem­ Gordon Duncan, Katie Yellowlees, peratures in Lochaber and at the end Euan Sutherland, Iain Senior, of April another group wandered the Michael Govind, Catherine Jones, length of Arran (with Robert Christina Gilliver, Katie Haslam, Mawdsley qualifying as chef of the Katherine High, Kananu Kirimi, Jo week for his magnificent first night Malcolm. steak !) GOLD: Gold training took place over the Angus Bruce-Jones, Andrew leave-out weekend in the Summer Hodgson, Caroline Healy. term and the alternative Speech Day J.S.B. was held half way up Streap Comhlaidh (an unpronounceable but otherwise very fine mountain above Glenfinnan). Congratulations to Finn Syme on his receipt of the worst- dressed “being” of-the-week award. This expedition also took in Glen Pean, Sgurr Thuilm (a first Munro for some) and Sgurr nan Coireachan. The last day brought the now familiar sight of Mr Todd, accompanied by Alistair Dundas, heading off into the clouds in search of an elusive Corbett (a sort of post-graduate version of a Munro). The Gold Assessment took place in the North West Highlands and sadly marked Mr Todd’s last expedition with us. His contribution over the last two years has been enormous and our trips will be the poorer for his absence (for a start who will be telling the ghost stories round the camp fire from now on ?). Our thanks and best wishes go with him as he takes up his new post.

64 MY D OF E PURPOSE The bus was shining. After what seemed like ages, We at length reached the bothy, The sun was bright. The bothy arrived. Much later than planned. This was the start of our D of E hike. The sight of that building led our tired­ But we still had more walking, We all piled in ness to dive. (D of E should be banned. With rucksacks and tents. We all tried to run Or rather strange maps Could we survive the coming torment? But our legs wouldn’t go. That make walks look so short.) And that very instant, it started to snow. No wonder that evening we all were so The ride was long. wrought. The road was rough. That night was so chilly Mr Todd’s driving wasn’t quite good We all sat round the fire. enough. Michael, we thought, should not join the Next morning was cold. The bus kept swerving. choir. In fact worse than before. Euan felt sick. His voice is horrendous, Water would freeze on the count of just How were we going to cope “in the sticks”? It’s painful to hear. four. 1 think he’s tone deaf in both of his ears. There was frost on the inside We arrived at Fort William, Of every tent. All hassled and hot. We played silly games Now can you see why All happy and cheery was what we were Whilst the fire burned away. We froze to that extent. not. Dragon-breath Dave got his face blown We put up the tents. away. Then looked for the maps Euan’s socks burnt Someone said that the last day Whilst fumbling with gloves, socks, mit­ From fire’s awesome heat. Was simply a stroll, tens and caps. We decided at last, it was time for some But I swear that the last day sleep. Took more than its toll. When morning arrived The bogs were all frozen As it frequently did. The next morn was worse (One positive thing.) Our fingers were frozen, of joy we were rid. Than the morning before. Bur morale was so low We’d not even started It was so, so, so cold that it couldn’t be sore: It was thought best to sing. To walk on the hills Michael had blisters, We hadn’t a notion, But didn’t reveal Of the real feeling “chilled”! Till later that day when one burst on his When at length we arrived heel. At the end of our trek, The weather was varied. We all were so tired With snow, rain and hail. That day was the longest We all were a wreck. The steepness of one hill was right I’ve ever endured. But we had a great time, beyond the pale. Of that type of experience, we will never It was well worth the cold, The views were spectacular. be cured. And we’re doing our Gold After reaching great heights. The valley got longer In the summer, I’m told! Euan said “Not much further,” The further we went. And was right about twice. The map didn’t really make any sense. Jo Malcolm

65 COMMUNITY SERVICE

This year the School has again helpers, exercising their mental arith­ pupils paid £2 a head to turn up in been serving the wider community in metic skills behind the till, or helping anything they liked. The combined many different ways. Enthusiastic solve the quandaries of customers effect of dozens of imaginations run­ members of the Sixth Form have rifling through the clothes racks. A ning wild was little short of spectacu­ been faithfully visiting the elderly in group of willing volunteers spent an lar. The School was transformed into our own village of Forgandenny afternoon in April, helping to run a an extraordinary menagerie of chick­ every week, hearing many fascinat­ fund-raising event for the Marie ens, penguins and bears padding ing tales of village life in days of old Curie charity. They were positively around rather awkwardly, 'while a and catching up on the local gossip showered with effusive thanks by the mysterious tribe of Arab sheiks as well, no doubt. Others have been organiser of the event, who assured seemed especially coy about reveal­ helping out in the village Sunday me that the pupils had been quite ing their true identity. Everyone School and the Youth Group, tire­ indispensable. joined in the fun of the occasion and lessly going along in their free time it is certainly worth repeating. Nearly to instil enthusiasm into their junior There have been concerts by our cheerful and highly skilled musicians, £1,000 for UNICEF was raised. charges. Their work has been greatly Raising money for charity was also appreciated by all; many thanks to who twice put together a varied and highly entertaining programme: once the ultimate goal of the Assault Suzanne McPherson, Jo Malcolm to a delighted audience at the Ochil Course which Riley took great and Michael Govind for their efforts delight in attempting back in over the year in this task - not an Nursing Home and once in the Music Room here at School to an audience October. They were rightly thrilled to easy one by any criteria. have raised over £1,000 between Still in the realm of education, drawn from the local villages and communities. Once again the Chapel them for the charity LEPRA, through Dunbarney Primary School has again was full at Christmas when the pen­ generous sponsors. On a chilly after­ kindly agreed to allow Sixth Form sioners of the district came to hear noon, the pupils assembled in front girls a valuable insight into class­ the Carols. of their newly acquired building site room teaching from the other side of and launched themselves at the the fence. Marie Hamilton and Karen But it is not just those directly assault course (set upon the Paddock Bishop have given unstinting service involved in Community Service who by the Army), scrambling over walls, to the school and now have a wide have been doing good works this crawling under nets and balancing range of experience in keeping year. For the first time in a while, the precariously on rope bridges. excitable seven year olds under con­ whole School raised money for chari­ Many thanks to everyone who has trol. ty and had a hilarious time into the so selflessly given of their time this The charity shops in Perth have bargain on “Non-Uniform Day”. Few year. been the haunt of other dedicated will forget this day in February when P.J.C.

Presentation of funds raised by the Riley Lepra Campaign

66 INYATHI LINK

In all the excitement it was easy to for­ get that the copier still had to be paid for, but a generous donation from the Chapel collections, together with £800 from an “Occasionals” sponsored innings against the School 1st XI (many thanks R.J.W.P. for not only 49 exciting runs but also in engineering a masterly draw), has gone some way to clearing the debt. Finally, many thanks to all our won­ derfully supportive pupils who gave so generously to the appeal. Mr Bebe, the Inyathi School Head­ master, was overwhelmed by the scale of the help Strathallan has given, and in his recent letter to the School has said that the Gestetner copier is already working overtime and Inyathi is only one of four schools in Zimbabwe to own one. It is hoped that there may be opportu­ nities in the future for some student exchanges to take place, but we are sure that this is just the start of a long and fruitful relationship with the Inyathi Mission School. G.K. When the Headmaster was approached used text books, and copious quantities by the Foreign Office to see if of pens, pencils, rubbers and rulers were Strathallan would be prepared to enter collected from willing pupils. into a twinning arrangement with the Gestetner UK Limited came up trumps Inyathi Mission School in Zimbabwe, his with a brand new “state of the art” copier response was an emphatic “Yes!” at greatly reduced cost, and our thanks The Mission School, situated in must go to Alisdair McCormick, Matabeleland, is one of eight secondary Regional Sales Manager, Scotland, for schools in the area. Founded in 1951, organising its delivery to the Foreign this co-educational boarding school is Office in such an efficient manner. home to approximately 600 pupils and Local businesses were also contacted 16 teachers. As well as studying a range with a view to sponsoring paper for the of academic subjects, both boys and girls copier and, although the response was are introduced to the practicalities of limited, our thanks must go to Sunprint, building and agriculture, but the school Bannerman Decorators and Pullman is facing chronic under-funding, so much Foods for their generous donations. so that the bare necessities of school life Now how to transport all the books to - such as textbooks and stationery - are the Foreign Office so that they could be in short supply. flown to Harare on an H.M. Forces sup­ With this in mind, the Headmaster ply plane? Enter Mr Glimm with a Royal approached members of staff to see what Marines four-tonner which he managed could be done and the idea of supplying to commandeer for the trip to London. the school with a copier, as well as the He and Mr Mayes set off loaded up with necessary books and stationery, was born. supplies, together with sleeping bags for Mr Mayes and Mr Kitson were given the an overnight stop in the back of the truck, task of co-ordinating the project. and finally made the delivery on 2nd Freeland House became a store for dis­ April without a hitch.

SCRIPTURE UNION

Scripture Union “took o ff’ during the On a lighter note, we held a summer but with growing numbers, a new venue year. We started with four members and barbecue at Mr Kitson’s house at the end may well have to be found. If numbers ended up with nearly 30! Meeting twice of term, and we were all thoroughly dictate, it is proposed that separate junior a week on Fridays and Sundays, lively entertained by Raj Arumugam, Bob and senior meetings may have to be held. discussions took place on topical issues lonides, Laurie Crump, Juan Figuerola- In the meantime, new members are and world events, as well as Bible study Ferretti and Lindsay Honeyman on their always most welcome and anyone inter­ and prayer. Life at Strathallan and prob­ various musical instruments, as well as ested should contact either San Sister or lems encountered by pupils were fre­ being well fed by Mrs Kitson. Mr Kitson. quently addressed, together with wider Up until now San Sister, Isobel Stead, G.K. teenage issues. has kindly held all meetings in her flat.

