BIANNUAL PUBLICATION ISSUE 56 DECEMBER 2025
Fortunas
Our assessments for entry in August 2026 will take place on Saturday 24 January. 97%
HIGHER PASS RATE IN 2025
63%
A GRADE PASSES AWARDED (HIGHERS/2025)
120+
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Co-Educational | 5-18 | Day and Boarding | Fee Assistance Available
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December 2025
To register, please contact registrar@dollaracademy.org.uk or phone 01259 742511 www.dollaracademy.org.uk
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Work Hard | Get Involved | Be Kind
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Many thanks to everyone who contributed articles or images to Fortunas 56; the deadline for submission of articles for the next issue is Friday 20 March.
CONTENTS FROM THE RECTOR 4 THE FUTURES INSTITUTE AT DOLLAR ACADEMY
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FAREWELLS AND WELCOMES
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BOARDING 28 PREP AND JUNIOR SCHOOL
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SENIOR SCHOOL 40 EXPRESSIVE ARTS 48 CO-CURRICULAR NEWS 76
Chair Professor Russell Morris
TRIPS 94
Vice-Chair Ms Jackie Smith
FP FORUM 117
Bursar & Chief Operating Officer Mr Graeme Morrison
FROM THE ARCHIVES 133
Editor: Heather Moore moore-h@dollaracademy.org.uk Design: Peter Nelson peter@peternelsonart.com FP Registrar: Kirsty Molnar dollarfp@dollaracademy.org.uk Archivist: Janet Carolan carolan-j@dollaracademy.org.uk Proof readers: Janet Carolan, David Delaney, Rachel Gibb, Jo McKie, Lynne McMartin, Kirsty Molnar, Heather Moore, Katie O’Hanlon, James Simpson Photogropher: Kerr Spanswick spanswick-ka@dollaracademy.org.uk The opinions expressed in this magazine belong to the individual writers and not to Dollar Academy.
GDPR Dollar Academy sends out copies of Fortunas, and any enclosures, in envelopes addressed to Former Pupils, former staff and friends of the Academy who have actively opted in to receive postal mailings. One copy is sent to each postal address on the opt-in mailing list. If you wish to change your postal mailing preference, or need to update your postal mailing address, please contact dollarfp@dollaracademy.org.uk. You can opt to receive a link to a digital version of the magazine using the same email address.
December 2025
Mr Gregor Alexander Mr Martin Boyle Mr Denis Coyne Mr Paul Dearden Mrs Cathy Gladwin Mr Ross Kitson Dr Suzanne Mawson Mrs Shirley McIntosh Mrs Seonaid Mustard Ms Karolina Pavlikova Mr Mike Robins Mrs Debbie Weir
SPORT 107
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Board of Governors
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From the Rector Most often, as a school, we come together in moments of real joy - moments that remind us why this community means so much to so many. When I think of the Christmas Concert and Art Exhibition, for example, I am struck each year by the cheer and genuine pride that Mrs Timney, Mrs Kelly and their teams manage to instil in all of us. It is always a highlight for me, not only because of the talent on display, but because it shows what is possible when people care deeply about Dollar and work together. At the same time, such highs are inevitably punctuated by more difficult moments - the kind that no human organisation can ever be entirely shielded from - and in recent years we have felt the weight of losing members of our Dollar family far too often. Those moments stay with us; they remind us of the depth of connection here. Edition 56 of Fortunas reflects this full range of experience and emotion. There is so much to celebrate and take heart from, and we quite rightly begin by paying tribute to Mrs Heather Lumsden, whose dedication and quiet strength shaped the life of the School in ways that will not be forgotten: memoria eius nobis semper aderit. Curating a publication that holds such varied emotions is never easy, and I am once again grateful to Mrs Moore and her team for their care, judgement, and professionalism in bringing this edition together. As we head into the festive season, I hope each of you finds time for the people and moments that matter most to you. I wish you a peaceful break and all the very best for the year ahead. Kindest regards
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Ian Munro
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HEATHER LUMSDEN 1970-2025
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FORMER STAFF (HEAD OF CLASSICS) 1995-2025
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When I first met Heather, she was still Miss Keenan, a lovely young teacher in the Classics and Modern Languages Departments. A personal memory intrudes immediately. The year that I arrived at Dollar, 1997, my younger son went off on the work experience exchange trip to Germany. A delayed flight home meant that Heather had to look after the group in an airport hotel for an extra night—and all that I heard afterwards was just how nice Miss Keenan was. I thought then that this was a young teacher who was not only friendly and popular, but who could also be relied on in an emergency involving a sprawl of tired and restless teenagers! And of course, this would not be the last educational visit to which Heather would lend her expertise, enthusiasm and patience. Not long after that early exchange trip, I recall a quite different event: a very jolly celebration—in the top floor staffroom—of Heather’s engagement to a certain talented young Chemistry teacher. And so Miss Keenan changed her name to Mrs Lumsden and Dollar gained a golden couple, a couple who devoted themselves to the Academy. They took on, for example, the running of Tait House, which was then, before its merger with McNabb, a separate boarding house for junior boys, useful preparation, perhaps, for family life with their own boys! What did not change, however, was Heather’s unfailing good nature, her quietly effortless charm, and her formidable academic ability. She may have worn this latter attribute lightly, but anyone who interacted with her professionally would not have been in any doubt
about it. Intellectually, she was very, very impressive. She was also an outstanding teacher, passing on her own knowledge with imagination and sensitivity to the needs of a wide range of pupils. Their enthusiasm for the Classics, often first to be mentioned at subject choice interviews, was, in no small measure, owing to the warmth and skill of their teacher. Heather forged her career at Dollar in the Classics Department, and through all the ups and downs of a busy department with its range of personalities, she was always the still centre: calm, sensitive and positive. These were precisely the graceful qualities that she brought, in time, to the role of Head of Department. (Although Heather left us briefly to widen her teaching experience, we were more than delighted to welcome her back.) Geoff Daniel remembers, with some admiration, that she was the only person who ever sacked him from a job in his 20 years at Dollar Academy, moving him out of Classics teaching (with all necessary delicacy and diplomacy—he was, after all Deputy Rector) so that he no longer had the chance to undermine her new, and highly effective, approaches to Latin teaching. In losing Heather while still so young, the Academy has lost an outstanding teacher with so much more to give. But that is as nothing compared to the loss suffered by David, Gregor and Angus—for which there are, quite simply, no words. Leslie Hutchison (former Assistant Rector)
Mrs Lumsden
Eden Wood (FP 2012 and Former Staff 2018–2023)
Paul Mackay (Head Boy, Form VI)
December 2025
Mrs Heather Lumsden was never one to shout about her own achievements, always preferring the results of her students—and the love they had for Latin— as a measure of that. As a friend and colleague, I would like to share some of the many things that made her so special. I had the privilege of being taught by Mrs Lumsden for Higher Latin when I was in Form VI, and my only regret was not taking it for Standard Grade, so that I could have spent longer in her classroom. What I remember most about these lessons, more than any others—and I know that this experience will be universal for all who were fortunate enough to be taught by her—was the enjoyment and enthusiasm that she shared with us, whatever the topic. Whether it was translating a tricky passage of set text (in my case, Virgil), helping us understand a new grammar concept, or simply discussing the impact of a writer’s choice of words, her passion for the language and the subject radiated out of her and poured into our young minds. It is that passion which has always stayed with me, and I am forever grateful to her for it. On leaving Dollar Academy, I studied Classics at Glasgow University, and I can safely say that no Latin lecture was ever as much fun as Mrs Lumsden’s lessons. We stayed in touch intermittently throughout my time at university, and when I decided to undertake my PGCE in Classics, I got in touch to let her know. This was when she went from being Mrs Lumsden to Heather—no longer my teacher, but soon to be my colleague and, ultimately and most importantly, my friend. She was so incredibly supportive of my career, and when the chance came to teach within the Classics Department at Dollar, with Heather as Head of Department, I did not hesitate to jump at the opportunity. As a pupil I experienced the genuine care that she had for her pupils, but working alongside her was where I saw the true extent of it. Heather was fiercely loyal, unfailingly kind and encouraging to all her pupils, going above and beyond in everything she did for them. She hated the idea of becoming stagnant in her teaching—always thinking about how to make the subject relatable and enjoyable for each year group; always adapting resources to ensure lessons were perfect; always looking for opportunities, such as trips and clubs, to enhance their experience. Few pupils will have seen the quiet, thoughtful, thorough, and consistent effort she put into her work, but all will have benefited from it. I hope to continue sharing the passion for Classics she imparted to me with my own pupils, and if I am half the teacher she was, it would be a considerable achievement. Heather once said of me, in my leaving speech, that if I were a stick of rock, you could cut me in half and ‘Dollar Academy’ would be at the centre. Borrowing her metaphor, it is no exaggeration to say that if you were to cut the Classics Department in half, Heather would be at its core. She was an exceptional teacher, a wonderful colleague, and a dear friend, and I miss her greatly. Thank you, Heather, for everything.
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Mrs Heather Lumsden
My memories of Mrs Lumsden are laced with the fond feeling that time itself stood back when I was learning from her. I recall my first homework translation. In shorthand, I pencilled confused comments at the endings of Latin words and meant these earnestly as mere notes to myself; to my exhilaration, I found them answered at length in ink a week later. On many occasions, a question drew me away from the SQA mark scheme. Though I was ready to suppress it in the name of efficiency, Mrs Lumsden’s acute empathy sensed my puzzlement and stayed after class to allay it. If ever I asked a question requiring further research, I could patiently await a most thorough answer, knowing it was on its way. Other times, the mark scheme itself was the subject of my scrutiny; many afternoons, she spent time reading and critiquing my work and we vented our shared frustration at the SQA’s ambiguities. Humour was another great gift of Mrs Lumsden’s. Her criticism was as motivating as her praise, and her gentle delivery of it always afforded a good laugh for us both. Mrs Lumsden gave brilliant feedback and exacting explanations, but, most remarkably, she always had time for questions, time to answer them and time to ask them: she knew how to make a boarder recall the warmth of home with her attentive questioning. I cannot do her justice here, but I hope for those who knew her as a teacher, my words recall the gifts she gave us—the gift of her time and attention extending far beyond the classroom; the gift of certain knowledge that, to her, we were more than pupils. Certainly, to us, she was far more than a teacher.
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Mrs Lumsden Mrs Lumsden was one of the best teachers I have ever encountered. Words can barely describe the impact that she has had on me and countless other students. She was so caring and funny, and a teacher who really encouraged me in my studies. Thanks to her support and encouragement, I am now at the same university where she went to study Classics, following in her footsteps; I plan to become a teacher like her. She had such an engaging way of teaching, and this made me and others fall in love with the Latin language and the classical world. She was the person I sat with when I accepted my offer to St Andrews and the person who convinced me to give driving lessons a go. She has inspired me so much in life. She was also a brilliant person outside of the classroom, too. She was always great to chat to, both for support and for a laugh, and she helped me with so much both at school and after I had left. I know everyone misses her greatly, but I also know that she will always be someone I (and so many others) will talk about and think about forever, being the person who gave me (and so many others) our love for the classical world.
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Anya Wortley (FP 2023)
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Heather The mid-1990s saw nearly 30 new teachers join Dollar Academy, changing the age profile of the staff quite significantly in the first few years of John Robertson’s tenure as Rector. Everyone tends to remember their job interviews very well, but not Heather—for each of her three roles at the school, she never once had a formal interview—just a chat with the boss in his study! Most of us had moved to the area for our new jobs and we were a sociable bunch who enjoyed nights out, pub quizzes and the like, as well as now-legendary weekends on Arran and in Dublin. I first met Heather at a pre-Christmas staff social dancing practice, led by the then-Bursar, Commander Fox, and his wife, Jeannie. A few weeks later, Heather organised a Burns Supper at her flat in Stirling—and that was us, Heather and David—the lass from Bangor, Co. Down had got herself a Scotsman. As young teachers, we were nervous of how the pupils would react, and it was quite good fun trying to keep ‘us’ a secret—we managed for a few months, but we were rumbled when a minibus of Playfair House boarders saw us hand-inhand in Perth! We married in July 2001 in Edinburgh, with many colleagues attending, and just a year later, we took on the challenge of Tait House. Our own family grew during our five years on Academy Place, with Gregor in 2004, and Angus in 2006—Angus decided to arrive, on his due date, initiated, Heather always maintained, by her eating a spicy chicken pakora during the buffet break of the House Christmas Party! We had a happy, family House, with the boarders taking turns to push the pram down to the Dining Hall, and the Argyll House girls regularly arrived en masse on a Friday evening after Ballroom Dancing to take turns in having a cuddle of the new baby in our front room. Happy days indeed. Heather adored all aspects of the Latin language, with the love poems of Catullus being her favourite. She would sit for hours in the evenings and at weekends crafting lessons and worksheets for all year groups, and for one who often yelled ‘I hate computers’ when MS Word’s auto-formatting made all her text boxes and images go wonky, she really did embrace technology in the classroom, moving from the detailed overhead projector acetates of her Jordanhill days, to PowerPoints and data projectors, and latterly to laptops, Teams and OneNote. Always smiling as she moved from room to room, she spoke warmly to everyone, and she was always first to know the latest news from around the school—she loved a bit of gossip! And she wrote the very best report cards in the school— Heads of Year knew that there would be no errors in any of her work, such was her meticulous eye for detail and the care she took to find just the right words. She organised and led a great number of enjoyable and very educational trips both in the British Isles and across Europe, and was always well prepared, often after
The Lumsden Family
December 2025
catch snippets of lessons as we went about our chores. We very quickly realised what a brilliant teacher she was, and she soon had us hooked on Latin! We would purposefully “tune in” to hear the next instalment. But it wasn’t just the quality of her teaching we so admired. There was something else that made her lessons stand out. She was self-assured, so strong, but so kind and warm. A brilliant role model. She made a hugely positive impression on all of us, and we just wanted to send you our love.’ There are still quite a few of us from the mid1990s teaching here; we are all still great pals, and we all wish Heather was still here too. She was always loving and stylish, funny, sharp as a tack, and beautiful inside and out. We all miss her terribly.
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carrying out a recce on our family holidays up and down and across Italy and the Mediterranean islands. Heather passed away a week after suffering a sub-arachnoid haemorrhage on Valentine’s Day, despite receiving amazing medical care, initially from the amazing medics and aviators of the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance, and then from the wonderful teams at the Institute of Neurological Sciences at QEUH, Glasgow. In our grief, we were overwhelmed and comforted by the huge number of cards, letters, messages and gifts of love and support we received from the school community. One card particularly caught the essence of what Heather was all about— ’Although we never met Mrs Lumsden in person, we heard her regularly online during lockdown lessons. Our son used to do his work at the kitchen table, so we would often
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FUTURES INSTITUTE
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AT DOLLAR ACADEMY: BREAKING NEW GROUND
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Two hundred years ago, a leading architect of his era, William Playfair, designed a school building for Dollar Academy. To this day, its neo-classical grandeur dominates the campus, making a spectacular first impression on visitors and inspiring the pupils and teachers who work within it. From a 21st-century perspective, the building embodies tradition, both architectural and educational. But two centuries ago, it made a bold statement that resonated far beyond Dollar. Playfair went on to design landmarks that define the character of the nation’s capital, Edinburgh. Dollar Academy became the world’s first co-educational day and boarding school. Today, we are witnessing a truly momentous development at Dollar Academy, as our Futures Institute begins to take shape on the campus. Two centuries after Playfair, it feels fitting that a world-renowned architect of our own era, Andrew Whalley OBE (FP 1980), has designed this new building for Dollar. A beacon of both sustainable architecture and educational innovation, it makes a similarly bold statement for our time. Progress has been swift so far, thanks to the professionalism and commitment of the Robertson team— helped by the long spell of good weather over the summer. Since construction began in June, the ground floor has taken shape, and walls are rising. Early in 2026, the timber dome—a standout feature of the design—will begin to appear, followed by the roof in spring. Later in the year, interior fittings and landscaping will be completed, bringing the project closer to completion. The dome is set to become an iconic part of our campus. As it begins to emerge from its foundations, the educational possibilities it embodies
come into view. As regular readers of Fortunas will know, the Futures Institute at Dollar Academy (FIDA) is far more than a building. Since its launch in May 2021, FIDA has been a pioneering educational initiative with a mission to equip and empower young people to be the change-makers of the future. It is founded upon an interdisciplinary approach—breaking down traditional subject boundaries so that pupils can connect different areas of knowledge to each other and to the world beyond school. The principle underlying all FIDA courses and projects is that young people learn by applying their minds to problems rather than subjects. In doing so, they not only build knowledge but also develop vital skills such as creative thinking, problem solving, collaboration and communication. FIDA’s flagship educational programme is the new International Sustainability Diploma. Six schools across Scotland participated in a pilot of the qualification in the 2024–25 session, and it was a moment of great pride when, following a rigorous quality assurance process, we issued Diploma certificates to our first cohort of candidates in August. For some, it was a vital step in their educational journey: the qualification is recognised by UCAS, and passing the Diploma was a condition of entry to their chosen university course. The Diploma carries all the hallmarks of FIDA. Pupils learn by investigating real-world problems rooted in the UN Sustainable Development Goals; by developing innovative solutions; and by presenting their work in ways that are meaningful beyond the classroom. The basis of assessment is a Portfolio built up through the year rather than a single year-end assessment—helpful preparation for further and higher education.
To evaluate the experience and impact of the Diploma course, we carried out research involving pupil surveys and teacher interviews. Pleasingly, analysis of the data showed that 100% of pupils and teachers would recommend the Diploma; 100% of pupils reported an increase in their knowledge of sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals; and high proportions of pupils reported gaining or improving skills such as independent research, problem solving and entrepreneurship. We have now moved into Year Two of the Diploma, and twice the number of schools are offering the qualification this year—testament to the success of the pilot and the positive response from schools. At the beginning of September, we were delighted to welcome pupils and teachers from 12 participating schools across Scotland to our annual Learning Day on the Dollar campus. Pupils worked together to develop and pitch some impressive sustainable enterprise ideas, showcasing their creativity and commitment. Meanwhile, teachers took part in inspiring discussions on interdisciplinary learning with guest speakers from Education Scotland, the London Interdisciplinary School, and the University of Stirling. The Diploma—like the building—is an initiative that has powerful resonance and relevance beyond Dollar. For instance, Education Scotland is currently leading a systematic review of the school curriculum: the Curriculum Improvement Cycle. It is a great privilege for me personally to be part of the core working group focusing on interdisciplinary learning. This involvement with a committed group working to shape and enrich the future curriculum is inspiring, and it brings opportunities both to learn from innovative practice from across the
Jacqueline Smith (FIDA Director)
December 2025
We are enormously grateful for the generous support of the wider Dollar Academy community—Former Pupils, staff and governors, past and present parents. Your support has made both the building and the educational programme possible. Our fundraising work is ongoing, and there is still time to have your name included on our Donor Wall in the new building. If you are considering making a donation, you can find out more using the QR code below: Fortunas 56
country and to share valuable insights from our experience of developing and launching the Diploma. Over the course of this term, I have also been invited to give presentations about the new qualification at several national conferences and events—testament once again to the success of the Diploma pilot. We continue to be proud of the progress and impact that FIDA is making within and beyond Dollar Academy. The construction of the Futures Institute marks the beginning of an exciting new phase, and we look forward with eager anticipation to the moment when the physical building and the educational programmes come together to fulfil their purpose and potential.
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A FOND FAREWELL TO MRS HAZEL DUNCAN
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December 2025
From the Business Education Department
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Hazel Duncan joined the Academy in 2002 as a teacher of Business Education. She arrived initially to help for a single term and she remained for over two decades—much to the benefit of the generations of pupils she taught and those who had the pleasure of working alongside her. From the outset, Hazel quickly distinguished herself through her no-nonsense personality and sharp sense of style. By the time she left, she was the longest-serving member of the department and had significantly contributed to its success over the years. With her around, there was always storytelling, laughter and warmth. Her presence was a reminder of the camaraderie that makes Dollar Academy so special. Countless pupils and Former
Pupils attest that Hazel’s keen business mind brought the subject to life. Under her guidance, pupils learned the theories of management, marketing, and entrepreneurship, but they also learned ways in which these theories could be applied. They practised pitching business ideas, explored realworld scenarios and developed skills that have helped them beyond their years at the Academy. For many years, she led the Form II Dragons’ Den competition, inspiring pupils to think creatively and engage with entrepreneurs. Each year, she organised the event by inviting local business owners to serve on the panel, giving pupils an authentic opportunity to develop their presentation skills. The corridor now displays vibrant photographs from these occasions, lasting reminders of events that would not have been possible without her dedication. As a form tutor, she garnered much respect from her tutees. She never hesitated to challenge lateness and always reminded pupils of the Academy’s high standards. Hazel’s influence also reached well beyond the department. She was once chair of the Dollar Academy Teachers’ Association (DATA), advocating for staff through her weekly meetings with the Rector. She also organised many successful social events for staff. Through leading the Prep 5 Book Group and the Touch-Typing Club, she showed her commitment to supporting learners of every age. She assisted at the Teddy Bears’ Picnic every year, accompanied by her childhood teddy, Timmy. The Sponsored Walk has long benefited
from her dedication, too. For over a decade, she served as the lunch-field checkpoint supervisor, ensuring the event ran efficiently and safely. She also recorded scores at the annual Cross Country Championships event. Before this, she extended her support to the Badminton and Basketball Clubs. Originally from the Isle of Bute, Hazel also accompanied the annual Form VI trip to the island for many years. Her local knowledge made her an invaluable presence that enriched this tradition. Hazel’s presence could be felt in every corner of the school; she never missed a birthday, an opportunity to give a present to a staff member’s new baby or lend support to her colleagues. Over the years, she became far more than a teacher; she has been a friend, a confidante and a mentor to countless colleagues and pupils alike. Hazel would be the first to say that Dollar Academy was far more to her than simply a place of work. It was where she grew into a celebrated teacher, where her daughters received their education and where she forged lifelong friendships and memories that she will forever treasure. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, we thank her for everything: her professionalism, her generosity of spirit and her friendship. While her departure will be deeply felt, the legacy of her influence will remain an integral part of Dollar Academy for years to come. Anne Robinson, James Simpson, Lynne McMartin, Michelle Stevenson and Nicola O’Donnell
From the Computing Department
Rosemary McGuinness
From the Pupils Mrs Duncan was not just our Business teacher and registration tutor; she was someone who truly cared about her pupils. She always took the time to check in, to listen and to make sure that everyone felt included and supported. Her kindness was genuine, and you could tell she meant every word when she encouraged us to 'work hard and get involved'. What we all remember most are the moments of laughter she brought into the classroom. Mrs Duncan had a great sense of humour; she could always make us smile, no matter how our day was going. Her stories were legendary—such as the one about her infamous Waitrose duck eggs. She
always made her lessons memorable, as she would share her real-life experiences and funny moments. She made learning fun, but more importantly, she made us feel comfortable and valued. Mrs Duncan was not just a teacher but a highly respected member of the school community and it is hard to imagine the place without her. Even though she has left Dollar Academy, the memories of her warmth, humour and kindness will stay with us for years to come. She will always hold a very special place in our hearts. We think the world of her. Poppy Y. and Zoe M. (both Form VI)
I enjoyed being a member of the Mrs Duncan’s book group for over a year. I just needed to bring my book, and Mrs Duncan read a chapter with us. We read a couple of pages together and talked about it. The best thing was nobody had to be a fast reader! I looked forward to every book that Mrs Duncan recommended. Flynn H. (Form I)
December 2025
will miss not merely the clickety-click of her heels around the corridors, but her fun and caring presence. We all wish to thank Hazel for being a source of support and a trusted and fabulous colleague for many years. We wish you a long and healthy retirement.
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Hearing the familiar clickety-click of Mrs Duncan’s heels echoing down the first-floor corridor of the Younger Building as she headed towards the staff base, her Business Education and Computing colleagues knew that plenty of stories and laughter were in store. Hazel kept us on our toes—not just with her sharp wit, but with her love of a good chat, her flair for fashion, her buzz of energy. Her ability to engage, encourage, and occasionally give a hard stare when needed, earned her a reputation as a ‘firm but fair’ teacher, respected by pupils. Whether running the Junior Book Club or supervising the lunchtime touch-typing classes, she also found ways to connect with pupils beyond the constraints of the curriculum. Over her 23 years at the Academy, she brought organisation, efficiency and sparkle to everything she took on, from serving as DATA chair, to helping coordinate the Form II Mini Enterprise in Term 3 and, in later years, organising the final of the Form II Dragons’ Den event. Staff and pupils at the school
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December 2025
FAREWELL TO KAROL FITZPATRICK
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Karol Fitzpatrick came to work at Dollar Academy in 2006. Initially a class Music teacher, she went on to become Head of Curricular Music and Director of Music. A first-study pianist, she was always in demand to accompany pupils and worked with former Director of Music John McGonigle as his Chamber Choir accompanist for many years. A keen classroom practitioner and choral director, Karol became a regional choir leader with the National Youth Choirs of Scotland and accompanist to various amateur choral societies across Scotland. She worked with the Scottish Qualifications Authority, where she currently holds the position of Principal Assessor for Advanced Higher Music Performing. We wish her well as she continues her work with young people at Craigclowan Preparatory School. Louise Timney
Martina Sillence (FP 2018) Remembers Mrs Fitzpatrick I am delighted to be able to share some memories of my time with Mrs Fitzpatrick in Dollar Academy’s Music Department. Not only did she support me in my musical development at school, but she also set me on the path towards my current career as a musician for Sistema Scotland and as a freelance violinist. Playing in the band under Mrs Fitzpatrick (as MD for the senior musical) was a transformational experience for me when I was 14 years old. I loved having the chance to play alongside older pupils and even professional musicians; I relished that sense of belonging to a much bigger team was very powerful. I remember
the joy of being completely immersed in music for that entire term. Mrs Fitzpatrick coaxed the very best musicianship from that band. She helped me better my own skills as a violinist, and she gave me a glimpse into what a career in music might look like. Her expertise and guidance as the director of Chamber Choir helped me to develop an aspect of musicianship that cannot be covered in instrumental lessons alone. She gave the choir so many exciting performance opportunities—the most memorable being our tour to Prague. We were given the opportunity to sing in many beautiful venues and to explore that very musical city. She even gave me the opportunity to bring my violin and perform alongside the choir. These experiences were exciting and inspiring, but it was her understanding and experience of the everyday practice and the commitment required to develop as a musician that was particularly valuable to me. Her piano skills were invaluable, and she spent countless hours going over the repertoire with me. When it came to applying to music college, she helped me write my applications and made sure I always had a place to practise and prepare. I would like to send a heartfelt thank-you for all time and dedication Mrs Fitzpatrick offered to me and so many other pupils of Music, and I wish her the very best for the future. Martina Sillence (FP 2018)
from the driver’s seat of his buggy or when he was ankle deep in compost, clearing flowerbeds. He never let anyone pass by without a chirp or a wave. We thank Neily for his hard work, loyalty, and many years of service, and we wish him all the very best for the future. John Vaughan-Davies
December 2025
Neily joined the Grounds Department in 1994, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge gained from a decade as a plantsman at a nursery in Fife. Initially assigned to the garden areas, he quickly developed a passion for sports turf and transitioned from gardening to working on the ‘parks’. While other groundsmen relied on soggy booklets for pitch dimensions, Neily’s remarkable memory meant he instinctively knew which pitches fit where across the campus. This was a true skill— one we’re unlikely to see again in an age increasingly shaped by modern technology in groundsmanship. When Neily wasn’t tending to our beautiful campus, he could often be found on the football pitches,
applying his skills as a qualified referee and assisting with coaching. Several staff members, themselves Former Pupils, fondly remember being coached by Neily. His refereeing and coaching anecdotes were a highlight of messroom conversations during tea breaks—especially the legendary ‘Lintonisms’ that peppered his stories (most of which, it must be said, are not printable!). In the later years of his time at Dollar Academy, Neily returned to the gardens, playing a key role in the redevelopment of the Georgianstyle garden scheme along Academy Place—a street of high importance and constant scrutiny. Though modest and averse to compliments, Neily should be immensely proud of the work he did in this area. His dedication and hard work over the years have been deeply appreciated by many. We will miss Neily’s cheerful greetings and witty remarks, whether
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FAREWELL TO NEIL LINTON
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December 2025
LOOKING BACK IN GRATITUDE: A Farewell to Houseparents Mr and Mrs McEwan
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Few couples can claim to know boarding at Dollar as intimately as Neil and Marzena McEwan, who retired last session from their posts as Assistant Houseparents of McNabb & Tait House. Mr McEwan, of course, remains at the school as teacher of History and Modern Studies, but he spent nearly two decades as a fixture of McNabb & Tait life, first as House Tutor before taking on the post of Assistant Houseparent in 2019. Together, the McEwans have been adored and respected, loved and occasionally (when appropriate) feared by all the boys lucky enough to call McNabb & Tait home during the couple's tenure. Residing in Tait, the McEwans paid special attention to the youngest boys in the House. Amid the chaos of pubescent antics, they were a grounding presence. Mr McEwan had an aptitude for directing our energies
toward positive ends: his organisation of House trips and his encouragement of the Tug o’ War team saw his quick speech and bright smile become the fulcrum of our House spirit. Into this atmosphere, Mrs McEwan brought a valuable gentleness; her wake-up calls (accompanied by young Hannah) and nightly check-ins brought to each day an easy beginning and end, and her cooking filled the house with the most sublime scents imaginable. To each boy, the McEwans cast a different shade of vibrant light upon the McNabb & Tait experience. To capture this, we have compiled the boys’ own reminiscences. One boy mentioned how, no matter the weather, Mr McEwan always found a reason to get everyone outside. It never felt forced, and somehow it always ended up being a good laugh. Another boy remembered how, if your room was a mess, Mr McEwan would walk in, look around and compare it to some disaster from history. It always made everyone laugh (even when you were in trouble). Some moaned, some laughed, but everyone was happy in the end. His love of golf was indisputable. ‘He was crazy about that six iron,’ one boy said. ‘You’d see him
practising his swing in the corridor or in the common room—anywhere he could. He’d stop mid-chat, take an imaginary shot and then carry on like nothing happened.’ That same focus came out in the Tug o’ War as well. ‘He took it seriously,’ another added. ‘If we lost, he’d make sure we knew about it. But it made everyone attend to his fierce attitude.’ Many spoke about the McEwans together. ‘They made the House feel like home,’ one boy said. ‘They didn’t make a fuss; they just cared.’ Another added, ‘If Mrs McEwan was baking, you knew it was going to be a good night.’ Between them, they found the balance between being firm and being kind, and that balance is what held the House together. As they dive into their new adventures, the legacy of Neil and Marzena McEwan will live on in the countless stories, unending laughter, and the many lessons they have offered the boys of the House. Their years within McNabb & Tait were marked by kindness and unwavering support to every boy under their roof. Though their time in boarding has come to an end, their spirit will remain woven into the fabric of House life through the memories they helped to create. Paul M. and Hal S. (both Form VI)
Susan Rice
FAREWELL TO MS WEI Since I first met Ms Wei four years ago, she has brought warmth and joy to every Monday evening in Argyll House. Always thoughtful and generous, she never hesitated to share her precious stash of snacks, and I still remember the encouraging Post-its she left for us during prelims. She was always willing to go above and beyond—and, yes, that included running extra speaking sessions at 10pm and marking Mandarin essays in the minutes before the exam. She truly cared for us, offering not only academic support but also personal advice about university and life. She is a friendly, kind, and brilliant teacher—truly one of a kind. Natalie Yeung (FP 2025)
December 2025
Ms Cecilia Wei joined Dollar Academy in August 2017, and she enjoyed her eight years at the school very much. She played a significant role in the launch and growth of Mandarin teaching at Dollar, and we are thankful for all she contributed in this regard. She also faced the challenge of being the only teacher of Mandarin for a time. In her second year of teaching, she set up the AH Mandarin curriculum, mentored the Language Assistants to teach lessons, and worked as a teaching assistant herself due to staff shortages. During her time at Dollar, Cecilia offered countless opportunities for pupils to expand their cultural knowledge; running two Taiwan exchanges, for example. In one memorable moment on the Taiwan trip, the local school gatekeeper mistook her for a pupil and questioned why she had brought ten bubble teas to school (they were for the pupils). Nor did Covid, when it hit, put a stop to going to China: instead, she went to
undertakings: a PhD perhaps, or some book translations. She has always lived life by her motto: ‘Do what you think is right and don’t fear change’, and she encourages those she has taught at Dollar to do this same.
