Minerva Winter 2015

M I N E R VA THE NEWSLETTER OF KELVINSIDE ACADEMY WINTER 2015

West District Hockey Champions (page 4)

MINERVA disparate season last year are reaping the benefits so apparent from good teamwork. The 1st XV have epitomised the KA spirit. Outsized by most of their opponents, they have turned in some sterling performances, with some notable victories (and close, well fought defeats) before and after a very successful October tour in France which really cemented a never say die team spirit. We have a superb coaching team who are embracing ‘Together Everyone Achieves More’ and I have been pleased to intimate at assemblies who the team of the week was; none gave me greater pleasure than applauding the losing effort of the 1st Year B XV vs High School.

Dear Parents, A speedy term and a term in which so much has happened. At the start of the session, I promised that I would do more than simply hold the fort, and build on the initiatives, so important to the school’s future, that Robert Karling introduced. I like to think that this has indeed happened, and that what our pupils regard as routine has been underpinned by the bedding in of so much. A major focus has been the high profiling of the 5Cs. Confidence was the theme until mid-term, showcased at morning assemblies and kicked off by encouraging pupils to put their hands up and volunteer answers in class and take the risk that they get it wrong; remember that a growth mindset views getting it wrong as an opportunity to gain effective understanding.

After the October break, Collaboration took over with ‘Lessons from Geese’ (ask your son/daughter!) paving the way for successful Industry/Enterprise Days amongst a host of effective team-based activities in school. It has been a pleasure to welcome a seemingly endless number of pupils, mostly Senior Prep, into my room to receive their ‘Habits of Mind’ distinctions. On the staff front, whilst the time-intensive implementation of new SQA courses with their attendant assessment demands has been the prime focus, they have also been tasked with achieving a minimum competence on aspects of Frog, our VLE. Nowhere has collaboration been more apparent than on the sports field this term. Pride of place must go to the 1st XI who have had an outstanding start to their season. Led by Alison Westwood (S6), a number of talented girls have really gelled into a very respected team. Winning the West District Tournament for the first time in the school’s hockey history was no mean feat. And perhaps other KA hockey teams can take some inspiration from the S3 XI, who after a somewhat 2

Staying with sport, our Handballers have had a successful term, just reward for all the time spent on training and practice. After a long league campaign, the S3/S4 boys emerged as Scottish Schools Intermediate Champions on Finals Day at Ravenscraig and the S4/S5 girls were runners up in the Scottish Schools Senior Championships and currently sit top of the National U16 league.

Our internationalists head for Iceland at the end of term. We wish them well. In Rowing, our elite athletes, Rachel Cannon (S6), Frank Murray (S5) and Alexander Milne (S4) continue to medal in their events around the country; between them they won 4 Gold, 1 Silver and 2 Bronze medals in the National Indoor Rowing Championships in November. And there has been so much more when one considers the individual performances of pupils in their own sports as documented on our Facebook page. Considerable credit must be given to Mr Wilson who accommodates the personal sporting aspirations of so many of our talented youngsters whilst seeking to preserve the status and quality of our main team sports when we are pitched against teams of schools with a much bigger pool of pupils to draw on. It is becoming a cliché, but our Games Department continue to put out teams that punch way above their weight, and I am proud to support them on the touchlines at Balgray.

Away from sport, highlights can be celebrated in a number of areas. Mrs Mathews ensured that we remain the venue for the top schools’ Ethics Conference in the country; our school population doubled as youngsters from all over Scotland came to hear internationally renowned speaker, Professor Peter Vardy, again deliver a superb event in the Gilchrist Theatre. The Theatre was then quickly transformed into an elaborate set as the Schneeberger/Crichton orchestrated performance of Beauty and the Beast lived up to all expectations with 4 full houses appreciating the product of weeks of dedicated rehearsals. Just after the October break we welcomed Holocaust survivor Eva Clarke and she told her remarkable story to engrossed pupils and staff in a packed Theatre. A

WINTER 2015 good ‘dawn’ audience, including a number of our S6 and staff attended our Business Breakfast at Balgray where the speaker was Andy Currie of Think Distinct. And it is worth acknowledging that our staff welcomed Dr Sue Hamilton, Scotland’s leading authority on Child Protection at the September INSET. The excellent session she delivered served to complement all the work being done on GIRFEC and our revised pastoral care system by our new Deputy Rector, Dan Wyatt.

I have been at Kelvinside Academy a long time and I regularly reprimand myself for taking so many things for granted. Our Remembrance Service, as always was a moving occasion. Beautifully featuring the Senior Choir, it was led by former pupil, Rev John Murdoch. The mood of the procession of the wreaths out of the Theatre

by RSM Nyal Sadiq’s (S6) cadet party was so respectful and Oliver Hamilton’s (S6) playing of the pipes to break the silence was emotional. My abiding memory however, will be that of John and me watching our young pupils bowing in reverence to the War Memorials as they exited the Theatre via the main staircase. ‘Lest we forget’ comes to mind. We continue to work for others. Many of our S6 pupils have spent Tuesday evenings at the Cadogan Street Soup Kitchen and they have also supported the Volunteer Tutor Organisation by helping disadvantaged youngsters in inner city primary schools. A dress down day was held raising funds for the Glasgow Old Peoples’ Welfare Association and the school rallied to help School Captain Jordan Gardner’s (S6) embracement of the national Rucksack Project; there will be many beneficiaries in the cold winter months ahead as they receive the fleeces, gloves, food etc that Jordan managed to get our pupils to bring into school. Our pupils rarely disappoint and I have received many accolades about their friendliness and enthusiasm as they showed visitors about school at our two well attended Open Days and on the Friday afternoon reunions when many of our FPs returned to enjoy a tour of their school.

I remain impressed and indebted to our S6 youngsters: so many of them have embraced all the leadership opportunities that our S6 offers. In

addition, several have led assemblies and mentored younger pupils in classes, and the time-consuming task of processing their UCAS applications in readiness for life after school has been going on in the background.

A very successful Minerva Ball took place in November. Superbly organised by Yvonne Craig and her tireless PTA, and manned by a large number of our S6 students, it raised a phenomenal £25,000 towards the Robert Karling Memorial Library; the plans for this are well underway and work will begin on this before long.

However, perhaps the most important news this term was the announcement that Ian Munro will be our new Rector, taking up post in April.

His selection process was rigorous and we are convinced that he is the right man for the job. I look forward to a smooth transition as he brings his own energy in ensuring that we continue as a very successful school with the values that I believe makes us unique.

Our pupils now look towards the end of term. Most of them have enjoyed the Ceilidhs. The Christmas Concert was a big success, and in the final week they had the big Road Race, their Christmas lunch, and the annual Christmas Jumper day. Our staff will continue to keep, especially their senior pupils, on track for Prelim Examinations in January and they will be impressing upon them that they should be spending meaningful time over the Christmas holidays studying in preparation for these. I know that our staff will be ready to recharge their batteries over the Festive period. In addition to what are the ‘given’ aspects of their day job in this session of the full impact of SQA’s changes, they have embraced the move to more frequent At Homes as we strive to improve the timeousness and quality of feedback by effectively doubling their face-to-face contact with most of our parents. As a ‘feel-good’ postscript about KA, can I encourage you to have a look at the 2014-15 Standards and Quality Report which has now been posted on our Website; a year in the life of Kelvinside Academy makes impressive reading. Judge for yourself.

So finally, as I approach my last term at Kelvinside Academy, there are many reasons for me to give thanks for the time that I have spent here. It has been a privilege to work with so many inspirational young people and with a truly dedicated and caring staff. I have got to know many of you well over the years and I hope to see you, parents and families and FPs at the Carol Service at Hyndland Parish Church on Friday 18 December at 11.00am.

I wish you all a peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Allan J Gilliland Rector 3

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Cover Story: Hockey West District Champions For the first time in the School’s history the 1st XI are West District Hockey Champions.

Although a bit rusty from the October break, the team negotiated its way out of its section (which included The High School of Glasgow, Jordanhill and Lomond) to face Glasgow Academy in the semi-final.