67 POST-HIGHERS ADVENTURE

LOCH NEVIS-JUNE 1994 cold, hungry and with one question on smoothly, the students might not have The week long adventure training their lips: “What time do we eat?” benefited anywhere near so much. Post- week for those who have finished all of The answer was not satisfactory. Tea Highers is not a synonym for “a nice their examinations is ideally suited to sea preparation had not even started. There week away from School for pupils and canoeing and this year there were some was a general outcry: were the walkers so staff’, but rather an acronym for what we 35 pupils involved in post-Highers week incompetent? It would appear that they staff hope the students will get out of it: which is built around the Adventure were not. The canoeists were not the only P-Perseverance: canoeing when your Centre situated right in the heart of the ones to have had an epic that afternoon. “butt” hurts (Sally) or the skin on your remote west coast. Access to the centre is The walking party had become spread out thumb has worn away (Emma and Mac). either by boat/canoe or by foot, with and it had been feared that those at the 0-Originality: Rod’s lavatorial water- approximately 9 miles distance in both back, not noted for their sense of direc­ skiing technique; Dougie's way of giving cases. tion, had become lost. A search party set change. Each day we had a canoeing group, a out, a group whose tempers were probably S-Skills: to be learnt. Henry, according sailing group and a walking group, not improved when, after a fruitless half to Miss Neale, was better when he was ensuring that all those on the course were hour, they returned to find the happy wan­ faster; but P.J.E. needs to work at his given a “fair spread of activities”. derers drinking coffee at the Centre. water-skiing. It was a great week and the most However, all these anxieties were forgot­ T-Teamwork: never better illustrated enjoyable parts were quite clearly the ten when the launch, curiously absent on by the groups who took charge of the enthusiasm from the group, the staff spir­ their arrival, finally appeared, being chores each day: well-cooked meals, it (in various forms !) and the location. towed. A leak in one of the fuel pipes had scrubbed floors. We were impressed. Well done, and many thanks to all meant that not only had the Gipsy Rover H-Humour: how not to lose this if, for concerned. been out of action, but that a lot of equip­ example, the self-baler of your topper PJE ment and food was coated in diesel. The becomes a self-filler and you start to sink walkers immediately organised them­ in the middle of the loch. On a blustery June morning four vehi­ selves to unload and wash. They just com­ 1-Initiative: What Mr Walker dis­ cles dodged their way through Mallaig pleted this in time to form a welcoming played to create a baler from a tomato Carnival’s Gala procession to gather at party for the weary canoeists. By the time sauce bottle. Pity the contents had to go the quayside. They disgorged a large the evening meal was being consumed at in Mr Elliott’s canoe. (But just what did number of people, who set to loading an half-past ten, each party was vying with happen to the marmalade?) enormous quantity of personal gear, the other as to who had had the worse G-Grinning and bearing it: even when food, windsurfers and toppers on to an afternoon. Things could only get better... you’ve just had two mugs of water poured alarmingly small red launch called Gipsy Luckily they did just that. Although down your trouser legs on the “challenge Rover. Post-Highers ’94 had begun. the weather could have been kinder, the the staff’ night. Back luck, Rod. A while later, 15 canoeists (described activities of canoeing, expeditions and H-Helping others: thanks for the cap­ scornfully by Rod, who was walking, as windsurfing, extended this year to size drill demonstration, Katy: actions those with the easy option) could be seen include sailing, were carried out as usual. speak so much louder than words. paddling round the calm, somewhat The party was divided into three groups E-Enthusiasm: even to the extent of murky waters of Mallaig Harbour. Marie which were rotated to ensure that while giving the staff a wake-up call to see if was cautiously going round in circles not everyone enjoyed everything, most at you can go sailing (Sally). while A.D. asked question after question least enjoyed something. R-Relaxation: just how many jigsaw about what he should do if he capsized - Thus, although the start of Post- puzzles did Karen complete? something he clearly regarded to be a Highers week was far from ideal, all was S-Sun (?), Singing (J.S.B. and J.L.B.), certainty. not lost. In any case from such adversity Sea, Sand, Sailing, Soaking, Surfing, The canoeists set off and immediately much may be learnt. In many ways that Sinking, Swimming, Smiling. discovered that conditions were not first day illustrates what the trip is funda­ Need I say more? ideal: in fact it was rather rough. The mentally about, and had everything gone E.A.E. first two kilometres found many asking questions of themselves and not every­ one was happy with the answers as they stopped for a snack. Assurances that they were half-way and that they would see the Centre around the next corner calmed the more mutinous individuals. Overall the group was slow and showed a wide range of abilities. There was, therefore, difficulty keeping everyone together so that should someone (usually Macho) capsize they could be saved quickly. Finally, after many false alarms, the aforementioned corner was reached, and the Centre - Ardintigh - was visible as a tiny white blob in the distance. Clearly the odd “porky pie” had been told regarding the distance to be covered. But morale always improves when a goal can be seen, and the fact that the last four miles were in much calmer waters helped too. Even so, some members of the party required considerable cajoling before they finally staggered up the beach five- and-a-half hours after leaving Mallaig,

68 SURVIVAL

What is wrong with warm beds, hot Vikings who raided this part of Scotland limited and we thanked our lucky stars showers, dry clothes or even School with persistent regularity. for some crabs and some fish, which a food? Why do we, year after year, find This historical backdrop and the passing boat threw over to us. “You can volunteers who shun the joys of civilisa­ absence of fuel, food and human habita­ use them as bait!” the fishermen shouted. tion and exchange them for a layer of tion made the island a naturally attractive Needless to say, none of those fish ever bracken, for cold rain, damp socks and target. The only thing we were pretty saw a hook again - they went straight the occasional morsel of grilled seagull? sure of (but we kept our fingers crossed, into the mess-tins and were eaten without Can it be that the organiser of the just in case) was that we would find any thought that this action might violate annual Survival Week writes such a fas­ enough water. As a matter of fact we did the spirit of the survival course. We are cinating account of the pleasures experi­ discover the place where the ancients had allowed to eat what we find, and those enced by a privileged few? Does the drawn their water, but the well was so fish certainly rated as a find - as a very attractive club tie with the eye-catching silted up that we were rather glad when lucky one, in fact. motif of crossed fish bones and crabs the rain came on and freshened up our As always, different people get differ­ mesmerise the unsuspecting into signing supplies. ent things out of the island experience. on the dotted line? Or are so many peo­ At the same time, of course, the rain Some might discover hidden talents as ple grossly overweight and think that a tested the quality of our communal shel­ hunters and fishermen, others are sud­ week on a desert island with its strict diet ter, that homely construction of ponchos denly capable of keeping up the flagging would improve the figure sufficiently to and string that had sprung up in the ruins spirits with an endless string of funny make the sacrifice worthwhile? of what was once the palace on the stories. Some habitual loners become Whatever the reason, the fact remains island. (Don’t be fooled: a palace on valuable members of a team for the first that another party of would-be survivors those islands means that the house had time in their lives, while others who are set off again at the end of the summer two rooms instead of the customary one.) normally regarded as the life and soul of term - everyone in high spirits and That same rain also tested the sense of any party, seem to withdraw into them­ crammed full of high-calorie food to last humour of some members of the party selves and wallow in self-pity. who happened to have stretched out their them for a week. They had spoken to One thing is sure, however, and that is sleeping bags directly under one of the some of the old hands and had asked that nobody is ever completely unaffect­ many holes in the roof. I still remember their advice on how best to prepare ed by the week on the island. Everybody laughing heartily at their antics in the themselves for the possible hardships learns something about himself and middle of the night - mind you, I was that lay ahead - and proceeded to ignore about other people - how we react to a dry! the advice (which basically says that you stressful situation differs tremendously No report of the Survival Week would should reduce your food intake a few from one person to another: how much days beforehand in order to minimise the be complete without the mention of food; inner strength we can muster, how we it certainly was, once again, a topic of hunger pangs of the first thirty-six maintain our sense of humour, what kind conversation raised more frequently than hours). of a human being we really are, deep any others, including important ones like: This year we had selected a new desti­ down, when the pressure is on. nation, the island of Cairn na Burgh should every member of the party be Mhor in the Treshnish Group. Don’t try made to wash at least once during the In this respect the Survival Week is to find it in your atlas, as it is no bigger week? less of a physical challenge than a psy­ than that irritating bit of dirt on the page, The most fascinating aspect of the chological one. It allows one to examine lt is not much bigger in reality, only food-talks is always the great variety of some aspects of one’s own personality, it about 500 by 500 metres, and sticks out horrendous concoctions that people begin gives one an opportunity to see others, of the water like a rather uninviting lump to yearn for and dream about - the pizza not as they would like to appear, but as of rock. In the old days it was used by with Mars Bar topping is one of the more they really are. And it answers the ques­ the Lords of the Isles as a garrison, with acceptable examples. When it came to tions posed at the beginning. a view to making life difficult for the actual eating, the choice was again a trifle K.G.

69 THE CHARITY BALL Chaos. styles while moseying to Guns and Planned chaos. Roses. One of life’s little mysteries will Never before have three completely always be that no matter how much different bands appeared at the effort is put into an event - like the School Ball. All were superb includ­ Ball - as it looms closer into view, ing the visiting band which gave us everything becomes chaotic. I don’t the pleasure of flinging ourselves (or mean the organisation - the organisa­ being flung) about to the tunes of tion was incredibly efficient. Mr three well known Scottish Country Todd and his team handled every­ Dances (was it only three ?) The thing perfectly. I mean from our School Band, led by Mr Todd, view. Even though we had planned impressed even the musically talented exactly which necklace to wear and among us with the sweetly melodic when exactly to wash our hair we voices of Finn Syme and Lucy still ran around like headless chick­ Webster. It doesn’t stop there, how­ ens on the night. Maybe it’s one of ever - the united talents of the these “things” about women - we Perthshire Band and the voice of Tim can’t do anything without making a Goody surprised us all. It was a plea­ fuss; mind you, I’m not sure what sure to have such a variety of music was happening in the boys’ Houses - to suit all tastes. it could have been exactly the same At the time I didn’t realise exactly scenario. how much effort was being put into However, despite the fuss on our “The Ball”-it was only two weeks part, everyone arrived at the ball after the said event while letting my room (aka the dining room) on time mind slip silently away from my looking perfectly primped and pretty, intriguing trigonometry equations although all the effort that we put in that I asked myself whether it was to choosing and making our dresses really necessary to choose in and grooming ourselves seemed to be November what colour of nail var­ thrown to the winds as we walked in. nish to wear for the Ball in February. The dining room had been trans­ I came to the conclusion that it proba­ formed into the centre of the bly wasn’t, but what the heck -it was Forgandenny Rock Festival and it’s fun! not very easy to keep up intricate hair Kim Fowler NON-UNIFORM DAY

WOW, WHAT A PARTY! As advertised, the December disco - “The Slurp” - was held with DJs “Lost Boy” and “Mr Robbie”. The turn out was great - both Masters and dancers attend­ ed in droves. Mr Clark, Mr Ball and Mr Barnes took charge of crowd control and handled it with great ease. After all, who would argue with them! Indeed, most prefects left their duties unattended and joined the crowd. The younger dancers were sur­ prised to see so many OAP Sixth Formers taking to the floor. Even Richie G. and Markie 1. managed a little waddle around, while many younger dancers stood on the stage in front of the lights, grooving enthusiastically and when one came down about five tried to get up. Chaos! At eleven o’clock most dancers returned to their Houses dead beat after three solid hours of heavy bass and very energetic dancing. As couples were leav­ ing 1 asked for their comments on the evening. David Heslop and Siobhan Lowe replied that it was great and they were looking forward to next term’s. Mr X VALETE TORQUIL MACLEOD

In spite of a determined final ambush has always got it right - even if the last staged by the notorious Art Department splash of paint has been administered stairs, T.J.M. has survived to reach a while the audience has gathered. The well-deserved retirement. For almost unpromising Gym Stage has been trans­ thirty years this fine old warhorse has formed to Dickensian London, Castle been an integral part of Strathallan and Cawdor or Mozartian Vienna with a has made a major contribution in a wide misleading impression of ease. The range of fields. For generations of same touch he has extended to his imag­ Strathallians the Art Department has inative and sometimes wicked ‘sets’ for been not just a place of successful edu­ the staff Christmas party (over the years cation but a place of refuge and regen­ guests have been given many an eration when required. There have been enlightening introduction to the charms talented artists who have been helped of Amsterdam). on their way to Colleges and As an exhibiting artist himself (dis- Universities and who have exhibited missively self-described as a ‘dauber’) both within the School and outside, Torquil has remained incredibly gener­ notably in the highly successful Foyle’s ous to his friends and to any fund-rais- showing. Just as importantly the less ing activity. From his colleagues he has talented have been encouraged and had to absorb savage attacks on his one- enthused, though to someone of man campaign to raise the seagull to a Torquil’s artistic abilities some of their major art form. Good-humouredly he efforts must sometimes have caused has taken all this whilst fully aware that acute pain. The numbers of pupils with their closest approximation to his artis­ work of ‘distinction’ to show the tic talent is to get a photocopier to work. Headmaster have borne witness not Strathallan will miss Torquil. He has only to real creativity but also to done so many things and contributed in Torquil’s generosity of spirit. so many ways. St Andrew’s Night will Lt Commander Macleod has probably never be the same without his rendering seen more of Dartmouth (note the of “O Rowan Tree”. His self-depreciat- unique pronunciation) than any senior ing approach has not been able to dis­ member of the Admiralty. From the guise a real talent. His slight tendency Dreadnought to the Cruise Missile he to have a ‘wee stir’ could not hide gen­ has given up countless holidays to look uine unselfishness. His courteous man­ after naval cadets. It was only right that ner; his concern for the problems of oth­ his long years of service should have ers whilst trivialising his own; his great been recognised by an RNR loyalty to friends and to the School: all Decoration. will be greatly missed. May a long and T.J.M.’s stage sets have been a vital happy retirement on the banks of the part of every production. Somehow he Tay reward a fine Highland Gentleman.