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A FAREWELL TO CECILIA WEI
Chinatown, running a Form V and VI trip to London. In Argyll House, David and Sarah felt lucky to have Cecilia join them as a House Tutor just as they took up their posts as Houseparents. They all began their jobs at Argyll just as the pandemic began, so much of Cecilia’s training was in skills that were new to all of the team: the correct way to put on PPE; how to leave a girl’s food outside her room when she is isolating; when to go back for the dishes; what to do with them afterwards. Not the usual boarding routines. David and Sarah were immensely glad that Cecilia held on through all of that weirdness. As the boarding house slowly returned to normal, she happily settled into her role as their regular Monday night Tutor. From the very beginning, her dedication to the girls has been impressive; she has always been very calm, welcoming and patient with all of her House charges. She enjoyed taking part in House trips, too: sampling everything from car racing to ziplining and karaoke. Cecilia looks back with a giggle when she recalls the first cohort of AH pupils; they used to joke about giving her a hug (all eight of them!) whenever they came to Mandarin lessons because they knew she was so worried about making a success of the course. Today, she keeps in touch with many of her students as they continue with their studies at university, and she delights in knowing that they’re using Mandarin in their post-Dollar lives. Her departure from Dollar is bittersweet. Her motto is: ‘Do what you think is right and don’t fear change.’ She has loved being at Dollar and working with so many wonderful, talented people. But after living in Scotland for thirteen years (six of those in a small village), she was ready to return to a bustling mega-city. Born in a city of 20 million people, she missed the neon lights, the late-night street food, the vibrant energy of it all. So her move to Shanghai with her husband, Tom, was not unexpected. She will be missed, and, in not so many years, we fully expect to hear about new professional
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December 2025
It’s hard to think back on my time at Dollar without immediately thinking of Ms Wei and the energy and enthusiasm she brought to her Mandarin classes. She has a remarkable passion and talent for making what is a notoriously difficult language feel manageable and achievable. Her lessons were always lively, packed with vocabulary. And, of course, no one will forget the infamous Friday afternoon Kahoot! quizzes that always exposed everyone’s competitive sides! Ms Wei had the ability to make every student feel confident and capable, even when grappling with the complex Mandarin characters and pronunciations. Her patience and encouragement inspired me to keep learning Mandarin after leaving school, and I continue to use the language in my everyday life—not least, as I follow in her footsteps as a teacher. One of the defining experiences with Ms Wei was the school exchange trip to Taiwan in 2019. From drinking bubble teas to taking selfies at the top of Taipei 101, it was a trip filled with unforgettable experiences, culture, and laughter. In my final year at Dollar, I took Advanced Higher Mandarin alongside just four other classmates. We all became a close class during this time, and Ms Wei was more than our teacher, she was our mentor and role model. She always went above and beyond, especially during the time of university applications, and I would not be where I am today without her guidance. As Ms Wei begins her new chapter in Shanghai, we want to thank her for her memorable time at Dollar Academy. We wish her all the best in her new adventure and hope that she knows that she will always be remembered by both past and present staff and pupils. 谢谢老师.
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Connie Buchanan (FP 2020)
A warm welcome to the following new staff: DAVID BLACK David Black is delighted to have joined the Modern Languages Department in August, where he teaches German, French and some Spanish. Born and brought up in Fife, David developed a fascination with languages when he first began to learn French at primary school. Moving into secondary school, he added German to his repertoire, and as he progressed through education, he became increasingly captivated by the different sounds and structures of the world’s languages. It is, therefore, unsurprising that David chose to continue his language studies beyond school. He attended St Andrews University, where he specialised in German, but also studied some French and Russian. During his studies, David spent a year abroad working in a German grammar school, an experience which played a fundamental role in his decision to become a teacher. After completing his PGDE at the University of Edinburgh, David taught
at Lochgelly High School and Hamilton College before joining us here at Dollar. Outside of school, David enjoys swimming, exploring new places and being actively involved in his local church. He is also a keen singer and has joined the Academy’s Mixed Voice Choir. He is grateful to his fantastic new colleagues in the Modern Languages Department for their warm welcome; he especially enjoys working in the vibrant atmosphere of the Westwater Building. Having recently moved back to Fife after spending some time in Lanarkshire, David is pleased to be back in familiar territory and looks forward to exciting times ahead at Dollar.
ARETI LYMPEROPOULOU Areti began her career in music as a pianist, music teacher, and choral singer in Patra, western Greece. Her pursuit of musical excellence led her to the principles of Zoltán Kodály, inspiring her to study at the Kodály Institute in Kecskemét, Hungary. There, she earned an Advanced Diploma in Kodály Pedagogy and Choral Conducting with Distinction, under Péter Erdei and Katalin Kiss. She later moved to the UK to complete a Master of Music in Choral Conducting with Paul Spicer at Birmingham Conservatoire. In 2008, Areti relocated to Scotland and earned a PGDE in Secondary Music at the University of Edinburgh. Before joining Dollar Academy, she taught part-time at
Douglas Academy and worked as a piano tutor at Morrison’s Academy. Her experience spans youth and adult choirs, including work as a choral coach for the National Girls’ Choir and two seasons as a Sir Alexander Gibson Fellow with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra Chorus. Currently, Areti also directs the Chansons Chamber Choir in Perth and teaches Musicianship at NYCoS Stirling Regional Choir. She lives in Callander with her husband, two children, and four cats. Passionate about the Scottish outdoors, Areti also enjoys languages, psychology, face and body art, and taekwondo.
December 2025
Mr Mark Christie is delighted to have joined the Business Education Department at Dollar Academy. He brings with him seven years of teaching experience, having taught in Scotland as well as internationally in Thailand and Italy. These varied experiences have given him a broad perspective on education and insights into the diverse ways in which young people learn and achieve. Before his teaching career, Mark spent over eight years working for Microsoft, where he developed extensive experience within the business and technology sectors. Additionally, he worked for Aberdeen Football Club, furthering broadening his professional experience and transferrable skills. He also has a strong interest in archaeology, which has given him an enduring passion for history and culture. Combined with his
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MARK CHRISTIE
academic studies at both the University of Houston and the University of Aberdeen, these experiences allow him to bring rich real-world context to his teaching, helping pupils connect classroom learning with practical applications for the wider world. He has a firm belief that no matter what life and career goals a pupil may have, the Business subjects develop skills essential for success. Mark was drawn to Dollar Academy not only by its outstanding pupils, reputation for high attainment and its beautiful setting, but also by the strong sense of community that characterises the school. He has been touched by the genuinely warm welcome he has received and looks forward to contributing fully to the academic and wider life of the school.
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December 2025
KRISTOFER McKEEVER
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Mr McKeever was delighted to join the Business Education Department at Dollar Academy in August, bringing with him 16 years of teaching experience. He was drawn to Dollar by its outstanding academic reputation and strong sense of community. Since arriving, he has been thoroughly impressed by the hardworking, polite, and respectful pupils, and has been delighted by the warm welcome he has received from colleagues. Originally from County Tyrone in Northern Ireland, Kris holds a combined teaching degree in Business Management from Queen’s University Belfast. During his undergraduate studies, he was awarded a year-long scholarship to St Vincent College and the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, where he specialised in Consumer Financial Behaviour. He later completed a Master’s in International Business Management at Ulster University. In addition to his teaching role, Kris is also a director in his family’s business, which specialises in the design, manufacture, and installation of shop display systems. Outside the classroom, Kris is a keen hillwalker and enjoys climbing Scotland’s Munros and the Lake District’s Wainwrights. He also values a relaxing round of golf on a Sunday afternoon.
CRAIG WILES Craig Wiles joined the EDT Department in August after relocating to Scotland with his family over the summer. He brings experience from his four years as Head of Design and Technology and CCF Contingent Commander at Pangbourne College in West Berkshire. Prior to that, he taught at Bedford Modern School and served as Head of Design and Technology at Strathallan School—where he first became familiar with Dollar and developed a strong desire to work here. Since moving to Scotland, Craig and his wife have taken on the renovation of a Victorian house, which now occupies much of his free time. When he’s not replacing gutters or repairing sash windows, he enjoys football, walking, art, cycling, and DIY—though he admits the latter may have lost some of its appeal midrenovation. A long-standing member of the CCF community, Craig has thoroughly enjoyed getting involved with the CCF programme at Dollar. He looks forward to applying the various qualifications he’s gained over the
years to support cadet activities. He has also embraced boarding life, taking on a House Tutor role in McNabb & Tait, and he values the opportunity to support pupils beyond the classroom. Craig holds a BA in Contemporary Furniture Design and Craftsmanship from Buckinghamshire Chilterns University. Before completing his formal teacher training, he spent a year tutoring young offenders and school excluders—an experience that ultimately inspired him to pursue a career in education.
The New McNabb & Tait Assistant Houseparents: Iain and Lori MacDonald
enjoyed the challenges, the laughter, the late-night chats, and the many small moments that make boarding life so special. It’s a privilege to be part of this community, and we have already enjoyed contributing to the nurturing and supportive atmosphere that makes McNabb & Tait such a special place to live and learn. Iain and Lori MacDonald
December 2025
their growth and wellbeing. We’re particularly excited by the diversity within the House and the opportunity to learn from each pupil’s unique background and perspective. Outside of our professional roles, we are a close-knit family who love spending time together. Music, films, books, and travel are passions we all share, and we are always keen to explore new places and ideas. Whether it’s discovering a new author, enjoying a family walk, or planning our next adventure, we value the moments that bring us closer and help us recharge. Although new to the world of boarding, we have entered it with open hearts and a genuine enthusiasm for what it has to offer. A term in, we have
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We were both absolutely delighted to join the boarding community as Assistant Houseparents of McNabb & Tait, this past spring. This new chapter was one we both eagerly anticipated, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have stepped into such a vibrant and supportive environment. Alongside us on this journey are our son, Harrison, and our miniature dachshund, Mr Beaumont—already popular additions to the House. Harrison, just 17 months old, brings a joyful energy to our daily lives, and we’re excited to see him grow up surrounded by such a caring and dynamic community. He now has a whole host of surrogate big brothers, and we’re looking forward to the day he joins the school roll himself. It’s a unique opportunity for him to be immersed in the rhythms of boarding life from such a young age, and we’re confident it will shape him in wonderful ways. Mr Beaumont, our evercurious and food-loving dachshund, has been enjoying the extra attention from pupils and staff alike. He has quickly figured out that evening suppers are a prime opportunity for scavenging, and he is already becoming something of a House mascot. Certainly, his presence adds a homely touch to the House, bringing comfort and smiles to anyone missing his own pets back at home. Settling into McNabb & Tait has been a truly heartwarming experience. The welcome we’ve received, both from staff and from pupils, has made the transition feel seamless, and we already feel very much at home. As teachers, we’re used to working closely with young people, and we’re passionate about building meaningful relationships that support
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WELCOME TO OUR NEW LANGUAGE ASSISTANTS Andrea Alvarez
My name is Andrea, and I am the school’s new Spanish Assistant this year. As a plurilingual person, language learning has always been a fundamental part of my life. I have grown to love the interconnected nature of languages—despite their apparent differences—and how they reflect the rich diversity of human expression. Through language, I have been exposed to ever-evolving cultures that have profoundly shaped my understanding of the world and the way I engage with others. Moreover, language learning has also given me opportunities to explore new places and connect with people in meaningful ways, fostering interactions that are both authentic and enriching. These experiences have nurtured my empathy, curiosity, and confidence. Beyond personal growth, languages have played a pivotal role in launching my professional journey— they are, in fact, the reason I am here today. I believe that learning languages is not just about mastering grammar or vocabulary—it is about building bridges between people, fostering understanding, and opening a world of opportunities.
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December 2025
Léo Semon
22
I’m Léo, this year’s French Assistant at Dollar Academy. Growing up in Switzerland and living both in the French-speaking region (where I was raised) and also in the Germanspeaking area made multilingualism an important part of my life. Through this experience, I understood that learning languages was not just a linguistic exercise, but rather a gateway to other cultures, opening new ways of seeing the world. Early contact with English came through family ties, and I later chose to study it at university. This allowed
me to explore yet another culture and its productions, considerably broadening my horizons. My being at Dollar Academy this year is a clear example of the opportunities that learning a second language can offer. Languages are not just additional lines on a CV or extra career opportunities; languages provide bridges that enable an understanding of the world and of other people. These are important values in today’s intolerant world.
Nathalie Czaplik
My name is Nathalie, and I am delighted to be the German Assistant at Dollar Academy this year. I’m 25 years old and from Regensburg, Bavaria. At university, I studied English and Music to become a teacher, as I have always been passionate about sharing knowledge and inspiring others. Languages have always been central to my life. I grew up bilingual— German and Polish—before adding English and French at school. During university, an excursion inspired me to begin learning Welsh, and now I am motivated to improve my French and explore Scottish Gaelic. Words are more than a tool for communication: they connect me with people and cultures beyond my own and let
me express myself in ways I never imagined. Experiencing stories, music, and humour in their original language is unparalleled, and languages have helped me form friendships I wouldn’t have otherwise. Sometimes, I feel more comfortable expressing certain ideas in English, as they don’t feel quite right in German. Translation apps can help, but they can never replace connecting and communicating directly with someone in their native language.
It may sound like a cliché, but Paul is truly a marvel, and I was absolutely delighted when I learned that we would be working together this school year. Oozing intelligence and wisdom far beyond his years, Paul somehow manages to balance being reassuringly erudite yet utterly engaging and fun. He would certainly not use his intellect to patronise, and he is always humble about his many successes and achievements. Paul is both thoughtful and considerate, always ready to listen patiently to new ideas and contribute his own, offering encouragement and positivity to those around him. It would be remiss of me to not mention Paul’s endearing oldfashioned streak. He is the sort of person one could imagine donning a nightcap before bed and asking for the powder room, but these quirks only add to his charm and make spending time with him all the more memorable. Beyond his role as Head Boy, Paul has distinguished himself in many areas of school life. On the debating stage, he has represented Dollar Academy with flair and eloquence, travelling across the country to compete in national competitions. Within the
Pipe Band, Paul’s talent and leadership have seem him rise to the position of Pipe Major, an achievement which not only reflects his musical ability, but also the respect he commands among his peers. Paul is also someone who is constantly thinking about others. This year, he spearheaded the concept of a new Staff Appreciation Project designed to acknowledge those members of staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes and too often go unnoticed. It is a thoughtful and inspiring initiative, one that reflects Paul’s character and has the potential to leave a lasting legacy at the school. I am very excited to see what the future holds for Paul. With his diligence and drive, I know he will be incredibly successful in whatever he chooses to do. He really is someone who will go out there and make his mark on the world, and I will always be proud to call him my friend. Zoe M. (Head Girl, Form VI)
December 2025
PAUL M. HEAD BOY
I met Zoe on my first day at Dollar Academy in Form IV. Discreetly, I paced the corridors of Playfair in search of the elusive ‘Captain’s Room’. Fortunately, Zoe knows a stranded sailor when she sees one, and in a manner perfectly suited to the role of School Captain, she kindly navigated me to my English class. What I noticed in Zoe then is, I suspect, what the whole school had long known about her; Zoe is one of those extraordinary people who genuinely looks out for others: not out of duty, but out of the real enjoyment she derives from seeing confidence sprout in those around her. As a hockey player, she brings vitality in times of exhaustion. Musically, Zoe’s clarinet playing and singing have enriched the school’s orchestra and choirs throughout her time in the senior school. A gifted actress, she achieved a perfect score in Advanced Higher Drama when she took this course in Form IV; at least, I’ll have to believe it really was Zoe and not Stella Kowalski herself incarnate in A Streetcar Named Desire! And, true to form, she distinguished herself in the school musical by her exemplary captaining of the dance team through intricate and, dare I say, downright acrobatic sets. The heights of Zoe’s talents transcend even her varied contributions to Dollar Academy life. On early mornings and bustling afternoons, in grand theatres and at Scotland’s finest balls, Zoe dances with prodigious flair. She has performed at Dance World Cup and has earned a distinction in every ballet exam. Her gregarious nature accompanies this pursuit of excellence, making these— and many other demands—seem effortless. Zoe’s most endearing quality, though, is her unassuming charm: a humility arising from her fascination with the daily lives of her peers. Zoe undoubtedly has many more ships to
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ZOE M: HEAD GIRL
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captain. But in due course—whether she’s on stage or the big screen, whether she’s singing, acting or dancing as she sails the high seas—I’ll still remember the time she helped an anxious pupil to class and welcomed him on board the Dollar ship. We wish Zoe auspicious waters and winds for all that lies ahead. Paul M. (Head Boy, Form VI)
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December 2025
ALFIE A. DEPUTY HEAD BOY
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Although Alfie is the youngest member of the Top 6 group, his sense of humour and mature presence often suggest otherwise. His well-known repertoire of jokes—sometimes bordering on the questionable— never fails to bring a smile to those around him. Even when his humour (just occasionally) misses the mark, Alfie’s good-natured self-awareness and ability to laugh at himself make his company both entertaining and refreshing. His cheerful demeanour and infectious smile have a remarkable ability to lift the spirits of others. This is particularly true on those early Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings when he can be found in the Assembly Hall, ready and prepared for the day ahead. His enthusiasm for participation, whether in assemblies or other aspects of school life, is commendable. While his singing voice is still, perhaps, a work in progress, his enthusiasm wins everyone over. Beyond his humour and positive outlook, Alfie’s contributions to school life are extensive. He is a talented and committed sportsman, regularly demonstrating teamwork and perseverance on the rugby pitch
and his dedication to improvement in the gym. Academically, Alfie applies himself with diligence and determination, consistently striving for excellence in all his subjects and setting high standards for his own performance. As we approach our final year together, Alfie enriches our group dynamic in every way possible— whether through his involvement in organising duty prefects or sharing moments of light-hearted laughter when we are all feeling a little overburdened by work. His optimism, work ethic, and ability to connect with others make him a valued member of the school community. Looking ahead, Alfie’s future (in business or any other direction he decides to take) is exceptionally promising. With his sense of humour, resilience, and drive to succeed, he is well equipped to excel in anything he pleases. His combination of intelligence, enthusiasm, and interpersonal warmth will undoubtedly serve him well in the years to come. I’m looking forward to the rest of our last year in school together, and I wish you all the best after Dollar, Alfred! Amy R. (Deputy Head Girl, Form VI)
AMY R.: DEPUTY HEAD GIRL Amy is a compassionate and dynamic individual whose character is defined by kindness, humour, and resilience. She consistently demonstrates strong leadership qualities, guiding others with both confidence and empathy. Amy’s sense of humour brings positivity and cheer to those around
her, while her dependability ensures that she can always be counted on, especially when it comes to the early morning assembly duties. Whether working as part of a team or taking the lead, she approaches each challenge with confidence and leadership, and this can be seen through her impressive contributions to the girls’ rugby team at Dollar. Her athleticism reflects not only physical ability but also discipline, perseverance, and a drive to succeed. She plays a vital role in the rugby team, as she brings her dedication and confidence onto the field to improve herself and the team. The qualities of trust and respect are some of the many reasons why Amy is a joy to work with in the Top 6. She brings humour to every meeting and task, making this difficult job a lot easier to manage—especially in those early-morning meetings when she always makes me laugh, no matter how half-asleep I am. Her creativity and quick thinking often spark new ideas and solutions, keeping our Top 6 team motivated and forward focused. Beyond her leadership, Amy’s genuine care for those around her makes her not just an exceptional teammate, but an even better friend. Looking onward from school, Amy shows amazing potential; we all can agree that Amy is a one-of-a-kind personality who will strive to keep up the high standards that she sets for herself in whatever she chooses to do. On behalf of the entire Top 6, we have enjoyed working with her this term and look forward to continuing to work with Amy over the remainder of session. Alfie A. (Deputy Head Boy, Form VI)
Beatrix C. (Deputy Head Girl, Form VI)
BEATRIX C.: DEPUTY HEAD GIRL Since joining Dollar at the end of Form III, Bea has settled into the community with ease, quickly establishing herself as a cheerful and welcome presence in all circles. When asked her favourite part about Dollar, she said, ‘The hills are nice’, before quickly backtracking to share her appreciation for the people. Bea is also an exceptional academic, and she has shone in both class and contest since her arrival. Despite being unsure of specific post-Dollar prospects, her selection of Advanced Higher Maths, History and Chemistry lays the groundwork for returning to the USA to attend university: an admirable choice, and one that I’m sure will springboard her to greater heights. She also enjoys reading, naming her favourite book series as Ranger’s Apprentice; perhaps she is demonstrating her desire to become a ranger herself by travelling to Patagonian Chile on a school trekking trip this October. Bea is also bilingual, as she speaks Spanish fluently (she used to speak it every day at school), but she insists her fluency has declined
since she came to Dollar. Those on the Patagonia trek, who came to rely upon her translation services, beg to differ. Bea came to Dollar Academy for its Pipe Band, and she is a prominent and integral member of the Juvenile Band, which frequently impresses on the international stage. Currently she is Pipe Sergeant, and she is frequently successful in solo competitions, too. She is a core member of the newfound girls’ rugby team, showcasing her versatility and sporting ability; this interest was perhaps sparked by her experience as a varsity wrestler. She has a wide range of interests, however, and also enjoys pursuing arts and crafts, undertaking many original, even unorthodox, projects. An individual, Bea could never be accused of being predictable or conventional. All of this is evidence of Bea’s aptitude, avidity and drive in so many areas. But what is truly outstanding is her ability to harness and gather all of her strengths—whether academic, social, sporting or other—together into what is her greatest quality: she is a sublimely talented natural leader. I consider it a privilege to work alongside her; she has already proven herself a powerful addition to this team. Does it come as any surprise that Bea has named to be part of the Top 6? No— certainly not to those who know her. Bailey C. (Deputy Head Boy, Form VI)
December 2025
When asked about his favourite part of Dollar, Bailey responded with ‘Well, I guess the buildings are nice.’ Despite this answer, since joining in Junior 1, Bailey has been highly involved in the Dollar community (a community and school that he assures us he does love). It’s no surprise that Bailey is a member of the Top 6—he’s a hardworking academic powerhouse, currently taking Advanced Higher Maths, Mechanics, Physics, and Computer Science. He hopes to study theoretical physics (because physics isn’t hard enough already) and looks to be at the ‘forefront of discovery’. He wants to theorise ideas and devise solutions himself—a reflection of his curiosity and insight. Bailey is not only exceptional in the classroom, but also in cocurricular endeavour. He joined the CCF’s Infantry section in recruits and has come a long way since then, winning the Ochil Cadet Tactical Challenge this past year. He is now an instructor in Advanced Infantry. Affable, humorous, and charismatic, Bailey is respected among the cadets, though his intimidating taekwondo skills may occasionally be employed to control the rowdy kids. Outside of school, Bailey is disciplined and committed to the gym. Do not let his muscles fool you though—he is an old softie when it comes to his tuxedo cat, Gizmo (named after Gremlins)…and all cats, actually. Bailey has always loved reading, a pastime to which he credits his large vocabulary (or, in his own words: his ‘expansive, vast, sprawling, and immense’ vocabulary).
When he’s not cuddling Gizmo or reading the dictionary, you might find Bailey jamming to ACDC or playing chess. Overall, Bailey is an extraordinarily multi-faceted pupil who has contributed much to the Dollar community since he joined; he now continues to do so as a valued member of the Top 6. More importantly, he is a great teammate and friend: someone we are all so lucky to work with this year.
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BAILEY C.: DEPUTY HEAD BOY
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Farewell to the Class of 2025
December 2025
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Welcome to the Class of 2038
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December 2025
McNABB & TAIT
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This term has been an exciting one for McNabb & Tait. We have welcomed several new pupils and staff into the House. It has been great to see how quickly everyone has settled in, with new faces becoming familiar ones and friendships forming across all year groups. As always, the House is a lovely mix of various cultures and languages; there are an incredible 16 nationalities represented this year. The returning boys have done an excellent job of making our new pupils feel at home, and social connections were established very quickly. Laughter frequently echoes down the corridors, and the House has a warm, welcoming atmosphere reflective of the true House spirit that continues to define McNabb & Tait. The highlight of the term was undoubtedly our expedition to Fort William, which presented an amazing bonding experience under the backdrop of the stunning Ben Nevis. After the long drive north, spirits were high as we arrived at our campsite and treated ourselves to a wellearned visit to the local chippy. We spent that evening round the campfire, roasting marshmallows, rock skimming, and sharing memorable stories. The next morning brought the challenge of canyoning which pushed many of the boys far beyond their comfort zones; we tackled jumps of over eight metres into cold Highland waters. Proud, if exhausted, we rounded off the trip with a well-deserved brunch before heading home. At weekends, the boys have enjoyed a wide variety of trips that have helped to strengthen friendships and create memories. We started the term with a competitive House event: ‘It’s a Knockout’. This certainly helped to set the
tone of teamwork and House spirit. The following weekend we visited St Andrews, which gave us all an opportunity to enjoy both a town and beach setting. Many of our boarders had never been there before. Many trips followed over the next several weeks: a day out in Glasgow to play a round of mini golf; a cinema trip to see Jaws: 50th Anniversary; and a lively outing to Murrayfield Ice Rink where the boys enjoyed a high-scoring 5–4 ice hockey game that kept everyone on the edges of their seats. Life within the House has been equally vibrant. The boys have hosted many events such as quiz, poker and karaoke nights, and nights around the firepits. These occasions have strengthened the unity and camaraderie within the House, offering moments of relaxation and enjoyment amid the rigours of the academic term. The commitment from the boys in organising and participating in these events reflects the collective spirit that lies at the heart of McNabb & Tait. The boys have enjoyed hosting the girls’ boarding houses for social events, too: Bingo Night was a particular hit, and the various prizes included a ‘queue skip’ at dinner and a voucher for the Deli. The kitchen can often be busy on a Saturday afternoon, with the ladies helping the boys with some cooking or baking. This term, spaghetti Bolognese and red velvet cake have proven particularly popular. Our boys continue to play a vital role within the wider school community as well, of course, taking on significant positions of leadership and contributing across many aspects of school life. We are extremely proud that this year’s Head Boy is one of our own, reflecting the character, commitment, and values nurtured within the House. On the
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Hal S. (Head of House, Form VI)
December 2025
sporting front, our boys represent the school at the highest levels, with strong involvement in the 1st XV rugby team, the 1st XI football team, and the 1st basketball team. Beyond this, the House boasts athletes of exceptional calibre, including both a national cricketer and rugby player. Our presence extends across a broad range of disciplines, with McNabb & Tait boys excelling in skiing, curling, golf, badminton, Ultimate frisbee, debating and more. As I write, we are all looking ahead to the next half of term, eager for a number of exciting events on the boarding calendar. Among these are the Boarders’ Ceilidh and the House Turn, both of which will showcase the strong McNabb & Tait spirit. Preparations for the House Turn are already underway, with the boys working collaboratively to deliver a memorable musical performance. Competing against the girls’ Houses, the boys look to retain the trophy for a third year in a row. Trips to the pantomime, Murrayfield Stadium for international rugby and our annual trip to the Edinburgh Christmas Market are always highly anticipated trips. Overall, this term has been an excellent demonstration of all that is finest in McNabb & Tait. There is no doubt that the House is a home away from home for us, and the memories that we create together will last forever. We are extremely proud of our boys, all of whom represent the House at an exceptional level.