Jessica Halley (S5) scored a fabulous goal with three minutes to spare which looked like enough to take the team through to the final but Glasgow Academy fought hard and equalised in the last few seconds. With skilful players and a quality

goalkeeper in Alison Westwood (S6) the girls were confident that they would win the penalty shoot-out and they did just that. Elise Miller (S6), Madeline Cairnduff (S5), Colette Elliott (S4) and Lucy Findlay (S5) all scored and Alison did a great job ensuring the Glasgow Academy did not.

The final against Craigholme was a very tough game seeing Craigholme on top for most of it but they just couldn’t get past Rebecca McAleer (S5) in defence so again running penalties were required to determine the winners. Alison Westwood stopped all of the Craigholme penalty takers and Elise, Lucy and Maddie scored to ensure that the trophy was won by KA.

District & National Representation The School was extremely well represented at the Inter-district hockey tournament in October.

Lucy Rankin (S4), Colette Elliott (S4), Ellie Kemsley (S4) and Scarlett Green (S4) were members of the West U16 team, while Jessica Halley (S5), Alison Westwood (S6) and Madeline Cairnduff (S5) were in the U18 team. Lucy Findlay (S5) would have been part of the U18 team but was unable to take part due to a broken thumb.

Following on from the Inter-district tournament, Lucy Rankin and Ellie Kemsley were selected for the U16 Scotland training squad and Lucy Findlay, Alison Westwood and Jessica Halley are part of the U18 Scotland Squad.

For such a small school, it is a massive achievement to have so many girls performing at an elite level and is just rewards for all their hard work.

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Nursery Autumn in the Nursery It has been such a busy first term in the Nursery.

Pupils visited St. John’s Renfield Church to find out what happens there and the Minister kindly showed them around and spoke to the children about Harvest. At Hallowe’en they dressed up and played games including dooking for apples and they made junk models as part of their celebrations. The children also paid £2 each to wear their pyjamas to Nursery. They made biscuits and cakes to sell, raising money for the National Children’s Trust to help support children with brain damage.

To celebrate Diwali the children made Diva lamps from clay and Rangoli patterns from sand. Whilst doing this they learned about symmetry and pattern. They lit sparklers, toasted marshmallows on the fire pit in the garden and spoke about fire safety. They also visited the fire station and got to try the hose.

The fun didn’t stop during the holidays; the children who attended the Holiday Club brought their bikes and scooters to Nursery and took them onto the pitches. They raised £55.66 for Breast Cancer with a Wear It Pink day on which they sold cakes and some of Mrs Ramsay’s special pink tablet! They brought their favourite games in to play, played on the bouncy castle, took a trip to the pond and Mr Boyd gave them a ride on the tractor!

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Junior School Junior School The Autumn Term in the Junior School has brought with it the chance to savour some events that turn up at the same time every year but each time the experience is unique – the Junior 4 and 5 Quiz Night, the Junior 2 and 3 Show, various trips and visits. However, this term has also seen some innovations or one-off events – look out for the reports on the visits made to certain year groups by parents whose jobs proved particularly fascinating in relation to certain topics; also find out about the new J6 KA News team and its documentary films of Junior School life. It’s been a busy but very satisfying term!

Straw & Order by Junior 2 and 3 This new take on the Nativity brought an amazing twist to the original Christmas story. In a courtroom in the middle of Bethlehem the cows are complaining of feeling pushed out of their stable and they want it back! The donkeys, accused of having invited over a whole host of people, including a baby, deny all charges!

Judge Grumps – confidently played by Daniela Garcia Herreros (J3) - is far from happy and decides to witness the events first-hand. At the scene she finds bickering innkeepers (Isla Church (J3), Lucas Kayes (J2), Tom Sproule (J2) and Jasper Gerber (J2)) and self-important Wise Men (Sebastian Millar (J3), Findlay McNeill (J3) and Oliver Stevenson (J3)) whose fans want to take ‘selfies’ with them (Oh, how we brought the story into the 21st century!!).

This charming show had cool shepherds, some dancing sheep and a spectacular angel choir. The cows (Blair Wilson (J2)/Olive Whillance (J2)) and the donkeys (Beth Scrimgeour (J2)/Milly Hailstone (J2)) ‘fought’ very convincingly over the ownership of the stable until the sight of gentle Jesus stopped them in their tracks. All the characters experienced the peace and love that this special baby brought into the world.

KA News This term saw the launch of an exciting new venture – the KA News team.

This group of Junior 6 children (Araia Urquiza Pereira, Gilli Jones, Ivy Gerber, James MacCuish, Prithika Selvendran and Sarah Leca), with guidance from Mrs Flanigan, seek out worthwhile news stories from any part of the Junior School and share it by publishing short films on their own KA News site on the School VLE, Frog. So far, the group has covered the following: how well new children settled into the School during their first week or two; the amazing generosity of Junior School parents at Harvest Festival time; the playground craze for “spin-tops”; and the popular J5 and 6 Debating Club.

The young reporters have been honing their presenting and interviewing skills and on their 6

Confidently narrated by Ashwin Dykes (J3), this show was a real team effort from all of the children in Junior 2 and 3 and their teachers. Mrs LairdJones not only selected the musical, she also took responsibility for casting and for bringing the show together, not least with her excellent choreography skills. Mrs McColl worked on the songs with the children while Mr Armet collected props, re-wrote the script to make it unique to KA and worked in the sound booth during the performance itself, ensuring that the lighting and sound did not falter.

Mrs Hill gathered all the costumes together and supported the children from the wings so that the show all happened without a hitch. site they invite suggestions from the rest of the School for future reports. This team has made an excellent start and will go from strength to strength, especially when they get the chance to work with the new audio visual equipment which we are planning to purchase.

WINTER 2015 J4/J5 Quiz Night “This event was organised because J5 and J4 wanted to show their parents what they had learned so far. First, in the Library all the classes made a display to show the adults. Next, we all went to the Theatre. The four rounds were on Electricity, The Human Body, Renewable Energy and Sporting Heroes. We all took turns to stand up and speak. All the adults were in teams to answer the questions. Quiz Night turned out amazingly well and the winning team was called ‘You’re a Quizzard, Harry’. That was my Mum and Dad’s team!”

Louise Kemp (J5) “Quiz Night was a great event. We made electric games for the parents and everyone had teams for the questions. I would recommend having one because it was a great way of learning and it was really fun.”

Jack Dalziel (J5) “Quiz Night started with us in the Library where we showcased our electric circuit games which we had made earlier in the term. After that we proceeded to the Theatre for the quiz. All the questions stretched the minds of the parents.”

Myles Codona (J5)

Junior 5 Visit to Whitelee Wind Farm “We went to Whitelee Wind farm as part of our topic on renewable energy. When we got out of the coach there was so much fog that there was nothing to be seen. We walked and walked and walked, then somebody said “Look on the left!” and we looked and we saw a gigantic turbine. We saw a number 40 on it. We were amazed. It felt like it could crash down on our heads and we all ducked down. When we looked behind we saw so many turbines, hundreds and hundreds of them.

After that we went back to the Visitor Centre to do a science workshop.”

Aditya Gusain (J5)

Junior 6 Visit to Hindu Temple “Thank you very much for allowing us to share your experience of the Hindu temple with my class. I have never witnessed anything like last Thursday!

It was very interesting hearing about your gods and their stories. The temple was beautifully decorated and the different smells were amazing! My favourite god was Lakshmi because she looks nice and pretty.

I found the puja fascinating and the sweets you gave us at the end were very tasty!

Thank you again for helping us learn more about your religion.”

Yours sincerely, Ava Neilson (J6) 7

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Junior School Junior 4’s study of The Human Body and trip to the Science Centre As part of their topic on The Human Body Junior 4 pupils visited the Science Centre where there were plenty of interactive displays to help them understand more.

Annastacia Hinde wrote: “Anna and I went on an energy powered wheel – it shows how much energy you use to power it up. We had a good look round and some very interesting things caught our eyes – there was a machine which let you hear your heart

beat when you put your hands on the handle bars!

Then there was a machine that showed you all your veins!”

