The Chronicle 2023

The Chronicle 2023 WWW.ST-MARGARET. ABERDEEN.SCH.UK

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | CONTENTS

Welcome to The Chronicle 2023 Contents From the Head

02

From the Staffroom

04

Retirements

06

In Memoriam CONTENT TO COME

Speech Day Awards

08 10

Reports – Nursery

12

– Junior School

16

– After School Care and Holiday Club

18

– Senior School

20

Charity Events

22

Careers

24

In The News

28

Whole School Events

36

The Music Department

42

Sports Review

44

Activities & Extra-curricular – Junior Activities/Extra-Curricular

47

– Junior Residential Trip

54

– Senior Activities/Extra-Curricular

56

– Senior Residential Trips

66

Art Gallery – Junior School

70

– Senior School

74

Drama

84

Silver Awards

88

Parent Teacher Association

89

Development Office

90

FP President’s Report

92

01

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | FROM THE HEAD

From the Head

In session 2022-23 we were thrilled to put the years of covid disruption behind us and the school calendar was filled once more with a multitude of whole school events, trips and extra-curricular activities. The start of the year saw the results of the first public exams since 2019 and for our sixth year leavers the only public exams of their school career. It is to the credit of all concerned that those results continued a long tradition of St Margaret’s pupils achieving some of the best in the country, a fact that was highlighted in a number of national league tables.

L

eague tables aside, the most important thing about those results is, of course, the launch pad which they ultimately provide for our leavers to move beyond school in the direction of their choice. Our leavers’ destinations are diverse: from game design to classics and architecture to medicine, it is our privilege to support each girl to find her particular strengths and navigate her own path.

To that end, it was invigorating to welcome a multitude of visitors back into school to share with pupils of all ages their career and life insights. It is always a pleasure to hear from former pupils and BBC Newsround presenter Jenny Lawrence was a big hit when she visited in November.

The practice multiple mini interviews which are run in school for our medical applicants also featured a range of former pupils who were keen to give back and encourage the next generation. Over the course of the year the number of professionals who spoke to classes, conducted mock interviews and took part in careers events ran to the hundreds!

As the only girls’ school in the north of Scotland, we continue to champion careers where women are under-represented through events such as Anatomy Lab, which provided a hands-on experience of surgery, and an International Day of Women and Girls in Science collaboration with Techfest and the Apache Corporation.

02

FP, Professor Sinead Farrington, was the headline speaker at this event for local primary schools, which happily celebrated physics in all its forms. This year on International Women’s Day we shone a spotlight on women in the creative industries and were glad to share the work of a number of former and current pupils, not least Jenna Stewart whose success as BBC Young Composer of the Year was picked up by the Girls Schools Association who named her as their Woman of the Week in November.

Almost without exception, when former pupils come back and talk about their time at St Margaret’s they reflect on the breadth and range of opportunities which they experienced in a small school community where they were well known. The opportunity to mix across year groups is often mentioned and being able to do that freely and without restriction once more was a joy this year. It was encouraging to see a high uptake of volunteering for the weekly paired reading scheme and a significant number of activities in which senior girls led the junior year groups. Surely a highlight, World Book Day saw all junior girls paired with seniors as they shared their favourite books and read together.

This sharing of learning between age groups was a feature of two significant weeks in the school calendar.

October heralded our first Culture Week, which was

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | FROM THE HEAD

organised and led by sixth year pupils, and featured a range of activities and events designed to promote greater understanding of the different cultures represented at St Margaret’s. Culminating in a memorable and eye-catching international fashion show, thanks to our pioneers, culture week looks set to become a fixture in the school calendar. Similarly, neurodiversity celebration week in March featured staff, pupils and parents learning together with activities ably led by senior girls.

The opportunities for pupils of all ages to feed into the ongoing improvement process of the school in age appropriate ways is an important part of school life.

Whether it be as pupil council, sustainability, e-safety, charity, sports, wellbeing or house reps, pupils are encouraged to play their part. This year we embarked on the Rights Respecting School Award in order to draw together and strengthen what we already do in this regard. As we work towards the Silver level we can look forward to new and innovative ways of understanding and promoting children’s rights in our community.