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INTRODUCING THE BOARDING HEADS AND DEPUTIES
In this edition, for the first time, we would like to formally introduce our readers to the seven senior pupils appointed to important leadership posts in the boarding houses. Each House has a Head and Deputy Head (two Deputies in the case of McNabb & Tait). These appointed pupil leaders of House life help to keep the boarding house feeling like home; they set a friendly, welcoming tone; they organise fun activities; and they help to look out for everyone.
MCNABB & TAIT Deputy Head of House: Alex M.
Originally from Dundee, Alex M. (Form VI) joined the House at the start of Form V. Since then, he has become an extremely important and valued member of the boarding community. His humorous character allows him to connect easily with others and establish strong boarding friendships that will last a lifetime. He represents the House through his strong commitment to co-curriculars, most notably the 1st XI football team, where he is known for his rapid pace and techy left foot. On the pitch, Alex brings a calm head and natural leadership, qualities that carry through into his role as Deputy Head of House. His positive attitude and lively presence unfailingly lighten the mood, regardless of how long the day has been. He will always maintain a legacy within the House for his garden football ‘50s’ as he likes to call them. Alex wishes to study Business Management at a Scottish university once he leaves school. This comes as no surprise given his effective communication skills and his creativity when organising events and managing responsibilities within the House. Christian S.-W. and Hal S. (both Form VI)
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Deputy Head of House: Christian S.-W.
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Christian has been a dedicated and valued member of McNabb & Tait since joining in Form V. As a proud German national, he remains deeply connected to his roots and brings a unique international spirit to the boarding community. Through his time at Dollar, Christian has distinguished himself both academically and athletically. He has delivered superb performances in the Cross Country Championships, placing an impressive 3rd in Form V and 3rd again in Form VI. Beyond his running, Christian has consistently pursued excellence in his Ultimate frisbee career; he has always been a committed member of the House Tug o’ War team, and, most notably, he plays a stellar game of golf. He is now the vice-captain of the legendary Dollar Golf team. He claims to
hit the ball ‘300’ (but no one has yet witnessed this feat.) Christian plans to study PPLE (Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics) in Europe. Given his talent for spirited debate, this is no surprise to anyone that knows him. When asked about his favourite time in the house, he said, ‘Without a doubt, Christmas time.’ He fondly recalls the laughter, late-night conversations, and sense of family that always define those festive weeks. This session, he is an important figure as Deputy Head of House, a position in which he has shown strong leadership and reliability. Hal S. and Alex M. (both Form VI)
Head of House: Hal S.
Since Hal joined the school and our boarding house halfway through Form III, he has made a lasting impact on the people around him. He has always been a true all-rounder in sports, excelling across many disciplines due to his athleticism and determination. But, he has met with the greatest success in football. He joined the school team in Form IV, and from then on he has always played for the 1st team, playing a crucial role in their victories. This earned him the role of captain this year, leading the team through both Cup and League. He has always performed with excellence in the classroom as well, showing great discipline and a resilient work ethic. All of these traits allowed him to become the Head of McNabb & Tait, where he overcomes challenges daily and works very hard to create an incredible experience for every boy in the House. Throughout his time with us, Hal has enjoyed the social aspects—the various House activities, particularly in combination with the other boarding houses. His future shines bright. He has his eyes set on university, and his path seems clear. Hal is keen to use his broad skillset to study PPE, a challenging course including Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. We are sure he will succeed, as he has shown over his years in Dollar that he has what it takes to accomplish his goals, and this will take him far in life. Alex M. and Christian S.-W.
December 2025
Life in Heyworth simply can’t be put into words—but I’ll try. The first weeks of this year were filled with energy, laughter, and a strong sense of community as we welcomed back familiar faces and greeted 11 new girls to our House; they have come to us from as far away as the USA and as near as Liverpool. We also welcomed some new staff: Miss Emily Hill, a Chemistry teacher, has stepped in as our Wednesday night House Tutor. Emilie and Bridget have joined us as Assistant House Staff members, helping to run and support the House over the weekends. Both are required to fill the boots of Liz Hamilton, who leaves Heyworth after over 30 years of dedication to Dollar Academy’s boarding community–truly remarkable. Both Emilie and Bridget have settled in easily, and their presence has already made a noticeable difference in the House. The first weekend set the tone for the weeks of fun (and some hard work, too!) ahead. The social events kicked off with ‘speed socialising’: a much-loved annual boarding tradition where we met boarders from the other Houses and shared interesting facts about one another. Saturday brought even more laughter as we played icebreakers and games to help the new girls settle in. On Sunday, all the boarders took part in ‘It’s a Knockout’, a team-based tournament that brought everyone together to tackle challenges and compete for first place while having loads of fun. That evening, McNabb & Tait hosted a delicious barbecue where everyone
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HEYWORTH
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could unwind and look forward to more such weekends: the perfect end to a few fun-filled days. As I write, it’s only a few weeks into term, but there has never been a dull moment. Trips to Edinburgh and St Andrews have given us time to explore Scottish culture, enjoy the scenery, and—most importantly—do some shopping. But the highlight of the term so far has been our House Expedition. This year, we set off to the quaint town of Dunkeld. After setting up our tents and grabbing a quick bite, we travelled to Kenmore to take part in some water activities on Loch Tay. Some girls stayed dry with gentle kayaking, while others were perhaps more adventurous in trying out giant paddleboarding. A few brave souls jumped straight in, making full use of the water trampoline and embracing the icy chill of the loch. Exhausted, we returned to Dunkeld for a hearty meal before gathering around the campfire. We shared spooky stories, played a few competitive rounds of Imposter, and managed to burn at least ten marshmallows before finally settling down for the night. Throughout the term, we’ve enjoyed spending time with fellow boarders from the other Houses. Frequent movie nights at Argyll have been a great way to relax and bond, while McNabb & Tait have continued to be the life of the party—hosting quiz nights for Forms V and VI and always offering plenty of games and activities for everyone on Friday nights. This year, I have the immense pleasure of working alongside Catharina R. (Deputy Head of House, Form VI) to make everyone’s year in Heyworth as memorable and special as possible. Balancing academics and relaxation can
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be a challenge, but there is a strong tradition in Heyworth of supporting one another through the tough times. I know that this year will be no different. As we look ahead to the rest of the term and beyond, there will surely be more adventures, more laughter, and many more memories made. Michelle A (Head of House, Form VI)
INTRODUCING THE HEAD AND DEPUTY HEAD OF HEYWORTH HOUSE Head of House: Michelle A.
Michelle A. (Form VI) joined Heyworth last year, in Form V, having moved down from Aberdeen, and she has quickly made her mark within the school community. Her work ethic is truly unparalleled—when Michelle sets her mind to something, she will achieve it. A driven and determined individual, she applies the same focus to her academics that she does to life beyond the classroom. Michelle aspires to study Medicine after school, a goal that perfectly reflects her ambition and determination to succeed. When not studying, Michelle can most often be found on the netball court or rugby field, where her energy and competitive spirit stand out.
ARGYLL This year brings another new chapter for Argyll House, and it appears to be a vigorous one with every member bringing a unique spirit to this place we all call home. We have been lucky to welcome all of the returners, along with 11 new girls this year. The start of the term was very exciting with the traditional firepit and s’mores, some loud music and many hours spent simply getting to know each other. All of our new boarders have adjusted well to their new environment and their personalities have gradually emerged. Tilda M. (Form IV) was certainly the first to come out of her shell (on Day Two), and she has lived up to first impressions ever since: ever-bubbly, funny and open-minded. Along with the girls’ characters, their numerous talents have also been revealing themselves. Tunes of many genres can be heard in the showers, of course, but also around the corridors and rooms of the House; Jodie M. (Form V) and Jessica C. (Form IV) are the most famous harmonising duo, ably accompanied by Laura L. (Form V) or Sydney B. (Form IV) on piano. Francesco C. (Form V) has left us speechless with their incredible artistic abilities, and they have managed to explore more of Scotland in the past couple of weeks than most of us
December 2025
Catharina R. (Form VI) joined Heyworth last year, initially planning to stay for just one year. But, having thrown herself wholeheartedly into life at Dollar, she has chosen to complete her schooling here. She has been a priceless addition to Heyworth House and to the wider school community, known for her ever-present smile and positive outlook. Passionate about sport—especially golf—Catharina is always ready for a conversation about the game. Her commitment and enthusiasm for the school’s golf programme were duly rewarded, as she rightly earned the Golf Club captaincy this year. Academically, she is an industrious and enthusiastic pupil, approaching her studies with diligence and curiosity. With a keen interest in chemistry, she hopes to pursue further study and research in the field—her dream being to study Medical Chemistry, ideally in Sweden or the Netherlands. As will be apparent, Catharina truly epitomises what it means to be a boarder at Dollar. It is hard to think of another individual who shows such genuine care and support for the other girls in the house.
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Deputy Head of House: Catharina R.
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have in a couple of years. Whilst some enjoy working early in the morning, you will see many lights on after dark too— mostly Elene K. (Form VI) and Lina T. (Form V), making sure they are on top of their work at all times (having tried very hard, in vain, not to chat their way through study sessions!). We have enjoyed lots of fun away from the House, too, on weekend trips. There were opportunities to test who could survive the horrors of camping (never mind make sense of the instructions about how to set up a tent), made somewhat more pleasant with the addition of live music and scary stories. Other trips gave the girls opportunities to visit Edinburgh and St Andrews, which were thrilling; we loved the historical buildings and atmosphere of both. Our most recent trip to go karting proved that some of the girls should never be allowed on actual roads (some serious road rage was evident). Our funniest members of the house, Olivia T. and Amelia M. (both Form III) are an (in)famous duo who inevitably offer the best comebacks in any conversation. They are also, along with Verity F. (Form VI), very fine hockey players, representing the school in matches every week. We are so glad to see the football team expanding this year (the pitches are right outside our door), and many girls come along every Friday (inspired by Liana P.). Rugby is also popular in Argyll, and the girls practise their tackling skills frequently, coached by Emily G. (Form IV). Other than playing team sports, some girls (like Fifi E. [Form IV]) prefer to stay physically active by swimming or through nightly gym visits (Verity H.F. [Form V]). We are happy once again to have a golfer representing us on the school team, Charlotte J. (Form V) She also loves to take Bo, our dog, for daily walks. The legacy of D&D lives on with new members joining the weekly sessions including Nika. L (Form IV) and Katya M. (Form V). The House would not be the same without our youngest members, who bring the most energy and light up everyone’s faces: Flynn H., Gavi O.(both Form I) and Elise S. (Form II).
As we approach Christmas, we are looking forward to the Boarders’ Ceilidh, feeling certain that the House Turn Cup will come home with us: exactly where it belongs! We certainly plan to be as competitive and creative as ever (with maybe a little mischief thrown in). Elene K. and Liana P. (Deputy Head of House and Head of House, both Form VI)
INTRODUCING THE HEAD AND DEPUTY HEAD OF ARGYLL HOUSE Deputy Head of House: Elene K.
Ever since joining Dollar Academy in Form V, Elene has shown impressive skill and courage in everything she does. She starts her day with a speedy walk up the driveway to school, underscoring the exact person she is: determined and ready to take on any of the challenges the new day might bring. Whether it’s singing Chappell Roan or welcoming the whole House into her small room, Elene is always kind, ready for a chat, supportive, keen to ensure other people are on top of their work and open minded about trying new things—whether that’s Gold DofE or taking an alpaca for a walk. You never know what Elene might be up to. She could be studying at 2am, deepening her knowledge of law; practising witchcraft; playing amazing tunes on the bass guitar; or comparing the work of Agatha Christie and Edgar Allan Poe. Despite having numerous interests outside of school, Elene is also an academic force to be reckoned with; she achieved all As in her subjects last year and was awarded the Classics Subject Award. By impressing all her teachers, making new friends easily and quietly managing to be on top of absolutely everything she does, she swiftly became an unforgettable and essential member of our House. There truly is not one negative side to Elene, which is why she was appointed to the role of Deputy Head of Argyll House. In this post, her commitment, enthusiasm, and leadership have been evident; everything is done on time and with a smile. No matter where her journey takes her next, I am confident that Elene will strive for excellence in everything she does, and I know, beyond any doubt, that she has a very bright future ahead of her. Liana P. (Head of Argyll, Form VI)
studies all day and night to satisfy her thirst for knowledge. Alongside her academic pursuits, however, Liana’s life outside of school is equally fascinating. Whether she is away running at seven in the morning or surfing in the evening, her hobbies (which I have lost count of) could not be listed in the short space available here. She is invested in many creative pursuits, like painting, while various genres of music echo from her room; she also knits her own accessories and is ever devising peculiar (yet effective) ways to keep the House in order. Above all, though, she is supportive of the people around her. She is responsible in her approach to her duties, whether it be responsibilities dictated by the House or her own personal expectations. It can sometimes be hard to find where she is (her presence pervades Argyll), but she may be cooking in the kitchen or hosting gatherings in the backyard. And the door of her room is always open to the girls and the staff. The amount of work Liana puts into bringing the boarding community together and helping others to make the best of the Dollar experience portrays clearly what an excellent leader she is. Her kind, ambitious, and adventurous personality (combined with her intellectual prowess and artistic interests) is what makes her a remarkable individual who has already left a lasting impact on Argyll life. She will surely leave such an impact anywhere she goes in the future, regardless of what part of the world her brilliance takes her. Elene K. (Deputy Head of House, Form VI)
December 2025
Argyll House is rich with inspirational individuals, each of whom have a great impact upon our community, but it is unimaginable to write about boarding without mentioning Liana. P. I was privileged to have been her roommate last year, and I learned that she is, firstly, an outstanding student whose achievements exceed all expectations; she won the Hopper Award for Excellence in Computing Science and she
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Head of House: Liana P. (Form VI)
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PREP 1:
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THE WORLD OF DINOSAURS
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Prep 1 learned all about dinosaurs during the first halfterm of session. A surprise package from a palaeontologist contained some dinosaur eggs which the young explorers carefully looked after, watching them change and finally hatch into colourful baby dinosaurs. The children explored the different habitats that the prehistoric creatures lived in, and they learned about the differences between the many dinosaurs, as well as discovering a lot of interesting facts about their diets. Measuring the biggest dinosaur that ever lived on Earth was certainly something that the children looked forward to in the playground, and having an opportunity to create their own dinosaur habitat added so much enjoyment to a busy time in topic lessons. Making their own fossils and drawing their own dinosaurs was fun, too! Monika Harewood and Laura O’Sullivan
And the children said:
‘I enjoyed working as a team to paint the pterodactyl.’ -Aodhan
‘I loved measuring my dinosaur in the playground.’ -Evie
‘I liked making homes for our pet dinosaurs the best.’ -Luna
‘We were drawing the dinosaurs on the tarmac to see how tall they were. Brachiosaurus was the tallest one, and it was Mrs Harewood’s.’ -Alexander
‘I liked making my dinosaur picture in Art with Mr MacDermot and Mrs Mitchell.’ -Hannah
‘I enjoyed watching "Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures" and learning more facts about dinosaurs.’ -Jessica
‘I liked making my diplodocus pasta dinosaur.’ -Orla ‘I liked painting the large diplodocus. I painted the spikes orange.’ -Kiaan
December 2025
‘I liked making a pterodactyl with a peg and colourful wings. I coloured mine purple.’ -Sid
‘I liked listening to the dinosaur story books after lunch. My favourite are the "Harry and the Dinosaur" books.' -Adaline
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‘I loved looking at the eggs when they were hatching. It took a long time!’ -Honor
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JUNIOR 2 MUSICAL: SHREK JR Bringing the Swamp to Life
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‘Get ready to journey to a faraway kingdom where things aren’t quite as they seem…’
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One chilly December afternoon in 2024, the Junior 2 classrooms buzzed with curiosity. A series of cryptic clues were read out, and excited pupils began to guess what the 2025 Junior 2 Musical might be. ‘Expect a story full of twists, turns…and layers.’ ‘Look out for a fire-breathing character with a talent for singing and a fairytale favourite who may be short- (very short-) tempered…’ It was the final clue, however, the one about ‘a green protagonist’, that ultimately revealed the answer, and a loud chorus of ‘Shrek!’ filled the room. And so began months of preparation as pupils stepped into the magical, muddy world of Shrek, Fiona, and the Kingdom of Duloc. By opening night, on 11 June 2025, all 80 pupils in the year group were on stage in the Assembly Hall playing their part in bringing the story to life. An extraordinary 72
pupils had auditioned, and had there been main roles for everyone, there would certainly have been talent enough to fill them. The performances were packed with energy, and the stage came alive with colourful costumes, clever set design, ambitious choreography and toe-tapping musical numbers. From the hilarious antics of Shrek and Donkey to Fiona’s heartfelt solos, from Lord Farquaad’s dramatic flair to the ensemble’s rousing ‘Freak Flag’ and ‘I’m A Believer’, the cast had the audience laughing, clapping, and cheering every night. Backstage, pupils ensured that every Duloc wig, every ogre ear and every castle wall was in the right place at the right time. Their behind-the-scenes work was every bit as impressive as the onstage performances; the smooth transitions and precise placement of props and scenery testified to the dedication of all involved.
December 2025
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More than just a show, Shrek Jr was a celebration of individuality, friendship, and finding strength in being yourself. It was many pupils’ first time performing in front of such a large, live audience—they more than rose to the occasion. The true team effort—with every pupil playing a part and incredible contributions from departments across the school—made for a magical experience, full of memories to be cherished for many years to come. A huge thank-you must go to the staff, parents, and volunteers who supported the production. But, of course, the biggest thank-you must go to the Junior 2 pupils who reminded us all that being different is something to celebrate…and that even ogres can have their happily ever after. Katie O’Hanlon
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YOUNG ENTERPRISE ENDEAVOUR: ‘A Truly Rewarding Journey’
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Daniel Riley and Jamie Oldham were in Form VI last session. Here, they describe their experience of taking part in Young Enterprise.
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Last year, a growing interest in entrepreneurship inspired us to take part in the Young Enterprise co-curricular programme, where we founded our own small business: Dollar Snoods. Our journey began in early October, when we were given the opportunity to establish and run an enterprise of our own. After a few days of brainstorming ideas and carrying out market research, we settled on the concept of producing custom-embroidered neck warmers. With so many pupils involved in sport, we identified a gap in the market: snoods are not only practical, but also a safer alternative to scarves. We also hoped that, in time, our products might appeal to external businesses as well. The first challenge was finding a suitable supplier. From the outset, it was important to us that they were both domestic and environmentally responsible. Once that was secured, we moved on to product design and raising the finances needed to begin manufacturing. Two prototypes later, we had created a final design that we were proud of, and we successfully negotiated loans from various sources to get our idea off the ground. By November, production was underway. When the first batch arrived, we set up distribution, launched an online pre-order system, and organised sales stalls around the school during lunchtimes and after school.
Encouraged by this initial success, we decided to expand our operations by reaching out to external companies, including Highland Spring and Gleneagles. This stage of the journey taught us valuable lessons: business involves not only successes, but also setbacks. For example, despite early interest, our discussions with Gleneagles did not progress. However, we were delighted when Highland Spring placed a bulk order. We personally delivered the snoods to its headquarters and even had the chance to meet the operations manager. Thanks to strong sales, we were able to donate £250 of our profits to the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, a charity we had committed to supporting from the outset. This led to an unforgettable opportunity to meet the riders of the My Name’5 Doddie cycling tour, where we donated snoods to help keep them warm. We spoke with several former Scottish rugby players about our venture, and we even met world record-holding cyclist Mark Beaumont, who kindly agreed to film a marketing video for us. Looking back, our final year at Dollar Academy was made even more memorable through participation in this Young Enterprise experience. We are extremely grateful to everyone who supported us along the way, and we would strongly encourage any pupils considering the programme in the future to get involved: you will learn so much, and the journey is truly rewarding. Daniel Riley and Jamie Oldham (now both FPs 2025)
Claire Brownbridge
December 2025
National 5 Design and Manufacture pupils demonstrated their creative and practical skills during the Design Assignment element of their course. Last session’s pupils chose their brief from a set selection and respond with an eight-page design folio that illustrated their journey from the initial brief to a final plan for manufacture, before producing their final design proposal. Last session, Robert C., Katie N., Ben T., and Esme K. (then Form IV) elected to create retro-themed achievement holders to display awards or items the user felt proud of. Esme took inspiration from retro telephones; Robert from a television; and Katie and Ben based their work on retro iconography and the outdoors. Adam P. and Edward A. (then Form IV) both designed freestanding products: Adam’s was designed to hold gaming equipment, and Edward’s would be used to organise cooking utensils. His lava lamp-inspired design met the retro theme perfectly!
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EDT DEPARTMENT NEWS
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Congratulations to all our certificate winners, and to all those who took part in each of the challenges. In March a team of four Form I and II pupils took part in the UKMT Team Maths Challenge held at Loretto School; they enjoyed a full day of mathematical challenges alongside pupils from schools all over central Scotland.
MATHEMATICAL CHALLENGES Pupils in the Maths Department participated in several competitions throughout the session, both in individual and in team competitions, with many excellent performances.
Scottish Maths Challenge results 2024-25: Gold 8 Silver 1 Our award winners were presented with their prizes at a ceremony at the University of St Andrews.
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December 2025
UK Maths Trust results 2024-25:
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Junior Intermediate (FI and II) (FIII and IV)
Senior (FV and VI)
Gold
8
5
1
Silver
25
27
14
Bronze
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At the start of the new school session, the Maths Department launched the new Puzzle of the Month competition which is open to pupils in all year groups. There were 169 entries for the first puzzle in September, which asked pupils to guess the lowest whole number that they thought no one else would choose. The winning number was 5: surprisingly low. Catherine Childs
Aquileia might not be a place you have ever heard of. However, say you wanted to visit this Italian town—how would you get there? This summer, I took a plane, a train and then a bus to complete my journey—landing, finally, at the side of a road inside this ancient town. For a traveller a couple thousand years ago, however, the journey would have been very different. This may seem obvious, as there weren’t nearly as many forms of transport then, and
December 2025
The Macnaughton Classics Travel Award is open to any pupil who has taken a classical subject (Latin or Classical Studies) at Higher level. The recipient undertakes a trip to a classical site with a specific writing project in mind. In 2025, the award was presented to two exceptional candidates: Mia K. and Ruby L. (both then Form V). Edited versions of their reports follow.
Aquileia: A Crossroads and a Melting Pot
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THE MACNAUGHTON CLASSICS TRAVEL AWARD 2025
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certainly none as fast as ours, but that did not mean that people in the ancient world did not travel. In fact, Aquileia proves that people absolutely did. Aquileia is positively overflowing with archaeological finds; its museums, in fact, are running out of space to house them. While many of these artefacts have their provenance there or in other parts of Italy, there are also hundreds of pieces that originally came from all over the world. Back when Aquileia was first established, it was a military fort, but it very quickly became a port town, its large river acting as a harbour. This port is the reason for its exponential growth, so much so that it is even called the mother city of Rome, a sign of the great importance it once held. It was, in fact, the only other city in Italy (outside of Rome) to have its own currency. Aquileia lay at the crossroads of trade between mainland Europe and the Mediterranean, becoming the capital of the north and, thus, extremely wealthy. It was a place many merchants travelled to, and when they travelled, they brought their goods with them. They brought perishables, such as grains and wines, but they also brought fine jewellery and even amber from the Baltic. Along with these goods, they also brought slightly more frivolous things: much like souvenirs we might look for today. Some of the best evidence we have for these global interactions, however, are religious items. When people travel, they bring their religions with them, introducing their beliefs to those they encounter along the way. The two main religious cults whose relics have been found in Aquileia were from the cult of Isis (originating in Egypt) and the cult of Mithras (very popular among soldiers and sailors, as those were the people he was said to protect). Both cults were very widespread and popular throughout Italy; they were also present in Rome, and their very existence in Aquileia proved the large impact that trade had. Aquileia was a cultural melting pot, bringing together many ways of life, many languages, and many people, who all mingled with one another—not dissimilar to many places in the world today. So perhaps next time you buy a silly little souvenir or undertake a long, stressful journey to reach a new country, you may remember your similarity to the people of Aquileia who lived thousands of years before you and made very similar journeys.
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Mia K. (now Form VI)
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THE ACROPOLIS OF LINDOS: A Walk Through History Perched high above the sun-bleached village of Lindos, on the Greek island of Rhodes, sits the Acropolis of Lindos: a destination that feels as timeless as the myths that surround it. The ancient hilltop citadel boasts ruins from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and medieval periods, but its main highlight is the Temple of Athena Lindia which was built around 300BC. Athena, protector of Lindos and daughter of Zeus, was the Greek goddess of wisdom, war, and strategy. The Acropolis is built on a 116m rocky hilltop with stunning views of the deep-blue Aegean Sea and the famous St Paul’s Bay. To get from the taxi dropoff point to the site, I trailed through a white stone maze of little twisting roads. Cars are not allowed in the village of Lindos, so you explore by foot or (the more traditional way) upon the back of a donkey, winding through cobbled alleys apparently untouched by time. I spent countless hours wandering
been drawn to this place by the same sense of awe and inspiration. Ruby L. (now Form VI)
December 2025
of Lindos to Athena. The whole speaks powerfully of the sacred. The ruins surrounding the temple tell tales of time: from the grand staircase of the Hellenistic Propylaea—a fitting entrance to the site—to the remnants of a Roman stoa, a covered walkway and gathering place for visitors. The Acropolis is a scene of civilisations layered on top of one another; it whispers a sense of pride and hints at the hard work of mankind throughout time. The Acropolis of Lindos is not just a monument. It’s an immersive experience. You walk among its ruins and along its paths, gazing out across the Aegean, and you can hear countless footsteps echo—the footsteps of pilgrims, warriors, lovers, and travellers who, throughout time, have all
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around the village—absorbed by its unique charms, distracted by the innumerable cats underfoot—before beginning my ascent to the Acropolis. Up the steep stone steps I went as the scorching Greek sun beamed upon my back and salty sweat trickled down my face. The climb itself felt like a passage through centuries. Remnants of ancient walls and scattered stone hint at what lies ahead. At the top, the Acropolis unfolds in layers—each stone and structure tells a different chapter of history. Dominating the site is the temple of Athena Lindia. Though only a few columns of the grand structure remain standing, their elegance is undeniable. The sheer grandeur, a reminder of the devotion of the people
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WANDERING FARTHER, PONDERING HARDER:
The Joys of Studying Latin at Dollar Academy In writing his Advanced Higher Latin dissertation, Paul researched the lesser-explored topic of the agricultural land reforms of the Roman Republic. It was titled: 'Sowing Decay: To what extent were the latifundia in the late Roman Republic necessary or detrimental?' Paul researched and explored this topic in a uniquely interesting manner, and his dissertation received full marks from the SQA. He also entered his piece to the Julia Wood History Essay Competition (a prestigious annual competition run by St Hugh's College, Oxford), where he was named runner-up out of an impressive 700 entries. The judges praised him for going beyond undergraduate-level research in his work.
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December 2025
If my piece in last session’s summer edition of The Galley moved any from dismissal of Latin as a subject to dangling on the edge of indecision, I should like to take this opportunity to persuade them of one final reason to study Latin: you are at Dollar Academy, a very fine institution at which to do so. To the extent that I have been motivated and enabled to perform well in Latin, I owe a debt of gratitude to the dedicated magistras or Classics teachers of P30. Miss Greig, Ms Luxton and the late Mrs Lumsden, who, of course, exert a deft command over both linguistic and literary Latin knowledge in each lesson. More meaningful than this, however, is the passion and good humour with which they pass such knowledge on to their pupils. This, then, was a conspicuous benefit of taking Latin to Advanced Higher when I was choosing my subjects. Less assuring, however, was the spectre of writing an independent Latin dissertation. Having written one, I now appreciate that all tasks—even the seemingly monstrous—are surmountable with a good plan.
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The first stage of this plan was determining a title: the question my dissertation would attempt to answer. Mrs Lumsden talked us through a diverse list of possibilities and encouraged us to explore further in our own time. Eventually, I settled on an investigation of the latifundia, the large agricultural estates that came to dominate the Roman countryside during the late Republic. Some charged them with the decay of Rome itself; others strenuously defended them as principally just. Whatever the case, the issue of their reform prompted the first Roman political assassination. My curiosity captive, I began to read. Ironically, getting the ‘lie of the land’ on the historiography of Roman land was unexpectedly difficult, but, with persistence, the historical arguments revealed themselves, through the consultation of multiple sources. This proved a most rewarding part of the process. Crafting my own line of argument took me between Latin historical treatises and the remains of a mountain formed from discarded olive-oil containers, between modern interpretations of Roman military policy and ancient lyric poetry. Throughout, my teachers encouraged me to explore these disparate windows into history and, through our language lessons, I gained the requisite skills with which to handle the Latin I incorporated into my dissertation. By this point, the arduous research had been largely completed, and, when writing, I relished the opportunity to defend my claims and share the fruits of my expanded thinking. I here describe this learning, thinking and writing process because, although by the nature of SQA dissertations this was largely independent, it was thanks to the thoughtful, well-placed support of my magistras that I so enjoyed the challenge. As the knowledge of a certain home empowers one to wander farther, so the knowledge of capable, interested teachers empowers a pupil to ponder harder.