During this topic both classes in Junior 4 spent some wonderful lessons exploring the human body, including making model ‘fake’ lungs with balloons and carrying out a number of experiments.

Discussions about the body, health, diet and diseases showed just how motivated and knowledgeable the children were on these topics.

“Gordon Buchanan (father of Harris Buchanan (J6)) came in to the school to talk about his job as a photographer and film maker. Our topic this term was The Amazon. He has spent a lot of time filming in different rainforests throughout the world.

It was a great talk with amazing photos and video clips. Some of them were very funny. We got to ask a lot of questions and he answered all of them in great detail. We learned more about the exciting wildlife living in rainforests.”

Rhishay Sinha (J6)

Junior 4 hosts some Sporting Heroes The Junior 4 topic on Sporting Heroes was rounded off with an exciting visit from Scotland and Glasgow Warriors defence coach, Matt Taylor (father of Cruz (J4) and Brianna (S1)) and the Scotland and Glasgow Warriors player, Peter Horne. Matt and Peter talked to both classes about their successful careers in rugby and discussed their training and fitness routines. The children prepared questions to ask and enjoyed finding out more about what it takes to make it in professional sport. As well as having the chance to ask lots and lots of questions the children had the added surprise of seeing the Pro 12 trophy won in May by Glasgow Warriors.

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Senior School Eva Clarke, Holocaust Survivor Kelvinside Academy welcomed one of the last Holocaust survivors, Eva Clarke, and pupils were privileged to hear her incredible story. This talk linked in with our current S2 History topic (the Rise of the Nazis) and our RMPS topic (the Holocaust) and provided an interesting context for talking, listening, reading and writing - resulting in a valuable interdisciplinary learning experience for us.

Anka Bergman, Eva’s mother, survived through multiple concentration camps including Terezin, Auschwitz and the Freiberg munitions factories.

Anka gave birth to Eva in the back of a cattle cart on the way to Mauthausen. She was crammed into this cart with the severely ill and dying as well as with dead bodies. When she arrived, Anka was allowed to see a doctor who was also a Jewish prisoner, to have the umbilical cord cut and to receive help for the baby. Eva and her mother should have been sent straight to the gas chambers but the SS at Mauthausen had run out of gas only 24 hours earlier. Three days later the camp was liberated and Anka and Eva were slowly nursed back to health. Unfortunately Eva’s father, brother and most of her family died in the Holocaust.

Our personal reaction to this speech was initially shock but this was soon followed by a great amount of respect for anyone who has ever survived an event like this. Hearing such a talk made us appreciate that no matter how down we might feel, it is often trivial in comparison to what these people

went through. We were also surprised that Eva and her mother could live out their lives without anger for the generations following those who had made mistakes during WW2. We asked some of the people in our year (S2) for their opinions on the talk and Gonzalo Ryan said “It was very interesting because it made us understand the situation much better.

She also explained it with feelings that history books cannot portray.” Rebecca McCafferty said “It was important to me because it was really interesting and it’s good for our generation to know about it so it won’t happen again in our lives.”

Tess Pirrie said “Eva’s talk made the Holocaust seem more real - simply reading about someone’s experiences from the war is completely different from actually hearing it from a person.”

Throughout the story of Anka Bergman, there were several incidents where luck played its part: when the Nazis only searched half the cinema, for example, or when a farmer handed Anka a glass of milk when the train stopped in his field.

The one common theme is resilience. As well as learning from the Holocaust, we felt the impact of WW2 come to life. We felt something that cannot be felt through a textbook: a feeling which is best conveyed by someone who can speak about the topic personally. It is extremely important to hear Anka Bergman’s story because without learning from history we will simply repeat mistakes. If you are interested in learning more about Anka and Eva’s story, there is more information in the book Born Survivors by Wendy Holden.

By Charlie Kerr (S2) and Megan Toney (S2)

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Senior School enabled them to access the real tragedy at the heart of the fairy tale. Both were successful and warmly appreciated by their audiences.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; a timeless tale of the fantasy world of fears and dreams. When Mrs Schneeberger intimated that this was to be our big November production, there was a tangible excitement rippling around the School. It was of no surprise therefore, that approximately 100 pupils, not to mention a host of staff and ‘other’ adults contributed to a marvellous end product. If anyone in the audiences over four packed November nights in the Gilchrist Theatre had missed the story in a lost childhood, Samantha Frohlich (S6), as the Narrator clearly outlined the plot: The Beast is actually a handsome young prince who was transformed into a hideous monster as a punishment for being cruel, and a beast he will be forever, unless he finds someone who will love him.

When Belle arrives at the castle, that life-saving romance is set into motion – it was never going to be that straightforward though…. That story was delivered by a double cast, and only Mrs Schneeberger and Miss Crichton, as Show and Musical Director respectively, are fully aware of the challenges that had to be overcome. That double casting provided two completely different shows with the extravagant personalities of the cast in one production wonderfully capitalising on the playfulness of panto, whilst the other benefited from a cast whose clarity of diction

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First of all the set. That the cast members were able to move so easily from an 18th century French village that provided simple but very effective opportunities for a number of cameo performances, to a spectacular Gothic castle, the dark and frightening home of the Beast, is surely testimony not only to the Producer’s imagination, but also to the creativity of the Art Department and backroom staff who made it all happen. Samantha Frohlich (S6)’s team who painstakingly produced the superb stained glass windows that told the familiar story, are indeed worthy of special mention.

Belle was played by Kaye Kiernan (S6) and Jodie Baird (S6). Both had huge stage presence, with their excellent voices complemented by confident acting; their obvious enjoyment in their roles was transmitted to their audiences as they moved about the set skilfully interacting with the other characters with more than impeccable timing. If Kaye’s entry was as a slightly sassy bookworm, by the time that she had come to terms with the mental turmoil inflicted upon her by Gaston and the Beast, she had indeed blossomed into a confident modern woman, fittingly acknowledging the warm ovations she received at final curtain. Jodie’s Belle was a confident, yet confused young girl, fiercely loyal to her father, and she won the audience over with her sincerity and flawless singing as she truly commanded the stage.

The chauvinistic and muscle-bound Gaston was convincingly played by Lewis Merrylees (S5) and Max Craig (S6). They both strutted their stuff, really playing it up in front of an admiring bevy of swooning village girls and in front of the ‘lads’ who danced so entertainingly in the manner that you would have associated more with their normal habitat of the 1st XV. It was probably fitting that both Gastons got their come-uppance in different ways. Lewis played his

WINTER 2015 second night with a bad arm injury having spent the best part of two days with his arm in a sling following a trip to A&E after the Beast dispatched him from the parapet of the West Wing; Max seemed a bit taken aback when his handsome frame was roundly booed as he took his bow at the end!

The casting of the Beast saw an interesting contrast.

Oliver Timpson (S6) and Archie Ross (S6) are so different in character in ‘normal’ life. Yet both captured the essence of the Beast perfectly. Oliver was very much a beast who turned into a prince.

Archie on the other hand, was a prince who had been turned into a beast. Oliver’s physical presence was predictably intimidating as he lorded over his dark castle; yet he carried off the vulnerable, lonely character who had been cursed by the witch (a very balletic Lucy Harrison (S6)), convincingly. On occasion, his vocal performance made you believe that he was the gentle, exposed and troubled prince behind the grotesque face: one of many triumphs created by Mrs Hardy and her large make-up team. Archie was a distressed beast who told his story with impeccable diction and vocal clarity in all of his songs.

When the magic spell of Abby Middleton (S6) finally released him, the audience was genuinely happy for him; he certainly won them over.

Surrounding the central characters was a diverse gallery of impressive supporting players, beautifully adorned with memorable costumes. The Beast’s haunted castle contains household objects that act as his serving staff; we met Lumière, a candlestick; Cogsworth, a clock; and Mrs Potts, a teapot with a little son named Chip. These characters were all naturally on Belle’s side because they wanted to see the Beast freed from his magic spell.