Extra-curricular activities are of course central to the holistic approach to education on which we pride ourselves and we have seen some new opportunities in technology in the form of the Engineering Development Trust Industrial Cadets Project and the JP Morgan Generation Tech Sustainable Challenge. Second and fourth year teams respectively threw themselves into these projects relishing the chance to present their ideas and designs at national events. The ability to speak confidently and effectively in public is an attribute which is important at St Margaret’s and from the youngest age girls present to an audience. Annually our I Senior classes prepare for the English Speaking Board exam; it is to their huge credit that in 2023 the whole cohort passed with distinction!

For some the opportunity to perform in character is the highlight of the year and the drama department has provided plenty of opportunity for this. Audience and actors alike delighted in the opportunity to be back at Aberdeen Performing Arts for a live senior school show in November. Following the yellow brick road, The Wizard of Oz was a hit and set the bar high for the subsequent 7 Junior performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and junior show club’s Alice in Wonderland.

The music department has also seen a full concert programme of both formal and informal concerts which gave even our youngest musicians the opportunity to perform to an audience. As ever, we have turned to our musicians to help us mark special events in the life of the school and country. We were only a few weeks into the school year when, at short notice, the chamber choir learnt ‘Wild Mountain Thyme’ as we celebrated the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We were also privileged

to offer music for the city’s Holocaust Memorial Day event at the Cowdray Hall in January. In contrast, in June we were excited to welcome Scottish Opera to work with 5-7 Junior in a workshop which culminated in a stunning costumed performance in the gym.

Although not normally an opera set, the gym, tucked away at the back of school in the tardis which is St Margaret’s, sees a lot of action, from first thing in the morning until the evening. We have been pleased to develop our hockey coaching team and even on the darkest of winter days it is to their credit that players turned up for early morning fitness training. We have also seen a surge of interest and success in netball with both junior and senior teams competing regularly.

In the autumn term we held our first St Margaret’s ski championships and in the spring both of our dressage teams qualified for the national championships. It is impossible to capture every individual and team success today but you only have to read the weekly PE entries in the newsletter to see how varied the provision is – all with the intention of providing pupils of all ages and abilities with an opportunity to find the sport or activity which is right for them.

While much of what we strive to do at St Margaret’s is about knowing, supporting and challenging individual children and young people, it is within a community that we thrive. Time and time again, when asked to describe our school, the strong sense of community is one of the first things that is mentioned by pupils, parents and staff alike. A feature of that community is that we look outwards and the school’s long commitment to working for charity and serving others evolves each year.

The Youth Philanthropy Initiative, form class charity events and volunteering opportunities all matter to us and it is through such initiatives that pupils develop empathy as well as entrepreneurial skills. In its second year, our learning for sustainability programme has gone from strength to strength, as we hope are the 420 Woodland Trust trees which we planted at Bennachie on a snowy Sunday in March.

Over the course of session 2022-23 I have been privileged to work alongside dedicated colleagues, supportive parents and our fantastic children and young people, whose energy and enthusiasm inspires us all. I hope that you enjoy reading this edition of The Chronicle as much as I have, and that you will share my pride in all that our wonderful pupils have contributed and achieved.

Tenez ferme!

Anna Tomlinson Head

03

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | FROM THE STAFFROOM

From the Staffroom

The academic year 2022-2023 started with a far more “normal” feel to it and with the hope that the COVID-19 restrictions were finally behind us. The first staff meeting of the year was held in person again and this started off a series of firsts with all of our annual celebrations finally able to return to “in-person” events.

A

t the start of the session,

A very warm St Margaret’s welcome

passed away after a short illness.

we welcomed a number of

was extended to these new colleagues.

Donald joined St Margaret’s in April

new members of teaching staff: Shirley Magill joined us as Director of Music, Karen Matheson as a modern studies teacher, Jessica Peppercorn joined the English department, Peter Shand joined us on a fixed term contract to cover Sarah Hendry’s maternity leave in the biology department and Gordon Rennett returned to St Margaret’s to teach history.

Nicola O’Neill and Jenny Evans were welcomed into the junior school and we also welcomed Michelle Marlow into the after-school care team.