FREELAND GOODY T.D. Came 1989; III; Leading JOHNSTON P.M. Came 1987; I; Seaman; U14 C’s Rugby; Mathematics House Prefect; Cpl; Rugby 1st XV; uvi Prize; Lifesaving Bronze Medallion; House Basketball 1st V; Football 1st XI; ADAM C.S. Came 1989; III; House Plays. Lambs Park, Forgandenny, Perth. Crickct 1st XI; Hockey U16s A; Prefect; Private; Bronze D. of E.; 1st XV GRAY S.C.R. Came 1989; III; House M.I.S. Prize; House Colours; Rugby; Athletics Team; House Colours. Prefect; Lance Corporal; 2nd XI Hockey; Rugby Colours; School Plays; Blair Adam, By Kelty, Fife, KY4 OJF. 2nd XV Rugby; Cross Country; Skiing; 3rd Verse-Speaking. 2 9 F a lc o n BRUCE-JONES A D. Came 1989; 111; XI Cricket. East Fenton, North Berwick, Gardens, Edinburgh, EH9. House Prefect; Gold D. of E.; 3rd XV East Lothian, EH39 5AH. KITSON G.T. Came 1988; II; Rugby; Skiing Team; Sailing Team; HARROD S.E. Came 1989; III; Head of House Prefect, Leading Seaman; Lifesaving Award of Merit. Camsie House; School Prefect; House Prefect; 2nd XV Rugby; 2nd XI Cricket; House, Charlestown, Dunfermline, Fife, Sergeant; 1st XV Rugby (3 years); 2nd XI 3rd and 4th Form Hockey; House K Y ll 3EE. Hockey; Athletics Team; Rugby Colours; P la y s . 3 Rossie Place, DODD H.E.L. Came 1989; 111; House House Colours; Scotland Under 15 and 18 Forgandenny. Prefect; Leading Seaman; 3rd XV Rugby. 3 Kaims Hill, Letham Grange, Rugby; 2nd XI Cricket; House Colours; Arbroath, D ll 4RL. MEIKLEJOHN J.F. Came 1989; Skiing; Squash. Douganhill, Castle HODGSON A.J. Came 1987; I; House III; House Prefect; School Prefect; Douglas, Kirkcudbrightshire, DG71QQ. Prefect; Petty Officer; Gold D. of E.; 3rd Corporal; 1st XV Rugby; 1st XI DUNCAN H.A.B. Came 1989; 111; 3rd XV Rugby; Skiing; Sailing; House Colours; Hockey; Athletics Team; House XI Cricket; 6th XV Rugby; Land Lifesaving Bronze and Award of Merit. Colours; Rugby Colours. Blervie, Management; Freeland Racing High Barn, Farlam, Brampton, Cumbria, Forres, Moray, IV36 ORH. Correspondent. Newlands, Kirkmahoe, CA8 1LA. NINHAM C.A. Came 1987; 1; Dumfries. JACOBSEN S.B. Came 1989; III; House House Prefect; Library Prefect; FOY J.G.K. Came 1989; 111; Leading Prefect; Corporal; 2nd XV Rugby; Curling; Petty Officer Navy; 2nd XV Seaman; Under 14s and 15s C’s Rugby; Squash; 3rd XI Hockey. Mains o f Rugby; Golf Team; House House Plays. Crichton House, Pathead, Catterline, Catterline, Near Stonehaven, C o lo u rs. 5 Earngrove, Kintillo, Midlothian, EH375UX. Kincardineshire. Bridge of Earn, Perth, PH2 9BL.

72 RUSSELL N.J.R. Came 1989; III; House GRIFFITHS R.M. Came 1992; LVI; NICOL Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; 1st XV Rugby; House Prefect. 17 St Mary’s Drive, 1st VII Rugby; Swimming Team Perth, PH2 7BY. uvi (Colours); House Colours. Box 43675, HALLIDAY M.W. Came 1989; III; ARUMUGAM R.K. Came 1989; III; Nairobi, Kenya. House Prefect; Army Corporal; 3rd XV House Prefect; Cross-Country Team; SHEPHERD T.D. Came 1993; Sgt Major Rugby; 1st XI Football (Captain); 3rd XI Athletics Team; House Colours; Grade 8 - Army; 5th XV Rugby; Fencing Team; Hockey; House Colours. Bellevue, Keir, Trumpet; Robert Barr Music Prize; Jazz Athletics Team; HCTC Team. Dogs- Thornhill, Dumfriesshire, D93 41)11. Band; Orchestra; Choir; Brass Group; hillock Farm, Aberchirder, By Huntly, ION1DES R.J.C. Came 1989; III; U15C School Plays. Ardrossan Road, Seamill, Aberdeenshire, AB5 45PS Rugby; Jazz Band; Orchestra; Choral West Kilbride, Ayrshire, KA23 9LR. STEPHENS G.R. Came 1990; III; House Society; Cross Country Team. Glenogle BENNETT A.J.B. Came 1989; 111; Prefect; 1st XV Rugby; House Colours; Farm, Lochearnhead, Perthshire, FK19 School Prefect (Chapel Prefect); Deputy House Golf, Cricket. Kentallen Farm, 8PT. Head of House; Athletics Team Aros, Isle of Mull, PA72 6JS. KLOUBERT T.G.K. Came 1992; LVI; (Captain) (Full Colours); Sergeant Major WANLESS A.M. Came 1989; III; Young Enterprise. China World Trade and Head of Marines; 1st XI Hockey Captain of Squash; 5th XV Rugby. 22 Centre, 2930-32, No. 1 Jian Guo Men (Full Colours); Indoor Hockey; Orchil Gardens, Dunning, Perthshire, Wai Dajie, Beijing 100004, P.R. China. Chameleons Hockey; 2nd XV Rugby; PH 2 OSR. MACDONALD J.P.A. Came 1989; III; Midlands Rugby; House Colours. 5 House Prefect; Marine; 1st XV Rugby; Abbots Close, Winchester, Hants, S023 V 1st XI Hockey; 1st XI Football; 1st VI 7EX. WALKER R.D. Came 1990; III; Cadet- Indoor Hockey; House Colours. P.O. BLATHERWICK N.A. Came 1989; III; Marines; 4th XV Rugby; 3rd XI Hockey; Box 594, Dubai, United Arab Emirate. House Prefect; Captain of Skiing (Full Sailing Team; 3rd Form Effort Prize. MACLEOD A.M. Came 1989; III; Colours); Librarian; Silver D. of E.; Graceland, Church Lane, Wilburton, Ely, House Prefect; Pipe Sergeant; Squash House Swimming; House Colours; 3rd Cambridgeshire. Team; Golf Team; Cross Country Team; Form Effort Prize; Radio Ham; Pipe English Prize; House Colours. 4 Ness Band; Lifesaving; Motorbike Core; Way, Fortrose, Ross-shire, 1V10 8SR. Choir. 14 Lent lands Road, Forfar, RUTHVEN MARSHALL C.I. Came 1987; I; House Angus, DD8 1JW. Prefect; Army Sergeant Major. 6 Cluny DUNLOP D.A.M. Came 1988; II; UVI Cottages, Colliestown; Ellon; Aberdeen­ School Prefect; Head of House; BLAIMER D.R. Came 1992; LVI. shire, AB41 8RS. Basketball Team (Full Colours); Bozzan's Strasse 20, 81545 Munich, MOFFAT R.D. Came 1992; LVI; House Badminton Team; Tennis Team; 2nd XV Germany. Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; 1st XI Football; Rugby; House Colours; School Play. CHOWN S.J. Came 1989; III; 4th XV Curling team. 5 Pentland Avenue, Ballinloan, Dunalistair, By Pitlochry, Rugby; 1st XI Football; Third Form B XI Edinburgh, EH 13 OHZ. Perthshire, PH 16 5PE. Cricket. Wester Lumbernie, Newburgh, WALLACE J.P. Came 1987; School Fife, KY14 6EX. Prefect; 1st VI Tennis (Captain); German FIGUEROLA-FERRETTI J. Came DOBSON N.C. Came 1989; III; House Prize; School Plays. Castlehill, Main 1992; LVI; House Prefect; Vice-Captain Prefect; Golf Team. Links House, Street, Longforgan, Dundee, DD2 5EU. Basketball; 2nd XV Rugby; Victor Kennedy Avenue, Dornoch, Sutherland, WILLIAMS R.A.D. Came 1990; IV; Ludorum; Jazz Band; Choir; Wind Band. IV25 3LW. Head of House; School Prefect; Royal Street Fortuny, No 14, Flat 7, 28010 DOVER M.R. Came 1988; II; House Marines Corporal; Cross Country Team; Madrid, Spain. Prefect; 2nd XI Football; Pipe Band (Full 2nd XI Cricket; House Colours. 3 The GREEN J.G. Came 1987; I; School Colours), do P.T. Jakarta Lane, P.O. Box Spinney, Maldon Road, Hatfield Peverel, Prefect; Corporal Marines; 1st XV 8426, Kbyimp, Jakarta, Indonesia. Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 2JY. Rugby (Full Colours); Midlands Rugby; F1TCHIE M R. Came 1989; II; House President’s XV; 1st XI Hockey (Full Prefect; Athletics Team (Full Colours); Colours); Indoor Hockey; Chameleons Cross Country Team (Colours); Bronze, Hockey; Squash Team. 27 A cer Silver and Gold D. of E.; Bronze SIMPSON Crescent, Balgonie Estate, Paisley, PA2 Medallion and Award of Merit Lifesaving. UVI 9LR. Saetra House, Inchmarco Road, AGNEW J.B. Came 1987; I; House HAENLE P.G.T. Came 1992; LVI; Banchory, Kincardineshire, AB31 3RR. Prefect; 2nd XI Cricket; 2nd VI Indoor House Prefect; 3rd XI Hockey; Tennis GAMMACK-CLARK J.P. Came 1988; Hockey; 2nd XI Hockey; 3rd XV, U16 Team; 5th XV Rugby; House Colours. II; House Prefect; Marine; Athletics As XV, U14 BXV Rugby; Skiing Team; Bruggspergersir 11, 81545 Munich, Team; Cross Country Team (Colours); 1st Basketball Team; Cricket U16 Scottish Germany. XI Football; House Colours. 425 Wayfarers; Able Seaman in C.C.F. Apt. HENDERSON J.D. Came 1989; III; Crestwood Lane, Naples, Florida, 33962, 66, Monte de la Torre, Los Barrios House Prefect; 1st XV Rugby (Full U.S.A. 11370, Prov. de Cadiz, Spain. GAW A.J. Came 1988; II; House Prefect; Colours); 1st XI Cricket (Half Colours); BARKER M. Came 1989; III; School Pipe Major; House Colours. Low Swimming Team; 1st VII Rugby; Prefect; Deputy Head of House; 2nd XI Scottish Schools’ U18 XV; Midlands Drumskeog, Port William, Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire, D98 9LS. Hockey (Captain); 1st XV Rugby (Full Rugby; President’s XV; House Colours. Colours); 2nd XI Hockey; 1st XI G1BB N.J.H. Came 1990; IV; Shooting Weirbank, St Mary's Road, Melrose, Football; House Colours; M.T.B.; Team; Athletics Team; Cross Country Roxburghshire, TD6 9LJ. Squash; Windsurfing; Bronze D. of E.; Team. Glenisla House, By Blairgowrie, Lance Corporal. 11 Kingseat Road, HENDERSON P R. Came 1989; III; Perthshire, PH 11 8QL. Dunfermline, Fife, KYI2 ODE. House Prefect; Head of CCF; 2nd XV GRAHAM R.A.D. Came 1988; II; Rugby (Captain); Athletics Team; Captain of School; School Prefect; House BURTON G.D. Came 1986; I; School Chemistry, Biology Prizes; School Plays. Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; 3rd XV Rugby; Prefect; House Prefect; Captain of 6 Stephenson Court, Wylam, Athletics Team; Cross Country Team Rugby (Full colours); Scottish Schools Northumber-land, NE41 8DZ. (Colours); Sailing Team (captain); Rugby 1993 Tour of Australia; LIVINGSTON W.A. Came 1990; III; Business Studies Prize; Geography Prize; Midlands Rugby; President’s XV Corporal in Army; House Skiing; Third Smith Cup; House Colours; School Plays; Rugby; House Colours; Basketball; Form Work Prize. Mains of Cargill, Debating Society. 31 Garngaber Avenue, Athletics. The Garth, Drum, Near Meiklour, By Perth, PH2 6DU. Lenzie, Glasgow, G66 4LL. Kinross, Tayside.