The double cast again threw up contrasts in their portrayals. Niall Mullan (S6)’s foppish portrayal of Lumière was full of show-stopping moments and the warmth of the exchanges he had with Elise Miller (S6)’s more straight-laced Cogsworth proved that the whole is greater than the sum of the individual parts. In contrast, Matthew Morwood (S5)’s and Louis Green (S6)’s performances of Lumière and Cogsworth respectively were both individually captivating. It is to their credit that, in their support of the main characters, they effortlessly dropped into the background when they could easily have milked the warmth of the appreciation given to them by their audiences.

us just what strength in depth we have in our excellent Senior Choir this session. The final household object, the extremely flirtatious Babette, was captivatingly played by Jenni Cameron (S6) and Erin Corry (S5).

To complete a diverse cast, Belle’s dotty inventor father was played by Josh Stirling (S4) and Keir Dinardo (S6) who both appeared to age with increasing senility as the traumatic events in their lives unfolded. The role of the villain, Monsieur D’Arque was evilly played by Andrew McCall (S4) and Cameron Milne (S4); I thought the audience could have hissed a bit more when they swept onto the stage. And finally, two talented young men who continued to grace the stage impeccably delivered as Gaston’s side-kick Le Fou; Ben Paget (S5) and Jack Graham (S5) seem destined to slip into bigger roles in future productions. Both were very comfortable on stage, and took the art of ad-libbing to new heights.

There were many ensemble pieces performed by a very large troupe and led by the main players. A hilarious number celebrated the enormous ego of Gaston and it was to Lewis’ and Max’s credit that you didn’t know whether or not you loved or loathed Gaston and his excessively hairy chest. Be our Guest, the catchy invitation to Belle from the castle staff, was led by Niall and Matthew and it was the most allembracing number in the show with so much going on from the ad-libs of the seasoned campaigners to the young dinner service which was so well choreographed by Jodie Baird. There were many moving moments, but on both evenings for me, the haunting title song, sung by Lucy and Maddie was special.

In an era when kids (of all ages) are exposed to special effects and big-screen action with sophisticated plots, it is refreshing to see large audiences return to the fairy tale and the simple (if you want it to be simple) theme of boy meets girl. The entire production cast, so well supported by an excellent assembly of musicians, embraced the age old story, without reference to anything 21st century, and they embraced it with fun and a passion that was successfully transmitted to appreciative audiences.

Attending all four nights was certainly not a chore!

A.J. Gilliland

We also enjoyed the beautiful voices of Lucy Findlay (S5) and Maddie Cairnduff (S5) as Mrs Potts – both unwittingly entertained the audience with their movements about stage in their huge teapot costumes. Chip (Harry Gillies (S4) and Cian Shelton (S5)), gave confident cameos and Wardrobe (Hannah McGregor (S4) and Sasha Nakhaei (S4)) reminded 11

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Senior School Dyslexia Awareness We were proud to support Dyslexia Awareness Week at the beginning of November. Pupils proudly wore blue ribbons to show their support to those who work hard and embrace the challenges of dyslexia.

During special Assemblies, they learned about well-known personalities who have excelled despite being dyslexic. Closer to home, our School Captain, Louis Green (S6), is dyslexic and set an inspirational example to our pupils by achieving 5As in his recent Highers.

Rucksack Project Our S6 pupils were really humbled by the generosity of all those who supported November’s Rucksack Project and wish to say a massive thank you to everyone who packed a rucksack to help homeless people this winter. A staggering 100 rucksacks were donated and the S6 team, led by School Captain Jordan Gardner (S6), struggled to fit all the donations into the School minibus before making the delivery to the distribution point.

The Rucksack Project is not a charitable organisation but a worldwide movement born out of a simple idea to help those sleeping rough on the streets during the freezing winter months.

Dewar Gibb Cartoon Competition Congratulations to the winner of the Dewar Gibb Cartoon Competition, Heidi Brown (S2).

Eden Power (S3) 2nd place Kendall Power (S1) 3rd place Rebecca McCafferty (S2) 4th place Megan Toney (S2) 5th place

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Trips Loch Lomond Canoeing Trip “On the first Sunday of the October break a group of us went to Loch Lomond to go canoeing. We all met at the School and we were given our wet suits, buoyancy aids, dry bags and, for fun, Mr McAlister gave us funny hats to wear - they really were funny!

We also learned how to put the canoes onto the trailer. We then set off to Luss were we got changed into our wetsuits and took the canoes down to the water’s edge. In pairs we had to try and figure out how the boats would turn and how to move them in a straight line.

Now it was time for the fun part. All our boats had a race to see which could turn 360 degrees the fastest and the losers were made to fall into the freezing cold water. This was incredible! We played some other games, splashed each other with the paddles and then had lunch with the ducks and swans! They kept coming up to us so we gave them some of our sandwiches.

In the afternoon we went back onto the water and played some more games. One game was dodgeball but with our boats. If the ball landed in our boat we had to put one leg out and so on, each time the ball landed in our boat. That was soooo much fun!

Choir trip to Dounans There was a lot of excitement amongst the Choir when the idea of a trip was announced, so much so that Jodie Baird (S6) organised hoodies!

The pupils started arriving before 9.00am on Monday 19 October and by 9.45am we were on our way in the School minibuses, with guitar players in one and iPods and speakers in the other. Who would guess that it was a Music Department trip?

Rehearsals started as soon as we arrived and the Choir worked really hard until lunch when they had some down time which for some included, you’ve guessed, singing and playing instruments. They are a keen lot!

The rehearsals included sectionals for the girls and the barber shop Christmas pieces for the boys and went on throughout the two days we were there.

Mrs Cunningham and Mr Klimowicz laid on games involving charades, sweets, drawing clues, sweets, the Hunger Games where they each had a pet balloon to protect, and more sweets. By half past midnight they were all worn out and silence descended, apart from in Mrs Cunningham’s dorm where the girls were still singing!

During Day 2 the pupils were able to parade into the dinner hall and sing for their lunch with “Magnify the Light” which sounded good enough for them to earn

Another game was where we had to line up our canoes; Mr McAlister would shout out a number and we had to walk across all the boats into a free space.

That was really wobbly! Later on we went to the pier and we jumped off into the loch. This was fun as well!

We did different stunts such as diving, dominos, bombs and running dive. It was amazing! After this we were really cold because the water was chilly, so we went for final races and packed up. We all had a fantastic day. Did I mention how much fun it was!”

Ushna Waseem (S1)

their burgers.

One more rehearsal after lunch and the Choir had covered the groundwork for the music for Remembrance, Christmas and the Festival.

The staff at Dounans were very impressed with how polite our pupils were and we were asked when we were coming back. Well done to all the pupils for their hard work, the better part of nine hours’ rehearsal, and their enthusiastic attitude to everything they did.

Mrs Whittle, Music Teacher

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MINERVA

Trips Rugby Tour, Montpellier The first day of the October holidays found a 1st XV squad (and some young hopefuls!) at Glasgow Airport bright and early for the flight to Carcasonne and the start of a four-day, two-match tour.

The boys were all well turned out with School uniform and tour rucksacks for travelling. Most had even managed to stay under the 15kg allowed for hold luggage but one was slightly over – sorry, what goes on tour, stays on tour: no names mentioned in this report!

An uneventful flight brought us to the sunshine of southern France and the boys were allowed to dispense with blazers for the bus journey into Montpellier. Our coach driver, Thierry, was full of gesticulations and one or two Gallic curses as he negotiated the traffic but it all added to the adventure.

Upon arrival at the hotel a quick reconnaissance showed that there was an outdoor swimming pool but we were dismayed to discover that it was ‘closed for winter’ – it was mid 20s centigrade at the time and all of our party spent the entire tour in shorts whilst the locals were wrapped up for the worst of the weather.

Prior to dinner, a quick meeting was held regarding ground rules in and around the hotel (rigidly adhered to by the boys throughout their stay!) and we took in an RWC match on TV before bed; next day was an early kick-off against our first opponents.

After breakfast the next morning, we were straight onto the bus to travel to St Jean de Védas RFC on a beautiful sunny day. The boys looked really smart travelling in their tour polo shirts and this helped with bonding the Senior and Junior players into a very happy squad. Our opposition was already warming up when we arrived at the picturesque little ground and they seemed to have some fairly proficient players. As usual, though, we were only worried about what we would do – control the controllables.