04

In July we said farewell to Dave Stokes, our Marketing Officer who was replaced in September by Katherine Ingram.

In October, we welcomed Sarah Florean and Rebecca Perales, our two foreign language assistants who would stay with us until the Easter holiday. Also, in the Autumn term we said goodbye to Marianne McBay in reception and welcomed Lynn Beveridge as our Receptionist/Administrator.

2015 and worked closely with the school leadership team and wider staff, not only in the development of major projects such as the science block, but also in the day-to-day maintenance of our whole school facilities. His knowledge and experience have proved invaluable over the years and he was a much-respected colleague for whom nothing was ever too much trouble.

Mr Cordiner was dedicated to serving the St Margaret’s community in order that our pupils would benefit

Sadly, in December 2022, our

from a safe and welcoming school

Facilities Manager, Donald Cordiner

site. He is greatly missed.

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | FROM THE STAFFROOM

The return to school after the

all our retirees a long, happy and

Christmas holiday started with

healthy retirement.

a staff meeting at which Miss Tomlinson welcomed Anthea Saludades to the after-school care team. At the end of the Spring Term we said goodbye to Joan Aitken, our Facilities Manager at Summerhill Playing Fields upon her retirement.

Also leaving us in June to work much closer to her home was junior school teacher of 10 years Monica Smith.

At the end of session Paula Twigg left her post as Principal Teacher in the junior school after 9 years to relocate with her family, and junior school and food technology teacher Vanessa

We will miss all of our colleagues as each and every

Gerbrandy relocated to Holland.

Amanda Pirie left to explore other avenues while Jess Peppercorn secured a full-time post in the English

one becomes a part

department in a local school. Peter

of the whole school

contract and returned to retirement

community cherished at St Margaret’s.

Shand completed his fixed term and Anthea Saludades finished her work with the after-school team to start teacher training. We will miss all of our colleagues as each and every

At the end of the summer term we were sad to say goodbye to a number of colleagues who were either retiring, relocating or moving to pastures new. Judith Garden retired after teaching at St Margaret’s for almost 10 years, the past 7 of these have been as our 1 Junior teacher and

one becomes a part of the whole school community so cherished at St Margaret’s but we do of course wish all these members of staff all the very best in their future endeavours.

We thank all colleagues past and present for the huge contribution which each and every one has made

she has given so many girls such a

to the life of the school.

wonderful start to their school career.

Mhairi Miller

Karen Mackie retired after 17 years as

Head of Finance and Operations

our science technician supporting all three of our sciences and Lorna Gurney retired after an amazing 26 years as our Head of Woodwind.

Lorna has nurtured a love of music in so many girls during those years and we will miss her enthusiasm for music.

Finally, Norma Murray retired as our Head of Juniors after 10 years in post. Norma has been a passionate and innovative leader of the junior school and also an integral part of the school leadership team where her dedication to St Margaret’s has been second to none. We wish

05

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | RETIREMENTS

Retirements at St Margaret's Joan Aitken

Lorna Gurney

In March we said goodbye to our Summerhill facilities

Lorna Gurney retired after a very impressive 26 years

manager Miss Joan Aitken who retired after eleven

as Head of Woodwind at St Margaret’s.

years as a PE teacher at school and eight years looking after our pitches at Summerhill.

Miss Aitken gave many dedicated years of service and is now looking forward to taking the time to enjoy new adventures. Here is Miss Aitken with fellow retiree Karen Mackie looking at school photos of their mums, who are in the middle photograph and who attended St Margaret’s in the 1940’s – such a lovely connection for Miss Mackie and Miss Aitken, as well as the school.

An accomplished woodwind player in her own right, Mrs Gurney’s enthusiasm and passion for music was tangible, resulting in a most lovely rapport with her pupils.

The school’s Concert Band flourished under her leadership, and she brought out the best in every girl for key school events and concerts. Mrs Gurney fostered and nurtured a love of music in so many of our pupils during her loyal and lengthy service, and her unwavering commitment to her craft and her tireless efforts to nurture a love of music in countless girls over the years has been inspirational.

Karen Mackie Karen Mackie, a cornerstone of the science department at St Margaret's, reached retirement after 17 years of employment at St Margaret’s.