73 CRUMP L. Came 1987; II; House Prefect; WATT G.S. Came 1987; I; 1st XV MELDRUM D. Came 1989; III; House Tennis VI; Orchestra; String Orchestra; Rugby; 3rd XI Cricket; School Ski Team; Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; 1st XI Hockey Choir; Folk Music; Chamber Music; Lance Corporal Marines. 27 Quadrant (Vice-Captain); Swimming Team; 1st School Play; Verse Speaking; Jazz Band. Road, New lands, Glasgow, G43 2QP. Tennis Team (Captain); Rounders; Auchenstrom, Mondaive, Near Thornbill, Community Service; Full Colours Dumfriesshire, DG3 4JD. LVI (Hockey and Tennis). Rijswijk, Craichie, DRUMMOND M.K.I. Came 1989; II; DRUMMOND J.A. Came 1987; I; Cadet By Forfar, Angus, DD8 2LU. House Prefect; House Basketball (Captain) in CCF; Pipe Band; Rugby; Cricket; MILNE R.N. Came 1989; III; School (Half Colours); 2nd XV Rugby; Swimming Hockey; Indoor Football; Squash; Prefect; Head of House; 1st XI Hockey; Team; Athletics Team; House Colours; Basketball. 15 Beaconsfield Road, Tennis Team; Athletics Team; Full Cross Country; Hill Walking; Bronze D. of Kelvinside, Glasgow, G12 OPJ. Colours (Hockey and Tennis). North E.; Art Distinction; Private in CCF. 2 Cookney, Croft, Muchalls, Near Stone­ Gallowhill Wynd, Kinross, Tayside, KYI3 V haven, Kincardineshire, AB3 2SL. 7RY. FROST E.J.G. Came 1991; III. NICOLSON E.M. Came 1989; II; FROST M.F.B. Came 1989; III. Edenside Edenside House, Kelso, Roxburghshire, House Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; 3rd XI House, Kelso, Roxburghshire. TD5 7BS. Hockey Team; Lacrosse XII; Athletics HUNTER T.G. Came 1986; I; House GRIFFIN L. Came 1993; V. Blairtum- Team; Girls’ Cricket; Half Colours Prefect; Secretary Hockey; Fishing moch, Campsie Glen, Glasgow, G65 (Athletics); C.C.P.R. Sport Leadership (Captain); U13, U14, U15 4th XV Rugby; 7AR. Award. Spindrift, Birch Drive, Bowmore, Riley 1st XI, J. Colt, S. Colt A Cricket; HUSSAIN A. Came 1991; III. 24 Isle o f Islay, PA43 7JA. 2nd, 1st XI Hockey; Scottish Chameleon, MuirendAvenue, Perth, PHI IJL. PALMER K. Came 1992; LVI; House Midlands, Perthshire (2nd Outdoor, 1st MITCHELL C.F. Came 1991; III; Prefect; House Colours; 3rd XI Hockey; Indoor) Hockey; Art and History Senior Golf Champion 1993 and 1994; Athletics Team; Lacrosse Team; Distinction; Full Colours - Hockey; Scottish Schoolboys’ Golf 1993 and Edinburgh Festival Honours Certificate; 1994; House Colours. Royal Hotel, Allan Community Sports Leader; Able Seaman School Plays; Riley Entertainment. Street, Blairgowrie, PH 10 6AB. in CCF. Restenneth Priory, Forfar, Angus, Greymount, Alyth, Blairgowrie, Perth­ WATSON I.M. Came 1993; V. 10B, DD8 2SZ. shire, PI111 8NP. Shiu Fai Terrace, Hong Kong. IRONSIDE M. Came 1987; I; House PROCTER E.N. Came 1989; III; House Prefect; U13 A, J. Colt A, S.Colt A, 3rd Prefect; Library Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; XI Cricket; 1st XI Football; U12C, Badminton; Canoeing; Community U13C, U14C Rugby; U12C, U13C, U14C THORNBANK Service. 14 Wilson Road, Banchory, Hockey; Sports Leadership Award; House UVI Kincardineshire, AB31 3UY. Colours; Head Librarian; Colours for SMITH A.M. Came 1989; III; House Football; D. of E. Bronze; Private in CCF. CATHCART E.K. Came 1992; LVI; House Prefect; 3rd XI Hockey; Tennis Prefect; School Librarian; Athletics Greenbank of Phingask, Fraser-burgh, (Captain); Badminton Team; Cross Aberdeenshire, AB43 4AB. Team; Badminton Team; Edinburgh Festival Drama Competition. Culraven, Country; Full Colours (Athletics); House JEFFREY A. Came 1989; II; House Colours; Minor Sport Colours (Cross Prefect; Captain of Cricket; 1st XI Cricket; Borgue, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries and Galloway, DG6 4SE. Country); Community Sports Leadership Cross Country Team; 2nd XI Hockey; 3rd Awards. 4 Deans Park, Dunkeld, Perth­ XV Rugby; Best Actor House Drama 4th CURRIE E.M. Came 1987; I; House Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; Athletics Team; shire, PH8 OJH. Form; School Play; Able Seaman in CCF. Swimming Team; William Tattersall Art STEWART S.E. Came 1992; LVI; 9 Berrydale Road, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, Prize; Victrix Ludorums 2nd and 3rd House Prefect; Badminton; Tennis PH 10 6UA. Form; Scottish Schools’ Athletics; Verse Team; 2rd XI Hockey. Wassenaarseweg KIRKLAND K.R. Came 1989; III; 1st XV Speaking and Acting; House Colours. In 208, 2596 EC, The Hague, Holland. Rugby (Half Colours); Midlands Rugby; Den Reben, 27, CH-4108, Wittersuni. TILFORD R.E. Came 1989; III; House President’s XV Rugby; House Colours; DEWAR L-A. Came 1987; I; House Prefect; Corporal Army; Bronze D. of E.; Cricket 2nd XI. Gateside Farm Cottage, Prefect; Bronze D. of E; 2nd XI Hockey; 1st Netball Team; Athletics Team; Bridge of Earn, PH2 8QR. Cricket Team; Athletics Team; Wilfred Squash Team; Swimming Team; Cross MORRIS R.J. Came 1989; III; Head of Hoare Reading Prize; Scanlan Cup for Country; Skiing; Rounders; Full Colours House; School Prefect; 2nd XV Rugby; 3rd Girls Merit; School Plays; Directed Riley (Netball); Half Colours (Swimming and XI Cricket; 1st XI Football; Athletics Entertainment and Thornbank Senior Athletics). Druim Wood, Stratherrick Team; 3rd and 4th Form Prizes; House House Plays. 25 Halyburton Place, Road, Inverness, IV2 4LQ. Colours; Lance Corporal in Royal Marines. Cupar, Fife. WILSON C.F. Came 1989; III; House Selkirk Arms Hotel, Kirkcud-bright, FORSTER V.J. Came 1988; II; Deputy Prefect; Leading Wren Navy; Bronze D. Galloway, DG6 4JG. Head of House; School Prefect; Bronze of E.; 3rd XI Hockey; Swimming Team; OVENSTONE E.J.N. Came 1986; I; D. of E.; 1st Netball Team; Tennis Team; Tennis Team; Full Colours (Swimming House Prefect; 1st XI Hockey (Full Basketball; Rounders. Thornbank House, Colours); 1st XI Football (Half Colours); and Tennis); First Aid Certificate; Grade Thornbank Road, Stranraer, Wigtown­ I Canoeing. Argyll Park, James Street, 2nd Rugby; 3rd XI Cricket; Bronze Award shire, DG9 OEY. Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire, G84 in D. of E.; Lance Corporal in CCF. FRAME C.S. Came 1988; II; House Mayfield, Newton of Balcormo, Arncroach, 8XM. Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; Netball team; YOUNG L.J.S. Came 1989; 111; House By Pittenweem, Fife, KYIO 2RE. Shooting Team; Young Enterprise; Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; Netball; 3rd XI STEVENS A.D. Came 1989; III; House Editor - Strathallian. 30 Murrayfield Prefect; Marine; 2nd XV Rugby; 2nd XI Hockey; Swimming Team; Athletics Road, Edinburgh, EH 12 6ER. Team; House Colours; Swimming Hockey; 3rd XI Cricket. Old Railway HEALY C.C. Came 1989; III; House Station, Walkerburn, Peeblesshire, EH43 Colours; House Plays. M anor Lea, Prefect; Gold D. of E.; 1st Netball Team; Manor Street, Forfar, Angus, DD8 1BR. 6DD. House Cross Country; Grade VII Piano; STIRLING J.M.C. Came 1993; UVI; 3rd Community Service. Northfield, 11 XV Rugby; Golf; House Skiing; School Muirton Bank, Perth, PHI 5DN. V Play. Belvedere, Kenilworth Road, Bridge MACLENNAN L.F. Came 1987; I; BARLOW A.L. Came 1991; III; of Allan, FK9 4DU. School Prefect; 1st XI Hockey (Captain); Athletics Team; Netball Team; THOMSON Z.D.C. Came 1987; I; School Head of Girls’ Army; Corporal Army; Badminton; Swimming Team; School Prefect; 3rd XV Rugby; Skiing; Corporal Swimming Team; House Cross Country; Play; House Plays; Debating Team. in CCF; MTB. Cul-de-Zak, Barclay Park, Girls’ Cricket; Community Service. 16c S.A.U., B.S.P., Seria, Brunei, Borneo, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire. Drummond Road, Inverness, Scotland. S.E. Asia.