After a 1st half in which KA had controlled both possession and position for long periods we only held a 7 point advantage. The heat was certainly an issue but the players all got stuck in in the 2nd half and the bench was emptied to help players recover. Eventually,

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despite a strong finish by the hosts, KA held out for a fine 17-7 victory.

The after-match meal was held outside: BBQ food provided by the volunteers who ran the club. Our liaison with Montpellier, a real rugby man called Guy, proved to be an excellent host helping our poor attempts at French! The food was excellent – Toulouse sausage, Brie and Camembert cheeses and fresh bread, although what we thought originally was duck turned out to be ‘cœur de canard’ which we neglected to inform the players about until after they had sampled it. Tour captain Paul Cairncross (S6) still reckoned it was ‘tasty’!

After the speeches and presentations we left our excellent hosts for a trip to the beach at Palavas-lesFlots and while the players indulged in beach football the staff had a leisurely coffee and watched the Sunday afternoon visitors stroll along ‘le canal’ – it’s a hard life! Dinner – again spent watching RWC - and then a tired but happy group hit their beds for a busy next day.

A bit of a long lie then we got back on the bus for a session of go-karting. Kitted out in fetching hair nets, staff and players did battle (Mr Wilson still has a sore back from being ‘shunted’ by a pupil who thought he was on the dodgems!). Competitive spirit certainly showed itself at its worst as everyone attempted to acquire the best time. NB some parents should be very aware when paying for driving lessons in the future: insurance premiums will be steep!

The early evening training session with Montpellier U18s was informative and clearly indicated the difference in size, but not necessarily skill. This was like training with a district team but our boys acquitted themselves well in a conditioned game of attack versus defence. We trained on the 4G surface, one of a complex of three pitches at the back of Stade Yves du Manoir and whilst there we observed mini-rugby-aged players being taken through numerous drills and skill based activities. Very disciplined but taken in a relaxed manner.

Dinner was in the ‘clubhouse’ bar attached to the main stadium and again the hospitality was first class

WINTER 2015 although antipasti and spaghetti bolognese was not the most French meal! The amount of time dedicated by the volunteers concerned was remarkable and their love of rugby and everything associated with it shone through.

Tuesday came and the boys had some free time to wander around the shopping centre and associated sights close to the hotel, having declined the opportunity to join the staff on a tram journey into the old part of Montpellier. Lunch was to be trips to Mickey Ds or Subway and then off to watch the full Montpellier team train on the back pitch. This followed a trip to the club shop (that’s where all the spending money went!) and a tour of the stadium where the boys were lucky enough to meet Abdel Benazzi, the former French captain of the 1990s who has recently been appointed team manager.

The session itself was a terrific opportunity to watch a top team train and some parts of it brought appreciative applause from the boys, particularly as some of the hits went in towards the end of the session. At the end Mr Wilson and I had the chance to meet up with Jake White, the former South African World Cup-winning coach, whom both had met previously and he was, as always, generous with his time.

The weather by now was turning slightly more Glaswegian in nature as we travelled to Lunel RFC for our second game. This was to be played under floodlights in a traditional municipal stadium – the boys wondered why there was wire mesh covering the tunnel area from the dressing rooms and seemed quite concerned that it was for player protection!

The opposition was certainly a step up from the first game: one of the boys who had trained the previous night with Montpellier U18s was playing – and KA were in for a real match. The local interpretation of the Laws at scrum time probably held up but tackles still had to be made in tricky conditions. After the game one of the Lunel coaches explained to me that they

were not used to playing opposition who played so much rugby - they were more used to very physical encounters. There was no lack of physicality but it was our desire to play more adventurous rugby that prevailed – a 17-5 win. Please note that I had to check with one of the players about that so that may be open to debate.

A quick mention here for two of the younger players, Lewis Rowand (S5) and Max Kusian Taylor (S5).

Lewis came on and quickly established a reputation at hooker with two or three excellent strikes against the head at crucial times and Max, who was carrying a slight thigh strain, made himself available when we had injuries and consequently stole a crucial lineout throw.

Again hospitality was provided by our hosts who were exceptionally generous in their praise of our team and the two teams indulged in the true spirit of rugby, swapping jerseys and polo shirts and songs – a rousing rendition of Flower of Scotland from Kelvinside and a passionate singing of La Marseillaise from our hosts.

Naturally the boys were quite excitable upon their return to the hotel but the thought of a 5.30am start the next morning was enough to ensure their good sense! Mention here for our non-playing captain on tour, Paul Cairncross (S6), who was an excellent example to all the players throughout, taking on a variety of roles – water boy, food taster, disciplinarian, shepherd etc.

The early start was achieved next day and a tired but very satisfied party arrived back at Glasgow to be greeted by their grateful/relieved parents.

It was an outstanding tour, well organised and led by Mr Wilson. The boys were a pleasure to be with - they played good rugby, enjoyed themselves and were a credit to Kelvinside Academy at all times both on and off the pitch. Hopefully they have come back better rugby players but more importantly better young men – that’s what touring is all about!

Mr A. Craig

Ptarmigan Hill Day “On Tuesday 27 October, Mr McAlister took some of the S1/2 pupils on a hill day climbing Meall nan Tarmachan, a mountain peak which is part of Ptarmigan Ridge. As we walked we talked and really got to know everyone that came. I found climbing the mountain a challenge but I was encouraged by my friends to keep going, I am glad that I did as the views from the mountain were amazing. It took us around four hours including stops and a lunch break. The exercise of climbing was really rewarding especially when with friends. If and when I have another opportunity I would definitely do it again - I would also recommend this amazing trip as you will be surprised as to how fun it is.”

Megan Toney (S2) 15

MINERVA

Achievers Congratulations to Lily Evans Haggerty (S1) who won the British Cross Country Championships Series Event in Liverpool by an impressive 13 seconds. Good luck in the coming Series Event in Cardiff before the final event in Birmingham.

The National Young Mathematicians Competition Four Senior Prep pupils (Evie Smith, Mia Cousins, Harry Byers and Lachlan Philbey) recently finished 1st in the West of Scotland Region of a National Maths competition run by NRich, Explore Learning and Cambridge University. The top 5 scoring teams in the UK have since been invited to Cambridge University for the final; the KA team just missed out on this with 5 English teams taking the spaces.

In commending the 4 young mathematicians on both their teamwork as well as their maths performance, the Centre of Explore Learning Director said of them ‘we were really impressed with the children’s teamwork and their ability to problem solve in a collaborative way. They were able to systematically come up with solutions and support each other throughout the challenge’.

A terrific performance.

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Congratulations to Rachel Cannon (S6) on winning Glasgow Schools Rowing Club’s Most Improved Athlete Award. Rachel was presented with the glass trophy at the Awards Dinner on Sunday 7 October.

Congratulations to Sophie McNeill (SP) who won Silver at the Judo Scotland National Championships, her final competition of the year. She put in a great performance, only losing one fight, to come second in Scotland in her age and weight category.

WINTER 2015 Senior 4 Scotland U16 Handball Team The following Senior 4 pupils have been selected to represent Scotland at U16 level for three matches that will be held in Iceland during the month of December. Zander Geddes, Euan Brady, Ben Geary, Hamish Bottomley, Hardie Brown, Scarlett Green, Colette Elliott, Cameron Faulds, Monica Sloan, Hannah McGregor and Chloe Gibson.

Rowing Inverness 4s and Small Boat Regatta Over the course of the two day competition the rowers put on a very good performance. Rachel Cannon (S6) came 2nd in the J18 Women’s Pair and despite the fact she was racing against older crews placed 1st in Women’s Restricted 1 Quadruple Sculls.

Frank Murray (S5) placed 1st in Men’s Novice Scull; 2nd in men’s J18 Quadruple Sculls, which placed 2nd in the entire division and 4th in Men’s Restricted 2 Single Sculls. It was a Kelvinside 1,2 in the Men’s Novice Single Sculls as Alexander Milne (S4) placed 2nd in this event as well, Alex despite racing in an older age category managed to place 3rd in Men’s J18 Single Sculls.