Paul M. (Form VI)
THE FORM I LANGUAGE AND LANDSCAPE DAY 2025
Heather Moore
December 2025
In response, people like writer Robert Macfarlane suggest ‘hoarding little-known words that celebrate our environment’, arguing that ‘we won’t protect what we don’t love.’ The Dollar Academy English and Geography Departments agree wholeheartedly. Our annual ‘Language and Landscape Day’ is now an established event on the Form I calendar. On 21 May last session, every Form I pupil spent the day outside in the landscapes around Dollar. The aims: to delight in being outdoors, to look and listen with attention, to ‘re-wild’ our language. It is, of course, also well established that time spent outdoors is deeply beneficial for children's mental health and wellbeing, whilst developing their confidence, motivation, communication and social skills. That day, the Conservation Volunteers told us about the trees that grow on the banks of the Devon. In a creative activity, tree names branched out into characters and narratives about their arboreal lives. The pupils learned (from their English and Geography teachers) to name river and cloud features by studying the Dollar Burn and the Devon, or by gazing up at the skies above the Ochils. They bounced laser beams to take the temperature of the clouds, counted oktas and improvised curious stories about cumulus and lenticular shapes above them. Amanda Edmiston, a Scottish storyteller, told us stories about swans and nettle shirts whilst brewing nettle tea for us to taste. Over the course of the day, pupils built up their own ‘word hoards’. At the end of the day, the children came together in groups to create collaborative poems using their favourite new nature words.
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A 2016 research paper by Cambridge University conservationists found that 'Eight- to eleven-year-old schoolchildren were "substantially better" at identifying common Pokemon characters than common species of British wildlife... This retreat of both knowledge and experience of nature has corresponded with a drastic loss of species and habitat in Britain and beyond.’
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DOLLAR BURNS CLUB WRITING COMPETITION 2025 The Dollar Burns Club Writing Competition took place again this year, featuring categories for Junior 2 and Form II pupils, as well as an Open category for all other pupils. Participants were invited to write on the prompt: ‘Audacious, Fortuitous, Inimitable’, inspired by the senior school’s Word of the Week project. This year’s judging panel included teachers Jennifer Sloan, Frances Mackie and Iain MacDonald; local author Keith Broomfield; and representatives from The Wee Bookshop, Carly Penderis and Jo McKie. Prizes were generously donated by the Dollar Burns Club and The Wee Bookshop. Their involvement added a layer of significance and warmth, emphasising how much they believe in nurturing our young writers. The judges commended the impressive quality of each submission. They spoke of writing that was beautiful, imaginative, and evocative; pieces that were raw, honest, and deeply moving; words that were brave, bold, mature, and powerfully heartfelt. We are fortunate to have such extraordinary writers within Dollar Academy—young minds capable of shaping, moving, and inspiring us all with their daring words.
Results of the 2025 Competition
Dollar Academy Junior School (Junior 2) First Place: Issy K. Second Place: Edward H. Highly Commended: Rohan N.
Dollar Academy Open Category First Place: Alfie A. (then Form V) Second Place: Iris S. (then Form I) Highly Commended: Emma G. (then Form IV) Jennifer Sloan
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December 2025
‘The Light at the End of the Tunnel’ This is the story of peace and good times. This is the story of the darkest rhymes. When push comes to shove and bad comes to worse, when the good times let bad always place first. You want to fill a canvas with paint, and ink a picture, dull and quaint. Maybe there are people running through the streets, possibly a seagull squawking as he eats. People shouting, cars honking. Also, it’s raining, the drops plonking down on car bonnets, the roofs and the houses. No one dares go out and soak their smart blouses. Then, all of a sudden, a moment: pure bliss. So peaceful it feels like the warmest of kiss. White flowing gently, painting the scene; Something that changes what this picture means.
Dollar Academy Form II First Place: Pippa R. Second Place: Lucy M. Highly Commended: Elliot C.
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Winner of the Junior School Category:
No longer raining, misty or dark, but fresh and crisp, a walk in the park. Silence is upon this small town of dread; a feeling wafts over like untangling a thread. With buildings and car parks all a-glow, this is the story of life when it snows. Issy K. (then Junior 2)
Winner of the Form II Category:
‘Not Vermeer’ ‘Only the experts are worth fooling. The greater the expert, the greater the satisfaction in deceiving him.’ -Eric Hebburn Well, this is an unexpected gallery: a gallery of broken dreams, a gallery that isn’t mine. The weapon of most people’s choice is a gun, but mine is a paintbrush, each stroke like a bullet, each painting a gun shot. A trial of treason, turned forgery, turned traitor, turned national hero. Disregarded, forsaken by the critics, nothing but an imitation, an idea. ‘All rise.’ ‘Nothing special, nothing unique, nothing but a mediocre painter. Shows promise, but no individuality.’ Nothing but an act: Not Vermeer. ‘With time he may improve…’ Cut from the art programme, a nobody, no achievement. No name.
Down the backstreets of Nice lay a shop with shelves of dusty paint cans in shades vermillion to kermes red. Fabrics of silk and satin lay draped across the walls. The hours I searched, scrutinising each and every canvas I could lay my hands on. When I saw it: a genuine 17th-century canvas. Only 16 francs.
The battle began. A canvas my battleground. The antagonists, the critics— one by one, I tore them down with each painting. And now I have all I want in one painting. Watch me. The unearthly colours, each stroke, my story. Now I have all I wanted in life: Fame. Recognition. Inimitable. This poem is based on the audacious life of the infamous artist, Han Van Meegeren, who forged the paintings of Vermeer and sold them for millions, including some to the Nazis. He went on trial for treason but, after painting a copy of a Vermeer in court, he was found guilty of forgery. He finally achieved the fame he had always longed for. Pippa R. (then Form II)
December 2025
From Amsterdam to Nice; from the canals to the coast; from honesty to forgery; a shifted life in the slums of Nice. An idea sprang to my mind—an idea so shocking I dismissed it at first but, again and again, it presented itself until I gave in.
And below it lay the paintbrushes that, one by one, I tested: shape and size until I found it. A Filbert angle sash brush, size 7.3.
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He had all I wanted in one painting: the unearthly colours, each stroke a story. He had all I wanted in life. Fame. Recognition. Inimitable. Not some unrecognised being, pushed aside like— I can’t remember his name. Well, I’m not going to be ignored any longer.
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Winner of the Open Category:
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December 2025
‘Missing’
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The pressure was building. I could feel the nerves in my stomach as the time grew nearer. I would have to face one of the biggest matches of my school career without his support. With him missing—not even knowing that I’m here. The changing rooms became a stranger, as if I’d never been there before, despite that I did exactly this every week. But it wasn’t the same. This time, the game was bigger than it ever had been. Who was I playing for? Why was I playing for them? At that point, it was a mystery to me; but, as soon as I heard the words, ‘It’s almost time to go out, boys.’ It all came rushing back to me. Time moved in slow motion as the memories of how I got here and who pushed me to get here all came rushing back to me. It was all for him. My earliest memory of playing rugby was when I was six years old. He brought me down, helped me to put my boots on. He said I was to go out there and be brave: I’d need to be if I wanted to do well. I was so nervous. If anything, I was more nervous that day than I was when he wasn’t there in the crowd to see me. I was on the pitch: a small guy on a pitch of big guys. Safe to say, I did not fit anyone's image of the typical rugby kid—but it didn’t matter, because I was determined to make him proud, even if it meant getting smashed week in, week out. The game came to a close. We had won and an excited 6-year-old me ran up to him and gave him a big hug. I was hoping I had done enough to make him proud, praying he wasn’t disappointed. It was at that point that I fell in love with rugby; it made me happy. Most of all, it made him happy. When I was eight, I had to make a ‘Hobbies’ presentation for school; you had to come in dressed in all
the things you would wear to play or do your hobby. Loving the sport, I went to school wearing all my rugby gear: gum shield, scrum cap, shoulder pads and all. Thinking it was normal, knowing it was normal. The other kids didn’t see it as normal. Because everyone played football. I was the odd one out, and they let me know it. I was so embarrassed. I came home and didn’t speak to anyone; I just went straight upstairs to my room and sat there. I thought about that awful feeling I felt. He came in after my mum told him what had happened; he came in and sat down. I remember telling him that I wanted to quit because I felt weird for doing it. He, like anyone else, understood that feeling. He said that I could quit if I was sure; he only wanted the best for me. So I stopped playing rugby, for good. Primary school was over, and my rugby career took a sudden climb in the right direction. I was joining a private school. A rugby school. I didn’t want to play again. I said, over and over, that it wasn’t happening, and that I’d rather die than go to pre-season. He had other ideas. He said I had a choice: either I go to pre-season and play for the school team, or I join the school’s Ballroom Dancing Club. Hearing this changed my mind: I went to pre-season. As I started to play, it all came back to me: the love I had for the game, and I began to love every second of playing. Seeing the look on his face was the best part of it; I loved his pride, his enjoyment in watching me play. Then Covid hit, which meant that I couldn’t play any games in my first year: I was gutted. But it wasn’t important at all compared to the next challenge I had to face. When I was in Form II, things changed. He got
his hand on my shoulder telling me it would be OK and to do my best. As we started to run out, I looked around the stadium, feeling the eyes of hundreds of people looking at us, cheering us on. It was weird not to see him there. Other boys had their dads there. But that wasn’t the case for me. I had support from my mum and sisters, but there was something missing. He was missing. And as the start whistle went, and the opposition kicked off, I said to myself. ‘This is for you, Dad.’
December 2025
Alfie A. (then Form V)
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sick. He had months left to live, and suddenly my biggest supporter would be taken away from me; I felt my passion ripped out. He tried to let this illness not affect me, or him, or rugby. After all, he still came to every game. He still saw me at every opportunity he could, even though he was in pain. As the sickness grew worse, I couldn’t go to school—meaning, I couldn’t play rugby. I had to miss the most important game of the season. I didn’t see the need at first; I thought that it would be OK, and I held it against him that I couldn’t play rugby. Looking back on it, I would have not played 100 games if it had meant he would be safe. Christmas holidays came, and I missed playing. I saw it as an outlet for my pain: to score, to concede, to lose, to win. It all made me feel better about what was going on. He died that holiday, on the 28th of December 2021. Suddenly I didn’t miss the game, I missed him. I was so angry. I needed to play more than ever. All I wanted to do was get on the pitch and smash somebody, make them feel the hurt, in even the slightest way, that I was hurting. Opponents would say things, say things that maybe they shouldn’t have said. I reacted in ways I probably shouldn’t have reacted. I got in a fight with a teammate over a silly, throw-away comment. I shouldn’t have done it. But in that moment, I saw no other alternative. My coaches said they understood why I did it, and that they would have done the same—but they didn't understand. They just didn't. Somehow, four years later, my rugby took me here. The 5th of December 2024: finals day. We had made it to the Scottish Schools Shield Final against Edinburgh Academy. In the changing room, I could feel his presence. I could feel
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ASSOCIATION FOR SCOTTISH LITERATURE WRITING COMPETITION The Association for Scottish Literature (in conjunction with the Robert Burns World Federation) runs a highly regarded, national writing competition for young writers in S1 and S2. Pupils must submit a short story of not more than 750 words in length, written in any of the languages of Scotland. The top three entrants win prizes of £100, £75 and £50 for first, second and third place. In the 2025 competition, Dollar Academy submitted a number of entries, and we were delighted to learn that we had two young writers recognised. Bridget P. (then Form I) won first place, and Iris S. (also then Form I) was awarded second place: extraordinary achievements, both. Edited versions of their stories are published here.
First-Place Winner: Bridget P. (then Form I)
‘Rhodococcus sp. NJ-530’
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December 2025
Ice.
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Outside, the biting wind lashed across the rolling eddies of snow. The sky, barren and white above the Rothera Research Station, Antarctica. Dr Stefan Johanson and Dr Penny White read the plaque on the door. Penny stepped in, closing the door behind her, and sat down. Her hand reached toward the top drawer for Stefan’s stash and pulled out a chocolate bar, ripping off the wrapper; she needed energy. Her eyes wandered to the drawer, settling on something she had thought was long gone. Stefan’s passport. Her nose wrinkled in confusion. Stefan had caught the plane from Punta Arenas, hadn’t he? Their research was at a critical moment, but if Stefan wasn’t on that plane… Before this ‘dream job’, their previous research had been stolen, credit given to the wrong ears. To Dr Veronica Malfeasance. Penny’s teeth gritted at the thought of her. A woman so resourceful and evil; yet impressively convincing at sleight of hand and with a knack for card tricks. It had taken Penny months to recover. Penny suddenly felt horribly alone and unsettled. She made her way to the canteen in search of an anchor to reality. She arrived at the canteen, staring out of the window at the airstrips and endless white beyond. The little de Havilland, their only connection to the rest of the world,
had arrived back, carrying a new group of researchers. No sign of Stefan. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a flash of red. She turned around and wandered over to the table, where she spotted an empty mug and the queen of diamonds. She caught her breath, and the canteen seemed to shrink around her. It might have been a coincidence; she was being stupid—of course she was. But then again, who had just arrived on that plane? She dialled Stefan’s number on her phone; she knew they had promised no contact until he got back, but she had to know. Nothing... he hadn’t even accessed the file remotely. She ran to his room and burst through the door. She rummaged around, searching frantically, and found the contents of his hold-all disembowelled under the bed. Back in the office she purposefully entered the encrypted access codes and downloaded the file labelled ‘Rhodococcus sp. NJ-530/1’. She still felt overwhelming excitement that these microbacteria, in their new form, could change the world. The old Rhodococcus could, it was true, eat microplastics—but far too slowly. Their new discovery would clean the world’s oceans. She pulled out the USB stick from the computer, heavy with its new weight. She stowed it in her pocket, the one with a broken zip. With her heart aching, she wiped the system; no one would ever know Rhodococcus sp. NJ-530/1 had ever been discovered. Not even Veronica. She breathed a sigh of relief and turned to leave. Except. On the back of the door hung a Patagonia-branded coat, with STEFAN embroidered on the front chest pocket. Penny’s head hurtled. She’d seen him step onto
Second-Place Winner: Iris S. (then Form I)
My mother died when I was eight. She wandered into the fog in Driftmoor, like so many others. It’s been ten years since that night, but the horror has hung in the air like the dark fog that took them. I stare up at the memorial and lay down my lantern with everyone else. I wish I could remember what happened, but all I know is I’m the only one who saw the fog and has lived to tell the tale. Wiping the tears from my eyes, I turn and grab my dad’s hand and hold on for dear life. Everyone around us is turning to leave, but we stay, neither wanting to remember her or forget. My hair stands on end as the rain hammering down suddenly ceases and the sky rips
December 2025
‘Whispers Within the Fog’
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that plane yesterday, hadn’t she? She stared out of the window; all she could see was the gathering darkness of Antarctic winter; survival time was mere minutes. A ghostlike shadow flitted beyond the window. Without pausing, Penny threw open the heavy inner and outer doors and rushed out into the coming darkness beyond. Excruciating cold hit her and sent icy fingers tracing down her spine, followed by an agonising blow to her shoulder. She cried out as she hit the ice, sprawling in the snow. All that could have been seen from inside the building would have been two dark shapes, wrestling in the snow as the cold bit deeper and the night darkened. The realisation dragged on Penny like a sinking anchor, pulling her down to the icy depths of reality. Her head spun, and the wind cracked around her like a whip, and the darkness beckoned. A station guard, noticing the door ajar, stepped outside. He saw two mounds of snow on the icy whiteness; he rushed over and knocked the snow off the nearest figure with his glove. A flicker of hope. A pulse. He leant over the body and pressed his fingers against the second women’s neck: nothing. He turned to leave with the barely alive body in his arms—leaving behind a lifeless body, a USB stick in the snow, and a playing card fluttering in the wind. The heavy doors slammed. The snow fell. Ice. Bridget P. (then Form I)
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apart with a jagged bolt of white-hot light, cutting through the heavy clouds like a blade through darkness. The ground shakes as the lightning strikes; the names, illuminated just for a second before the world is once again plunged into gloom. The air pulses with the scent of scorched stone and burning earth, then the fog stirs—alive. Midnight-black tendrils reach out toward the mourners, beckoning them with silent whispers. A girl I recognise from school runs forward into the fog, arms open wide. ‘Dad!’ she screams, and then she’s gone. Disappeared. The only thing left of her is her last word echoing around the silent streets. Suddenly, a memory hits me, so sharp and so vivid it’s like I’m there. My mum is standing right in front of me, her face wet and streaked with tears. ‘I’ll be right back, OK? Don’t worry I’ll come back for you. Just wait here.’ She turns away from me and looks back, torn between me and whatever she can see behind her. ‘Liora, I love you,’ she says, then walks away. I see her run into unnaturally dark fog but then she’s gone. The fog swallows her completely, like it was waiting for her. I gasp, snapping back to reality. I look around and I see a wave of mourners racing to the fog, voices breaking as they call out names lost to time. I turn around scanning the crowd, fear clawing at my ribs. The hysterical crowd surges forward, their cries absorbed by the thickening mist. Then—I see Dad. For a heartbeat, he sees me. Recognition flickers, only for a second, then he turns once more, calling a name I haven’t heard in years. My pulse beats against my ears as I shove through the press of bodies. I can’t lose him. If I lose him, I lose everything. I grab his shoulder and drag him away from the crowd. ‘What happened? I …I saw her,’ he sobs. I don’t know what happened but there’s no time to ask. The fog is inching closer with each passing second. I try to grab him, but he refuses to move. ‘Dad!’ I scream. ‘We have to go! NOW!’ He rises and looks directly into the fog closing in on us. ‘Lil,’ his whisper is barely audible, but the word hits me like a gut punch. That was my mother’s nickname: never Lillith, always Lil. Tears threaten to spill from my eyes as he walks forward—never looking back. He embraces the fog like an old friend. Then he’s gone. I try to search
for emotion, for something normal to feel, but there is nothing but numbing emptiness. I turn, sprinting down the once-familiar streets, desperately trying to outrun the fog. Then I hear my name—the voice so familiar, yet unrecognisable. I turn around and see my parents smiling, illuminated by an otherworldly glow, calling me, beckoning me to join them. I want nothing more than to join them and live the childhood I was robbed of, but I can’t. The voices get louder, and images flicker in my mind: playing in the park, doing homework. The vile fog crawls over my skin like grasping fingers, its touch icy cold as the whispers and the memories engulf me in a deafening cacophony. Everything blurring, merging—each noise dissolving into the next, indistinguishable…endless. I can’t fight it anymore…so I give in. Through the fog I catch a glimpse of an old house with black paint flaking off the door. My house. I close my eyes as the fog consumes me, shedding a single tear that stains my face as it goes.
Iris S. (then Form I)
THE HARRY BELL TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP 2025
Over the last few decades, the Harry Bell Travel Awards have generated a great deal of interest and resulted in some remarkable journeys and pieces of writing. The awards are open to any Form V pupils who wish to travel during the summer holiday to study a topic of literary interest. Recipients are required to write a lively report reflecting upon their experiences of a particular writer and a particular place. In addition, the Harry Bell Travel Scholarship is awarded at Prize Giving the following year in recognition of the best written report. In 2025, the reports were, once again, of exceptional quality, and the judges named two winners: Rhiannon Millar and Lucy Milne (both FPs 2025). Edited versions of both reports are published below.
words that ribbon Laurie’s childhood, home, and family in the autobiographical Cider With Rosie. I don’t quite know why I was surprised. Perhaps a part of me expected to cross the village border and watch the air turn to honey, February through June: 2020s melting into 1920s. Perhaps I envisioned a town untouched by yellow road lines and plastic-cracked bus stops. I imagined bicycles, not cars; cracked stone, not concrete; houses scattered like seeds, not the manicured gardens I encountered. Laurie Lee’s childhood home stands below a gentle slope scattered with snowdrops and interrupted by polished paving stones. Shaped like a T, the walls that forged Laurie’s earliest years are now plastered with the memories of strangers; the floors, home to his first adventures, are now scuffed by others' shoes, marked by the herd of muddy wellies that sit haphazardly by the outside door. Our visit to Slad was cloaked in the grey promise of rain; it was a cold day that necessitated zips and gloved hands. The smoke that breathed up Laurie’s chimney felt suddenly, violently intrusive. Laurie’s house is no longer Laurie’s. And—with his grave as indisputable evidence— there is no reason for any ambiguity surrounding his absence from the building. Nonetheless, there is something irrefutably wrong about the other faces, the other hands, the new smoke in a place whose walls are already burned with his memories. Laurie had ‘knots in his bedroom ceiling’; his scullery was a ‘mine of all the minerals of the living’; his house was a ‘snowstorm toy’. Each cherished corner is preserved in Laurie’s language, digging a hole in readers’ chests and scratching away gently at nostalgia. I felt as if I was betraying his
December 2025
Driving into Slad Valley feels like sinking into the depths of the English countryside and digging, and digging, and digging. The village sprawls between gently unravelling hills, surrounded by clusters of woodland, perpetually dewy and vibrantly green. Slad wears seasons tenderly and collects rain like a bucket; upon arrival, WiFi slows and hearts calm. In many ways, Slad is nothing remarkable—no different from the thousands of other villages, towns, and hamlets scattered around the UK: serene, homely, inhabited primarily by retirees and farm animals. There is, however, one stark difference, one matchless characteristic, that distinguishes Slad from its rural competitors. Deep in Slad’s stomach, beneath a canopy of lichenlined evergreens and the shadow of sandstone church walls, lies the grave of Laurie Lee. He rests metres from the road that slices the village in two, close enough that tyre splashes shower the grass that shelters him. This strikes me: the situation seems cracked, slanted, and far too spoiled with modernity. In my internal amendment to the scene, Laurie Lee is buried in the heat-spotted haze of July 1921—or, perhaps, in the sugar-speckled winter, where tuneless carols are delivered like survival from cold-cracked lips. Maybe he would be most suited to rest in the monument of his mother’s rough-grown flowers, his head crowned with Syringa, feet tickled with the roots of laburnum trees, as she kneeled above him and threw together a garden with the haphazard delicacy of motherhood. Lee belongs to a time and place that slipped through the fingers long ago. Slad Valley—picturesque though it remains—pales in comparison to the gold-dusted
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CIDER WITH ROSIE: CONSTANCY AND CHANGE
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memory, slightly, by watching someone else inhabit his habitat. It made me think of my own bedroom walls: my Blu Tack-tainted paint, the water marks on my ceiling that resemble coffee stains, the smudge of nail polish that no amount of vigorous scraping will exonerate from my carpet. The thought is distant. It dangles, tantalising, at the end of a long piece of string, but it sways into my peripheral vision: a reminder of the day my carefully blighted room will play host to somebody else. Laurie returned to Slad after decades, living between different walls and different years. I wonder if seeing another family fit seamlessly into his T-shaped childhood caught him off guard—if he was as much affronted by the change as I was. Though we may wish it to be so, change cannot be contained by walls. It spreads perniciously, infecting secluded towns with glossy contemporary additions. As we made our way around Slad in the early afternoon drizzle, we encountered pebbledash houses and newly wired fences; the rosetinted lens was removed, and signs of Laurie’s childhood were hidden beneath gleaming layers of modern metal. That said, despite inevitable changes, the village had preserved certain treasures. We used the book as a guide, mapping the village through
both subtle and stark references, giddy like archaeologists when we came across physical remains of his stories. Bulls Cross—the ‘ragged wilderness of wind-bent turbs’, the ‘island’ above the valleys—a concrete crossroad that overlooks speckled villages, ‘wind-scarred’ and heavy with the weight of death. The base of the gibbet still sits—mossy, inconspicuous, observant. Laurie describes Bulls Cross with the sort of inherited apprehension that comes from familiarity. Our grey-blended sky carried a fitting sense of pathetic fallacy as we approached the ground once worn smooth by the boots of the Bulls Cross hangman, who, as narrated chillingly through Lee, unwittingly committed his own son to the gallows. The stump may itself be long dead, the hangman faded, but the legacy lingers—immortalised in Laurie’s words, quietly marked by an unassuming stone structure just off the road. We didn’t loiter. Asphalt was quickly exchanged for gravel, bald branches for damp leaves, and ghost stories for grazing cows. I have no evidence that Laurie’s feet ever ran the farm track that led us around Slad’s peripheries—his descriptions, though brilliant, tend to omit place names— but his legacy still pervades the area. Cider With Rosie is not written chronologically. Rather, Lee riffles through his earliest memories,
The Bulls Cross gibbet
growing old and young between pages as he focuses on different aspects of his childhood. The one that hit me hardest, square in the chest, was the chapter about Laurie’s mother. Deceptively factual, he sketched her life, her character, her details—down to the way she handled china—with an intricacy of observation that was new to me. She was a ‘light-giver’, a hoarder. She had ‘rough fingers’ that stumbled over piano keys, a ‘love of finery’, and adoration for a man who left her. I, of course, had never met Laurie, let alone his mother, but she was present as we walked through muddy fields, hands stacked high with newly purchased chipped china, mind scattered, and eyes curious. Slad Valley may have changed, but it’s difficult to erase footprints when they’re pressed so vibrantly into pages. Another chapter (which I have filled with underlined words and folded pages) is ‘Winter and Summer’. To no one’s surprise, this chapter focuses on the extremes of the seasons, the cycles of village life, the survival, and the celebration. We visited Slad on the cusp of winter: a soggy day—not icy or white, and far from warm or fair. I wish I could experience the village in its
Rhiannon Millar (FP 2025)
December 2025
extremities: the ‘diamond haze’ of summer, the ‘crystal kingdom’ of winter, seasons described as so intense that they ‘seemed to change our nationality.’ Comparatively, the dreich weather we experienced offered what seemed like a faded photograph of Slad. The weather really shouldn’t have dictated my experience, and in many ways it didn’t, but it was like the village had been incorrectly coloured in, scribbles scratched outside the lines, tinted with pencil instead of paint. While the walk was lovely, I found it difficult to align the village that I saw with the one Laurie bound up between red and gold covers. That being said, Laurie’s childhood was not all a blushing fairytale. Passages and paragraphs are rich with summer’s berry-stained lips and ice skates that etch patterns on frozen ponds, but he also describes the informality of death, the daggers of winter, the brutality of boys. The bucolic pleasantry is repeatedly interrupted by the reminders of a blemished past. Yellow-aged pages and precisely plucked words can only soften violence so much; it would be erroneous to dismiss Laurie’s childhood as merely blissful or halcyon. His poetic prose is striking;
he paints images into dirt, sky and seasons; he builds palaces from kitchen pots. It’s all too easy to get tangled in nostalgia and brush over the sharp edges that cut between his metaphors. The village of Slad bears the unmistakable marks of modernity, and—while the more sentimental, aesthetically inclined part of me aches for the return of Laurie’s valley—it is naïve to ignore the necessity of change. Change is a funny thing. Sometimes it creeps up behind you, breathing down your neck and wrapping its fingers one by one around your eyes. Other times, it’s quick: a knife to the back, a light in your eyes, cold hands and a push down the stairs, a push away from home. It’s also a constant: a relief, security, even hope. There was no specific moment that Slad changed— no catalyst, no avalanche—only the steady progression of human life. A road was built here, a house there. A school was knocked down; a new sign built. And one day, Slad was shiny; winter was warm. I’ve thought a lot about change since I visited Slad. Someone else lives in Laurie’s house; someone has changed the wallpaper in the pub; someone will someday live in my bedroom and press unknown paper faces against my wall. Maybe change doesn’t have to be a bad thing; maybe it can sit beside you and hold your hand against the cool breeze;
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Laurie Lee’s childhood home
maybe change can even be a comfort, a reliable predictability. Before his death in 1997, Laurie Lee asked to be buried between the pub and the church. He spent his final years in Slad, living in the belly of change, watching as others moved through his former home, watching as cars replaced carts and slush replaced snow. I’ve criticised Slad and its modern amendments, criticised the contemporary changes and the imperfect similarities, yet I’ve scarcely considered that Slad meant more to Laurie than his childhood memories. The village will never again have the idyllic seclusion of Cider With Rosie, perhaps it never did, and perhaps these changes aren’t bodies that need mourning. Laurie wrote about his childhood through the sepia tint of nostalgia. But maybe, to him, Slad wasn’t defined by vibrant summers and stony winters, by garden jungles or broken china. The changes might seem glaring and sharp to my untrained eyes, but to Laurie? Yes, the village had been distorted, but, simultaneously, it was exactly the same. I’ve only experienced Slad through a few hurried hours in February’s sludge and the amber haze of Laurie’s memory—neither were enough to capture routines or rhythms, to understand its weight as a home. Laurie’s grave was the last thing we saw in Slad. The grave itself is simple, innocuous, moss-stained, bearing the words: ‘He lies in the valley he loved’. Time will never stop reshaping Slad— bedroom ceilings will be unknotted, roads will blot graveyards, wild gardens will shrink, and memory will soften its edges— but through it all, Slad was loved. I never walked the soil of Laurie’s Slad, but I like to think that, in hindsight, I understand it—not as a place bound by stone and seasons, but as one that lingers in the quiet ache of remembering where we first belonged.