74 CLIFFORD G. Came 1991; III; Able HASLAM L.C. Came 1989; III; House SILVER C.M.S. Came 1989; III; House Seaman; Bronze D. of E. I.T.C., PMB 14, Prefect; Badminton Team; Tennis Team; Prefect; 3rd XI Hockey; Tennis Team; Banjul, The Gambia, West Africa. Art; Community Services. 19 East Preston Badminton Team; Girls’ Cricket Team; DILGER E.F. Came 1991; III; House Play; Street, Newington, Edinburgh, EH8 9QG. Rounders Team; House Colours; Music; Community Services. Leyden, Kirknew-ton, German Exchange; Edinburgh Festival. Al MACKAY R.H. Came 1987; I; Head of Nassin Compound, Apartment 25D, d o Midlothian, EH27 8DQ. House, School Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; SIMPSON J.E. Came 1989; III; House British Aerospace, P.O.' Box 34, Khamis Badminton Team; Girls’ Cricket Team; Muscat, Saudi Arabia. Prefect. 44 Colonsay Drive, Newton Community Services. 3734 Beechglen Mearns, Glasgow, G77 6TY. HANSSON-BOLT M.S. Came 1991; III; Drive, La Crescenta, CA 91214, U.S.A. Pipe Band; Athletics Team; Tennis Team; SWINBANKS H.L. Came 1987; I; House Netball Team; Drumming Cup; School McMAHON V.C. Came 1987; I; House Prefect; Squash Team; Design and Play; House Play; Music; Choir. Prefect; Bronze and Silver D. of E.; 3X1 Technology Prize. 8 Main Street, Craigvarrich, Strathtay, By Pitlochry, Hockey Team; House Colours; Senior Plays Tobermory, Isle of Mull, PA75 6NU. Perthshire, PH9 OPY. (Assistant Stage Manager 1994). 13 TURNER K.J. Came 1989; School Prefect; OUTLAW EJ. Came 1989; I; Cadet Navy; Snowdon Terrace, Seamill, West Kilbride, 1st XI Hockey Team (Full Colours); Bronze D. of E.; 1st XI Hockey; Junior Ayrshire, KA23 9HN. Curling Team (Full Colours); Girls’ Cricket Tennis. Newington House, Cupar, Fife, Team; Economics Prize. Blairessan, MOIR L.A. Came 1987; I; House Prefect; Station Road, Killearn, Glasgow, G63 9NS. KY15 4NW. 1st XI Hockey (Full Colours; Indoor WEBSTER L.M.F. Came 1990; II; Bronze Hockey; Hockey Sevens; Athletics Team D. of E.; 3rd XI Hockey; Netball; Lacrosse; LVI (Half Colours); Junior Victrix Ludorum; BARR G.H. Came 1989; III; House Debating; School Band; Choir; Orchestra. 6 Cross Country; G.C.S.E. Exam Prize; Part Road, Cults, Aberdeen, AB1 9HR. Prefect; 2nd XI Hockey; Girls’ Cricket French Prize; String Orchestra. Woodlea, Team; House Colours. Two Oaks, 41 Burnside Road, Fochabers, Moray, 1V21 Station Road, Killearn, Glasgow, G63 9NZ. 7EU. MOORE H.F. Came 1989; III; House V WOODLANDS Prefect; Physics Prize; Maths Prize; Strings McLARDY L.J. Came 1991; III; Bronze D. Prize. 108 Dundee Road, Perth, PH2 7BA. of E.; Rounders. 11 Corse Hill Drive, West UVI Kilbride, Ayrshire. BISHOP K.T. Came 1989; III; House NICHOLLS R.A. Came 1988; II; House Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; Community Prefect; Bronze D. of E.; 3rd XI Hockey; IV Services. 59 South Lawne, Rickley Lane, Sailing; Lifesaving. The Falconry, Morar, HENDERSON L.E.H. Came 1989; III; Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Bucks, MK3 6BU. Near Mallaig, Inverness-shire, PH40 1AA. Hockey; Rounders; Netball. 6 Stephenson BRUCE A.E. Came 1987; I; House Prefect; NICHOLSON E.A. Came 1989; III; House Court, Wyram, Northumberland, NE41 1st XI Hockey (Full Colours); Girls’ Cricket Prefect; 2nd XI Hockey Team; Tennis 8DZ. Team (Captain); U16 and U18 Midlands Team; Squash Team. Torwood Cottage, Hockey Team; U16 Scotland Squad. I Armadale, Rhu, Dunbartonshire, G84 8LG. Cambridge Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2DY. CUST S.A. Came 1989; III; School Prefect; PROCTOR C.V. Came 1989; III; House LAST WORDS 1st VII Netball (Captain) (Full Colours); Prefect; Silver D. of E.; 1st XI Hockey (Half “Of everything I’ve enjoyed at Strathallan, Shooting Team (Captain); Swimming Team Colours); Girls’ Cricket Team; History I’ll miss my friends most.” (Colours); British Junior Small Bore Rifle Prize; Philosophy; Orchestra and String “The first term was interminably long, Team and British Schools. 33 North Close, Orchestra; Sailing. Coventrees, the last impossibly short,” Medmenham, Marlow, Buckinghamshire. Forgandenny, Perth, PH2 9HP. “I believe Strathallan has put me back on HAMILTON M. Came 1987; I; House QUARRY L.A.L. Came 1989; III; House the straight and narrow at present.” Prefect; Badminton Team; Rounders Team; Prefect; Bronze and Silver D. of E.; “If this School taught me anything, House Colours; Music, Com-munity Athletics Team; Cross Country Team; it was how to cope with the feeling of Services; Dancing. 33 Abbotsford Crescent, Hockey Team; Art Prize. Cairnies Cottage, impending doom.” Perth, PHI ISP. Glenalmond, Perthshire. “So much for the ‘last meal’.” HASLAM C.S. Came 1989; III; House “Surf s up, dudes !” Prefect; Head Librarian; Silver D. of E.; RALSTON S.A.B. Came 1989; III; House “The end of the M.H.H.B.S., Swimming Team (Full Colours); Badminton Prefect; 2nd XI Hockey; Tennis Team; first founded by Piggy Team; Art Distinctions; House Colours. 19 Community Services. 35 Warren Road, all those years ago.” East Preston Street, Newington, Edinburgh, Donaghadee, County Down, Northern EH8 9QG. Ireland. BT21 OPD. “ ....Zulu Zygote Zymo Zymotic Zymwgy”

CRAIG HALL FARMHOUSE Enjoy a friendly, relaxed stay in our farmhouse in lovely Earn Valley, 6 miles south of Perth and 'A mile west from Forgandenny. True Highland hospitality. Substantial farmhouse breakfast. Open all year. The farm is within easy reach of Edinburgh, St. Andrews. Glasgow and Pitlochry. Golf, tennis and swimming local­ ly; hill walking and lovely scenery. Golfers always welcome. Accommodation comprises some en suite facilities; others with H. & C.; all with tea/coffee making facilities. Lounge with colour TV. Children welcome: cot, high chair, babysitting/reduced rates. Sorry no pets. Suitable for disabled guests. C.H. B&B from £12.50. Midweek bookings taken. AA RAC Highly Acclaimed S.T.B. 2 Crowns Mrs. Mary Fotheringham, Craighall Farmhouse, Forgandenny, Nr. Bridge of Earn, Perth PH2 9DF. Tel: (0738) 812415

75 PUBLIC EXAMINATION RESULTS 1994 The performance at “A” Level may Nicolson of Thornbank notched up four Scottish and English examinations has have been marginally down on 1993 with A Grades. worked very well for our candidates by an A and B grade rate this time of 49.1% Our Fifth Form sat a combination of offering considerably more breadth of as against 51.6% and an overall pass rate GCSE and Standard Grade exams opportunity than would be available of 95.7% (1993: 98.4%) but these are still achieving a pass rate of 84.6% to set under a single system. The system may figures of which we can be justifiably against a national average of 53.1%. The not suit the army of statisticians and proud, as we are of no less than six indi­ English Boards introduced this year a compilers of league tables, but the flexi­ viduals who scored three straight A’s: starred “super-A” grade. 7.6% of our bility of our approach benefits pupils of Head of School, Richard Graham; cele­ results came into this category, nearly varying abilities. brated musicians Raj Arumugam, Laurie thrice the national average. Stars of the J.F.C. Crump and Hilary Moore; mathematical show, if you’ll forgive the quite deliber­ linguist Lindsey Moir and historical lin­ ate pun, were undoubtedly Douglas guist, “Jock” Wallace. Patterson of Nicol who logged six out of OXBRIDGE The 87% pass rate at Scottish Higher a possible seven A*s and Kirstine (1993: 80%) is most satisfying especially Lawson and David Macleod with just one Raj Aruraugam (N) Magdalene, Cambridge Law when taken, once again, in the context of less. All three, together with seven oth­ Laurie Crump (S) Si A nne’s, O xford Music our top 16 university aspirants choosing ers recorded straight, or starred, A Richard Graham (R) Trinity Hall, Cambridge Law to sit only GCE “A” Level. Both Grades across the board. Lindsay Moir (W) Magdalene, Cambridge Mod.Lang. Alisdair Gaw of Ruthven and Eilidh Yet again our “mixed economy” of Jonathan Wallace (R) Christ Church, Oxford Law “A LEAVER’S VIEW” “Write an article for the School mag­ the Plastic Mattress Sledging Saturday 8.30 am starts - and indeed azine about being a leaver.” Championship at ten to eleven one Wednesday 8.30 am starts. No longer Disheartened, I scanned the pages of snowy evening this year. will two dawdling UVI on their way to the old Strathallian magazine. Then I Leburn Scandal Book - In the an Economics class at 8.50 am on a noticed the small columns once printed absence of Leburn House, the cumber­ Wednesday morning have to creep past alongside the little-read Valetes. Within some task of maintaining a scandal book their Housemaster’s classroom in the were two short lists, one entitled “What was taken up by Thornbank, whose French block. they enjoyed most” and the other “What seemingly intrusive enquiries into one’s Being gated - plus ?a change they will miss least”. What better way private life may be truthfully said to be Masters’ witty comments - they gen­ to sum up the feelings of a “leaver” than “all in the name of research” and “for erally weren’t. by exemplifying one’s typical memo­ the good of the future School”. Being responsible - I'm not sure that ries. Here is an updated and revised ver­ House Shop - double chocolate Clubs all of us Prefects were suited to this sion of those two lists. I must add that saved us ! ‘role model’ concept. The good thing many have been mentioned in previous Woodlands Quote Book - This book, about School is that there is always editions of the magazine yet their pres­ undecipherable to anyone who is not a someone else you can blame. ence remains unquestionably — member of Woodlands House, carries Nevertheless, we’re all looking forward “What we enioved most” with it inexhaustible stories and memo­ to living up to a typical student’s reputa­ Mr W ands’s ties - after all, who ries all of which will leave the tion. doesn’t like a good laugh at our superi­ Woodlands girls rolling on the floor When all is said and done, the “What ors. Unfortunately, Mr Streatfeild- with laughter and anyone else standing we enjoyed most” column is longer and James’ name could not be added to this confused and unsmiling. its memories more vivid and more entry as his more recent role as Long Boat - quickly followed by the numerous. Sentimentality about leaving Housemaster of Woodlands seems to “C + B” (Cock and Bull). The two UVI has been my mother’s job rather than have sobered his style somewhat ! designated areas (designated by the my own, but there is no doubt that in the Friends - What would we do without UVI) where endless games of French future I shall maintain my links with the them? Cricket with Fruity Jim’s walking stick School. Breaking the rules and not getting made this the ideal spot for locating the Vicky McMahon caught - or even breaking the rules and new Sixth Form Common Room. getting caught ! There is no doubt that The Girls - I found this entry in one many of the Vlth form enjoyed this of the most recent issues of Strathallian year’s attempts. and, being one myself, can conclude Laughing at people’s haircuts (not to quite unquestionably, that the girls have mention other - chiefly male - grooming remained the greatest delight of the habits. Indeed, it would come as no sur­ School (followed closely by the boys). prise to hear Mr Ball’s baby’s first Indeed, in the words of one David words were, “Nev, have a shave!” Pighills - “The boys wash more often Perth Leave - This is one event that, now.” even if those who partake of it do not What we shall miss least enjoy then the rest of the UVIth (or, School skirts - no explanation need­ indeed, the whole School) cannot fail to ed. be amused by its outcomes. Moreover, Standards - a humiliation thankfully I’m quite certain that many of the lower optional in the UVIth but surely one of forms in Woodlands, strategically posi­ the most hated activities in a typical tioned overlooking “Big Acre” enjoyed school career at Strathallan.