Scottish Schools Indoors and Scottish Indoor Rachel Cannon (S6) managed to place on the podium in all of her races over the two day competition with a gold in S6 Girls 2000m, a bronze in J18 Girls 2000m and another gold in J18 Girls 3000m relay. Frank Murray (S5) also had very successful races pacing 2nd in S5 boys 2000m, 1st in J18 Men’s 3000m relay and 5th in J18 Men’s 2000m despite racing against some much older competitors. Alexander Milne (S4) had a very good races medalling in both of his races, coming 3rd in S4 boys 5 minutes and 1st in J15 men’s 5 minutes.

Griff Cleary (S4) also put on a good performance despite being fairly new to the sport.

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MINERVA

The Minerva Ball What a fabulous night. The KA family came together in the Ballroom of the Glasgow Hilton and raised £25,000 towards the upgrading of the Fraser Library in memory of Robert Karling.

Thank you to the Ball Committee Members, Yvonne Craig, Margaret Cairnduff, Lucy Green, Sarah Sloan, Nikola Thompson, Ross Mushet (1999) and Elaine Solman, for their hard work and enthusiasm over the past year.

It was great to see everyone in their finery

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having a wonderful time as they danced the night away until the “wee” small hours. Thank you also to everyone who donated to the great selection of prizes for the Auctions and Raffle and last but not least to all our sponsors who helped make the evening a great success.

The Senior 6 pupils were a fantastic help and great ambassadors for Kelvinside Academy.

We are already looking forward to the next one!

WINTER 2015

The Fraser Library upgrade in memory of Robert Karling Robert Karling’s vision for the School was to adapt the campus to better reflect the School’s distinctive ethos and also support its ambition to be at the forefront of learning and teaching in the modern world.

Since the aims of the curriculum at Kelvinside Academy are articulated through the cognitive, physical and affective domains of the Mind, Body and Spirit, he wished for the campus to accommodate space for innovative learning and teaching in all three domains.

Robert could see that traditional teaching space could be adapted to better serve current and future generations.

To change we need to re-engineer the School and find imaginative new ways to make use of space.

In particular, Robert had imagined transforming

the old trusted, neutral space of the Fraser Library into a lively centre point of the School which would truly engage users in the digital age.

It is in his memory that we wish to carry forward these changes and update the Library, creating a lively and pleasurable interactive community hub where teachers will be able to teach classes, pupils will be able to work together and everyone will be able to use the private space created by individual pods for selfreflection and study.

In January we will be launching our appeal to carry out Robert’s vision and transform the Fraser Library. If you require any additional information in the meantime please contact Elaine Solman, Development Manager (elaine.solman@kelvinsideacademy. org.uk)

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MINERVA

Academicals Welcome to the Former Pupil Section What a great year so far! We have had a really successful Business Breakfast, Sporting Lunch and a fantastic Ball. Several reunions have taken place, the highlight of which would have to be the Classes pre 1955. The gentlemen had a wonderful time touring the School with our Senior 6 pupils and reminiscing about their time at KA during the 1930’s and 1940’s.

and the Academical Matches will take place on Saturday 23 April.

You can keep up-to-date with School and Club news on Facebook, Twitter @KACGlasgow or Linkedin. News articles for the next edition of Minerva should be sent to elaine.solman@ kelvinsideacademy.org.uk.

Elaine Solman Development Manager

Next session we will be having a Business Breakfast on Friday 4 March and due to the Scotland v Ireland Rugby Match on Saturday 19 March, our Academicals weekend has moved to Friday 22 April for the dinner in the School

Academical Club Office Bearer After many years of outstanding service to the Club, Alastair Tear (1974), has stepped down as Honourable Club Secretary. Alastair has steered many Club Presidents through their tenure, ensuring that formality and Club tradition was kept alive. He kept in touch with all the sections and organised too many dinners to count. As a strong supporter of School life Alastair chaired the Senior School Industry Day with tremendous enthusiasm and was an instant hit with the pupils and staff alike. He managed to take time from his busy schedule to come along to as many events as possible and also held the position of Trustee in the Minerva Educational Trust. We look forward to seeing

London Section Our annual dinner was held on 19 November in the Caledonian Club, Belgravia. The President Graeme Hay (1993) welcomed our guests Rector, Allan Gilliland and Development Manager, Elaine Solman who were representing the school and David Rowand (1986) the Parent Club Vice President and Jillian his wife who is a School Governor. Whilst numbers were marginally down on 2014 it was encouraging to note that there were four first timers. They were George Bennet and Derek Rennie (both 1997), Murray Wright (2002) and Dennis Harrison (2012). As is customary a good time was had by all.

At the end of the last rugby season several of us had lunch at London Scottish prior to one of the final league matches. We intend to do the same later this season.

We had our usual two golf outings during the year.

The first was to Rye Hill in Oxfordshire, the secretary’s club. Ten players took part, the highest number for a 20

Alastair at social events in the future and thank him for the tremendous effort and hard work he put into taking the Club forward.

few years, possibly because David’s wife had offered to cook for us afterwards. In very good conditions Iain Greer (1982) won the Balgray Quaich on his first appearance with 29 points. Weather conditions for the autumn meeting at Wimbledon Common were a complete contrast to the spring. Only four players were able to take part with Graeme Hay mastering the dreich conditions to record a winning score of 36 points.

Two teams were entered for the annual London Scottish Schools Golf Society meeting at Denham.

KA1 comprising Graeme Hay, Ed Gordon-Steward (1986) and Aidan Dow (1987) won on the day only after an episode known as “Denhamgate”. The prizes had been awarded with no mention of a placing for KA. It transpired that Ed’s marker’s score had been incorrectly entered as Ed’s resulting in the team being placed way down the field. However, after a “Stewards” Enquiry matters were resolved and KA emerged victorious, our second win in four years. For the record KA2 comprised Norman Jack (1973), Gil Scott (1989)

WINTER 2015 and David McGill (1973). David would like to think that he took the credit in team selection thinking that KA2 with the higher handicappers would triumph over KA1 who had two single figure handicappers in their lineup.

It was David’s Stuart Lancaster moment and we all know what happened to him!

A first for the London Section was watching a T20 match at Lords in June. Thanks to Ed Gordon-Steward for organising this. Nine Academicals enjoyed an entertaining game of cricket played on a perfect summer’s evening. No 19th hole after cricket but we found a suitable “pavilion” near Baker Street afterwards which continued to ease any dehydration we had got by sitting in the sun.

The final event for 2015 was a day’s shooting at Bisley. Thanks once more to Bruce Logan (1987) for organising. Sadly Chris Cowan (1989) was unable to defend the Goldeneye trophy as he has relocated to the US. Seven Accies plus one son and a girlfriend took part on a cold but clear day. Fortified by coffee and bacon rolls and a roaring fire the participants ventured

Business Breakfast Friday 4 March 2016 We are delighted that Academical, Charles Berry (1970), will be our Speaker on this occasion. Charles is Chairman of The Weir Group plc (FTSE 250 international engineering – serving mining, oil & gas and power markets) and Senior plc (FTSE 250 international engineering – serving aerospace and land vehicle markets). He is also Chairman of the Capital Appeal for the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow.

outside to make use of the superb facilities at Bisley Shooting Ground. Bruce takes up the report (thanks Bruce): - Rotating around different stands with clays imitating the flight/movement of different birds and wildlife, lead flew into the air. Expert coaching saw many improve their shotgun skills over the morning (although some of the group proved to be un-trainable). Over a convivial lunch at a nearby hostelry tales grew taller and exploits more magnificent. The prize giving followed with 1st prize and the Goldeneye trophy going to Ed Gordon-Steward, 2nd to Norman Jack and 3rd Fraser Pottie, son of Graham (1978). Someone had to be last so an honourable mention must go to Aidan Dow. As you can see 2015 has been a varied year for the London Section. We continue to look at holding other events such as a wine tasting which our wives/ girlfriends might like to attend. If anyone has an idea for an event or if you would like more information about the section please could you contact David McGill (1973) by email scotlandend@btinternet.com

Charles holds a BSc (First Class Hons) in Engineering from Glasgow University and an MSc in Management from MIT. In July 2015 Charles received an Honorary Doctorate in Engineering from the University of Glasgow.