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TO SIMPLY BE: A Journey Through Nan Shepherd’s Cairngorms
imagination to picture her writing there, surrounded by her mountains, with the sound of the stream that runs by the hut bubbling in the background. Following in her footsteps, I climbed the relatively small hill behind her shanty: Morrone. She described having
I also climbed in the afternoon, although it was the height of summer, and the snow was long gone save for the faintest traces punctuating the distant peaks. Like Shepherd, I sat at the summit, the sun warm on my back. Below, the valley was patchworked all shades of greens and faints blues, softening into purply green-grey. I left before the moon emerged because, unlike Shepherd, I had to get back before the hostel’s curfew. The next day, I sought answers to some of my remaining questions about Shepherd. Although The Living Mountain was published in 1977, it was written as World War II ended, bringing great change, not least to rural communities. In the chapter, ‘Life: Man’, she describes the communities who are ‘the bone of the mountain’, describing how their way of life was under threat due to signs of ‘this economy cracking’. This was partly due to the decline of the shooting estate which supported the crofters, hunters, gamekeepers, and shepherds. The allure of the city meant young people wanted ‘white-collar occupations, and lose their parents’ many-sidedness.’ She was, nonetheless, optimistic that ‘as the way of life changes, and a new economy moulds their life, perhaps they, too, will change.’ I kept track of the people I met that day, keen to meet the ‘individualists, gritty, tough, drawn, intelligent, full of prejudice, with strange quirks and a salted sense of humour.’ I met one local, five seasonal workers, and about thirty tourists (mostly Germans). The local man, semiretired, met most of the criteria, but was unfortunately lacking in prejudice, holding rather progressive views— in particular, regarding climate change, which he knew was having an impact on the Cairngorms’ ecosystem. Fortunately, he was interested in my project and happy to answer my questions. He had been born and raised in Braemar, but left as a young man, before returning later in life to run a supply store. He told me that the economy had indeed changed. It was now dependent on tourism,
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‘climbed Morrone in the afternoon, and seen sunset and the rise of a full moon together over a world that was completely white…The intense frost, the cloudless sky, the white world, the setting sun and the rising moon, as we gazed on them from the slope of Morrone, melted into a prismatic radiation of blue, helio, mauve, and rose.’
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When I first picked up The Living Mountain, I knew little about Nan Shepherd. I was expecting another thrilling mountaineering narrative, filled with stories of exploration and conquest. I was enthralled by books about man pushed to the extreme: Touching the Void, Into Thin Air, Seven Years in Tibet… I was anticipating something similar, only this time with a refreshing female perspective from a Scottish writer. But Shepherd told a different story, skimming past dramatic tales, and instead focusing on the living being of the mountains, and our human relationship with the natural world. Shepherd was not a mountaineer by profession, but an English lecturer in Aberdeen; she travelled frequently to the Cairngorms, especially during the school holidays, to walk and write. This background gave her a mastery of language that lends her novels, poetry and nonfiction writing an unhurried, meditative feel. She views the mountains as ‘all parts of one entity, the living mountain’; the murmur of a mountain stream holds as much significance as a mountain peak. She describes the natural world in beautifully unexpected ways. The Quoich Waters are ‘like roundness, or silence, their quality is natural, but is found so seldom in its absolute state that when we do so find it, we are astonished.’ I was captivated by her description of her adventures more as pilgrimages: ‘for as I penetrate more deeply into the mountain’s life, I penetrate also into my own... It is not ecstasy, that leap out of the self that makes man like a god. I am not out of myself, but in myself. I am.’ I, too, wanted to experience this state of ‘Being’ and to discover the mountains and community so dear to her. So I took the bus to Braemar—several hours from the Central Belt, it's a village hidden deep in the Cairngorms. I checked into the youth hostel, then set out to discover the village. My first stop was the community museum, inside a repurposed church, where I hoped to find details surrounding the location of Shepherd’s mountain residence. Fortunately, I found a noticeboard that described the literary significance of Nan Shepherd and, crucially, provided a rough description of the location of her mountain residence (a home away from her home on Deeside) on the side of Morrone, near the Downie Croft. I found this house—in Shepherd’s words, a ‘shanty’—halfway up a hill outside Braemar. The area was fenced off for construction, but since the workers were not there, I exercised my right to roam. The hut was run down, but in a quaint way, with a rusted red roof, blacked wood walls, and antlers fixed above the door—just as in her time. The windows and door were boarded up, so (as I did not want to be caught breaking and entering) I used my
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which brought a lot of wealth to the area, but also increased housing prices. The effect of this was to drive out young people. This has also diminished the permanent population, creating threats to local services such as the GP surgery. He said that the sense of community remains strong, however, with frequent events and projects, among them, a community-led flood barrier project designed to protect properties against the rising waters of the Dee, which overflows its banks more frequently than it once did. With little luck finding crofters and shepherds in the village, I instead tried to find their houses. My starting point was a list of Shepherd’s crofter and shepherd acquaintances in The Living Mountain: the MacGregors, who farmed the Downie Croft; the Mackenzies of Whitwess, Old Sandy’s family; and the Mackenzies of Tullochgrue. I opened Google Maps and found the Downie Croft. It was on Airbnb, listed as: a ‘Dog-friendly, 5-star, A-listed Historic Holiday Cottage in Braemar with Hot Tub and Sauna: Sleeps 2.’ I was disappointed by the lack of crofters, but persevered. Enquiring further into Old Sandy’s background, I discovered that he had been a gamekeeper on the Rothiemurchus Estate. This was a good lead, and my hopes were high; the estate was still running and, surely, was bound to have a gamekeeper. It did not. Instead, it had a Hospitality Manager, a Group Sales Coordinator, an Accounts Manager and one farmer. Together, they operate the estate as a holiday resort. With nothing but last names to go on, I struggled to find either of the Mackenzies or, for that matter, a single traditional crofter or shepherd. So, Shepherd was right: the economy did change and people adapted—just not in the way that she predicted where the: ‘hill croft [will] revert to heather’. Instead the hill croft had been converted into luxury rentals, which, as one company so eloquently described, have existed ‘unassumingly for a number of years… but upon entry you’ll be swept away by the modern design features and style.’ I like a sauna as much as the next person, but it’s really hard to equate £260 pounds a night with the cost of the erasure of an entire way of life. I set out after an answer to my next question, about biodiversity. Shepherd was fascinated with the wide variety of plants and animals in The Living Mountain; however, she was very aware of how: ‘man’s presence, too, is disturbingly evident…[as] he has driven the snow bunting from its nesting sites, banished the capercailzie and reintroduced it from abroad…exterminated the wild cat.’ Shepherd would be delighted to learn that the Cairngorms Connect Project is busy replanting the Caledonian pine forests and restoring peat bogs in the hopes of creating
conditions within which the Scottish wildcat, capercaillie, ptarmigan, and golden eagle might thrive. Moreover, there are native capercaillie in the park: about 500 birds. Conservationists hope that this figure will increase over time; the Scottish wildcat is also currently being reintroduced. I spent the next day exploring the vast conservations sites around the Linn of Dee, setting out from the hostel at six. With the sun still fresh in the sky and dew dripping off the heather, I settled into a National Trust nature hide nestled among the trees. I was swiftly rewarded: a family of red squirrels appeared, darting up and down the pine trunks, oblivious to my presence. I wandered on, spotting red deer and hearing the chatter of birds overhead. I never found the elusive cloudberry, the ‘most subtle and sweet of all’, but I did find and eat wild blueberries—much smaller than the commercial variety, with a sharper taste and more vibrantly coloured, leaving my fingers stained purple. Rain had fallen overnight, and the forest scent seemed magnified. The damp earth and undergrowth created a musk of dirt, cut through by the sharp minty smell of pine sap. Shepherd describes this scent as: ‘searching into the deepest recesses of my lungs, I know it is life that is entering.’ It is this kind of intimacy with the natural world, where presence and perception dissolve into one another, that feels akin to spirituality, and is an experience more vital than ever in a world more full of smog and fumes. I also badly wanted to see a golden eagle— mentioned throughout Shepherd’s narratives. I knew this would be a challenge as ‘to see the Golden Eagle at close quarters requires knowledge and patience.’ Fortunately for me, that knowledge was charitably shared by NatureScot, who have created eagle-spotting venues, complete with picture identification boards. I climbed to a craggy outcrop and sat. After 40 minutes of watching deer peacefully nibble at grass, I saw, circling on the fields below, a golden eagle: ‘The great spiral of his ascent, rising coil over coil in slow symmetry, has in its movement all the amplitude of space. And when he has soared to the top of his bent, there comes the level flight as far as the eye can follow, straight, clean and effortless as breathing.’ My eagle was hovering, almost floating, in graceful slow circles, looking for small animals in the grassland below. Then it tucked its wings and dived, as if it had been shot out of the sky, before rising again, with something in its talons
I was sold by the worshipping of natural forces, connecting with ancestors and the potential of an ancient snake. Shepherd, however, was devoted to nude swimming, as it made: ‘My spirit as naked as my body.’ Though I admired her free spirit, I was more concerned with the fact that public nudity is not considered a sacred act under UK law, and being added to the Sex Offenders register (however unlikely a prospect) would seriously hinder my career goals. I decided to leave my soul ever so slightly unclean and wear shorts, and I went searching for a slow stretch of river. Eventually, I found a shallow section, clear water revealing the mosaic of pebbles below. The cold whip of the wind, despite the warm sun, was chilling. I stepped in slowly, the cold biting my ankles and crawling up my legs—more burning than freezing. By the time the water reached my thighs, my heart was pounding—not just from the cold, but from the primitive urge to simply get out. I braced myself and stayed, determined not to leave until I discovered the ‘fey’. As I stood there, the water gradually seemed to slow. As the cold gave way to a numb clarity as my skin adjusted and my breath slowed down. I felt my skin attune to the rhythmic pulsations of each cold push of water rushing past. Eventually this sensation drowned out
Lucy Milne (FP 2025)
December 2025
‘its flash and gleam, its music, its pliancy and grace, its slap against my body; but I fear its strength. I fear it as my ancestors must have feared the natural forces that they worshipped. All the mysteries are in its movement. It slips out of holes in the earth like the ancient snake.’
my pulse and my breath, and I simply felt the water flowing past me. I didn’t feel godlike or particularly ‘fey’. But I felt unmistakably, irreversibly alive. Not in an out-of-body transcendent way, but in a raw animalistic sense. There was no illusion of control here, or comforting narrative of invincibility. I was nothing more than another animal in the wild: flesh, blood, fragile. A fleeting presence on earth. What Nan Shepherd offered me was not a guidebook to the Cairngorms, but an invitation into a way of being. Her writing does not simply capture the mountains in beautiful ways, rather it dissolves the boundary between observer and landscape, reminding us that we are not separate from the natural world; we are part of it. By following in her footsteps—quite literally at times—I came to understand that sometimes what we need to do is to slow down, turn the phone off, and simply experience the world around us. This state of simply ‘Being’, or what Shepherd sometimes calls ‘fey’, is not easy to cultivate in a world which constantly pulls us away from ourselves with devices, deadlines, noise, and the rush of modern life. The Cairngorms, and Braemar, have certainly changed since Shepherd’s time. They are no longer places defined by the culture and community of the people who live there; instead, they are rather dominated by those that pass through. The loss of the traditional way of life has unintentionally created space for a new kind of relationship with the mountains; one where people arrive to reconnect, consciously or not, with what it feels like to belong to the earth.
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and flew out of my sight. A fundamental thread throughout Shepherd’s writing is the deep, visceral connection between body and earth: a kind of animalistic awareness of one’s own physicality intertwined with the pulsing life of the mountains. She writes about this state of simply ‘Being’— walking ‘out of my body and into the mountain’, where body and rock, blood and stream, heartbeat and wind become one. She employs a Scottish word: ‘one is raised; fey; a little mad.’ She speaks of how she reaches this ‘fey’ state; principally, it is achieved by walking ‘over dangerous places with the gay abandon that is said to be the mark of those who are doomed to death.’ In weighing up the prospect of spiritual enlightenment against the very distinct possibility of tumbling to my death, I opted for ignorance. Instead, I pursued my inner ‘fey’ by taking a cold plunge into mountain waters; Shepherd described the spiritual quality gained thereby:
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THE 2025 SCHOOL MUSICAL:
The Wedding Singer
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Legwarmers, fluorescent headbands, big hair and heels. The 1980s was the theme for the 2025 Senior Musical, which many have claimed was the best one yet. The Wedding Singer took to the stage at the Macrobert Arts Theatre in June 2025. Many had never heard of it; some had seen the Adam Sandler film—but no one expected the energy, colour, comedy and range of emotional highs and lows that the cast delivered in this production. Set in Grandma’s basement, Flynn G. (Form V) played the role of rock star wannabe and ‘Simply Wed’ lead singer, Robbie Hart, jilted at the alter by the love of his life, Linda (played by Charlotte M. in Form V).* Alex M. and James M. (both Form VI) played Robbie’s sidekick band members; James played the role of Boy George-lookalike, George, while Alex played the simple (but loveable) Sammy. Charley C. (Form IV) played Robbie’s Grandma, the comedic and honest maternal figure of the show. Hamish L (Form V) was the sleazy yuppie, Glen, who thought money could buy him the love of Julia (Freya R. in Form VI). Although there aren't really any widely known hit tunes in this show, audiences were immediately drawn in with the high-energy opening number ‘Wedding Day’, led by the onstage band of pupils and a cast of nearly 50 attending a wedding. This was the wedding where Robbie would meet Julia, his soulmate. Ballads such as ‘Come Out of the Dumpster’ and ‘If I Told You’ added to the emotional rollercoaster, in great contrast to the green glitter costumes that abounded in ‘It’s All About the Green’, sung by Glen and his team of financial advisors. Pupils showed their vocal talents in securing these numbers with great professionalism, as well as real skill. Grandma had her chance to rap with ‘Move That Thang’, and the male chorus led by Sammy, had the audience laughing allowed in ‘Single’, as they tried to persuade Robbie he could live in a world without women. The full-cast numbers such as ‘Today You Are a Man’ and ‘Saturday Night in the City’ (showcasing the incredible singing skills of Niamh M. in Form IV, playing Holly) were full of excitement and variety. The demanding choreography was led by Dance Captain, Zoe M. (Form V), while the props were built inhouse by Mr John Delaney from the EDT Department. It was a relief to all when Robbie finally caught up with Julia in Las Vegas, complete with an entourage made up of fake Tina Turner (Rosie E. in Form VI); Marilyn Monroe (Annika M. in Form VI), Bruce Springsteen (Hamish W. in Form VI ), Imelda Marcos (Anna J. in Form III), Ronald Reagan (Oli F. in Form III), Cyndi Lauper (Zuzu J. in Form VI) and Billy Idol (Beck W. in Form IV). Here Julia rejected Glen, complete with DeLorean (again custom-built by Mr Delaney), and fell instead for our hero, the Wedding Singer…as he sang his final ballad, ‘Wanna Grow Old With You’. Well done to the cast of 2025, and very good luck to the cast of 2026 (who have a very hard act to follow…)
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Louise Timney *pupil year groups, as identified in the text above, all pertain to last session
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DRAMA It’s been a vibrant and inspiring start to the academic year in the Drama Department, with pupils across all year groups throwing themselves into a wide range of theatrical experiences—both on stage and in the audience. Our Form IV–VI Drama pupils recently had the opportunity to attend a stunning production of The Glass Menagerie at the Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh. This classic Tennessee Williams play was brought to life with sensitivity and style, and it was a real privilege for our pupils to witness such high-calibre professional theatre. The production sparked thoughtful conversations on the journey home, and it was clear that the emotional depth and visual storytelling left a lasting impression. We’re always thrilled when pupils can experience live theatre of this quality—it enriches their understanding of dramatic form and fuels their own creative ambitions. Meanwhile, our Higher Drama pupils have been diving deep into Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. This powerful and provocative play continues to resonate strongly, and our classroom discussions have been nothing short of electric. Pupils have been exploring the play’s themes of hysteria, integrity, and power with maturity and insight, drawing fascinating parallels between the Salem witch trials and contemporary issues in society. It’s been a joy to see such engagement, with pupils confidently sharing diverse perspectives and challenging each other’s interpretations in respectful and thoughtful ways.
Our Drama Clubs are also buzzing with activity, as rehearsals are well underway for two exciting productions set to be performed just before the Christmas holidays. Form I Drama Club is working on a magical adaptation of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. What makes this production particularly special is that it is being directed by two of our senior pupils, Molly R. and Niamh M. (both Form V). Their leadership, creativity, and dedication have been inspiring, and we are incredibly grateful for the time and energy they are investing in the younger pupils. The cast is working hard and having great fun bringing this timeless festive tale to life—we can’t wait to share it with the wider school community. Form II Drama Club is taking a very different (and hilarious) route with their upcoming performance of 10 Ways to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse. This fast-paced comedy is packed with slapstick, silliness, and plenty of surprises. The pupils are relishing the chance to explore physical theatre and comic timing, and rehearsals have been filled with laughter and energy. It promises to be a wonderfully entertaining show that will leave audiences grinning from ear to ear. As always, we are immensely proud of the creativity, commitment, and camaraderie shown by our pupils. Whether they are analysing complex texts, performing on stage, or supporting one another behind the scenes, they continue to embody the spirit of collaboration and curiosity that lies at the heart of drama. Iain Macdonald
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ART & DESIGN: THE PREP SCHOOL’S ‘BIG DRAW’ Over the Rainbow The Dollar Academy Prep School’s ‘Big Draw’ event took place in June of last session, transforming an Art classroom into a giant sketchbook, alive with creativity. Every Prep School pupil joined in, contributing hundreds of imaginative drawings. With complete freedom to explore, pupils drew over stools, walls, the floor, and even on giant boxes. The result was a memorable drawing experience where imagination knew no bounds, filling every corner of the room. To round off the day, every pupil left with their own sketchbook and rainbow pen—ready to recreate the wonder of drawing in their own imaginative ways, continuing the spirit of imagination and drawing beyond the classroom.
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Cath Kelly
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ART AND DESIGN PREP SCHOOL ART EXHIBITION
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In June, the Art and Design Department was delighted to celebrate our first Biennial Prep School Art Exhibition. This impressive showcase of creativity and imagination transformed the walls of the Art Department into a vibrant festival of art, featuring paintings, collages, and photographs. From beautifully observed still lifes and wonderful illustrations inspired by Roald Dahl books, to expressive animals, dramatic seascapes, and much, much more—our young artists and designers demonstrated remarkable talent and growth. Congratulations to our Prep School artists, and a big thank-you to the families, staff, and friends who came to celebrate. Visitors were captivated by the originality and confidence expressed in each piece, making the exhibition a truly memorable event. Cath Kelly
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DOLLAR PUPILS EARN TOP AWARDS
FROM THE ROYAL
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SCOTTISH ACADEMY
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We are delighted that the Royal Scottish Academy (RSA) Schools Art Award—Scotland’s most esteemed competition for emerging artistic talent—has recognised the exceptional work of two Dollar pupils. Congratulations to both Suilven H. (now Form VI) and Coco Jai (now FP 2025), who were each awarded First Place in their respective categories. Suilven won the Chair’s Challenge and Coco won the Senior Challenge. These prestigious accolades celebrate originality,
technical excellence, and creative vision among Scotland’s young artists. Their achievements reflect not only the skill and talents possessed by each of these remarkable young artists, but also the depth of imagination and creativity they each bring to both fine art and photography. These are very special achievements indeed. Cath Kelly
Winner of First Prize in the Chairman’s Challenge, Royal Scottish Academy In this piece I wanted to explore the juxtaposition between community and anonymity. Young people, in particular, can feel as though society encourages acting for personal profit over community gain. It is easy to feel that our personal actions have no impact upon our community, and so it might be easier to remain sitting on the fence. The sense of anonymity the newspaper offers highlights the focal point; the fire burning away the facades—allowing us to potentially find ourselves. I feel honoured to receive this award and would like to thank my Art teachers and the RSA. Suilven H. (now Form VI)
Coco Jai (FP 2025)
December 2025
Using acrylics, I play with light, colour, and experimental textures to create what I hope is a striking composition that feels both unfinished and deeply expressive. This work is influenced by Impressionist techniques, blending realism with abstraction. I wanted to remove the background, allowing my figures to exist in a timeless, introspective space. Through bold colours and fluid forms, I seek to convey emotion and invite interpretation, creating art that feels both intimate yet connected to the viewer.
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Winner of First Prize in the Senior Category, Royal Scottish Academy
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HIGHER PHOTOGRAPHY: A Focus
‘Successful’ is one word that captures the essence of last year’s cohort of Higher Photography pupils, who produced a selection of high-quality folio results. Their results testify to the hard work and consistency that they brought to their learning, pushing the boundaries and standards of what was achievable in this innovative practice-based course. The Higher Photography course allows pupils to undertake a project theme of their own choosing, where they can fully demonstrate their technical and creative understanding of the camera. They are encouraged to experiment with creative techniques that broaden their confidence and ability to create images with high visual impact—images that capture every viewer’s attention. Amongst a mature, engaging and hard-working group of pupils, last session’s Higher Photography class was privileged to include the talent and personality of Catherine Chapel (who left at the end of Form V, but is considered an FP 2026). Catherine was an American pupil who joined us as a boarder last session, becoming a fundamental member of our close-knit boarding community. Her approach during lessons fully embodied the Dollar values of ‘work hard, get involved, be kind’: she combined a consistently conscientious approach with a real willingness to discuss and share her extensive skills with industry-standard software (i.e. Photoshop and Lightroom). She understood and, indeed, could coach other pupils in how to employ these effective editing tools to refine and enhance their own digital imagery. Her collaborative approach helped boost her peers’ confidence to take their own photographic work further— inspired by what she was producing. Catherine left us at the end of last session to continue her educational journey back in the United States. Her skill and work ethic, so clearly in evidence during her time with us, was rewarded when her folio work was shortlisted for the Scottish Civic Trust’s photography competition, ‘My Place’. Her imaginatively titled photograph ‘Work Life Balance’ captured her brother playfully balancing on civic seating in Edinburgh between offices and sandstone tenement houses; it earned a well-deserved runner-up award in this national competition. We wish Catherine the very best of success in the future and congratulate her on a very successful body of work.
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Cath Kelly
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Catherine Chapel's 'Work Life Balance'
Emelia W. (then Form V)
Amber M. (then Form IV)
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GALLERY
Amy P. (then Form VI)
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Lillia K. (then Form IV)
Matilda W. (then Form IV)
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Ash H. (then Form V)
Libby T. (then Form V)
December 2025
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Sophie N. (then Form V)
Taylor H. (then Form VI)
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December 2025
CHARITIES COMMITTEE
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In June 2025 our entire school community came together for one of the most memorable fundraising events at Dollar Academy: the Sponsored Walk. From our youngest pupils in Prep School to the seniors who had just finished their exams, everyone took part in what truly became a whole day of joy, laughter and generosity. The route was as beautiful as it was challenging. We set off through Dollar Glen, climbing steadily along the familiar woodland paths before reaching the very steep ground near Castle Campbell; after that, the route swiftly opens up and out onto the beautiful Ochils, climbing up Commonedge Hill before descending into Glen Quey. After walking for about six miles in the morning we reached the lunchfield near Glendevon, where we all earned a relaxing lunch stop. Lunch afforded a rest, as well as the chance to
catch up with friends, and devour some scrumptious burgers and hot dogs. All too soon, we turned our steps back through Glen Quey, along the reservoir, past Maiden’s Well and back through Dollar Glen, completing the 12-mile round trip with a sense of achievement radiating through everyone’s smiles. The biennial Sponsored Walk is always a highly anticipated event at Dollar, and the success of this year's Walk was all clear. Anyone in the area near our route would have heard laughter and happy conversation echoing from every group of pupils. This event brings everyone together, as a school and as a community, radiating joy as the summer holidays draw near. Above all, the Walk raises money for some very good causes. Across the Prep and Junior School and the Senior School, we raised £42,401 for our chosen charities. This money will make a significant difference to those in need. It is deeply inspiring to see how our school’s collective effort turns into something impactful corresponding to the values that Dollar, as both a school and a community, truly stands for.
On behalf of the Charities Committee, I would like to thank Ms Amelia Sanchez-Roman, Mrs Cath Kelly and Mrs Tamsen Livingstone for their constant guidance, encouragement, and support; they make this event not merely possible, but something profoundly enjoyable. They help make possible a day that lets us all give back to our community, whilst creating lasting memories for all. We would like to thank the pupils who gave their all with such enthusiasm. Finally, we wish to thank everyone who sponsored us so generously. The Sponsored Walk is not just a fundraiser but a celebration of what makes our school community so special. On that note, as I write, I look forward to what the coming months will bring, as the work of the Charities Committee brings more joy to Dollar while raising funds for some excellent causes. Verity B. (Form VI)
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GARDENING CLUB
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December 2025
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice, everyone has a place at Gardening Club. Ever since I started Gardening Club, I have enjoyed a plethora of garden-based activities. From planting seeds and deadheading marigolds to picking potatoes, the Dollar garden is a great place to be, and fun is always just around the corner. There are so many opportunities to gain garden experience, to unearth and take home veg, so Gardening Club is simply brilliant! For the past few weeks, we have been planting and digging up potatoes, carrots, lettuce, runner beans, peas and so much more. Gardening Club is an ideal place to spend your Monday afternoons. Edward H. (Form I)
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If you ever venture near the school’s garden, behind the Playfair Building, on a Monday afternoon, you will walk into a hive of activity. There, our busy gardeners (from the Senior and the Junior Schools) meet to sow seeds; weed beds; harvest fruit, vegetables and herbs; and enthusiastically sample all that they have helped to grow. It is a wonderful chance for our pupils to spend time outside, learn about gardening, and have lots of fun. This year the reach of our project was increased by establishing links across the school and wider community. We donated vegetables to the Masterchef Club, and pupils from the Prep School spent time during the summer term planting seeds and preparing the garden. A gardening module is available to Form VI, giving them a chance to relax and switch off from their academic studies and to learn new important life skills. Our garden was judged by the ‘Keeping Scotland Beautiful’ panel as part of the Dollar entry in August, and we had success in the Dollar Flower Show in September: our pumpkin and courgettes won 1st and 3rd prize, respectively. Our honesty veg box scheme was another new initiative in the autumn term, and it generated extra funds towards seeds
and equipment. A selection of vegetables was available each Friday to both staff (in the Library) and parents (from 3pm outside the Prep School) in exchange for a small donation. We are already starting to think about summer 2026, and we are excited to try different varieties, plant new crops, and learn new techniques. Fingers crossed for some good gardening weather! Wendy Ainge, Louise Cruickshank and Kathryn Rambaut
CREATIVE WRITING CLUB NEWS
This September marked the exciting launch of a new group called 'TeachMeet: Sharing Good Practice'. The group gives staff a space and time to come together to share ideas and spark inspiration across departments. The first session was a great success, with a strong turnout and a lively atmosphere of collaboration and curiosity. Presenters from a range of subjects shared practical strategies that have been working well in their classrooms. From innovative uses of interactive PowerPoints to group activities that encourage meaningful discussion, the session was packed with ideas ready to be adapted and applied. We explored creative ways to embed meta-skills into lessons and even discovered how boardgames can be used to create memorable learning experiences that stick with pupils long after the bell rings. One of the best things about TeachMeet is its flexibility—there’s absolutely no pressure to present. You’re welcome to come along, listen in, and take away ideas that resonate with your own teaching practice. Whether you’re looking for a fresh starter activity, a new way to use technology, or a scaffold that supports deeper discussion, there’s something here for everyone. And if you do feel inspired to share, it doesn’t need to be a polished presentation. A simple idea, a classroom win, or even a question for discussion can spark valuable conversations. Iain Macdonald
December 2025
Beth Wright
TEACHMEET: SHARING GOOD PRACTICE A New Space for Inspiration
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We have had a wonderful start to the session at Creative Writing Club with two entrants to the Young Writers Competition (run by the Association for Scottish Literary Studies and the Robert Burns Federation) achieving first and second place for their short stories. We sent off several entries by pupils before the summer holidays, some of which came from members of Creative Writing Club and some from pupils in individual English classes. Bridget P. (now Form II) was awarded the first prize of £100 for her story, ‘Rhodococcus sp.NI - 5.30’. Iris S. (now Form II) was awarded the second prize of £75 for her story, ‘Whispers Within The Fog’. Both pupils were invited to attend an awards ceremony at the ASL Schools Conference on Saturday 4 October at the University of Glasgow. Ms Claire Abel and Mrs Jenni Sloan were in attendance at the event to represent the English Department and support the pupils in their achievements. You can read their pieces in the Literature section of Fortunas on page 52. It has also been lovely to welcome several new pupils to CWC this session. Many of them have arrived with a desire to work on their own personal projects, including novels and plays. Writers have enjoyed several focused writing sessions where they have listened to music to inspire the imagination and focus the mind. We look forward to renewing our collaboration with Drama in the spring term to come. Some of our CWC writers have been planning and writing five-minute plays with a focus on the stimulus ‘Imagine A Future’. Pupils are writing with the goal of directing their plays, with the assistance of Mr MacDonald, and they cannot wait to see their work brought to life in performance by professional actors. To celebrate National Poetry Day, CWC writers played the writing game known as ‘Exquisite Corpse’ to generate a poem in a surrealist style. The resulting poem left us all wondering what secrets might dwell in our collective subconscious! CWC writers also read and responded to Adrien Sevaux’s surrealist poem ‘The Smell of the Moon’ for further inspiration. And finally, CWC pupils also continue to enjoy a variety of biscuits each week—for sustenance and creative energy whilst working. (We are all in agreement that they are an essential requirement for eliciting the best work from any serious writer…)
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RECRUITS
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We welcomed 93 new recruits to the CCF at the start of this session: an exceptional way to begin the new school year. And, since the start of the term, they have been very busy getting to grips with essential aspects of the CCF. Their journey started on Recruits Training Day, where they were taught basic drill, enjoyed some fieldcraft and first aid lessons, and began handling some of the target rifles. They met others in their section and their Directing Staff: the people who will be supporting them over the course of this year. Alongside the Directing Staff, our instructors have been working hard to deliver exceptional lessons. With all the cogs turning, we are (at the time of writing) set up for our annual Inspection Day, when our new recruits will represent Dollar Academy’s CCF alongside the rest of our contingent. Recruits have had lessons in everything from badges of rank and shooting, to simple navigation skills; these included a treasure hunt around the school and some innovative command tasks. One of my favourite moments so far has been watching the Section of the Month awards being named and seeing the recruits’ smiles at this recognition of
their hard work. Looking ahead the recruits have a weekend camp at Dunkeld; there they will learn the basics of first aid. They will, toward the end of the year, experience an overnight fieldcraft exercise that will involve blank firing. Overall, we have enjoyed a great start to the year, and I am certain the recruits will continue to thrive over the coming months.