76 Clockwise from top left:

- The name's Murray... Mr Murray

- Mr Cross-country

- Woodlands “Girls”

- Maverick

- Why = mx+c ?

dJOCGKI Doig & Smith CHARTERED SURVEYORS Our professional association with & Strathallan School has spanned the JOINERS AND CONTRACTORS past 10 years and we wish the school (Established 1919) continued success for the future.

ESTIMATES GIVEN FOR QUANTITY SURVEYING ALL CLASSES OF WORK BUILDING SURVEYING

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

45 YORK PLACE 6 LYNEDOCH PLACE PRIORY PLACE, CRAIGIE EDINBURGH GLASGOW PERTH PH2 0DT EH13HP G3 6AQ Tel: 031 557 4492 Tel: 041 332 8907 Fax/Telephone (0738) 624673 Fax: 031 557 5702 Fax: 041 332 4967 V.A.T. Reg. No. 327 3415 70 Contact: Neil Turner Contact: John Skinner

77 STRATHALLIAN CLUB MAX McGILL- PRESIDENT 1993/1994

J. Max McGill has been the major dri­ ving force in the Strathallian Club as Secretary and Treasurer for the past ten years, and we must pay tribute to the time and effort he has expended in fur­ thering the ideals and aims of the Club and the School. Max attended Strathallan from 1956 to 1961 and was a member of Freeland House. Despite “failing to excel” on the games field, academically Max was most precise, and after leaving Strathallan he attended Glasgow University where he gained a Degree in Law. Completing his law training with the firm of Campbell Riddell & Co., Solici­ tors in Glasgow, and working thereafter with the late George Turner (former Governor of the School), Max returned to Campbell Riddell & Co. as a partner in the firm. Max has been active in many other fields, amongst which he lists: past director of the Glasgow Eastern Merchants & Tradesmen’s Society, a council member of the Royal Faculty of Procurators in Glasgow, a past director of Ranfurly Castle Golf Club Limited, where he served as Captain, and in the same year was Captain of Islay Golf Club. This year Max is Chairman of SEAL, the Solicitors Estate Agency in Glasgow. Max is married to Fiona and they have two sons and a daughter, and live in Bridge of Weir. His main sporting inter­ est is clearly golf, but he is now an enthusiastic curler. STRATHALLIAN CLUB DINNER 1993 The 60th Annual Dinner was held in the Grampian Hotel, Perth. The President, Vice-President and seven ex-Presidents welcomed the Headmaster, guests and a large company of Strathallians and friends. Dr R.A.Houston (1937) and Mr J.H.Smith (1940) were among the Senior Strathallians, and it was good to see many 1992 and 1993 Leavers.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY The 62nd Annual Dinner of the Strathallian Club will be held on Saturday, 18th November 1995.

Allan Cook, President 1986/7, Max McGill 1993/4, Euan Fraser 1992/3 and Allan Johnston 1987/8 before the Dinner.

78 THE LONDON DINNER 1994 More than sixty Strathallians and friends gathered at the Caledonian Club on 18th March 1994 for the London din­ ner, and all present were delighted to wel­ come Angus McPhail, the Headmaster, to his first London Dinner, as well as Max McGill, President, and Wilf and Gracie Hoare, who were both in excellent form. Nick Du Boulay and Cosmo Fairbairn also represented the School, present and past! David Anderson and Sarah Beaton- Brown, assisted by Gaile McMillan and Jane Paterson, had recruited a very repre­ sentative group of Strathallians. The whole evening was a delight and a very happy occasion. Amongst those who attended were the following - we apologise if there are any omissions: Mr and Mrs A. Bennie, Mr and Mrs A.A. Stuart, Mr and Mrs B.E. Marr, R.D. Linton, Mr and Mrs Stewart Ritchie, Innes Anderson, Lt. Col. R.L. Kirkland, Dr and Mrs Kenneth Hunter, Judge John McKee, Mr and Mrs David Pirrie, Don Sinclair, Bill MacPherson, David Anderson, D.M. Lawson, Alastair Pate, Brigadier David Cranston, Mr and Mrs G. Caldwell, Howard Elkins, Steven Watt, Mr and Mrs Stewart Ritchie Peter McKee, Neil McKee, Rob Beckman, James Beckman, Celia Noblel (McClung), Gilbert McClung, P.G. Lagerborg, Axel Lagerborg, Mr and Mrs Gary McLean. Angus McDonald, Andrew Crawford, Fred Stroyan, Gavin Vernon, John Clarke, James McVittie, Russell Kilpatrick, Karen Skea, Suzanne Rhodes, Sally Manners (Binnie), Gaile McMillan, Sarah Beaton- Brown, Duncan Logan, Jane Paterson and their guests. Any Strathallian who would like infor­ mation about the 1995 Dinner, which will be held in the Caledonian Club on Friday, 3rd May 1995, should contact one of the Secretaries. Douglas Thomas is organising Strath­ allian Teams for various Golf matches, and any Strathallian who would be inter­ ested in playing should contact him at 6 Dunsmore, The Hoe, Carpenders Park, Watford, WD1 5AU. Telephone: (Home) 081 428 0319; (Work) 081 863 0066; Fax 081 863 3193. The London Section is very grateful for donations from: R. Cornish, Gillian Dewhurst (McDonald), T.C. Ashton, Trevor Cornish, Alan Fleming, Paul Laband, Ian Taylor, Alastair Doodson, D.M. Lawson, Ian Eastwood, John Geddes, A.D. Campbell, E.J. Inglis, T. Mr and Mrs Hoare, Fred Stroyan and Sarah Beaton-Brown Harrison, R. Elder, Mark Manson, Peter Hunter, J.G. Mortimer, Dr I.A. Campbell, G. Carrie, J.A. Davidson, J.T.M. Hart, School about the same time as themselves, Michael Bucher, 193 Goldhurst Terrace, Surgeon Captain R.R.B. Gjertson, Stewart should contact Sarah Beaton-Brown, who London. NW6 3ER McLennan, Robert Peacock and J.R.W. would be most grateful for their help. Work tel: 081805 4848 Wheatley. Fax: 071 739 0796 As always, they owe a great deal to Secretaries: Home tel: 071624 0856 Helen Morgan, who keeps the address David Anderson, Clees Hall, Bures, database. Suffolk, C08 5DZ Sarah Beaton-Brown, CIA, 13 Grosvenor Any Strathallian, particularly those who Work tel: 071739 0336 Place, London, SW1X 7HH left School in the 60s and 70s, who would Fax: 071739 0796 Work tel: 071 235 3550 help with distributing information about Home tel: 0787 227271 Fax: 071 235 4397 London Dinners etc. to those who left Fax: 0787 227014 Home tel: 071385 8377

79 STRATHALLIAN CLUB NEWS ANDERSON J.W.B. (1966) He has now BROWN D.S. (1988) He has left mother CUTHBERTSON M.S. (1981) He is based won outright the premier yachting and father in The Green Hotel, Pitlochry near Berwick-upon-Tweed and is a con­ event held in Scotland under three dif­ and has moved to the Hong Kong sultant for a number of firms. He is ferent sponsors - The Tomatin Trophy Hilton. engaged to Rama Moffat. 1979 (128 boats), the McEwans BRUCE-JONES A.D. (1994) left Oban in DEWAR A.C. (1989) He was married in Trophy 1986 (186 boats) and the October to sail round the world. During Edinburgh in August. Rover Series 1992 (240 boats). In his year afloat he intends to spend some DOWNS A.J. (1970) He is living in 1993 he tried his hand at the Scottish time in Malaysia. Queensland, Australia. He heard on local Islands Race, where he won the mono­ BUDGE A.D.J. (1958) He has gone to live radio that Strathallan had been playing hull class, but he declined to run the at and run his property at Margaret rugby in Brisbane, but when he tried to 65 miles in the required 60 hours! He River, Western Australia. Previously he make contact, he learnt to his dismay that concentrated on sailing his boat Suave was a Field Officer with C.S.B.P., and the touring team had just left for Sydney. Dancer. His spare time is taken up he sent us this photograph of him at DUNBAR C.A.B. (1990) Congratulations on running his importing and wholesaling work in the field from an Australian business based in the Glasgow Fruit his gaining First Class Honours in his magazine, Our Land, of July 1993. degree of B.Eng. at Napier University. He Market, and looking after his wife and CALDWELL W.R. (1944) He has moved two children. is now taking a year out, teaching English to 6 Drumbrae Walk, Edinburgh, and in the Ukraine. He then hopes to have the ARNOTT S. (1990) Susan has graduated would like to contact Strathallian M.A. with 2(1) Honours in Manage­ winter season in the Alps. friends who live near. DUNBAR F.E.J. (1989) Fiona has spent ment from St Andrews University. CARRUTHERS P.J. (1990) Penelope has BAILLIE C.A. (1980) He is teaching at three years as Matron and Cook at the graduated B.Sc. at Glasgow University. Dragon School, Oxford, but has also had the Art Center College of Design CASSILLIS, EARL OF (1973) He has (Europe) connected to the College in time to pass her Austrian Ski Instructor’s inherited the title of The Marquess of Exam. She intends to come back to Pasadena, U.S.A. His address is still in Ailsa on the death of his father on 7th Vevey, Switzerland. Edinburgh and continue her career in April 1994. BANNATYNE A.R. (1987) He is living Interior Design. CLARK D.A. (1989) Congratulations to and working in London for Touche FAIRBAIRN J.N. (1983) He has been David on being awarded a First in Part Ross, Accountants. He took his Law appointed as a Research Fellow in the 1A of the Engineering Tripos at Queens degree in Durham and then had an Department of Geography at Aberdeen exciting time teaching canoeing in College, Cambridge. University. CLARK N.F. (1958) A very learned and America, skiing in France, taking FAWCUS R.A. (1990) He has graduated technical article, “Fertiliser Manage­ safari trips down the Zambezi and B.Sc.Agr. at Aberdeen University. ment and Nutrient Audits” by Neil then being a ski guide and rep. in FINLAY R.E. He went to visit his brother-in- Switzerland, before having to settle Clark, was published in the Australian magazine Our Land of July 1993, kind­ law Tommy Taylor (1961) in South down to the serious job of earning his Africa in November last year, but we living! ly sent to us by Arthur Budge (see above). haven’t any news about the revelries that BAUR C.F. (1959) He is Editorial went on. Director of Scottish Business Insider, CLEMENT M.J. (1990) He has gained a 2(1) in his M.A. Honours at Aberdeen FITCHIE M R. (1994) has returned from with a regular column in The Sunday “Operation Raleigh” where he worked in Times. University. COCHRAN J.N. (1967) He has been Malaysia installing (amongst other things) BEALE N.J. (1989) Nicky has graduated a water supply for a village. This in medicine from Southampton appointed a Governor of Strathallan. COCKBURN N.N. (1990) The Record, the entailed a trek up to Low’s Valley, the University, and she will spend her first site of the near fatal Marines’ expedition. year of work divided between magazine of Keble College, Oxford, of 1993 noted the following in their Music He is writing a report for a future edition Glasgow and Swindon. of The Strathallian. BELL K.A. (Scanlan) (1985) Kate has Section: “Our very special thanks must FULTON D.J.M. (1986) He is shortly mov­ had a second son, James William. go to Neil Cockburn whose musical ing to Hong Kong. He works in the BLANCHE H.A.D. (1990) has graduated verve and Scottish wit have enlivened newspaper publishing business. B.A. (Hons) in Business Studies. At us all. We will miss his virtuoso rendi­ the time of writing he is spending tions of reverberant French organ music FYFE F.M. (1989) He has graduated M.A. his days applying for various posts of and wish him well for next year when with Honours at Aberdeen University. interest - anywhere! he will be Organ Scholar at Chichester.” GAULT D.R. (1990) He has graduated from BLANCHE M.W.D. (1987) has graduated COOK A.C. (1990) He has graduated B.Sc. Glasgow Caledonian University with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Rural Surveying from with 2(1) Honours in Animal Biology B.A. in Consumer Management Studies. Harper Adams in Shropshire, in addi­ from St Andrews University. GILCHRIST G.A.J. (1985) He lives in tion to the B.A. (Hons) in English and CUTHBERTSON A.C. (1979) He is with Mexico but visited Scotland last Summer History he has already gained from the Police, and lives in Chelmsford with for his grandparents’ Golden Wedding, Lancaster. He spent the Summer of his wife Alison and their son, Oliver, and made a nostalgic trip back to ‘94 going “round the World in 80 aged two. Strathallan. He would be glad to hear days”, meeting several Strathallians CUTHBERTSON A.C. (1986) He graduat­ from Old Strathallians who knew him. along the way. Those included his ed from Birmingham Polytechnic B.A. Please contact him at Studio One, Avenue father’s cousin, Tom Murdoch (1957) Hons, in Business Studies with German 25 #981, Island of Cozumel, Quinana and family in New Zealand, his in 1992 and works for a European Roo, Mexico. Andrew - nostalgic about uncle, Ronald Blanche (1950) in Hong Market research company near Corby. Strathallan? Well, well!! Kong, and in Australia Chris Clark His main hobby is mountain biking and GLIMM C.N.A. (1989) He has graduated (1990) and Nick Quinn (1991). he boasts of thighs like iron! B.A. in German from Newcastle Michael is now a trainee Rural CUTHBERTSON E. (1988) Elizabeth com­ University. Surveyor with Davidson and pleted her B.Sc. in Dietetics at Queen GOODBOURN B.M. (1981) He was mar­ Robertson in Edinburgh. Margaret College, Edinburgh, in 1992 and ried in the Seychelles to Leigh, and BOND R.A. (1990) He endured Banking is working as a dietician at Derriford they are living in Harlow, Essex. for as long as he could stand it! He has Hospital, Plymouth, having obtained her GOODBOURN M.G. (1981) He is a civil now enrolled at Tullyallan Police State Registration. Free nutritional advice engineering consultant living near College, Stirling. available on request! Warwick.