Miss Mackie joined the St Margaret’s science department in 2006 after 25 years as a research technician at the Scottish Agricultural College. She brought with her a huge amount of laboratory experience and expertise.

Miss Mackie’s friendly and supportive manner was reassuring to both pupils and staff alike, and she tirelessly researched and trialled new protocols and experiment ideas. Miss Mackie particularly relished the challenge and variety of the VIS projects, and her endless patience with the VIS girls during investigation time has been appreciated by very many over the years.

06

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | RETIREMENT

Norma Murray Norma Murray retired after 10 years as the Head of Juniors at St Margaret’s.

She joined St Margaret’s in 2013 from Robert Gordon’s College, where she had been principal teacher of

leadership, and a deep-seated passion for nurturing young minds.

As the Head of Juniors, Mrs Murray has been the guiding light for our youngest students, instilling in them a love for learning and creating a nurturing environment that

learning and teaching. A St Andrews graduate,

has set the foundation for their academic journey.

Mrs Murray’s earlier career was as a forensic scientist

Mrs Murray created a warm and friendly junior school

employed by the Home Office Forensic Laboratory in Chorley in Lancashire.

environment to which children loved to come. Many areas of the curriculum have been overhauled in her

Forthright on matters of principle, and a clear and

time in post. Well Done Wednesdays, Find Out Fridays,

creative thinker, Mrs Murray was also hugely empathetic,

Shakespeare in 7 Junior are just some of the initiatives

and her ability to demonstrate pastoral care to her pupils

that are now part of the fabric of our school, and Mrs

was a major strength. Her journey at St Margaret's has

Murray’s legacy in the junior school will be long lasting.

been marked by her unwavering dedication, innovative

Judith Garden Judith Garden, a devoted educator and cherished member of our St Margaret's family, bid farewell to our school after nearly a decade of devoted service.

A graduate of Northern College of Education, Mrs Garden taught in a number of local schools before coming to St Margaret’s. For the past seven years she has been our 1 Junior teacher, providing girls with a strong start to their school career, developing in them a love of learning which they have carried with them ever since.

Mrs Garden has inspired parents and children alike and has maximised opportunities for learning, bringing it to life with a myriad of visitors and visits.

Passionate about outdoor education, Mrs Garden has worked collaboratively with her colleagues to develop this aspect of the lower junior school experience, which our younger pupils will continue to benefit from for years to come.

07

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN MEMORIAM

Donald Cordiner

O

ur Facilities Manager, Mr Donald Cordiner, sadly died after a short illness in

December 2022. Since 2015, Mr Cordiner has worked closely with the school leadership team and wider staff, not only in the development of major projects such as the science block, but also in the day-to-day maintenance of our whole school facilities.

Mr Cordiner’s knowledge and experience proved invaluable over the years and he was

a much-respected colleague for whom nothing was ever too much trouble. He will be greatly missed.

Nicky Pont IN MAY OF 2023 WE SADLY LOST FORMER COLLEAGUE AND FRIEND MRS NICKY PONT AFTER A LONG ILLNESS. Mrs Pont retired in 2013 after 21 years at St Margaret’s as a teacher of mathematics.

Originally from Australia, Mrs Pont had an infectious sense of humour and was highly respected and liked by her pupils.

She also contributed much to school life outside the classroom not least with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

She is sadly missed by all who knew her at St Margaret’s.

08

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SPEECH DAY AWARDS

Speech Day 2023 SPEECH DAY HAS BEEN A MUCH-ANTICIPATED EVENT IN THE ST MARGARET’S CALENDAR SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN JUNE 1932. IT IS A DAY WHEN THE ENTIRE SCHOOL COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF PUPILS OVER THE ACADEMIC SESSION. IT ALSO GIVES EVERYONE THE OPPORTUNITY TO BID FAREWELL TO THE GRADUATING VI SENIOR STUDENTS WHO ARE EMBARKING ON THEIR OWN INDIVIDUAL ADVENTURES.