SUMMER CAMP
CSM Thomas S. (Form VI)
The Summer Camp is always one of the highlights of the CCF calendar. This year, we were based at Boddam Cadet Training Camp near Peterhead, with our field exercise, Summer Thunder, taking place at Barry Buddon. For many, camp is particularly memorable as it provides the chance to say goodbye to our sixth years who are moving on. While it’s always bittersweet to see them go, camp reminds us of the strong connections we share across all year groups, and it builds excitement for what lies ahead. One of the best parts of camp is how it brings everyone together. Cadets are split into platoons that mix
RSM Yulia M. (Form VI)
December 2025
darkness—a thrilling and challenging experience. For me, the highlight of camp was the silent disco. It brought everyone together as one big group; we sang our hearts out to everything from Dancing Queen to Someone Like You. Most of us, myself included, lost our voices by the end of the night—but it was absolutely worth it. In the end, Summer Camp truly offers something for everyone. It gives cadets the chance to discover new interests, form some of the strongest bonds they’ll ever make, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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year groups and even service sections, creating opportunities to bond with people you might not normally work with. Despite these differences, camp unites us all through a huge variety of activities—from paintball and bubble football to coasteering in the North Sea, pizza making, laser tag, bushcraft, axe throwing, and much more. Barry Buddon, a regular army training base covering over 30 square miles, is one of the most exciting parts of camp. There, we take part in military-style exercises such as section attacks (planned attacks against the enemy while firing rifles), field cooking, and overnight stays outdoors. We even wore ghillie suits and carried out ambushes in complete
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THE INFANTRY STANDARD
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With the start of a new academic year comes a fresh intake of enthusiastic recruits into our Basic Infantry section. This year we welcomed around 50 new Form III cadets, all eager to take on the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Right from the outset, the new cadets deploy on Exercise First Steps. As the name suggests, it marks their first steps into Infantry life, giving them a real taste of what’s to come. Across the exercise, they rotate through a series of stands and activities—from building clearances, to camouflage and concealment—providing a solid foundation for the skills they will continue to develop. As the year progresses, the cadets steadily build on that foundation, learning new techniques and gaining confidence. All of this training leads up to their capstone event: a 24-hour test exercise, Exercise Simba’s Dice. This demanding exercise challenges them to put into practice, under realistic and testing conditions, everything they’ve been taught during the Friday night training sessions. Meanwhile, the start of the year also presents a challenge for our more experienced Form V and VI Infantry cadets. They take part in the Ochil Cadet Tactical Challenge 1818: 18 tests in 18 hours, a gruelling competition designed to test every aspect of the Infantry syllabus. It pushes participants to demonstrate knowledge, skill, and teamwork while operating under fatigue and pressure. This year, alongside our own senior cadets, we were pleased to welcome four senior cadets from Strathallan School CCF, adding an extra competitive edge to the event. CSM Mason N. (Form VI)
WOI Alex G. (Form VI)
December 2025
The Navy section has changed a great deal this year with the addition of a new RN officer, Miss Emily Hill, a qualified sailing instructor. Her presence has allowed us to hold weekly Tuesday sailing sessions at Port Edgar in Queensferry. These sessions might find us sailing beneath the iconic Forth Bridges; grabbing an ice cream on the riverside; undertaking fun team activities like sailing relay races and sailing basketball; or visiting with the resident dolphin who has stopped by our group three weeks in a row now! We also hold the yearly Exercise RN Mainsail camp where Navy cadets get to spend an entire weekend on the water, improving
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NAVY
their sailing by applying the skills and knowledge they’ve acquired during the weekly sessions. Cadets also learn new skills, such as powerboating. And we enjoy simply having time to chat and play games with the other cadets in the evenings. This year the Navy section was lucky to have a number of new recruits who have all managed to settle in and find their places. During our Friday sessions, they have been learning useful sailing theory from the senior cadets and officers, and they have participated in team-building exercises with the rest of the section. This has bolstered an already-strong sense of community in Dollar’s Royal Navy section.
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RAF SUMMER CAMP
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The Summer Camp at Lossiemouth was one of those experiences that will shape me as a person for years to come. The various CCFs came together as one big family of RAF cadets—all with different interests and backgrounds— creating a sense of community I’ve never felt before. We all bonded instantly, though we came from schools across Scotland and Northern Ireland. We learned to support each other through the stress of getting the rooms ready for inspection and the practice of drill movements (which some were doing for the first time). The highlights included a competitive game of rounders and the theft of our sergeant’s shoes. The external activities were incredible, too; the group trip to Landmark supplied an opportunity for us to develop still more stronger bonds. The base itself offered insight into the goings-on of Scotland’s only active RAF base. We had the chance to see Eurofighter Typhoons and P-8 Poseidons up close. We crammed ourselves into the back of an RAF police van; we watched the Typhoons scramble from air traffic control; we had the opportunity to explore an RAF reserve’s field equipment; and we were permitted access to the base’s armoury. Everything we saw and learned was incredibly interesting, and, by the end, most of the group wanted to work at Lossiemouth for whichever section had most captured our interest. I am incredibly glad I decided to take the leap and experience something new; it has given me some incredible memories and lifelong friends. Cpl Isla C. (Form VI)
December 2025
On Monday 6 October, the Annual CCF Inspection Day took place, providing Dollar Academy’s CCF contingent with the privilege of presenting to Vice Admiral P. Hally CB, MBE, Chief of Defence People (FP 1987). Upon his arrival, the vice admiral was chauffeured up the West Approach where the contingent was paraded smartly on the grass. The Pipe Band provided a fitting welcome as he was greeted by me, in my role as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Clackmannanshire. The formalities began with an inspection of our Honour Guard, provided this year by the RAF section. The vice admiral was then hosted briefly by the Contingent Commander Lt Col. C. A. Stewart and Rector Ian Munro, while cadets enjoyed a short break, before rejoining
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ANNUAL CCF INSPECTION DAY
us for the formal inspection. As he made his way through the contingent, he took time to speak with individuals, giving cadets the opportunity to share their experiences of the CCF and to reflect on the challenges and rewards that service brings. Following the parade, Lt Col. Stewart hosted the Inspecting Officer, guests, and all Form VI CCF cadets in the Captain’s Room for a fantastic lunch. This was an invaluable chance to ask questions about the vice admiral’s career, gain insight into his role within the Armed Forces, and share our own perspectives as cadets. The afternoon provided a platform for the contingent to demonstrate the breadth of our activities and the skills we develop through the CCF programme. The day concluded with encouraging words from the vice admiral, who reflected on his own career—remarkably, one which began over 40 years ago on the very same parade ground with Dollar Academy CCF. He noted that this occasion marked not only his return, but also his final formal duty with the Royal Navy, ahead of his retirement next month. To close, RSM Yulia M. (Form VI) led the contingent in a rousing ‘Hip, hip, hoorah!’ as we expressed our gratitude and wished the vice admiral every happiness in his retirement. CSgt Sofia N. (Form VI)
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PIPING NEWS
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Our summer term began once again with the stirring sound of pipes and drums echoing across Dollar from 8am. This daily tradition has become the heartbeat of every morning, but it is far more than that. Time spent practising not only drives each pupil’s musical development, it also helps to forge new friendships, strengthen existing ones, and instil the discipline needed to set ambitious targets and achieve them. This year’s competition season took a slightly different shape, with all of the major championships falling during the summer holidays. We began by hosting the Dollar Pipe Band Contest, welcoming a fantastic entry across all grades, including some of the world’s top Grade 1 bands. The event was a tremendous success and a real boost for our local community. All three of our bands delivered excellent performances, with the Juvenile band winning the adult Grade 2 section—once again underlining the remarkable standard at which our
young players perform. As the summer term drew to a close, the pipe bands were kept busy with Sports Day performances and our annual display. Despite the rain, the spectacle for the audience remained as impressive as ever. For our pupils, such public events provide invaluable experience and build confidence. We were also delighted to perform at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh—an occasion our pipers and drummers always enjoy thanks to its more relaxed and festive atmosphere, even when playing on one of the hottest days of the year! The end of July and early August brought an intense run of major competitions for all three bands, with the Scottish, European, and World Championships all taking place within a period of just four weeks. The Scottish Championships was our first competitive outing in some time, and while there were strong moments, we knew the performances fell short of our
full potential. That recognition spurred our Juvenile players on. Over the next short-seeming two weeks, they worked tirelessly, arranging extra practices and pushing themselves to improve. Their effort was rewarded with a stunning victory at the European Championships in Perth, where they also secured the best Drum Corps prize—a testament to both their skill and determination. The return to Dollar after that win was unforgettable, as our supporters lined the streets to welcome the band home and celebrate together along Burnside and Academy Place. The following week brought the World Championships, where all three bands performed admirably. Our Novice B band successfully navigated the qualifying heat, reached the final, and finished joint 4th—an incredible result that saw them outperform many schools’ top-tier bands. This outcome is a clear sign of the strength, depth, and future promise of our Pipe Band programme. None of these achievements would be possible without the dedication, resilience, and hard work of our pupils—and just as importantly, the guidance and commitment of our wonderful staff.
Scottish Championships: Juvenile: 2nd Novice A: 4th
European Championships Juvenile: 1st Novice A: 4th
World Championships Juvenile: 2nd Novice B: 6th
December 2025
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Matt Wilson
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TARGET RIFLE:
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It’s More Than Just a Sport
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When Dollar first handed me a loaded rifle, I was 12 years old—which sounds slightly alarming when I say it out loud. With three older siblings who have all shot for the school, I thought I knew everything about the sport. I will now admit that I looked up to my eldest brother in awe. He captained Dollar’s team in 2019, and the sport opened up amazing opportunities for him, not least representing Britain and touring Canada for over a month. The bar was, therefore, set quite high round our dining table, but it was nothing little Oscar didn’t think was insurmountable. When my initial naivety wore off—or was knocked out of me, depending on whom you ask— what began as sibling rivalry soon became an obsession requiring daily commitment. Wednesday nights in the range were the highlight of my week offering a chance to mix with the older kids and, nonchalantly, ask anyone to double check any particularly good scorecards. Then, in the blink of an eye, it was the summer term, which meant one thing: fullbore shooting. And that meant: bigger rifles, longer ranges, and plenty of rain at Blair Atholl or Castlelaw. All roads led to Bisley, where accommodation options consisted of old army barracks or a shed with more ‘character’ than comfort, but Bisley is my favourite place on Earth. Each summer it hosts the Schools Meeting, the pinnacle of cadet shooting, and the Imperial Meeting, the most prestigious target rifle competition in the world. After a lot of hard work, my time came at last, and I became captain. Thus, in my final year at school, I would lead Dollar during Schools Week.
Sadly, the reality was that 2025 was also the final Schools Week ever to take place after 160 years of competitions; cadet shooting was falling victim to the endless government spending cuts. Nonetheless, the team outdid themselves and defended our Scottish Championship title once again, along the way bringing home a haul of silverware including individual victories across the board. I had the great privilege of firing the last shot for Dollar, marking the end of a chapter in our history. Dollar is more decorated in shooting than in any other sport. The occasion also represented an amazing opportunity for many generations of Former Pupils to return to Bisley for one final dinner that final night, giving everyone a chance to reflect and to celebrate their time shooting for the school.
The summer wasn’t over yet, however, and a select group stayed at Bisley to compete in the Imperial Meeting, culminating in one of the most successful Imperials in Dollar’s history. The entire team put in an outstanding performance. This was a promising result, given that this is the direction that cadet shooting might take in the years ahead. And the cherry on top? The vice-captain and I both made the British team (the Athelings), and this year we went on tour to the Channel Islands for what was an unforgettable trip. Lilia and Ross were also selected for the UKCRT; there continues to be strength and depth in our squad. Tragically, this was also the final year that the team would tour in its current format, breaking a tradition that began before
December 2025
Oscar Parkins (FP 2025)
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World War I. In an unexpected twist, I also found myself firing the final shot for the last Athelings team ever. As the score paddle came up for the final time (thank God it was a bullseye), I could reflect on my shooting career, five years on. After thousands of shots fired, frankly, I have no interest in my scores anymore—or even beating my siblings. I would give it all up for another train journey down to Bisley, for a chance to sit on the firing point next to my closest friends one more time. In closing. I wish Nathan, the captain for 2025–26, and his team my best wishes and support for whatever the future holds. I know Mr Stewart has a plan!
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BISLEY:
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The End of an Era
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The Rector of Dollar Academy, Charles Dougall, fired the first .303 shot on Dollar’s outdoor range on 5 May 1909. It was recorded as a bull. Oscar Parkins (FP 2025) released our last shot at Bisley, now 7.62mm. It, too, was recorded as a bull. Many years and millions of rounds have been fired between these two dates, but—more importantly—significant memories and valuable lifetime experiences have taken shape in that time. When HQ Land Command, Cadet Branch announced the withdrawal of the cadet fullbore target rifle after 25 years of service (with replacement costs running into seven figures), it became clear that the future of cadet shooting would have to take on a new form. We were desperate to celebrate over a century of involvement, so an invitation went out to our FP community of target rifle shooters. The response was phenomenal; over 80 people attended our final Cadet Ashburton Dinner, including a former chairman of the board; an Ashburton-winning Rector; a world champion; five Commonwealth medallists; and our current Bisley team. The evening, and the day itself, was voted a massive success. Dollar’s first trip to Bisley was in 1936 when Harry Bell (former Rector, 1936–1960) was determined to win the Ashburton Shield. Back then, we finished 57th . Harry would need to wait until 2005 before Philip Lucey’s (FP 2005) team secured victory for the first time. In 2013, Billy Dineen (FP 2013) was down first at 300 yards and shot the perfect score—a performance that set his team apart and helped them collect the Ashburton Shield for Dollar for the second time. The path that took us toward these two achievements needs to be seen in context. Every earlier team contributed; from Harry’s first team to today’s team, Dollar has recorded two 1st-place finishes; five 2nd -places, a 3rd, twelve 4th-places
and three 5th-places. These performances place Dollar in overall 8th place in the 1946–2025 Ashburton rankings table; this table feature 61 schools in total. These achievements are indeed noteworthy when you consider that entries come from the best CCF schools in the five nations, including the Channel Islands. The history of Bisley is deeply rooted; memories will last a lifetime, and the confidence gained by being among the best that our country can offer is immeasurable. As John Cameron (previous Chair of the Board of Governors and FP 1957) said, ‘All good things must come to an end.’ It is my belief that the golden thread, the ‘filial strand’ that brings us together is at the heart of what Dollar Academy produces, and it will ensure that we will continue to benefit from all that Bisley has to offer for many years to come. My most sincere thanks to everyone who helped make Ashburton 2025 an extra special day to remember. Lt Col. Craig Stewart (FP and Contingent Commander)
Charlie Ainge
December 2025
The Surf Club has been running for over 15 years at Dollar Academy, and during that time we have taken hundreds of pupils surfing, many of them for the very first time. The club is open to all year groups in the senior school, but the nature of the activity means that small groups of between 8 and 15 pupils are usually involved. As such, it is a very inclusive and social club, in which pupils from different year and social groups spend extended periods of time together in a relaxed and engaging environment. The shared experience of surfing in the cold North Sea, off of a beautiful and empty Scottish beach, really brings pupils together, and the drive back always feels very happy and positive. May 2025 saw the start of a new chapter in the history of the Surf Club with the opening of Lost Shore, the new artificial wave pool just outside Edinburgh. This is an amazing facility which allows surfers to practise particular aspects of their surfing in predictable and reliable waves. We have developed a ‘blended’ approach at Dollar, taking pupils to both C2C Surf School at Belhaven Bay and to Lost Shore during each block of lessons. This has allowed pupils to acquire basic skills and a good level of awareness and competency with C2C, before giving them the opportunity to practise these skills at Lost Shore. These blended blocks of lessons have been greatly enjoyed by pupils and have really improved their level of surfing.
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SURFING
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THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD Over the past eight months, our Forms III–VI pupils have been undertaking their Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. Form III Bronze candidates first completed their compulsory in-school expedition training sessions last spring term, covering everything from map reading to safety and emergency procedures, from kit and rucksack packing to menu planning. Then, the pupils were ready to put it all into practice. On each of the DofE training expeditions, candidates hike with staff accompanying them, before undertaking unaccompanied (remotely supervised) qualifying expeditions. The 2025 Bronze trips took place over three weekends in every kind of weather that May has to offer. At Bronze, six hours of daily activity are required over the two-day expedition, and candidates camp for one night (somewhere particularly wild). About 120 pupils took part in these expeditions, many of them carrying heavy packs and walking over rough ground for the first time in their lives. After the summer, in August and September, these pupils then headed out (without staff leaders) on their qualifying expeditions. Staff supervise the groups remotely and check in with them in the evening, but these pupil groups are very much out on their own in fairly wild country, having to make important decisions about navigation, group management and safety as a pupil team. To complete the award at Bronze (as at Silver and Gold), pupils must also work through the the other sections (Skills, Physical and Volunteering). There is also a Residential component at Gold level. The Silver and Gold training and qualifying expeditions all take place in June and run on much the same model, but they entail more hours, more miles, more rucksack weight, more metres of ascent and, generally, far greater challenge. Last June, over 50 Silver pupils completed their training expeditions in the Cairngorms with accompanying staff before undertaking their (unaccompanied, but remotely supervised) qualifying expeditions in the very remote Ben Alder wilderness area of the Scottish Highlands. These trips are a step up from Bronze: two nights under canvas and three days of self-sufficient walking with heavy rucksacks. While some of the groups enjoyed beautiful sunlight and warm summer conditions (some of the time), others were less fortunate and experienced the full effects of driving rain, unseasonably cold temperatures and an amber wind warning. The 21 Gold pupils also went to the Cairngorms for their training expeditions (many taking in Munros along the way) in very challenging three-night, four-day walking
expeditions. These expeditions are not for the fainthearted, and it soon becomes evident why completion of the Gold Award is seen as a significant physical and psychological undertaking. The Gold qualifying expeditions involved groups walking across Scotland: an amazing linear trek between Alness and Ullapool. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions are invaluable in terms of building pupil self-reliance, accountability and confidence, as well as teamwork and problem-solving skills. Crucially, pupils have no access to their phones—an added challenge for many, but one that most agree is immensely enjoyable. The DofE expeditions are adventures in the truest (and rarest) sense: pupils undertake a daunting challenge, with real risk, that is physically and psychologically testing. The trips demand resolve and determination, creative and critical thought, and trust in your peers... each trip presents a challenge in which success is by no means guaranteed; therein lies its value. Heather Moore
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BIOLOGY TRIPS TO INCHAILLOCH AND MILLPORT
Might these two trips be the longest-running trips in the school?* Dollar pupils have been visiting Inchcailloch since 1987 and Millport since 1989. Both trips were conceived and implemented by my predecessor, Andy Morton. Andy grew up canoeing and boating in these special places, and he was keen to share his love and enthusiasm for them with his pupils. It is amazing to think that our trips in 2025 represented the 36th Form III Biology trip to Inchcailloch and the 34th Form VI Advanced Higher Biology trip to Millport by Dollar pupils! I wonder how much wood sorrel has been tasted and how many limpets have been measured by us over the years…
INCHAILLOCH
The Form III trip to Inchcailloch takes place in May, to coincide with the thick, blue carpet of bluebells that always blooms into life at this time. Pupils learn how human activity and geology have influenced the beautiful woodland ecosystem that we see on the island today, thus exemplifying many aspects of the National 5 Biology curriculum. Charlie Ainge Photographs courtesy of Tigerlily S. (now Form IV)
MILLPORT
During the Form VI Advanced Higher trip to Millport, pupils carry out the practical element of their AH Biology project. This is a demanding piece of work, equivalent to a final-year, university honours project. Pupils undertake a diverse range of investigations; from self-righting behaviour in starfish to endogenous rhythms in shore crabs; from the gripping power of dogwhelks to the impact of wave action on seaweed morphology. Both trips enrich the learning that happens in the classroom by exemplifying concepts in natural environments, and we are lucky to have such superb places to visit within easy access of Dollar. By taking pupils to these places, I hope (like Andy Morton) to enhance the quality of their learning, but also to engender a love and respect for the natural world which is increasingly vital in the rapidly changing world we live in.
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Charlie Ainge
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*Note from the editor: The Fellbach trip has been running for 34 years now, tying it with the Millport trip in terms of longevity. The Inchcailloch trip may well be the longest-running trip in the school at 36 years and counting. Readers are invited to ponder the question further and write in with their thoughts!
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SNAPSHOT OF A TRIP TO BALI
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After a 16-hour journey, we finally landed in Bali, marking the start of our combined Biology/Geography trip. Our cheerful adventure leaders greeted us with the Indonesian phrase, ‘Om Swastiastu’, which means ‘Hello’. On Day One, we made traditional offerings called Canang Sari, crafted from flowers and palm leaves, while learning about Balinese culture. Later, we visited the Uluwatu Temple, where a macaque monkey stole a tourist’s phone and took selfies—making us extra cautious as we headed to the Kecak fire dance, which told the story of the Ramayana. Day Two kicked off with thrilling rides on banana boats and donut rings, followed by a visit to one of the world’s largest statues, depicting Lord Vishnu riding the Garuda bird. On Day Three, we surfed big waves before enjoying chicken skewers and extremely chewy octopus, which fuelled us for the afternoon beach clean-up. Day Four began at the Turtle Conservation Centre, where we released baby turtles into the ocean; Mr Florence said goodbye to his turtle, Baba Ghanoush. In the afternoon, we planted mangroves from canoes, while Mr McComiskie showed off his green-toed water shoes, much to our amusement. We ended the day with a delicious Chinese hotpot: trays stacked high with raw meat and noodles cooked in a tasty spicy broth. Day Five started with Balinese mud games and wrestling competitions in the hometown of one of our
leaders, Darla. Later, we explored a traditional pre-Hindu Balinese village, saw rainbow chickens and a black bee farm, and visited a water palace where we fed koi fish. On Day Six, we relaxed in hot springs before heading off-road in jeeps up Mount Batur, an inactive volcano, where we learned about volcanic and erosional features. Day Seven was packed with excitement; we yelled, ‘Boom, boom!’ while hitting rocks during white water rafting. We spotted monkeys, lizards, and kingfishers, and we ended the day with Japanese food at a traditional low-seating table, where we signed Aura’s travel journal. Day Eight took us to a rice farm where we tried tilling the field, and then enjoyed a visit to a massive waterfall—turns out, you really do slip on banana peels! On Day Nine, we visited a permaculture farm to learn about sustainable agriculture, then cooked our own authentic Balinese dinner, a highlight for many. Day Ten involved a long forest walk where we learned about vanilla, cocoa, and coffee beans en route to an elephant sanctuary, where we got to wash the elephants. In the evening, we carved watermelons to wrap up the day. Throughout the trip, we created a quotes book filled with memorable lines from students and teachers, each a core memory. The experience gave us a new perspective on different lives and cultures, while allowing us to apply our Biology and Geography skills in the real world. Everyone agreed it was packed with fun; I highly recommend it to any future biologists or geographers! Akira P. (Form VI)
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OCTOBER BREAK ADVENTURES
The 2025 October break was an incredibly busy time for school trips: there was a Music Tour to Malaysia and Singapore; a trekking trip to Chilean Patagonia; and a Business Education trip to New York City. This edition of Fortunas features articles about the trips to Malaysia and to Patagonia. An article about the trip to New York City will feature in the summer edition.
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The Music Tour to Malaysia and Singapore
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Eighteen Dollar Academy pupils and three staff members of the Music Department undertook a ten-day tour to Malaysia and Singapore during the October break. The aim of the trip was to deliver a series of concerts in schools and educational establishments while experiencing the cultures of both countries. From the start of the new session, the pupils rehearsed weekly on a Monday night, learning a variety of instrumental and choral music across a range of traditional, contemporary and Classical genres. After a 28-hour journey on Turkish Airlines, the pupils spent their first day at Marlborough College Malaysia performing a joint concert with the MC Jazz Band and Choir before parents and staff. They enjoyed a raft-building experience on the school lake, and they spent time teaching the school’s Junior pupils how to ceilidh
dance; feeding the thera-pet pygmy goats; and singing karaoke in the Rector’s house. Their Rector is Mr Simon Burbury, Dollar’s former Deputy Rector. We were treated to a delicious dinner of burgers, followed by a decadent chocolate fondue. After sightseeing across Johar and experiencing the many temples and local food, the Dollar pupils took to the stage again—this time at Sunway International School. Their performance—to an audience of pupils between the ages of 7 and 17—was warmly received. A boat tour in the mangrove forest, a visit to a colony of stingless black bees (and a tasting session of their honey), as well as some local shopping left the pupils with a little time to enjoy the 4-star hotel, complete with infinity pool and à la carte food. A final day at Legoland Malaysia allowed pupils to buy some memorabilia and experience the Sea Life aquarium, the Legoland village and Water Park. Singapore brought a new dimension to the tour; we enjoyed a hotel in the centre of the city again, complete with private pool. By now the team tour game of ‘Traitors’ was well under way, and our confidence was high with two very successful concerts under our belts. Singapore did not disappoint. Despite the humidity, the pupils enjoyed lots of sightseeing. We visited the famous Merlion on the waterfront and saw the iconic Apple Store floating in the bay. We explored the UNESCO Gardens by the Bay site, with its 2000+ orchids, and Orchard Road’s four kilometres of shopping malls. We also had the opportunity to visit the Cloud Forest with its indoor waterfall and Jurassic Park life-size dinosaurs. And, of course, we wandered through Chinatown, sampling its infinite food stalls and famous durian fruit—not for the faint hearted! A concert at Raffles Music College gave our
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Louise Timney
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pupils a final opportunity to display their talents and another chance to teach the students and their lecturers a military two-step. We all came away with so many memories from this trip. We tasted the water from a newly picked coconut and sampled bright-green pandan cake; we sipped fresh honey from the stingless bee honeycombs on the roadside and we were blessed by the guru at the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple (the first and only glass temple in the world). We ceilidh danced in 30-degree temperatures (and full humidity) with 150 primary pupils, and we took part in the Best Pool Handstand and Founding Fathers Competition. The fantastic musical performances delivered by our talented group were, of course, the icing on the cake. Perhaps the most memorable of experiences, however, was Ellie’s; she celebrated her 16th birthday on tour and was subjected to 11 separate renditions of ‘Happy Birthday’ throughout the day. As always, the pupils were a credit to the school; congratulations on such a successful tour.
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TRAINING AND PREPARATION FOR PATAGONIA When they were just in Form IV, 12 intrepid pupils signed up to a big adventure that would take place in October of their sixth year: a trek in Chilean Patagonia, at the very end of the Earth. It’s fair to say, none of us knew quite what to expect. Over the following two years, the group tackled a delightful training programme together. While most of the group were also takign part in Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award expeditions, we needed to further hone our skills, friendships and fitness before undertaking this adventure. A Highlands training trip in Form V was followed up with an Ochils traverse covering 25km and taking in 10 summits on a windy Saturday in April. The team also took responsibility for the marking and preparation of the Sponsored Walk in June of this year; every marker on that route was placed by this Patagonia training team. Preparations also involved a charitable element. The team organised a fundraising lecture with Kirsty Mack (FP 2001, who also has an article in this edition about her recent ascent of K2, page 122). The money raised that night, an impressive £1100, was split between the Juniper Fund and the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund to maintain bridges and preserve wildlife in the national park. A final preparation trip took place in September. A camp outside the Red House bothy in the Cairngorms helped the team to bond, and we carried very heavy packs up yet another Munro summit (Ben Bhrotain). This trip was also a chance to test out kit for a final time. The post-exped tradition of a hearty meal continued with a marvellous, lateevening pause at the Braemar chippy. And, when you will be carrying every piece of equipment for a nine-day trek on your back, it is important to get it right. We held endless kit discussions ahead of our departure, and a final kit check took place in the garden of 2 Academy Place to work out what could be squeezed in, and, crucially, what couldn't be. (Two teddies and many Percy Pigs survived the final cut.) After almost two years of preparation, we were trained, packed and mentally ready to undertake the largest trek of all... Catherine Munro
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TORRES DEL PAINE, PATAGONIA ‘Never for a moment on this trip did I think I would rather be anywhere else in the world than where I was.’