80 GORDON S.L.R. (1990) She has graduat­ LOCHORE A.D. (1990) Congratulations MEADE E.G. (1975) He is married and ed with an Honours B.A. in on being the top under-25 rider at the has published poetry. He is the Writer Accountancy and Computer Science at Burleigh Horse Trials. in Residence at Dundee University. Heriot Watt University. MacDONALD G.M.H. (1983) Gillian is Many Strathallians will remember his GRAY J.B. (1960) He has been appointed now Mrs Dewhurst. sister Lesley who, as a Kilgraston girl, a Governor of Strathallan. MacFARLANE D.S. (1966) He has a acted in several Strathallan plays HALL I.D. (Mason) (1981) Irene is living posting at H..Q Southern District in (before the days of Strathallan girls!). in Edinburgh New Town with her hus­ Aldershot. She is married and lives near Scar­ band David Hall and their daughter MACKAY D.A. (1989) He has graduated borough. Kirsty, who was born in August 1993. M.A. at Aberdeen University. MENZIES N (1975) After completing his MACKIE J.G. (1937) He is living in HEDGES G.B. (1982) Although he took B.A. in Business Studies he went to Parksville, British Columbia, where his degree at Heriot Watt University in the U.S.A., where he completed his Civil Engineering, he was then lucky his house overlooks the 13th fairway of Morningstar Golf Course, where Commercial Pilot’s Licence. He then enough to gain a place on a moved to Australia and thereafter to Commercial Pilot’s Course at Oxford deer roam at the side of the fairway. MacLAURIN B.A. (1981) Barbie is Papua New Guinea, where he was a Air Training School, sponsored by bush pilot for four years. He married British Midland, for whom he is now a working as a Programme Researcher at the BBC Television Centre in in 1984, in Papua New Guinea, then pilot flying Boeing 737s out of London, and was recently visited by moved permanently back to Australia Glasgow Airport. His wife Lucy is an Patrick Russell. where he is a Captain with Ansett Air Traffic Controller at the same air­ MacLEOD C.A. (1980) He is due to Airlines based in Perth, Western port. spend a year in the States after reading Australia. They have three daughters. HEGGIE M I. (1985) He was married in Theology at St Andrews University. They would be very glad to welcome Summer 1993. Your address is not on MacMILLAN A.G. (1966) Amongst the our computer, Malcolm - please get it Strathallians to IB Hobbs Avenue, programmes that he has directed and Como, WA 6152. to us so you can hear all the Strathallan produced this year that we have partic­ news! MILLER H.G. (1955) He has been ularly enjoyed were Stedul - The Professor and Departmental Head of HEGGIE S.M. (1988) She obtained her Yugoslav Hitman and The Stonehouse degree from Ealing College, and is Forestry at Aberdeen University for Affair, both in the Crime Story series over ten years. said to be working for Gulf Air in on STV in December. MILLER I.M. (1960) He and his wife Bahrain. Again, unfortunately, we MAHON I.J.C. (1970) He has been pro­ have no address for you, Sharon. moted to Associate Director of Robins Dorothy live in Milngavie. He is an HEGNEY T.A.M. (1981) Tara graduated McTear. He is married with three chil­ off-shore Yachtmaster and is in the from the Robert Gordon University, dren and lives in Pitcairngreen. Plastics industry. A keen yachtsman Aberdeen in Nutrition and Dietetics MARSHALL A.J.K. (1990) He has grad­ and windsurfer, he met his old last year, and then went on to study for uated B.L.E at Aberdeen University Chemistry Master, Ron Hockey, on a her Post-Graduate Certificate for State and is doing a further year’s study at local beach, and they sometimes sail Registration in Dietetics. the University. together. HENDERSON J.D. (1994) Congratu­ MAXWELL J.W.M. (1990) He has grad­ MONTGOMERIE C.S. (1975) We all lations on being featured in Scottish uated M.A. with 2(1) Honours in Art watch his golfing career with admira­ Rugby of March 1994. He has made a History from St Andrews University. tion! It was good to read in the Press wonderful recovery after his accident McBRIDE D.J. (1971) He still lives in that he was glad to be back breathing while on the Rugby Tour in Chile in Florida, with a house in Arran as well. in good Perthshire air at the Open at 1991, and is back in the game again, He is married with two children. Gleneagles, because he had been a boy training with Melrose and playing for McCAUSLAND I.H.M. (1981) He has at School not far away at Strathallan. the Scottish Schools XV. been working as a commercial proper­ MUIR A.A. (1979) He is still sailing pro­ HIGGINSON T.W. (1958) Tim Wylton is ty negotiator with Brooke Hillier fessionally, skippering a rebuilt 1935 Parker in Hong Kong, living on frequently to be seen on the small 12-metre - racing and cruising in the Lamma Island, where he has been screen in television plays and dramas; Mediterranean and off the Portuguese during summer he was Franks, the joined by his brother, Guy. He may be moving to Bangkok. and Spanish Atlantic coasts. Last year pathologist in the Wycliffe series. he found himself in a bar in St Martin HILL A.J. (1989) He has graduated BSc McCLUNG C.J. (1985) Celia was mar­ ried to Philip Noblet on 4th June 1993 (French West Indies) with two other in Archaeological Sciences from the Strathallians and an OG (Glen­ University of Bradford. and is living in London. She brought almond)! HOLMES D.M. (1970) He is a Consul­ brother Gilbert (1983) to the London MUIR D.M. (1990) Danielle has graduat­ tant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in Dinner. ed M.A. with 2(1) Honours at Cheltenham. He is married with three McCLUNG T.F. (1981) His wife Nicola children. had a daughter, Lucy Alison, on 21st Aberdeen University. HOLST P.J. (1987) He got a 2(1) in Civil January 1993. NAYLOR L. (1981) Lindsay is now Mrs (or Engineering at Edinburgh University. McDONALD J.S.P. (1975) He runs his Dr) Macharg, and she and her husband both own PR consultancy in London and JAMIESON R E. (1990) He has graduated practise medicine in Invercargill, New lives in New Malden with his wife and Zealand. They have a baby, too. B.Sc at Aberdeen University. four children. Too old now for hockey JOHNSON A.G. (1990) He has graduated NIVEN G.M. (1984) Gillian is teaching Art at - he plays off a 14 handicap. the High School of Dundee. She is engaged from Balliol College, Oxford, and is McKEE P.J. (1982) He has joined the taking a Masters Degree in Law at the to Randall Wilson of Perthshire. Teaching Staff at Eton. PARK A.M. (1989) He has graduated M.A. University of Virginia, U.S.A. McKENZIE-DONOVAN A. (nee Alison with a 2(1) at Glasgow Univer-sity. JONES G.H. (1990) He has graduated McKENZIE-WALKER) (1986) cur­ B.Eng. with 2(1) in Mechanical and rently living in London with her hus­ PARKER E.A.R. (1989) He gained a 2(1) in Optical Engineering at Loughborough band John, gave birth to a baby girl, English Law at Dundee University and is University of Technology. Harriet, on 28th March 1994, a sister now living in Swaffham Prior in KILPATRICK N.D. (1985) He married for Elizabeth born 12th March 1992. Cambridgeshire. Marian Kelley Mann on 15 October in McCLEAN G.C. (1980) He is now back PARKER J.S. (1990) Congratulations on his New York. in London after three years in Hong award of first class Honours in his B.Sc. in LAING H.R. (1979) He is married and Kong. He and Louise had a son, Chemistry at the Imperial College of lives in South Africa, where he is with Thomas Cameron, on 28th March Science, Technology and Medicine, Blue Circle, South Africa. 1993. London.