Prior to building a non-executive portfolio from 2005 Charles was an Executive Director of Scottish Power Plc, a Director of Norwest Hoist (a subsidiary of Compagnie Générale des Eaux) and held management positions within subsidiaries of Pilkington Plc. He is a former Chairman of Drax Group plc (FTSE 250 UK power generation), Eaga Plc (green support services) and Thus Group Plc (telecoms and internet) and a former Non-Executive Director of two investment trusts, Impax Environmental Markets PLC and Securities Trust of Scotland Plc. 21

MINERVA Sporting Lunch A great family day. The KA community came together for the Sporting Lunch on Saturday 21 November. After the 1st XV Rugby Match, a splendid lunch was held in the Miller Drummond Suite at Balgray. Stuart Yule of the Glasgow Warriors gave a very informative and interesting strength and conditioning presentation. Fundraising at the Sporting Lunches has financed the sporting lunches has financed a Rugby Scrummage Machine, Goal Keeping Hockey Kit, Kickboards and Strength and Conditioning Equipment.

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WINTER 2015 Academicals Back in the Classroom John Campbell (1944) OBE. Our Senior 6 pupils had a wonderful afternoon with John. He has an amazing life story to tell and the Senior Pupils were enthralled all the way from being evacuated during the war through to life on his Farm. Glengarth Farm employs over 200 people and John is now Scotland’s largest farmer. A number of Senior Pupils are looking forward to going to the Borders in June 2016 to attend the Annual Open Day.

Andrew Cowan (1980) Andrew has brought great enthusiasm and energy as Chairman of our Senior 2 Industry Day. The Senior 2 pupils responded to Andrew’s style with great gusto. The pupils are challenged to carry out three sales and marketing tasks throughout the day and competition is fierce.

Colin Neill (1972) the Club President, visited the school this term to share his memories and experiences of life at school, university and work with the Senior 6 students. An enjoyable hour was spent examining life and its ups and downs during his career with the international drinks company Diageo.

James Turbull (1980) and Sheena Glass MBE, Glasgow Old People’s Welfare Association Our Senior 5 and Senior 6 pupils had a very informative and inspiring afternoon with James Turnbull (1980) and Sheena Glass MBE. James is the Chairman of Glasgow Old People’s Welfare Association and Sheena is the Chief Executive. The pupils were given an insight into all the hard work that takes place to help increase the quality of life for many Glasgow Pensioners and also the voluntary opportunities that are available within the charity. The Senior 5 and Senior 6 pupils have now decided to adopt GOPWA as one of their charities this year. GOPWA carries out amazing work in the Community and the pupils are looking forward to working with them throughout the year. They will also be taking part in their annual Sponsored Walk to help raise funds to support our Glasgow Pensioners. If you would like to take part in the walk please contact Elaine Solman.

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MINERVA News Robin Buchanan (1997) married Claire in September 2013 and welcomed Rory James into their family in May 2015. Robin works at Glasgow Airport with Menzies Ground Services.

Ross Buchanan (1998) an Independent Wine Consultant, is engaged to Helen and getting married in May 2016.

Jamie Burton (2004) is doing amazing charity work and we wish him the very best of luck on his latest challenge. The following article appeared in the press earlier this year.

“A thrillseeking cricket fan, who first played as a child while in the back garden of his family’s Helensburgh home, is helping young people in Africa get involved in the sport.

Award-winning coach Jamie Burton has spent the past five years volunteering with charity Cricket Without Boundaries (CWB), including passing on his expertise to aspiring coaches in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.

And now he is preparing for a gruelling 4000-mile cycle across nine African countries and is hoping to raise £10,000 for the organisation.

Jamie will ride from South Africa to Rwanda from January, told the Lennox Herald: “I live in London and work for a company doing events management, looking after their marketing department. I cycle to work anyway at the moment, which is a good basis, but it’s going to be very different from waking up every day and sitting at my desk.

“I don’t think there’s anything I’m dreading about the challenge. I like the sense of the unknown. That excites me. I think it will be very difficult, though – 4000 miles over 100 days is a lot to do.”

Jamie first picked up a cricket bat when he was still in primary school in the garden of the Helensburgh home he shared with dad Norman and mum Fiona, who still stay in the town.

He then went on to play with Helensburgh Cricket Club before spending five years at West of Scotland in Glasgow, a season with Royal High Corstorphine and a season with Grange CC in Edinburgh. In between

Graeme Carmichael (2004) Congratulations to Graeme on his marriage to Paula Dalgleish on Saturday 28 November. A great turnout from the Class of 2004 who are pictured with Graeme. Jack Pass, Kyle Hyslop, Jamie Burton, Scott Carmichael Ewan MacDonald, Graeme Carmichael, Mark Roxburgh, Brian Gifford, Lawrence Craig (Jnr), David Gordon and Andrew Rushforth.

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times, he gained some age group caps for Scotland and embarked on a tour to Australia.

Following that, he discovered Cricket Without Boundaries and has been helping share his cricket expertise.

As well as passing on cricket coaching skills to teachers of the sport, the charity is focused on sending out messages about HIV and Aids awareness. CWB focuses on breaking down the barriers of discrimination, empowering individuals and educating about prevention and testing of the diseases.

Jamie, who also has family in Balloch, said: “I first went on a project to Kenya in 2011 and I have since been on six projects in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda.

“I was doing the project leading, the cricket tutoring side of it and back home I look after the social media presence and look after the ambassadors, the local coaches the charity pays for in Africa.

“I came across it because I like adventure and travel.

Combined with cricket, it is ideal for me.”

The 28-year-old was also named Sky Sports young coach of the year in 2011.

He added: “I was doing a lot of coaching with different age group sides in Scotland when the Sky Sports award came about.

“I was setting up a women’s cricket club, got nominated for this award and was lucky enough to win it. I was quite lucky that provided me with the opportunities I have had.”

WINTER 2015 Stuart Chalmers (1967) retired in 2015 as a Calgary Partner with BDO Canada LLP. While at BDO, Stuart was the BDO Canada-UK liaison partner and assisted Scottish Development in his role as Global Scot.

Stuart (aka “Tree”) and his wife Anne have relocated to Victoria, British Columbia where they are enjoying living by the ocean. With three adult children living in Calgary, they are back and forth to make sure they are fed and watered! The middle son who is living close to London seems to be surviving on his own! Stuart’s dad Charles (left 1934, Upper III) and his brothers Gordon (left 1934, Remove) and Donald (1934, Upper III) all attended KA before the war.

Stuart is hoping that a 50 year class reunion can be organised in 2017!

Zia Choudhury (1989) is still working in Sudan, but took a short break in September to get married. Zia, his wife Romina and children Ada and Dante are pictured below. The photograph was taken in Romina’s hometown in Lake Como, Italy. Congratulations to Zia and Romina.

The tartan was designed in Glasgow, and is called “McDesh”. A design selected by a group of Scots of Bangladeshi Origin. A mix of the two flags.

John Ince (left in 1957, Class of 1961) gave us the following update. “I attended Kelvinside Academy in the fifties. I am now 73 years of age and still well and truly very active in my chosen profession that being professional golf. (Google John Ince golfer Australia).

This will give you a brief outline of my success over the past years. I was not a great scholar at Kelvinside, and my position in class was near to the bottom than the top, however, I have to thank the school for laying the foundation stone that has taken me on a journey of twists and turns, it gave presentation, determination to see things through and integrity at its highest level. I am writing this on my way back from the USA and as one does on a long journey drifts out of sleep I started to think of my school days” John Ince, Head coach Guildford Grammar School, Qualified Class A Professional golfer association 1961, member PGA Australia, Taught golf Stanford University USA. Nigel Ovens (1994) owner of family firm Mearns T McCaskie Butchers have landed leading honours in the 2015 Butchers Q Guild Smithfield Awards, the annual product evaluation event is open to the Guild’s 110 members nationwide. A total of 13 gold awards were claimed by the reigning 2015 Scottish Haggis Champion and new Butchers Q Guild member, Mearns T McCaskie Butchers. Trophies and certificates were presented by Monica Galetti, one of the best-known female chefs in London and presenter and judge on BBC2’s MasterChef “The Professionals”, at a ceremony at Ironmongers Hall, London.