L to R: Professor Margaret Ross, Ms Jenny Brown, Miss Anna Tomlinson

T

he 2023 ceremony began with

students felt in a revived calendar

She spoke of visits from a multitude

a welcome from our Chair of

of events, trips, and extra-curricular

of professionals, including former

Council Professor Margaret Ross,

activities. Of particular note, was the

pupil and BBC Newsround presenter

who noted the particular joy she

publication of results from the first

Jenny Lawrence, who shared her

felt in attending so many positive

public exams since 2019, which was

career insights. Emphasising that

school events over the past year.

the first and last for the VI Senior

St Margaret’s champions the

She then extended the Council’s

year group. She then spoke of the

representation of women in the

gratitude to teaching and support

diverse directions that VI Senior

workplace, Miss Tomlinson described

staff, the PTA, and the Former

leavers are going in: “from game

events such as the Anatomy Lab and

Pupils’ Association for their work

design to classics and architecture

the celebration of International Day

in continuing the ethos of the

to medicine, it is our privilege to

of Women and Girls in Science.

school. She then handed over

support each girl to find her particular

to Miss Tomlinson to deliver the

strengths and navigate her own path.”

Head’s Report.

Speaking of the importance of our close-knit community, where

Miss Tomlinson went on to

students of all ages freely interact,

Miss Tomlinson expressed her delight

highlight the achievements and

Miss Tomlinson congratulated

in leaving the disruption of Covid

the sense of community that

pupils on high participation in

behind us and the excitement

have characterised the past year.

volunteer programmes and

10

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SPEECH DAY AWARDS

cross-year activities. Culture Week

piece entitled “Revival”, inspired by

with the world. She left the audience

and neurodiversity celebration week

cinematic scores.

with the message to keep reading

were significant events promoting understanding and inclusivity. The school also encouraged students to contribute to ongoing improvements through various roles like pupil council members and sustainability advocates. They embarked on the Rights Respecting School Award to promote children’s rights.

Following this, we welcomed guest speaker, renowned literary agent

As the day drew to a close the

Jenny Brown of Jenny Brown

audience and pupils raised their

Associates, to address the gathered

voices for a rendition of Tenez

audience. Jenny emphasised the

Ferme which was the perfect

importance of reading for pleasure

accompaniment to the beginning

as she believes that stories are

of the summer holidays.

the foundation of society and that reading allows us to explore different

Miss Tomlinson explained how

worlds and perspectives. She

extra-curricular activities, including

encouraged the audience to

technology projects and the arts,

rediscover the joy of reading and

played a crucial role in the holistic

highlighted the benefits it brings

education of St Margaret’s pupils,

throughout life.

and she celebrated the achievements

Jenny shared her own journey in

of students in music and drama.

She also commended those who participated in sports, including

the literary world, from selling tickets at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to organising the Edinburgh

hockey, netball, skiing, and dressage.

International Book Festival. She

Nearing the end of her report, Miss

explained how literature festivals help

Tomlinson expressed gratitude to staff, parents, and the community for their contributions to the school’s vibrancy. Several retiring staff members were also recognised for their years of dedicated service. Her speech concluded by commending the VI Senior leavers for their hard

us make sense of our surroundings, learn about different cultures, and understand ourselves and our place in the world. She also discussed the transformation she has witnessed in Scotland’s literary scene, with more confidence and recognition for its writers.

work, ambition, and values stating:

As a literary agent, Jenny’s role is

“I know that I speak for all of my

to identify and develop new talent,

colleagues when I say it has been a

working with writers to sell their

privilege to be a part of their story,

work to publishers, radio, and screen.

and it is because of them that I can

She explained how she was proud of

say with confidence that as the

the quality and diversity of writing in

year draws to a close our school is in

Scotland and how she believes that

good heart.”

even being based in a small office in

Before the commencement of the prize giving there was a fantastic

and embrace the power of literature.

Edinburgh can make a significant impact on the global literary scene.

programme of musical performances

Jenny encouraged the audience to

put together by our dedicated staff

start writing creatively during their

in the music department. Particularly

summer break. She emphasised the

poignant was a performance from

importance of new voices and ideas,

our orchestra conducted by VI

urging the girls to keep a notebook

Senior leaver Ellen MacDonald

handy, hone their skills, find their

who had composed a beautiful

unique voice, and share their stories

11

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | NURSERY REPORT

Nursery REPORT

Returning/New Starts

Christmas Outing

It was lovely to welcome our returning children back

The nursery children thoroughly enjoyed going to

to nursery and our new starts too. We were delighted

The Lemon Tree to see ‘The Enormous Christmas Turnip’.

with the refurbishment that took place in Room 2.