December 2025
On 11 October, the fourteen of us set out on a two-week adventure that was nearly two years in the making. Fears of bad weather, injury, and losing bags were high before we departed. Writing now, two weeks after our return, I am left with a feeling of sadness. The trip was more incredible than anyone ever expected. Luck was on our side: no one was injured; the weather was kind; no bags were lost in our long journey from Edinburgh, to Heathrow, to Santiago, to the small town of Puerto Natales, and then (just an hour and a half away) to our final destination: the Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. For a trip of this magnitude, the days flew by. We were spoiled by incredible weather and wildlife sightings (condors, guanacos, Andean deer, and even a puma!). Famous for being the land of wind, Torres del Paine was still and calm for much of our trek. We enjoyed blissful days of hiking, sometimes over hanging bridges strung high above valleys that descended toward the vast and breathtaking
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During the October break, twelve Form VI pupils, accompanied by Mrs Heather Moore and Mrs Catherine Munro, travelled to southern Chile, a journey taking two days. After a couple of warmup hikes, the team (carrying rucksacks of 15-20kgs) took on the W Trek in the Torres del Paine region, a route of 134 kilometres and over 6,300m of ascent. The group were selfsufficient—camping and carrying their own tents, gear and food. They trekked up to Glacier Grey—a finger of the Patagonian Ice Field—below the wild pinnacles of Paine Grande. They hiked up the spectacular French Valley to the Britannico viewpoint. Following the shoreline of the milky-blue Nordenskjöld Lake, they climbed up Ascensio Valley to Mirador des Torres, the iconic view of the Torres del Paine themselves. Along the way they saw native flora and fauna, learned about glaciation and the region’s geology, about puma conservation, about the threat of wildfires and over-tourism, and about the traditional customs of the local people. This team of pupils were an impressive bunch: at the end, our guides cried as we said goodbye. Below, Calum M. describes what the trip was really like...
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Glacier Grey. The glacier itself was a seemingly never-ending landscape of icy hills and deep blue crevasses. Its beauty took my breath away and made me realise the insignificance of all the problems I thought I had. It also made me realise the size of the world, its diversity—that this dreamlike fantasy could somehow exist on the same rock as Dollar. It was a great privilege to experience it. Every day, the weather was miraculous. Two days after the glacier walk, we sat and watched avalanches while we sunbathed and ate lunch; it was truly incredible and unlike anything I’ve ever done before. Every night, we cooked dinner and prepared the next day’s lunch together. As a group, we were all extremely close; no one argued, and we all got along. The trip was blessed in every way: the landscape, the weather, and, most importantly the people: our two fantastic guides, Chris and Koen; our porters, Danni and Hugo; our two teachers, Mrs Moore and Mrs Munro; and our group. This journey, taking us to the far side of the world, made me feel closer to home than anything else. The park is full of beauty everywhere you go, and we had it mostly to ourselves. The iconic three towers were breathtaking in their scale. This trip was simply some of the best times of our lives. Finishing the trek on the final day was emotional; the trek had flown by, and suddenly our nine days of trekking were over. Two years of build-up, of conversation about kit and fitness, of training trips... now it was all simply done. The trip left me with a longing to do more. It woke me up to the endless wonders our world has to share, and it made me want to explore it as much as possible with friends. Travelling back through Santiago, then London, then home was all a blur. Never for a moment on this trip did I think I would rather be anywhere else in the world than where I was. It was a privilege and a treasure to remember forever—to know now how incredible trips like this can be. I am determined to help others experience something close to what I was able to feel. Anyone who has the chance to do a trip like this, do it. It just might change your life as it has done mine. Calum M. (Form VI)
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ADVANCED HIGHER GEOGRAPHY TRIP TO ABERFELDY
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One of the most important parts of a good field trip is the food. Staying in a selfcatered bunkhouse, high on the side of a valley above Aberfeldy, means that the pupils on this trip traditionally take responsibility for the catering themselves. Thankfully, the excellent organisation and attention to detail on this year’s trip meant that the fajitas and the carbonara exceeded all expectations, and Emily’s homemade cakes added a touch of class. Of course, the geography work was also very important, and pupils analysed soils, measured rivers, counted pedestrians and profiled glacial deposits with great precision. These techniques are an integral part of the Advanced Higher Geography course and may well feature as part of the final exam. These skills also form the basis for pupils' folios, and every pupil returned home with a much better idea of what their folio will eventually look like. The trip concluded with a rafting trip on the River Tay, culminating in some daunting class-3 rapids at Grandtully. A quick journey home meant that we made it back to Dollar in time for the annual Cross Country Championships. Alastair McConnell
LANGUAGES TRIPS:
Susan Rice
December 2025
In May 2025 we were very fortunate to take a group of Form I and II pupils (who are learning German) to Amberg in the Bavarian region of Germany. This was an opportunity to gain a real taste for the German lifestyle as our pupils were hosted by German families. They can now relate to life in a German household. This knowledge will be applied in the classroom as they continue to progress in learning the German language. We had a range of activities on the programme, led by our German partner school, Erasmus Gymnasium. Herr Markus Spörer, a longstanding friend of Dollar Academy (since he was our German Assistant in 2002), gave our pupils an insight to the history of the area through city tours and cultural experiences. A first for everyone was a summer toboggan and sand slide: very popular indeed! The aims of our Modern Languages trip were met as everyone’s confidence was improved by staying away from home in a German family, giving them abundant opportunity to use the language ‘for real’. We know how well this helps to embed everyday vocabulary and phrases into pupils’ memories. The success of the trip was clear every day. Our pupils took part so fully and wholeheartedly in every activity, and they loved telling their stories about their family’s evening activities. Several of them were taking part in this trip for the second time, which clearly sends a positive message. And this session’s summer trip is on schedule already. We also hope that, very soon, our German hosts will come and experience Scottish hospitality in our homes.
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Amberg
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FELLBACH EXCHANGE 2025 Now in its 34th year, the Fellbach Exchange was once again a tremendous success. We travelled to Germany at the beginning of June and enjoyed 10 days of experiencing a different school. Staying with host families, we incorporated excursions to theme parks and medieval towns; we went outdoor swimming and on boat trips, and so much more. The exchange continues to provide Dollar pupils with a truly unique and unforgettable experience, remaining an integral part of what is on offer to pupils of German. Here are some thoughts from pupils who took part in the 2025 exchange… Andrew Fynn
Reflections from Christie M. (now Form IV):
We had so many experiences and took so much away from this trip. The exchange raised our confidence in meeting new people and making connections quickly, building friendships that lasted beyond the exchange. It is intimidating to go to another country and live away from home for a while, but it showed us that trying new and unfamiliar things can bring some of the best experiences you’ll ever have. During our time in Germany, we also gained a new cultural understanding of daily life in Fellbach—whether that was sharing food and traditions, experiencing community life, working out means of transport or just getting to know the everyday routines of school and home. Our time in Fellbach also helped our language learning significantly— not least because we picked up useful everyday phrases and expressions you simply wouldn’t learn from a textbook. But, most of all, the exchange left us with friendships, stories, and memories that will stay with us forever.
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Reflections from Logan T. (now Form VI):
Those who take part in this exchange in Form V have the chance to spend five days doing work experience in and around Fellbach. This gives you the opportunity to use your German in real situations, while gaining valuable, hands-on experience in the workplace. The placements vary a great deal—you might find yourself in a nursery, a primary school, a sports centre, a pharmacy, a business firm, or even an engineering company. During my exchange, I worked with TSV, a private sports organisation closely connected to the school our partners attended. My role was to support sports classes for children aged 6 to 10. Some days I joined the younger children in the Schmidolino (a soft play area with trampolines and a foam pit), while other days I helped with football training, even joining sessions with the school’s U15 team.
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Working alongside both children and adults really improved my confidence in speaking German, and it gave me a clearer picture of what working life after school might look like. The exchange is a unique opportunity that also looks fantastic on your UCAS application. Beyond the work experience, I made many friendships and gained memories that I know I’ll carry with me for a long time. The return visit by our Fellbach friends to Dollar in September was equally memorable: our guests spent time in school; visited Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stirling; and, of course, we rounded off their visit with the traditional ceilidh, which was so enjoyable for all. On to 2026 to see what the next instalment will bring…
Amy R. (Captain, Form VI) and Beatrix C. (Vice-Captain, Form VI)
December 2025
This term, rugby is off to a strong start. With many new players joining, we now have solid U14, U16, and U18 girls’ squads. Before the October break, the U18s had their first match of the season—a 7s game against Stirling County. It was a fantastic opportunity to play full pitch and help our newer players gain match experience. Although Stirling came away with a
Smith, as well as Gemma Thomson, Ceitidh Ainsworth and Mr Driver. We are deeply grateful for their time, support and commitment to the teams.
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GIRLS' RUGBY
25–7 win, Michelle S. (Form V) scored a brilliant try, which was then neatly converted by Iona O. (Form VI). The U16s faced Alva Academy and delivered an impressive performance, scoring five tries. Meanwhile, our U14s took part in the Girls Rugby Festival at Wallace High School in celebration of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Looking ahead, we have a festival at Fettes and fixtures lined up for the second term. Several players across the squads have been nominated for regionals, and we wish them the very best of luck in their upcoming trials. The third term will see us either travel to the Rosslyn Park 7s in London or compete in a tournament in Montrose. All in all, it has been a fantastic start to what we are sure will be an exciting year of rugby. We have been incredibly privileged to benefit from the superb coaching of Mrs Verity
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SPORTS DAYS Sports Weekend 2025 was once again a fantastic occasion, and our young athletes produced a number of outstanding performances over the three days of athletics and sporting activities. We were blessed with some very sunny and warm conditions, and this allowed everyone to enjoy what is always one of the highlights of the school year. A huge congratulations to all of our champions, from the Prep School through to our senior pupils. It is important here, however, to recognise everyone who took part: from the large numbers coming out for the heats to just ‘give it a go’, to those who qualified for finals and gave it their all across a number of events. One of the highlights is always the traditional wholeschool relay; the four quints compete against each other, and pupils take part from every year group in the school. It really is amazing to watch our Form VI pupils running alongside our wonderful Prep 1 pupils—who truly demonstrate what it looks like to run with a smile on your face! And Senior Sports Day always concludes with what is perhaps everyone’s favourite event: the annual Tug o’ War, pitting the boarders against the day pupils. Despite that they, arguably, came in as the underdogs, the boarders showed superb team spirit and togetherness; they produced an outstanding display of strength to overcome a powerful day pupil squad. The resulting celebrations were memorable indeed. We are already looking forward to Sports Weekend 2026!
RESULTS*
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PREP SCHOOL CHAMPIONS Prep 5: Ellie M. (Argyll) Prep 5: Sebastian M. (Argyll)
JUNIOR SCHOOL CHAMPIONS Junior 1 Girls: Poppy F. Junior 1 Boys: Angus L. Junior 2 Girls: Annie E. Junior 2 Boys: Hugo K.
SENIOR SCHOOL CHAMPIONS Form 1 Girls: Mia T. Form 1 Boys: Nicky T. Intermediate Girls: Charlotte T. (Form III) Intermediate Boys: Alex S. (Form III) Senior Girls: Laurie H. (Form VI) Senior Boys: Hamish L. (Form V) Steve Newton *Results list makes reference to 2024–25 year groups.
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SPORTS WEEKEND:
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Rain or Shine, the Dollar Dog Show Delights Once Again
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In true Scottish fashion, dog lovers didn’t let a little rain dampen their spirits at this year’s Dollar Dog Show. Despite the soggy weather, dedicated competitors turned out in full force, donning waterproofs and proudly stepping into the arena to showcase well-rehearsed tricks, brilliant costumes, and of course, impeccable canine behaviour. Costumes were a real highlight this year, with creativity in full swing. Two handmade kilts earned plenty of chuckles and admiration from the audience. A special mention goes to Emily G. (Form III) and her miniature poodle, Maki, who wowed the crowd dressed in a miniature Dollar Academy uniform—after travelling all the way from Germany to take part! Charlie C. (Junior 1) also impressed with his spaniel duo, Sadie and Maggie. The pair performed a delightful double act and remained completely unfazed by the drizzle, proving that talent (and training!) beats the weather any day. Sophia A. (Form III) and her lovable Australian labradoodle, Henry, stole the spotlight in the Best in Show category. His gentle nature and charming presence quickly won over the judges and the crowd. Once again, generous doggy bags were kindly donated by Kelso and Titch. Prizes were also kindly supplied by Broadleys Veterinary Hospital, Suzy’s Dog Spa and Cameron and Greig Vets. Thanks to everyone’s support, we raised an impressive £160 for Scotland’s Air Ambulance and Clacks Pet Pantry—two very deserving causes. A huge thank you to the organising committee for their hard work in making the event a success. We’re already wagging our tails in anticipation of next summer’s show! Catherine Munro
SENIOR SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 On the afternoon of Thursday 9 October, 641 pupils took to the hills behind Dollar to participate in the annual Senior School Cross Country Championships, supported throughout the event by over 80 staff. Many pupils recorded strong runs and others enjoyed the opportunity to challenge themselves by participating in the event, thereby contributing to the overall result for their quint.
Overall Quint Results: 1st Place: Mar (9,727 points) 2nd Place: Argyll (10,741 points) 3rd Place: Atholl (11,712 points) 4th Place: Stewart (11,974 points)
Gill Robb
December 2025
Junior (Form 1) Girls: Alice T. (Mar) Junior (Form 1) Boys: Luke W. (Argyll) Intermediate (Forms 2 & 3) Girls: Ella H. (Form III, Atholl) Intermediate (Forms 2 & 3) Boys: Toby C. (Form III, Atholl) Senior (Forms 4, 5 & 6) Girls: Jessica E. (Form VI, Stewart) Senior (Forms 4, 5 & 6) Boys: Raphael J.-R. (Form VI, Atholl)
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Individual Winners:
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T R I A T H L O N PROGRAMME
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Our much-anticipated triathlon programme has started and is led by Sean McFarlane (FP 1991). As well as being one of Scotland’s leading long-distance triathletes and adventurer racers, Sean is an FP and Dollar resident. He brings a wealth of experience and local knowledge to the programme, offering pupils a further opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the wonderful landscape on our doorstep—in this case, through all sorts of swim, bike and run adventures. Dollar is the only school in Scotland with a dedicated triathlon programme. Pupils make full use of the surrounding natural environment; the magnificent Ochil hills, of course, take centre stage, but we are also fortunate to have numerous off-road local trails and quiet country roads right on our doorstep. Our swimming pool plays an important role in the pupils’ training, and this term we have also swum in some local open-water swimming locations. Squad members have already been victorious in domestic races, and we have a comprehensive race calendar planned next year both in Scotland and overseas. A warm-weather training camp is scheduled for February in Cyprus, and a range of sponsors have been confirmed. A new bike storage area will be ready shortly; these are exciting times for the sport at Dollar. More information on the programme itself can be found on the school website. Sean McFarlane
GOLF Our golfers continue to excel and, in a seemingly continually growing sport at Dollar, there are ever more opportunities for our golfers to flourish. Last session’s summer term saw us complete our first full season on the Swifts Schools Golf Tour. On a platform where there is serious competition at the highest level nationally, we gave a creditable account of ourselves in both the foursomes team format and in individual strokeplay events. It is indicative of the development of our golfers that they can compete at this level, and they are becoming more competitive in a tough environment. Our approach is undoubtedly bearing fruit. In addition, we were victorious in the Links Challenge competition again (now undefeated over five years), playing at Elie, Crail, Arbroath, Dundonald, and Gullane. We won the Frost Trophy, defeating six schools from across Scotland. And, in an ever-tighter competition, the Staff v Pupils match ended in a very civil draw following some superb golf from both teams on the Queen’s Course at Gleneagles. Our thanks go to Gleneagles, Muckhart and the many other courses that we play on, for helping to make our golf team the success it is. We look forward to the many golfing challenges ahead; our golfers are ready. Neil Blezard
players for their commitment and dedication, and also the parents for their unwavering support. The progress we have made this year has been significant, and I look forward to building on this momentum heading into the winter nets and the 2026 season. Well played, everyone. Cedric English
Form 3
The squad began the season with great enthusiasm and confidence, bolstered by many players having participated in a comprehensive winter net programme. This dedication in the off-season was evident in the strength of the squad. Notably, four players were regularly selected for the 1st XI team, which naturally limited their availability for the Form 3 side. It was inspiring to witness these young
December 2025
1st XI This year’s campaign was defined by both character-building moments and some memorable victories. Our season began with a dominant victory against the Stenhousemuir CC 2nd XI, but we then found ourselves at the losing end of a bruising encounter against Strathallan School. Importantly, the squad displayed excellent resilience, bouncing back with confident displays against Glenalmond College, Morrison’s Academy and Edinburgh Academy. Other tough encounters followed against George Heriot’s School, Fettes College, and Merchiston Castle School; however, the highlight of the season was an excellent victory
against Erskine Stewart Melville. This victory was a testament to the hard work put in during training with some tenacious batting and accurate bowling. Beyond the triumphs, some of the most valuable lessons were learned in games where the result didn’t go our way. Our matches against the MCC, the Rector’s XI and the Dollar CC were perfect examples of this. Although we were only victorious against the Dollar CC, each of those games demonstrated with sportsmanship and some good cricket, while offering invaluable experience for our team. Playing against such experienced opponents provided an excellent swansong for our departing Form VI pupils, but also a great opportunity for our younger players to develop the confidence and mindset to be better senior players in the season to come. I would like to thank the
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CRICKET UPDATE 2025
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athletes competing at such a high level of school cricket at an early stage in their development. This situation presented an excellent opportunity to broaden the squad’s experience by involving a wider group of players in matches. Early on, it was clear that the team needed to focus on protecting their wicket and exercising patience, especially when deciding which deliveries to attack. This was a lesson learned the hard way following a few early batting collapses. However, as the weeks passed, the improvement in skill and maturity across the squad was evident. The players became more composed and selective with their shots, leading to stronger performances. Some of the standout moments of the season included a commanding eight-wicket victory over Glenalmond College, showcasing both batting prowess and effective bowling. Another thrilling highlight was a closely contested nine-run win against Merchiston. In that match, some precise and strategic bowling in the final overs secured crucial wickets, just when it seemed the opposition might reach their target. This demonstrated the team’s growing ability to perform under pressure. The Glenalmond 6s tournament is always a popular event in the Form 3 calendar. The fastpaced format encourages aggressive batting and tests fielding skills; only four fielders cover the entire outfield. With a full-strength squad, the team started strong with a dominant win over Loretto School, but then suffered a narrow defeat against hosts, Glenalmond, which placed them in the contest for third and fourth positions. They finished the day with solid victories against the High School of Dundee and Robert Gordon’s College, ultimately securing a respectable thirdplace finish. The tournament provided an excellent platform for the players to demonstrate their growing confidence and competitive spirit. Ranald Baird
Form 2
Our season was off to a great start when we lined up against the mighty Glenalmond College. Our team’s first three balls all went for four runs, but we composed ourselves and smashed them by ten wickets with none of our batsmen getting out. Our next opponent was Merchiston—on home ground at Thornbank. They put up a huge score of 154 runs for only 7 wickets. Their second batsman was amazing and scored a whopping 67 runs. We fought bravely, but only put up 130—thus fell 24 runs short. Our next match was against George Heriot’s, and they put up a respectable 78, with Reuben P. getting five wickets (four bowled and one catch). When we came back to bat our first five batsmen were sadly and quickly dismissed. Then came Ben W. and Jai P. at seven and eight—arguably the reason we weren’t completely embarrassed; Ben scored 19 and Jai scored 15. Their opening bowler got all our top five out quickly, Reuben, our number three batsman, got out by an astounding diving catch. Our next match was easily the most challenging, against Fettes College. One of their batsmen smashed a ball from the far end of Thornbank. They proceeded to put up an astonishing 164 runs, losing only 3 wickets throughout. We did our best to fight back but only managed to score 85 runs. Our final match was against George Watson’s. Gregory opened and did well but got out fairly quickly. This meant that the captain Neil A. was coming into bat. Reuben and Neil stayed in together for a huge 10 out of the 20 overs. Reuben put up a solid score of 40 runs, and Neil, 20. When Watson’s came into bat, however, it began to rain, which made fielding difficult. Ben W. was a standout bowler of the match and got an impressive bowl and caught. Our last match came to a close; we lost by just two runs. At the end of the season, we played the Scottish Schools’ Soft Ball Cup. In this tournament, the team
sent out a pair of batters for two overs before they retired. The pairs were Calum and Neil, Reuben and Gregory, Louis M. and Miles W., and Ben W. and Lukas M. This tournament was boundaries galore; every game was a high-scoring thriller. We reached the final, beating Larbert High, Strathallan and others. In the final, we played Bell Baxter High School, and they scored a huge 215 runs. Everyone batted well, and we were confident that we could win, but when Bell Baxter came into bowl, the nerves started settling in. We could only score 205 runs, and so lost the final by just 10 runs. Still, we came second and returned home with our medals and a winning feeling. Finally, a word about our leader: Neil was an incredible captain. Whether it was about tactics or batting order or just keeping morale up, he always tried to help everyone improve. We all played a part in this season’s success, however, and we all know what to work on for next year.
Form 1
Reuben P. and Gregory M.
The Form I cricket team enjoyed a rewarding and energetic season, marked by a strong commitment to development and a shared sense of enjoyment. With a focus on improving core skills, tactical awareness and, most importantly, having fun, the pupils embraced every opportunity to grow both individually and as a team. Training sessions were lively and purposeful, with players showing great enthusiasm in refining their batting, bowling, and especially fielding techniques. The improvement in fielding was particularly notable, with sharper reactions, better coordination, less fear of the hard ball and increased confidence across the squad. Although the Scottish cricket season is always short, the team made the most of every fixture. They recorded excellent wins against Loretto and Heriot’s, showcasing excellent teamwork. Matches against Watson’s and Cargilfield School were competitive and spirited, offering valuable learning experiences and highlighting the team’s resilience and sportsmanship.
Junior 2
The Junior 2 cricket squad were a credit to the school. Every week—rain or shine—we had around 25 boys and girls enjoying training and games. The team played four games, and they were complimented by the opposition's teachers, and even by the opposition’s parents, for their team spirit, positive attitude, and general behaviour. They were all very committed and, as a result, every player developed noticeably across the very short season. Crucially, it was also apparent how much they enjoyed themselves. There are too many talented players and too many wonderful characters to single anyone out—but coaching this group was an absolute pleasure. Bob McKillop
Junior 1
It was great to witness this group of players discover their love for the game as they got their first proper taste of competitive cricket. What they may have initially lacked in experience, they more than made up for in enthusiasm, teamwork, and sheer spirit. Leading the side with great credit was our captain, Archie. He didn’t just lead—he inspired, putting in some remarkable individual performances that often lifted the whole team. It was fantastic to watch him set such a positive example. Under his guidance, we saw individuals grow in confidence week by week, and all with smiles on their faces. This was very much a mixed team, and one of its greatest strengths was how seamlessly everyone worked together, both in training and on the pitch. A special mention must go to Robyn M., whose safe hands and unwavering commitment proved time and again her genuine love and talent for the sport. Equally, Lewis C. embodied the team’s attitude with his determination to dig in, always doing his best with a smile on his face, no matter the situation. In truth, this praise extends to every single player. The season was defined not by the results, but by the fantastic spirit in which the game was played. They threw themselves into every match, supported one another without question, and, most importantly, always had fun. It has laid the foundations for the years to come. Well done to everyone involved. Don Caskie
Girls Cricket
There was a huge amount of enthusiasm on display at all of the girls’ cricket practices throughout the summer term. Girls from Junior 1 all the way to Form V regularly attended and developed their individual skills, while heightening their awareness of what it is like to play cricket as part of a team. The Form 2 team represented the school in two tournaments. The girls played their first competitive matches at the St George’s School girls’ cricket tournament in early June. There were a number of excellent individual performances but, more importantly, the girls worked well as a team, encouraging each other throughout. They came away victorious in the catching competition, and all the girls showed speed and accuracy in this important skill. Later in June, at the 2025 Cricket Scotland Schools’ Week of Cricket, the team competed in Perth and won their group, moving to the semi-finals and finishing fourth overall with creditable performances from all the girls throughout a number of tough matches. It has been an absolute joy to see almost 30 girls regularly playing cricket, with some going on to play at local clubs as well. Vicky Mason and Catherine Childs
December 2025
Robin Pyper
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Beyond the results, the season was a celebration of camaraderie and progress. Looking ahead, the future of cricket at Dollar Academy is bright. With a solid foundation in place and a group of enthusiastic young players, the sport is poised to flourish. Excitement is already building for the upcoming cricket tour to Kenya at the end of the next summer term; this will be a fantastic opportunity for the team to further develop their skills and experience cricket in a new cultural setting. Well done to all involved for a fantastic season!
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Form 2
Girls Cricket
Form 1
Junior 2
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December 2025
These photographs and the one on page 113 have been reproduced by kind permission of Gillman & Soame photographers and can be ordered online at https://www.gsimagebank.co.uk/dollaracademy/t/iyr6yr2025
Junior 1
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HOW DID I END UP HERE? December 2025
‘OK, everyone, settle please… and ACTION.’ My voice took a moment to reverberate around the cave chamber we were filming in. The air was stale, ripened by the smell of my crew and me. We’d been camped deep in the Lechuguilla cave system for four days, so we were basically family at this point. With the cameras rolling, our cave expert, Dr Hazel Barton, carefully chipped a shard of popcorn-shaped mineral from the wall and dropped it into a test tube. As I watched my director’s monitor, Hazel swirled the mineral in the solution, and I had one of those out-of-body moments where I asked myself—’How on Earth did I end up here?’ I was instantly transported back to Form VI Biotechnology class at Dollar Academy. Dr Payne had us swabbing our cheeks, mixing cells and solution, when
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A Career in Factual TV
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suddenly white strands appeared. My DNA suspended in the test tube like white cotton candy. That was a pivotal moment for me—biology suddenly became a fascination. The invisible, complex world that underpins virtually everything in our lives. But the path to directing scientific documentaries was far from straightforward. Leaving school, I had no idea what career to pursue. I studied Forensic Biology, followed by a Master’s in Molecular Biology. I thought about a PhD, but they all felt too narrowly focused. Instead, I joined a scientific sales company. After nine months I knew sales targets and profits weren’t for me. One night after yet another quarterly meeting I sat on my hotel bed and thought: ‘I can’t do this for the next four decades, so what I am going to do?’ I still loved photography, and I loved science, so after some late-night Googling, I found the BBC Glasgow had an intern scheme in their science department. I applied and the following week I was accepted; I quit my sales job the next day. Breaking into television meant starting at the bottom and earning my stripes, but I valued that. The best managers, I believe, are the ones who have done the jobs they now oversee. Then my first big ‘break’ came, six years into my TV career, when a big-budget National Geographic Channel series called One Strange Rock was looking for a science-literate producer who was also confident on ropes. A director I’d worked with knew I was a keen climber and recommended me. Within weeks I was descending into an active volcano in the Congo, camping beside a lava lake. Halfway through the shoot, the volcano erupted unexpectedly, lava bombs falling a hundred metres from our tents. We evacuated quickly, hearts pounding with adrenaline—’I can’t believe we get paid to do this,’ I
thought. It was meant to be a one-off shoot, but I was fortunate to be kept on as a full-time producer on the series. After 18 months I was an experienced producer, but making the next jump to director is infamously difficult in TV. Little did I know the upcoming Lechuguilla cave shoot would be my chance. The cave’s location is secret; the microbes that live on the crystals are highly protected. We were only the second film crew in 12 years allowed access, the first being for David Attenborough’s landmark Planet Earth series. Lechuguilla spans over 230 km of passages—some, vast as cathedrals; others, so tight we had to contort through with our gear. Base camp was seven hours of tough caving from the surface. On the first night of a week-long shoot, it became clear that the director was struggling with anxiety and claustrophobia. He hadn’t slept, his nerves frayed by the thought of having 500m of rock between him and daylight. By morning, he was no longer safe to remain, and the safety team helped him out. The responsibility for directing the shoot fell to me—a battlefield promotion. Luckily, as the producer I had months of planning, scripts, shot lists and logistics seared into my brain. It was daunting, but the shoot went smoothly. We captured stunning footage of crystal formations,
www.noordinarymonday.com.
December 2025
Chris Baron (FP 2001–2004)
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underground lakes, and microbial life hidden in the rock. Living in the cave for a week was both magical and surreal. Meals were freeze-dried packets eaten cross-legged on the cave floor and hygiene was… inventive. That experience taught me that opportunity can open a door, but only preparation allows you to walk through it. Lechuguilla is just one of many incredible experiences in my TV career. I’ve joined Sir Ranulph Fiennes and his cousin, actor Joseph Fiennes, on an expedition across Egypt; filmed in live minefields; and abseiled off Angel Falls in Venezuela. I’ve descended into ice caves, worked on Chris Hemsworth’s Limitless, and collaborated with countless extraordinary experts—each with stories as wild as the places we filmed. Over fifteen years of making documentaries, I’ve been privileged to hear these stories firsthand—often not on camera, but afterwards, sitting around a campfire with a beer in hand. I realised they deserved to be shared more widely, and that many could inspire people to see careers differently. Along with my TV work, I now host a podcast called No Ordinary Monday, where I sit down with guests whose jobs range from the bizarre to the dangerous to the awe-inspiring.