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MINERVA Jim Taylor (1973) MBE Jim and his wife Sandra attended Buckingham Palace earlier this year where Jim received his well-deserved honour from Princess Anne. Jim was also supported by fellow Academicals Charles Berry (1970), Alasdair Macanna (1975), David McGill (1973), Graeme Lambert (1973), Fergus Wallace (1983) and his brother David (1974).

Reunions Class of 1965 by John Sinclair (1965) 30 (young looking!!) 1965 Class Leavers attended a reunion to celebrate 50 years on leaving the School, arranged by John Sinclair with help from Doug Sommerville, Ally Johnston and Peter Eadie. 26 visited the School thereafter 30 assembled at Balgray for a buffet and refreshment. In the evening 17 appeared at a well known hostelry in Byres Road to round off the day. The “latent curiosity” had been satisfied for those who, in some cases, had not seen their fellow classmates in 50 years!! Apologies had been sent from Iain Wright, John Oswald, Alistair Harris, Leslie Frew, Graham Weston, Martin Smith, Douglas Jackson, Alan Brodie, John Cumming, Peter Shakeshaft and Lawrence Adamson.

Reunion Friday 2 October What a fantastic day with Academicals from Classes pre 1950, 1955, 1960. The Gentlemen had a great time touring the School with our Senior 6 pupils visiting areas that some had not seen for 76 years!! Kenneth Wright (1970) came along with his father T Barrie Wright (1939) and Steve Paterson (1979) also attended with his father Robert Paterson (1948). The

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For those interested why not come along to the Academical Dinner and join the “65Table” on Friday 22 April 2016. Contact Elaine Solman or John Sinclair sinky@btinternet.com In the photograph left to right:John King, Derek House, Ken Gray, Norrie Johnston, Bill Murray, Sym Taylor, Jack Brown, Iain Atack, Hunter Reid, Alan Ramsay, Iain Wilson, Douglas Gilmour, David Rogen, John Sinclair, Mike Cottrell, David Johnston, Ken Lindsay, Graham Sherry, Ally Johnston, Neil Browning, Doug Sommerville, Sandy Colley, Murray Stewart, Murdoch McKillop, John McMillan, Dave Jerdan, Peter Ritchie, Campbell Cantlay and Peter Eadie (DA Brown?)

School Bus then transported everyone to the Miller Drummond Suite at Balgray for an early supper, where a great many tales of School life in the 1930’s and 1940’s was shared along with details of all the glory obtained on the Top Pitch. What an amazing wealth of School History all in the one room. After lunch, George Stewart (1939), an amazing man who is now in his 95th year, gave a short speech and thanked the School for a wonderful day.

WINTER 2015 Reunion Friday 30 October A lively event with members of the Classes of 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990 and 1995 coming together for an afternoon of good food, wine and the rekindling of many friendships. They were delighted to see some of their “old teachers” and discuss the great education and opportunities they had at KA. Rector, Allan Gilliland, who taught many of the Academicals in attendance gave a fantastic speech after lunch. They then decided to take a historical trip “down Byres Road” and visit some of the many hostelries from their youth!!

Class of 1985

Class of 1990 Class of 1975

Class of 1980

Class of 1995

Remembrance Service We were once again privileged to have Rev John Murdoch (1972) conduct our Annual Remembrance Service. John gave a very moving and fitting ceremony.

We were also delighted that Damien Leitch (1975) was able to join us for the Service. Damien joined the British Army straight after leaving Kelvinside and is currently deployed in Mogadishu, Somalia. He has been there for 3 years as an Operations Officer supporting the African Union (AU) Mission, spearheading C-IED, Bomb Disposal and Post Blast Investigation Operations.

Damien has also served in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Canada and Sri Lanka. He was awarded the General Officer Commanding “Commendation” in 2001 in formal recognition of Outstanding Service. Damien is pictured at the War Memorial and his Operational Medals are: Bosnia 1998, Northern Ireland 1999, Sierra Leone 2000, Macedonia 2001, Afghanistan 2001/2002, Iraq 2003 and the Queens Jubilee Medal.

Dates for your Diary Saturday 23 January 2016

Assessment Day

Friday 4 March 2016

Business Breakfast

Friday 22 April 2016

Academical Dinner

Saturday 23 April 2016

Academical Matches 27

MINERVA Obituary Bob Taylor (1934) (1924-2015) Bob Taylor, who died just weeks after celebrating his 91st birthday, distinguished himself in two very different Glasgow institutions.

As a student at Glasgow University in 1951, he was one of two Gilmorehill undergraduates – Bob Gemmill, who died earlier this year was the other, in the under-rated Scotland team which slayed the Welsh dragon in one of the most memorable rugby international victories in Scottish history.

Then, after graduating, he gave years of service to the Victoria Infirmary, as a consultant anaesthetist.

The son of a surgeon, the young Bob Taylor longed to follow in the footsteps of a father who had died when he was only ten. He attended Kelvinside Academy until 1934 before he discovered an alternative “family” when he went to Glenalmond College as a boarder and continued his relationship with his old school as a keen member of the Old Glenalmond Association.

When he finished his schooling, his medical ambitions had to be put on hold, as he was commissioned into the Royal Engineers, serving in the Middle East, Persia (now Iran), Iraq and Palestine, before completing his wartime service in India, where he remained until being demobbed in 1947.

Back in Glasgow, aged 23, he was finally able to follow his medical ambitions, at Glasgow University.

He also played rugby, for the amalgamated Kelvinside-West Club, to such good effect that he was soon playing for Glasgow in Inter-City matches.

His form in the three international trials of season 1950-51 had him marked out as a future Scotland cap, and some in the media were surprised when he was not capped in the opening international of the 1951 Five Nations, against France in Paris.

Scotland lost that one and, for the next match, against Wales, Bob Taylor and winger Robert Gordon of Edinburgh Wanderers were handed debuts.

This match would go down in Scottish rugby history.

The Welsh, backed by a massive travelling support and with 11 British Lions in their ranks, were the hottest of favourites. But, with Taylor and his backrow colleagues Douglas Elliot and skipper Peter Kininmonth to the fore, the smaller Scottish pack harried them relentlessly.

Scotland led 3-0 at the interval, then Kininmonth kicked one of the great international dropped goals to double the Scottish lead, before two Gordon tries – the second the result of Elliot and Taylor dribbling through the Welsh defence in an old-fashioned Scottish “foot rush”, before Taylor slipped the ball past the visiting full-back for Gordon to dive on the loose ball – put the match beyond Wales.

Scotland’s surprise 19-0 win was greeted with a combination of joy and disbelief and Taylor, the 620th player to wear the thistle, kept his place for the two remaining matches, against Ireland and England.

However, that win over Wales would be Scotland’s last victory for four years and 17 games and, after the third in this run of defeats – the 44-0 “Murrayfield Massacre” at the hands of the touring South Africans, in November, 1951, Bob Taylor’s international career was over after just four caps.

He graduated in 1952 and married Hazel, but he abandoned surgery to become an anaesthetist – initially at the Western Infirmary in Glasgow, before, in 1957, he switched to south of the River Clyde – to the Victoria, where he remained, rising to the rank of consultant anaesthetist, prior to his retirement.

Bob continued to support West of Scotland after the severing of the alliance with Kelvinside, as well as his old school.

In retirement, he and Hazel lived outside Balloch, where he remained until, in the final months of his life, failing health forced him into the care of Erskine Hospital’s Erskine Park Care Home, where he died at the end of September.

Data Protection Academicals sometimes contact the School requesting addresses for other Academicals and the School is pleased to provide such information. Academicals who do not wish their address to be given to another Academicals should inform the School.

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