This lovely interactive show enthralled the children.

The additional toilet and sink area has benefitted the

It was a pleasure to take the children on the bus and to

children greatly and this has also enabled our nursery

the show. They behaved impeccably throughout and

numbers to increase to 40 children.

appeared to enjoy the lively rabbits growing their own

Staffing

food for their special dinner.

We were delighted to start the new school year with

Winter Music Celebration

the same complement of staffing. In October we

We welcomed parents and carers into the school in

welcomed Mrs Cameron to the team as an Early Years

December for our Nursery Winter Music Celebration.

Support Worker, 3 days each week and Miss Easton,

The children rose to the challenge of performing for an

our NESCOL HNC student, 2 days per week from

audience while on the stage and enjoyed putting on

October until June.

their Christmas jumpers and singing festive and winter

Drop Off/Pick Up

From October, we were delighted to welcome parents

themed songs. Mrs Wiedermann put together a lovely programme which worked so well for the children.

back into nursery for drop off and pick up following

Football

the restrictions of COVID. It certainly felt much more

An exciting opportunity arose for Mr MacDonald,

preferable for parents, children and staff.

Ivy-Rose’s dad, to come in to deliver some football coaching to our preschool children. These sessions involved individual ball control skills, shooting skills and teamwork. Mr MacDonald is a SFA coach and we were delighted that he shared his expertise with us.

12

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | NURSERY REPORT

Dancing

Wee Green Spaces

All year our preschool children had the opportunity to

We were delighted to restart Wee Green Spaces;

take part in dancing lessons with Gillian Stuart from

in addition to spending time outdoors on a daily

Academy Street Dance Studio. These lessons are full of

basis, we like to expand our children’s knowledge and

fun and learning for our young dancers and they are

experience of outdoor space through Wee Green Spaces.

always very enthusiastic when it is time to go. It was

The children are encouraged to pack their own bags,

wonderful to invite the parents of our preschool children

get waterproofs and wellies on before beginning our

into school at the end of the summer term to watch a

adventure. The walk to Bon Accord Terrace Gardens

lesson and see what their children have been doing.

is quite a distance for our young people, however,

Paired Reading

excitement and chat and observations about the environment, certainly makes time pass quickly. When

The nursery children really enjoyed paired reading with

they arrive at their destination the children are keen to

the 3 Junior girls. This is a lovely opportunity for the nursery

explore, so after a safety recap they are encouraged to

children to experience the wider school environment and

do just that. Looking at different trees and flowers,

get to know some of the older girls. The junior girls enjoy

comparing the different shapes and sizes of leaves and

reading to the nursery children, building confidence,

petals, rolling, jumping and running up and down hills,

whilst the nursery children love listening to stories and

finding paths to explore, taking some time to look and

talking about a wide variety of books.

listen to their local environment. These sessions are so

Parents in nursery

valuable and the children learn so much from taking part in them.

With the restrictions of COVID being well and truly behind us, it was lovely to be able to invite parents in to read stories and to play with the children in nursery.

These special times were enjoyed by parents, children and staff alike.

13

the nursery children were developing independence and confidence whilst being able to lead their own learning, build friendships and resilience

14

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | NURSERY REPORT

Aberdeen Science Centre

Summer Celebration

In June we spent the morning at the Aberdeen Science

We were pleased to invite all our parents and carers in

Centre. This was a wonderful experience for the children.

again for our end of term Summer Celebration. Once

Our time was split between workshops, which were all

again, with the help of Mrs Wiedermann, our children

about forces, and the exhibition floor where the children

had been learning some lovely songs and dances to

had time to explore the different sections and a wide

present from the stage. To prepare for the performance,

variety of interesting activities. Once again, we were so

each child had also made a headband to go along with

proud of the children and how much they engaged in all

one of their songs. These looked wonderful on the stage

aspects of the trip. The visit was finished off with lovely

and at the end of the day, the children were delighted

packed lunches in the Science Centre before getting

to take them home.

the bus back to nursery.