For current pupils, I hope the podcast proves that careers rarely follow a straight line. Some of the most rewarding paths come from curiosity, persistence, and taking chances. Former Pupil Ruaraidh McDonald-Walker (FP 1987) was recently interviewed on the show about his career as an egineer in Formula 1. https://www.noordinarymonday. com/ep016-ruaraidh-mcdonald-walker-formula-1engineer And for fellow Former Pupils, if you’ve got an extraordinary career story you’d like to share, get in touch:
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FROM PIPING TO BAGPIPE REFURBISHMENT TO NAVAL ENGINEERING: An Update From the Cameron Brothers
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December 2025
Finlay Cameron (FP 2019)
Since my time at Dollar, I have pursued a varied career in the traditional music world which began with attending the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, in Glasgow. This was to be a four-year BMus degree with bagpipes as my first instrument and, eventually, the traditional flute as my second. The course connected me with many worldclass musicians and opened several unique opportunities. Alongside my university pursuits, I continued to develop my bagpipe-making and refurbishment business, which I started towards the end of senior school. This is something I am extremely passionate about, and I have dedicated much of my spare time to learning and progressing my skills. A highlight of the last few years has to be manufacturing my first full set of pipes from local materials. Prior to my fourth year at university, I opted to take a year out and head to New Zealand for five months. This was generously supported by the Clan Cameron Association and involved a great deal of public engagement as well as historical research. I was also able to make a set of pipes specifically for this trip, which I played throughout and at many varied engagements. One such opportunity came in the form of piping with the ‘Manawatu Scottish’, a Wellington pipe band, at the National Championships—a fantastic experience. I have also continued to compete in both solo piping and pipe bands since leaving school. Some highlights include placing third in the Silver Medal at the Northern Meeting in Inverness, winning the overall light music prize at the Skye Gathering on two occasions and playing in the Raasay Invitational competition earlier this year. In 2022 I joined Field Marshal Montgomery pipe band, alongside Sandy, with which I won several major championships in grade 1, including the Worlds. Currently I am a part-time teacher of piping
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at Erskine Stewarts Melville school, while I continue to develop my bagpipe refurbishment workshop and customer base in Glasgow. It was a great privilege to attend Dollar for my school years, and I believe the many opportunities which were offered to me as a pupil were instrumental in shaping the career I now enjoy. Finlay Cameron (FP 2019)
Sandy Cameron (FP 2015)
December 2025
Upon leaving Dollar in 2015, I attended Glasgow University to study a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Initially enrolled on the four-year BEng course, I later stepped up onto the MEng degree. During this time, I was fortunate to gain experiences in the field of engineering during my summer breaks which really helped to broaden my appreciation for the subject. This included a three-month trip down to sunny Margate in Kent to test foundation piles in chalk for the offshore windfarm industry. Alongside university life, I continued to invest much of my time in my piping career. In 2016, I joined Field Marshal Montgomery pipe band from Northern Ireland, competing with and winning several major championships, including the Worlds on two occasions. Having played for the school pipe band for several years, I was very much hardwired to continue into the adult grades, especially having had Mr Wilson (Matt) there during my time at Dollar to push me to my limits! On the solo piping front, I have been fortunate to enjoy a few successes and opportunities since leaving school. These have included winning the Silver Medal at the Argyllshire Gathering in 2015, right up to winning the Dunvegan Medal at the Skye Gathering in 2024, and the Silver Chanter in Skye earlier in the summer. Having
developed some useful family connections through Finlay when he visited New Zealand, at the start of 2025, I travelled with my fiancée (who also plays the pipes!) and, in similar fashion to Finlay, we performed with the Manawatu Scottish pipe band as ‘guest’ players in the New Zealand National Championships. After graduating in 2020, I found myself in Newcastle at a building services engineering firm, where I spent three years designing heating and cooling systems for data centres. My whole first year as a graduate was spent online due to the pandemic, a very unique and challenging situation to manage in hindsight—but I thoroughly enjoyed my time there, nonetheless. My first full-time role after university was not landed without difficulty; there were many months of applications and rejections as I navigated the highly competitive job sector, exploring a range of careers; this even included considering joining the Royal Navy. This has now, however, almost come full circle; my current role is at BAE Systems in Glasgow, where I design cooling systems for naval ships. After university I set myself the further goal of becoming chartered, which I happily achieved at the beginning of 2024; I am now officially a chartered engineer with the IMechE.
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Sandy Cameron (FP 2015)
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‘I LET DISBELIEF WASH OVER ME’: Fortunas 56
December 2025
The First Scottish Female Ascent of K2 In May 2023, Kirsty Mack (FP 2001) climbed Mt Everest, an achievement she described in an article published in Fortunas 52. In June of 2025, she became the first Scottish female to reach the summit of K2, climbing in memory of her father and grandfather, and to raise money for Erskine Veterans Charity. Here, she describes her most recent adventure.
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For as long as I can remember, I had dreamed of K2. I studied its photographs, traced the ridges on maps, and wondered what it might feel like to stand beneath its shadow. In June 2025, that dream finally became real. The mountain rose before me, steep and impossibly vertical, every line a reminder of why it is called the Savage Mountain. Even now, I struggle to believe I was truly there. Base camp was our world for seven long weeks. A barren sweep of moraine, it was stark and unforgiving, where the sun burned fiercely by day and the cold cut sharply by night. Sometimes small birds flickered across the glacier, tiny sparks of life against the emptiness. One morning we woke to snow, and for a few precious hours the whole camp was softened into white, before the sun stripped it away again. Throughout 2025, the Karakoram had seen an unusually warm and dry spring and summer, with little snowfall below 6,500m and much of the snowpack above either melted away or never formed; the absence left exposed rock, constant rockfall, and unstable terrain—turning what should have been a frozen route into an unpredictable gauntlet. It left us no choice but to wait for safer conditions. Amid the waiting, we marked our respect for the mountain with a traditional puja ceremony. Incense curled through the thin air, prayer flags fluttered high above the tents, and for a moment the harshness of the landscape seemed to ease. Before we knew it, the weeks had blurred together—June became July, July slid into August— each day stretched endlessly, filled with careful observation and quiet calculation as we tried to read the mountain’s mood. By early August, most climbers had abandoned the season. Those who remained decided the only way forward was to pull together, climbing as a single team. Eventually, the mountain relented, if only briefly, with the smallest of weather windows. Our route was the Abruzzi Spur—an unforgiving line of near-constant vertical. On K2 there are no gentle slopes, no plateaus to catch your breath. The camps linger below long after you’ve left them, shrinking into the distance as proof of both progress and precariousness. For most of the climb it was just Nima Sherpa and me, roped together, step for step. We moved in quiet rhythm, our lives in each other’s hands. I had already been on three 8,000-metre peaks, including Everest, but K2 was always the dream—the mountain I had carried with me for years. On 11 August, at 15:32 Pakistan time, we stepped onto the summit ridge. It was not a single grand point as I had imagined, but a snowy crest, where we filed along and found places to sit, to
December 2025
Kirsty Mack (FP 2001)
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rest, to take our photographs. We celebrated together, strangers who had become teammates, and I let disbelief wash over me: I was the first Scottish woman to stand there. I wanted to hold onto the moment, but as always, the summit was only halfway. It was on the descent from Camp 1 that the mountain showed its teeth. A sound cracked through the air—sharp, fast, relentless. Rockfall. The stones gathered speed from thousands of metres above, hissing past like gunfire. Two of our team were struck: one gravely injured, our primary medic himself among them. Their voices carried through the chaos, calling my name. I am a qualified expedition medic, and in that moment, there was no choice but to act. We were still 400 metres from advanced base camp, the rocks still thundering past, but instinct and training carried me through. The sound of rockfall still haunts me. K2 is known as the most dangerous mountain in the world, and now I understand why. Its slopes demanded everything, and my body carried its own history. Four years ago, a ski accident destroyed my shoulder and cost me the use of my dominant arm. Though I’ve regained some strength, the effects remain. My ‘good’ arm, too, has since been through surgery after an accident on Ama Dablam. Every scar, every weakness was tested here. Yet I climbed for more than myself—in memory of my dad and my grandpa, and to raise money for Erskine Veterans Charity, who had cared for them both. People often ask what climbing has taught me. For me, it is this: injury does not have to be the end of adventure. We all have limits, but they are rarely where we think. Sometimes strength comes not in ease, but in enduring. And even now, I still can’t quite believe it—I have stood on the summit of K2, a dream made real.
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BACKING OUR TEAMS:
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A New Approach to Corporate Sponsorship
On a bright Saturday morning in August, as the new 1st XV ran out onto the pitch, the crowd’s eyes weren’t only on the players. For the first time, our rugby shirts carried the logo of a local business—one of our new corporate sponsors— marking the beginning of a new approach to how we support sport at the school. Sport has always been woven into the fabric of life at Dollar. Whether it’s the thrill of a last-minute try, the camaraderie of a hockey tour, or the determination of a cricket side pushing for victory, these activities are as much about competition as they are about building resilience, teamwork, and leadership—qualities we hope will help shape our pupils long after they leave the school. Yet sustaining excellence requires more than passion. Coaching, facilities, equipment, and travel all come at a cost. While the school continues to fund the foundations of our sporting programme, we recognised the need for a new model of support, one that connects our teams with businesses who share our values and commitment. ‘We want to create genuine partnerships,’ explains Rebecca McFarlane, Fundraising & Sponsorship Manager. ‘Corporate sponsorship provides companies with a chance to align their brand with the values of teamwork and commitment, while making a tangible difference to sport at Dollar.’ To make this possible, we have designed options to suit businesses of all sizes by offering packages with varying levels of visibility and involvement, from branding on kits, to recognition via pitch-side banners and mentions
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across our social media platforms. Importantly, sponsors can choose where their support goes. A company might wish to back hockey or rugby, while another might prefer to support cricket or football; every contribution will be used to strengthen the sporting experience for pupils.
Strengthening Community Links
One of the most exciting aspects of this new initiative is the potential to strengthen the school’s ties with the wider community. Many local businesses are already linked to Dollar in some way, whether through Former Pupils, employers of Former Pupils, or as parents. Sponsorship helps to build on these relationships and creates a genuine partnership between school and community.
Looking Ahead
The enthusiasm shown so far has been encouraging, and we look forward to building relationships that celebrate the best of Dollar’s sporting tradition. Our Fundraising & Sponsorship Manager, Rebecca McFarlane, would be delighted to provide further details for any companies interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities. Please call her or get in touch at mcfarlanere@dollaracademy.org.uk.
‘I’m proud of the school. Proud of what it has achieved and where it’s going. I’m also proud to say that I went to Dollar. It’s a wonderful place, and I’m glad that I can give something back.’ Robin Wight’s connection to Dollar spans more than seven decades. He joined the school in 1948, when he was just 10 years old. Today, he still recalls the kindness of teachers and friends, and the joy of playing rugby and cricket. Boarding life shaped him, too. He says, ‘It was up to you to write your story on a blank piece of paper. And I found Dollar to be a very supportive and compassionate place—people helped me along the way.’ That compassion and sense of belonging have inspired his generosity to the school. Robin’s giving began in the early 1990s, when he supported rugby tours and training. ‘I started
December 2025
In his time at Dollar Academy, Robin Wight (FP 1957) was Head Boy, 1st XV rugby captain, 1st XI cricket captain, and Athletics captain
inspire the next generation, and the school is sincerely grateful for his longstanding generosity and commitment. Since the introduction of VAT on school fees in January 2025, independent schools have been navigating an increasingly challenging financial landscape. That is why support from donors matters now more than ever. At Dollar, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing an outstanding, inclusive education. Thanks to the generosity of our supporter community, we’re able to protect bursary places, enhance pupil opportunities, and continue developing initiatives that set our school apart. If you are interested in finding out about how you can support Dollar, please contact our Fundraising & Sponsorship Manager Rebecca McFarlane on mcfarlane-re@ dollaracademy.org.uk or scan the QR code.
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SPOTLIGHT ON A DONOR:
giving every year—sometimes for coaching, sometimes for trips. That’s how my donations began.’ Rugby remains a special passion. He says, ‘You can see the impact gifts have. The quality of schoolboy rugby is so much higher now than in my day—the talent that’s coming through is amazing.’ Equally close to his heart is the Dollar Academy Pipe Band. ‘It’s a very emotional experience to listen to the pipes,’ he explains. His late wife, Sheila (also a Former Pupil who left the school in 1957), loved them too, and together they created the Sheila and Robin Wight Pipe Band Prize. This prize is awarded not to the best piper, but to the pupil who makes the greatest contribution. ‘Sheila didn’t want it to be for the best player. She wanted it to recognise dedication, commitment, improvement: the spirit of the band. That was important to both of us.’ Robin is also a major supporter of FIDA, a project he believes is vital for the next generation. ‘When I first heard about FIDA, it just sounded such an interesting and rewarding exercise—innovative, something completely different. I thought that was well worth supporting. I can’t see it being anything other than a success.’ Now in his 80s, Robin remains a regular visitor to the school, and he values being kept informed and connected. ‘Communication is important. I like to know what’s going on and to feel involved. That’s what makes giving so worthwhile.’ His loyalty to Dollar exemplifies how our Former Pupils continue to shape and
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HONOURING THE PAST, SUPPORTING THE FUTURE ‘Dollar Academy was central to Mum’s identity, and she was immensely proud to have been associated with the school.’ Each generation of Dollar pupils has benefited from the generosity and vision of those who came before them. Today, some members of our community are choosing to make a lasting difference through gifts in their will or donations made in memory of a loved one. These thoughtful contributions help ensure that future pupils can enjoy the same opportunities and experiences that make Dollar special. Whether funding bursaries, enhancing facilities, or honouring a cause close to their heart, a gift to the school helps preserve the values they cherished. If you’d like to find out more about remembering Dollar in your will, or discuss ways to make a tribute for a loved one, please contact Rebecca McFarlane in the Development Office at: mcfarlane-re@dollaracademy.org.uk or by calling 01259 742511 or by visiting
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December 2025
www.dollaracademy.org.uk/supportus.
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FP NEWS
MARRIAGES
MARTYN
GRAHAM–McNELIS
Emilie Graham and Alasdair McNelis (both FPs 2018) were married on 16 July 2025. Many Former Pupils and some fomer and present staff were at the reception on the Friday to celebrate.
Jessica (Junior School) and Pete Leslie welcomed Caleb James to the world on 25 February.
Kirsty Mack (FP 2001) recently became the first Scottish woman to summit K2. See article in this edition.
MACDONALD
McINTOSH
Calum Rae (FP 2019) gained his BSc (Hons) in Mathematics this summer, and he has also just completed a MSc in Mathematics and Data Science (with Distinction) from Stirling University.
STAFF
We are delighted to announce that Artur won the prestigious Global Chef of the Year award over half-term. It is wonderful to work with both Artur and Sharon and witness their commitment to Dollar Academy. They always put the needs of our pupils and staff first, and we are very lucky to have them as part of our team.
Emilie, Alasdair and Fiona
STAFF WILSON
Craig Wilson (History and Head of PSE) married Rhonna on 15 February 2025 at Balbirnie House.
BIRTHS STAFF
BEAUMONT
Callum Beaumont (Piping Instructor) and Eilidh welcomed Bobby Callum Beaumont to the world on 2 September.
CHRISTIE
Congratulations to Mark (Business Education) and Khunanya Christie who welcomed a daughter, Charlotte,
Lisa (Prep School) and Jamie MacDonald welcomed a daughter, Ella Kay Eve MacDonald, weighing 7lb 5oz, on 29 April.
WILSON
Stevie (Head of Rugby) and Alex Wilson welcomed a daughter, Hollie Isla Wilson, on 25 February.
DEATHS COOPER
Geoffrey Cooper (FP 1972–1974) passed away on 23 February 2025. See obituary in this edition.
FERGUSON
Henry Black Ferguson (FP 1952–1960) passed away on 15 November 2025. An obituary will appear in the next edition.
FRASER
Aileen Fraser (née Bell, FP 1964–1974) passed away on 1 May 2025. See obituary in this edition.
GREEN born one minute before 1am on 11 November. Her proud parents are
Alexander (Sandy) Green (FP 1947– 1951) passed away peacefully on 24 June 2025, aged 90 years. He boarded at Argyll House, and his family had a very strong connection with Dollar.
December 2025
RAE
Congratulations to Stuart (EDT and Assistant Head of Year) and Eilidh Edwardson who welcomed a daughter, Nairn Catherine Edwardson, on 18 October.
LESLIE
MACK
Seonaid McIntosh (FP 2014) recently became the first British woman to win a world medal in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event, claiming bronze at the ISSF World Championships in Cairo.
EDWARDSON
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Ruby Martyn (FP 2021) graduated from Edinburgh University in July with an MA (Hons) in History. She was awarded the Annabella Kirkpatrick Prize for her dissertation and has now begun her MSc by Research, also at Edinburgh University.
excited to begin this new chapter of sleepless nights, tiny clothes and countless happy moments.
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His ancestor James Benson Green set up his first salon in Dollar, ‘Greens the Hairdressers’, in 1893 and was Provost of Dollar (1908–1913 and 1919–1925). Although heavily involved in the managing of Greens, Sandy devoted much of his time to several causes across the board. He was a trustee of Dollar Academy Trust and the last chairman of Snowden School for Girls (an approved List D school in Stirling). Closer to home whilst chairman of the Linlithgow Civic Trust he initiated the first exhibition of the Trades of Old Linlithgow, the success of which led to the setting up of the Linlithgow Heritage Trust, for which he was the first chairman. Whilst holding this position Sandy organised and helped set up a museum and Victorian garden at Annet House, showcasing the history of Linlithgow. He was also a founding member of the Linlithgow Union Canal Society which, over time, helped to rejuvenate the canal as a place for recreation on and off the water. When not involved in the local community, he found time for art—one of his great passions next to fishing and golf. His keenness in art saw him take his O-grade Art whilst in his 70s, having not had the chance whilst at Dollar. He exhibited and sold his art locally and took many art classes to hone his skill. Altruistic to the end, Sandy bequeathed his body to the Edinburgh Medical School Department of Anatomical and Biomedical Sciences.
HARPER
Karen Harper (née Stenhouse, FP 1980–1987) died on 1 October 2025.
JOHNSTON
Ron Johnston (FP 1960–1969) died on 22 August 2025. Obituary to follow in the next edition.
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December 2025
LUKE
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George Maclean Luke (FP 1944–1954) was born 18 April 1935 in Milnathort. George described Dollar Academy as ‘awe-inspiring and intimidating’. George particularly enjoyed his involvement in the Signals section of
the Army Cadets and rose to the rank of Corporal. George attended Edinburgh University studying Forestry. George emigrated to Australia in 1960 and worked as a forester in QLD for 35 years. His favourite forestry posting was Fraser Island. George passed away peacefully with his daughter Morag by his side on Father’s Day, 7 September 2025. He is survived by his twins Jane and Morag, and he is remembered with awe by his six grandchildren.
MACKELVIE
Rognvald Mackelvie (FP 1948–1960) died on 7 July 2025, aged 84.
McLAREN
McDERMID
Jean McDermid (née Murray, FP 1949– 1961), former Head Girl, died on 9 July 2025. See obituary in this edition.
Lanka) until 1956, before returning to Scotland to live in Argyll. There, he and his wife Helen ran a successful hotel business and brought up their family. Mike leaves behind his four daughters: Fiona, Valerie, Mairi, and Claire, as well as nine grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren.
MORRISON
WATSON
Paul McLaren (FP 1985–1991) passed on 6 July 2025.
Alexander (Sandy) Morrison (FP 1954– 1962) died peacefully on 11 October 2025. An obituary will appear in the next edition.
ROBERTSON
Graeme Roberston (FP 1949–1954) died peacefully at Tantallon Care Home, North Berwick on 23 October 2025, aged 88 years.
STEWART
Mike Stewart (FP 1939–1947) died peacefully at home in North Connel, Argyll, at the age of 96, on 25 July 2025. He attended Dollar Academy as a boarder from the age of six until his final year of schooling. Among his happiest memories were those on the rugby field and of those, the season of 1945–46 stood out, when he played for Dollar’s 1st XV. His fixture card carefully recorded and saved, along with newspaper cuttings, attested to the success of that particular season for Dollar. He worked in Ceylon (now Sri
Paul Watson (FP 1984–1991) died in September 2025.
WHATMORE
Liz Whatmore (née Sim, FP 1959– 1967) passed away on 6 November 2025.
GEOFFREY COOPER
he proudly celebrated his children’s achievements. Geoffrey had integrity, discipline, and a wicked sense of humor. He planted trees wherever he lived, supported remembrance ceremonies, and remained a loyal friend to many across the globe. On 23 February 2025, he passed away suddenly during a morning hike near his Kuala Lumpur home, surrounded by the jungle he loved. His last messages to his family were the calls of gibbons—symbols of harmony and balance in spiritual traditions. Geoffrey leaves behind his wife, Farena; children, Sean and Isabelle; his brothers, Carl and Martin; his sister, Eliza; and a wide extended family. He will be remembered as a devoted father, husband, brother, friend, conservationist, and, above all, a man full of warmth, mischief, and love for life. Written with love by his family
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Geoffrey Ian George Cooper was born on 4 July 1955, at the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary to parents, Ian and Gladys Cooper. Later that year, his father took a position as a mill engineer with Harrisons & Crosfield in Malaysia, relocating the family to the tropics. Geoffrey spent his childhood exploring the estate with his younger sister Jennifer, while weekends often found the family sailing—memories that left a lasting impression. From an early age, Geoffrey was cheeky, mischievous, and always ready with a grin. In 1962, he returned to Scotland for schooling, attending Broomhill Primary, Robert Gordon’s College, and later Dollar Academy, graduating in 1974. He cherished the holidays in Malaysia, reuniting with his family and enjoying the warmth of the tropics. As a teenager, he developed a devotion to David Bowie, whose influence left its mark in both music and style. From 1974–1977, Geoffrey studied Accountancy at Stirling University. He loved the social life, standing out for his flamboyant dance moves, his humour, and his charm. Sporty and energetic, he practised judo, tennis, and cross-country running. Friends recall his laughter and exuberance—except when it came to his studies, which he endured more than enjoyed. After university, Geoffrey worked across Scotland, including a stint as a barman in the Shetland Islands. Restless for adventure, he moved to Zimbabwe in 1979, attending agricultural college and later farming citrus and tobacco. His path then took him to Thailand and South Africa, where his magnetic personality and gift for friendship flourished. In 1993, Geoffrey returned to Malaysia, joining United Plantations as manager of the UIE estate near Pantai Remis. Over 33 years, he mastered oil palm cultivation, built strong teams, and introduced innovations that transformed productivity. His conservation efforts were equally profound—co-founding the Kingham-Cooper Jungle Tree Reserve, planting over 12,500 indigenous trees, and safeguarding endangered species. Just a week before his passing, he completed the labeling and recording of every tree in the reserve—a final act of devotion to nature. Geoffrey’s personal life found its anchor in 2003 when he met Farena. They married the following year and later welcomed two children, Sean and Isabelle—now 13 and 12—who became the heartbeat of his life. Parenthood softened and grounded him, giving his days deeper purpose. He relished poolside handstands, seaside adventures, and
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FP 1972–1974 1955–2025
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AILEEN FRASER (née BELL)
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December 2025
FP 1965–1974 1956–2025 I met Aileen purely by chance in August of 1974; she had just completed her sixth year at Dollar Academy and was preparing to take a year out before commencing her degree course in Marketing at Strathclyde University. She was very quick, had an interesting sense of humour and did not take herself too seriously. She was, in some ways, very different from me—as it transpired, our relationship worked very well for 51 years. She was the youngest in a family of four girls and two boys, and she was born in the family home. All the family attended Dollar Academy and lived in Alloa where their father, Dr Richard Bell, was a GP. Her mother and father and her eldest brother, Alexander (Sandy), predeceased her—the latter in 2024. Aileen is survived by Sheonaidgh (Shona), Lesley, Shirley-Anne and Dugald. She was clearly a very bright pupil, was part of the Drama Club, played in the 2nd and 1st XI hockey teams, and she held the school record for throwing the discus for some years. I understand she was also selected for the Under-16 Scottish girls’ hockey team. Moving to London and then the Netherlands, we corresponded regularly and met when we could. In 1975, she threw herself into university life and was also an active member of the University OTC detachment— specifically the Royal Engineers. I was working abroad, but our relationship continued to develop; in 1978 we became engaged and then married on the 22 June 1979, just as she gained her honours degree. Our family soon followed: Jamie was born in 1981, then Douglas in 1983, followed by twin boys, Alexander and Duncan, in 1985. She was a wonderful and selfless mother to our boys: devoted, open, honest, encouraging, loving, and protective. Not one to let the grass grow beneath her feet, and as the boys grew older, she enrolled for teacher training at Jordanhill College, started her own bouncy castle businesss, and worked as a lifeguard at our local swimming pool. She was an accomplished horsewoman, played the piano (when no one was listening) and latterly worked for AGA Rayburn in Perth, before retiring.
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In 2011 she was diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer called pseudomyxoma peritonei. Like everything else in her life, she approached this challenge in a very brave and stoic manner. She underwent two surgical interventions of some magnitude and complexity, initially in Basingstoke and then Dundee. We as a family supported her fully during this time, despite the geographical challenges. For fourteen years she dealt with this condition. During this period, all our sons married, and we welcomed nine grandchildren. We enjoyed lovely holidays to Australia and other parts of the world; we also purchased a plot of land near Kinross and built our own house, a process in which she had considerable input. In August 2024 her health started to deteriorate. With dedicated support from our local district nursing team and GP, I was able to care for Aileen at home, something she so wanted. She sadly died on the 1 May 2025, having said farewell to all her family.
Michael Fraser
JEAN McDERMID
Prefects 1960-61
(née Murray) FP 1949–1961; Head Girl 1960–1961 1943–2025 stone on the Corbenic Poetry Path in stones around their favoured walk near Dunkeld. Jean and Len (who died two years ago) rejoiced in their daughter, Catriona, and her family, and their son, Finlay, who is involved in Music Therapy and Technology. Critics praising Len’s work mentioned his ‘radiating a sense of happy purpose’ and ‘provoking a sense of happy pondering’—perfect descriptions of the impact of their joint generosity of spirit. Memorably, in the lead up to Christmas every year, Jean and Len hosted a party with mulled wine and mince pies, and all the guests on leaving were presented with individual small gifts made by the couple, and a card individually printed by Len. Somehow, Christmas seems less magical now. Jean’s life was lived fully for others, openly and cheerfully; she knew better than anyone how to make people feel valued. The gap in Borders life is considerable.
Then suddenly the sun Breaks through With a rainbow full of hope. We turn around and see The pansies in the garden and The songbird in the tree. Karen MacDonald (née McCuaig, FP 1960)
December 2025
John Robertson (former Rector 1994–2010) and Mary Robertson
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On our first visit to Kelso Music Society, we were cordially welcomed at the door by Jean McDermid, the longterm Secretary of the Society. Her Dollar roots were so obvious: by the end of that evening, she had delicately persuaded selected members of the audience to assist her in rearranging all the chairs for the next users—Head Girl style in action. Over the course of the next fifteen years, we came to know Jean and her husband, Len, well, and valued their qualities of creativity, enthusiasm and affectionate interest in the well-being of others in their lives. Jean modestly underplayed her strengths as Head Girl of Dollar, at what had been a time of radical upheaval in the school, and suggested that she simply acted as a support for the late, formidable Bruce Ritchie, her Head Boy partner. Jean, who had spent her first years in a Japanese PoW Camp, never failed to think positively about her world. She inspired in all areas—where her scientific strengths, her superb gardening skills, and her desire to make all around her even better enabled her to live a fulfilled life; she found time also to explore the countryside in long-distance walks, and to extend her appreciation of music. As a science teacher in the US and in a number of schools in the Scottish Borders, she influenced many young people and delighted in revealing the mysteries of Chemistry and Biology; her marriage to Len reinforced this creative bond, as he was a renowned graphic artist, a teacher, a printer and creator whose work was exhibited most recently in the Scottish Poetry Library and in the Edinburgh College of Art—and more permanently in
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ISABEL MORTON FORMER STAFF
Isabel Morton died peacefully on 18 September after a long decline in her health. She taught English part-time for a short time at Dollar and was Housemistress of McNabb House from 1986 to 1988, along with her husband, Andrew, former Head of Biology. In those days, there were 50 boys in the House, and she and Andrew had two young children of their own, Nicky and Emily. It was a substantial undertaking. After leaving McNabb, she taught English at Linlithgow Academy for twenty years before retiring. One colleague described her as the best teacher in the school. Perhaps true, but a compliment she would have definitely declined.
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December 2025
1947–2025
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Andy Morton
FROM THE ARCHIVES Readers may be interested to see some items which have recently been donated to the school archive. Former Head Girl Anne Carrick (FP 1958-66) sent a package from Australia, which included a selection of badges and medals awarded to her while she was at Dollar:
December 2025
Above: Anne’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gold and Silver Awards and her Record Book for Bronze, Silver and Gold. She received her Gold Award in 1966 from the Duke of Edinburgh at Holyrood, along with 479 others.
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Left: Head Girl badge. Right: Anne (centre) wearing the badge on her blazer in 1966
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Anne also won medals for dancing. During the time that Miss Jenkins taught PE at Dollar (1958-70), Dollar teams took part in Scottish Country Dancing Festivals and individual pupils won SDTA ballroom dancing awards. Anne is in the 1962 photos shown below.
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December 2025
Janet Carolan (Archivist)
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The Governors of Dollar Academy Trust is a charity registered in Scotland, no SC009888