SI PATERSON J.L. (1989) Jane gained her SCOTT I.M. (1931) Now 81, he is living in Montessori Teaching Diploma in London, Bishops Hull, Taunton, and visited the LETTER FROM and is now teaching at a Knightsbridge School recently. We are most grateful for NEW YORK Nursery School. his gift of three 1930/31 photographs and a PATERSON R.F. (1968) He emigrated to silver Strathallan napkin ring. Nigel joined Riley in 1978, where Michael Wareham saw to it that “we had Australia in 1971 where he became an SHANNON D. (1946) He is returning home the cleanest hands and knees in the land.” Operations Manager in Australian from Kampala at the end of the year and will be living in Edinburgh. He joined Simpson with his brother, and Commercial Radio in Queensland, having their father before them. Nick du Boulay started as a Radio Announcer. He became SHANNON K.J. (1974) He is living in Victoria, Australia. had the unenviable task of guiding him an Australian citizen. However, he married through his teens. After School he worked a Swiss girl and they moved to Switzerland SHARPE A.R. (1966) His play, The Last of the in London for five years, and then left for in 1989, where they live in Oberdorf. He Lairds, adapted from John Galt, is being the U.S.A., where he has lived for the last works as a Regional Manager (Far East presented at Perth Theatre from 25th three years in New York City. He has had Product Support) for Pilatus Aircraft November until 10th December 1994. Why a spell of serious illness, but is now “feel­ Limited, so he spends quite a lot of time not get a ticket? ing great”, and he has just married Marian back in Australia and the Far East. SMART D.W.J. (1990) He has graduated M.A. Kelley Mann. PAWSON J.T. (1985) He is living in Albi in with a 2(1) at Glasgow University. the South of France, playing first division SMITH C.A. (1990) He has graduated B.Sc. at Dear Old Strathallians, Rugby and teaching at the Rascal College. Glasgow University. STARK R.C. (1962) He is working in Nigeria PAWSON M.D. (1987) He is still studying Yet another year goes by when I am un­ French, Politics and Law at Aberdeen and is planning to send his son and his daughter to Strathallan. able to attend an Old Strathallian Dinner. University. Leaving Strath, almost a decade ago, I STRACHAN D.N. (1964) He is a vet at Rancho PICKETT I.W. (1981) He works for DBS thought that I must do something to com­ San Carlos Pet Clinic, Sand Diego. Securities in Hong Kong. He and his wife municate with you all. So I decided to fax Debbie now have three daughters. THOMSON M.J.S. (1991) Melanie has graduat­ a message. As you read this I am sitting by PRATT A.J.H. (1983) He is living in Florida ed M.A. with Distinction at Glasgow the pool, sipping (yes, times have changed, and is getting married - in fact he should be University. I no longer gulp!) a “Bud”, while my lob­ a married man by the time you read this! TRUTER G.W.A. (1984) He got a good review ster awaits the pot. Later, 18 holes at the PRATT J.M. (1986) He has been working as a in The Times for his part as Toni Mancini in Southampton Country Club, beckons. solicitor in London, but he is emigrating to Stephen Plaice’s play Trunks, which was at Enough of my stressful day ahead.... the U.S.A., where he is going to qualify in the Lyric Studio, Hammersmith, in July. I am not sure how many of you reflect American Law. He is engaged to Anna, VERNON G.H.R. (1943) He is living in West on what really makes you what you are, or and they plan to marry next May. Vancouver, British Columbia. stop to compare all the things you learnt as REA J.W.S. (1988) He has graduated B.Sc. at VON KOPP-COLOMB H.E.E. (1990) He is a child and a teenager with what you learn Glasgow University. studying Law in Regensburg. He sends his today. We all learned many things while ROBB N.J. (1991) Nicola has been reading kindest regards to all at Strathallan who we were at Strath. I learnt that I couldn’t Social Anthropology at Newnham College, knew him. learn Maths and that Physics could actual­ Cambridge, which she has thoroughly WATSON L.W. (1985) He married Fiona ly be very funny, as long as you were in enjoyed. She is hoping to get a teaching job Beaton on the 9th April 1994 and they are Form C. I learnt that having “half the class in Japan for the next year or so. living on a small farm near Rattray. Among go to the right and half the class to the left ROBERTSON A.J. (1989) Amanda graduated those at the wedding were Tom Bowron and the rest in the middle of the gym” could never be done, no matter how many in Physical Therapy from University in (1985) and his wife and family. PE lessons we attended. I learnt that Vermont, U.S.A., in May 1993. She is now WHEELDON R.A. (1993) He is taking an H.N.D. course in Marine Engineering at "Woodlands" had more meaning to it than working as a Physical Therapist in a just a bunch of trees. Hospital in New Orleans. Southampton Institute of Higher Education, which includes one year at sea. Attending Strath, was a unique experi­ ROBERTSON R.G. (1986) He is living and ence for us all, and plays a vital role in working in Lincolnshire. WH1TMEE M.J.C. (1989) He is a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy, at present studying for a who we are today. I believe that what we ROBERTSON S.K.M. (1983) Susan married all learned at Strath, gives that edge in life. Michael Robinson in 1993. They are living B.A. in Naval Studies at the Royal Naval Engineering College, Manadon in I believe that, like no other school, we in Hong Kong. She is Head Designer for a Plymouth. He has been playing rugby for learnt true respect and we learnt the mean­ Graphic Design Company. Manadon and Devonport Services Teams. ing of real responsibility, not only to others ROSS I.C. (1964) He is living in Dhahran, WILSON R.F. (1976) He sends his greetings but, more importantly, to ourselves. I Saudi Arabia, and is once again enjoying from 20, Vanauley Street #209, Toronto. believe that we all learned how to be water sports. courageous when faced with adversity. I WOOD J.W. (1987) He graduated from ROSS J.B. (1930) He is enjoying retirement in believe that we all learnt a commitment to Cambridge back in 1991, then he spent a Portugal. social grace. We all learnt that there is year lecturing and translating in RUSSELL M.A. (1978) He is working in more to education than books and boots. Czechoslovakia, after which he won a There is something special at Strath, that Edinburgh for G.E.C. Marconi. He broke Scholarship to Boston University to study his leg a year ago on a skiing holiday - but, allowed us to learn all these things without under Nobel Prizewinner Derek Walcott. In ever being taught. That something special according to his brother Patrick, not while 1993 he returned to the U.K. and was an skiing! was being able to learn from each other. editor on the "English Poetry Full-Test As I sit at my desk in New York I pay RUSSELL P.D. (1981) He is Research Director Database” in Cambridge. Now he is for S.G. Warburg Securities in Singapore, personal tribute to you all. Whether I was Communications Officer for the at Strath, with you or not I thank you, each and was recently rated as one of the top Community of European Management three investment analysts working in one of you, for teaching me something. I Schools in Paris. thank all of you who were at Strath, with Singapore by Asia Money. His wife, Ilona, Please send news of yourself and any other me for teaching me how to be courageous had a son. Maxwell, on 6th January 1994. and strong. I thank you all for building RUSSELL P.J. (1982) He gained 2(1) in Strathallians for inclusion in the next magazine to: The Editor, The Stratliallian Magazine, at the Strath, to become a foundation that we all Marketing and Engineering at the greatly admire. University of Huddersfield. He has been on School. trips to Australia and has been filling in Changes of address: Please send any changes of Yours, time with stints at Disney Corporation in address to the Headmaster’s Secretary at London. Strathallan. Nigel Kilpatrick (1985)

82 STRATHALLIAN CLUB CONTACTS ABROAD The following Strathallians have agreed to be representatives of the Club abroad, and will happily help any Strathallians planning to visit their part of the world

Australia: lain S. Gray (1%1) Iona House, 20 Yarranabbe Road, Darling Point, 2027, Sydney. Eric W. Hamilton (1979) 1 Airdrie Corner, Kinross 6028, Perth, W. Australia. John A. McArthur (1970) 10 Jenolan Close, Hornsby Heights, NSW 2077. Gordon Reynolds (1980) 18 Letitia Street, Katoomba, 2780.

Botswana: David J. Watson (1980) P.O. Box 655, Gaborone.

Canada: Ian D. Lewis (1970) 420 Coach Light Bay SW, Calgary, Alberta T3H 1Z2. Tel: 403 246 6121. Stephen W. Geddes (1987) 100 Lamont Boulevard, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3P 0E6. Rahul Suri (1983) 942 Logan Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4K 3E4.

Hong Kong: Roderick A.D. Powrie (1974) Merill Lynch (Asia Pacific), 15 Floor, St George’s Bldgs, 2 Ice House Street.

New Zealand: lain S. Cree (1961) Omaha Flats Road, RD6, Warkworth, North Island. Robin A Taylor (1965) 35 Chambers Street, Havelock North.

Singapore: Thomas A. Kerr (1952) 82 Grange Road, Les Colonnades, Singapore 1024. Patrick D. Russell (1981) 24 Bukit Chernin Road, Singapore 0410. Tel: Work 2243001. Fax: 2250669.

South Africa: Michael I. Dawson (1964) 459 Currie Road, Durban 4001. William B. Melville (1966) 72 Catherine Road, Fontainebleau, Randburg 2194. Tommy R. Taylor (1961) 9 Uve Road, Kloof, Natal.

U.S.A.: John Brough (1956) 29142 Dean Street, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. Tel: 714 495 3376. Fax: 714 495 2004. Michael J. Dobbie (1983) 5493 Goshen Springs Rd, Norcross, Georgia 30093. Tel: 404 717 8267. Fax: 404 717 3363. Richard H. Lester (1978) 5450 Sterling Way, Lake Oswego, Oregon 97035. Walter G. McFarlane (1978) 931 Shattuck Lane, Schaumburg, Illinois, 60194. Tel: 708 885 3367. Work: 708 428 7171. David E. Uprichard (1984) 30 Ivy Hill Road, Chappaqua, New York 10514. Tel: 914 241 1283. R. Gary Walker (1978) 3203 Blackhawk Meadow Drive, Danville, CA 94506.

WHERE IS THE SCHOOL FLAG?

ON SPORTS DAY THE SCHOOL FLAG DISAPPEARED. IF ANYONE KNOWS OF ITS WHEREABOUTS, PERHAPS THEY COULD ARRANGE FOR IT TO BE SENT BACK.

MARIE AND JENNIFER IN THE SEWING ROOM SPENT A WHOLE TERM MAKING IT!

83 OBITUARIES AULD R. (1936): on 12th October played regularly at District level. He father, J.W. Scott, was also a 1993. He studied medicine at was Hon. President of Dundee High Strathallian who left in 1930, but Glasgow University. After War School F.P. R.F.C. His last visit to who died in 1964. Service with the R.A.M.C., he Strathallan was for the Lunch in June returned home to Kilmarnock to 1993, which his son reports he The tragic deaths of Drs Jeremy and work in General Practice until his enjoyed very much. Anne Gillingham in the Val d’Isere retirement in 1981. He was a keen avalanche in January 1994 were golfer and rugby enthusiast. Two of ROBERTSON T.A.G. (1923): on 5th widely reported in the local press, for his four children followed him into August 1993. He lived in Newton they were both well-known and much General Practice. Mearns. loved doctors practising in Perth. May we add our heartfelt sympathy HOOD F.R. (1939) on 22nd ROGERS G.D. (1993): Tragically, to Mark (1993) and Melissa (UVIth). September 1994. Dr Hood lived in Garry was killed in a skiing accident Bridlington. in California in March 1994, where he was spending his “GAP” year. Lady Kincraig died in June 1994. She JOHNSTON G.R. (1956): in June Our deepest sympathy goes to his had a very long connection with 1994. He lived in Bridge of Weir. family. Strathallan, being a gracious escort to Bobby Johnston, as he then was, McGILL J.A. (1932): on 20th July SINCLAIR G.W. (1957): suddenly in when he was Chairman of 1994. He lived in Kilmacolm. He May 1994 while he was visiting the Governors, and mother and grand­ last visited the School for the lunch U.S.A. George was one of many mother of an increasing tribe of in June 1993 with his son Max Sinclairs at Strathallan. He was a Strathallians. Our deepest sympathy (1961). well-known businessman and farmer goes to Lord Kincraig and to the in Perth. Our deepest sympathy goes Johnston and Wood families. RITCHIE G.F. (1937): on 7th to all his family. Novem-ber 1993. He lived in Dr David Farmer, who came to Broughty Ferry. He worked in the WATERSTON W.W. (1932): on 3rd Strathallan as Head of History in family business, George Ritchie & April 1991. He was a doctor and 1958, died suddenly on 27th August Sons Ltd, until his retirement in lived in West Linton. He was a very 1994 in Canada, where he had been a 1979. He was capped for Scotland for keen sportsman while at School. His university Professor of History for the Calcutta Cup Match in 1932, and son married Anne Scott, whose many years.

Challenge: does anyone recognise these boys from a photograph of 1962?

84 Leadership- where thought and action meet. There are a number of where you, and your fees, are ways of becoming an Army paid by the Army. Or as Officer. a Bursar and receive £1,500 At 16 you could compete a year while you study! for an Army Scholarship, To find out more about which is tenable whilst you these and other ways of be­ study for A’ levels (or coming an Army Officer, see equivalent). your Army Schools Liaison You could enter Sandhurst Officer. at 18 - or University on an Undergraduate Cadetship Army Officer

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