Sports Day

Being part of the whole school sports day is really special for our children. As well as the excitement of their own races, they are able to watch some of their friends in the junior school take part in their races too. Mrs Norval had the children practising races during their gym time so that on the day everyone knew what was expected of them. Our children all did so well in their individual and team races and were delighted with their stickers at the end of the races. When all the races were complete all our athletes enjoyed a well earned ice cream.

In amongst all of these exciting events, the nursery children were developing independence and confidence whilst being able to lead their own learning, build friendships and resilience. What a lovely nursery year it has been and to see all our children develop and progress is the icing on the cake, ready for the next challenge.

Jennifer Minett Nursery Manager Laura Simpson Nursery Teacher

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR SCHOOL REPORT

Junior

SCHOOL REPORT

It has been another busy and successful year in our junior school and there have been many highlights throughout this past session. Some of the events are old favourites which we revisit each year and are part of the rich tapestry which makes up St Margaret’s junior school.

E

arly in the year we were visited by Mr Robertson

of the 6 Junior class novels, came into school for a literacy

from the Scottish Adventure School in Crieff.

workshop with 6 Junior and Jan the Viking was back in

He came to school to carry out a team building session

school helping 3 Junior learn about the Vikings and

with our 6 Junior girls and also to introduce 6 Junior

1 Junior about life as a knight in mediaeval times.

and 7 Junior to the delights in store on their residential trips later in the year.

Members of the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Group carried out workshops with the junior school and the

For our harvest celebration, nursery to 7 Junior created

SSPCA came to talk about animal welfare. It was also

a wonderful craft display, generously gave gifts for the

wonderful to see a number of our parents back in school

Cyrenians and performed their musical numbers with

sharing their expertise with the pupils. All of these

great skill. We are fortunate to have a great music

experiences greatly enhance pupils’ learning.

department to help us and Mrs Wiedermann, Ms Brown and Mrs Magill worked hard with the girls to produce an excellent celebration.

We celebrated World Book Day, but this year enlisted the help of IS-IIIS pupils. They came to junior school to share their love of books with us and the nursery. This was a

Throughout the year pupils have had visits from

delight for all and pupils were heard to ask when can we

Mr Patterson, of Urban Studies Centre in Aberdeen.

do this again. It is great when a new initiative works so

He delivered workshops for 5-7 Junior on a range of

well and we will indeed be repeating the process in the

topics, including Victorian inventions and life during

coming session.

World War II. Barbara Henderson, the author of one

16

Another highlight of the year was the Scottish Opera visit to 5-7 Junior to produce a short opera to be performed for their parents. Mrs Magill was keen for the girls to have this experience and having seen the final product I understand why! What a great opportunity to learn about opera, work with professional singers, dress up in fantastic costumes and perform with great music and sound effects!

Seeing 7 Junior perform a Midsummer Night’s Dream in February, under the direction of Mrs McGovern, was a joy. The first Shakespeare play I saw performed by junior pupils was this very play and so it seemed fitting that it should be the play performed during my final year.

Similarly, Alice in Wonderland was the musical we were working on in 2020 when lockdown forced us to abandon such things so it was wonderful to see the production get to the stage and wonderful to watch another group of equally talented pupils fulfil the roles and sing the songs so well.

Sporting events also continued to thrive within the junior school and the junior swimming gala, Sports Day, hockey, netball fixtures and athletic events, to name a few, all showcased the talent of pupils in these areas, as well as highlighting what a supportive and encouraging PE staff we have, who are able to encourage everyone to do their best and enjoy their sporting opportunities.

This is the tenth junior school report I have written and it is my last. Many things in school change each year but many things also remain constant. I am pleased to report that the love of learning and the enthusiasm to learn are definitely a constant for all our pupils and staff.

The desire to do their best and go the extra mile is also a clear feature of the attitude of our St Margaret’s community and the support and commitment shown by pupils, staff and parents is evident in many ways. It has been a pleasure and a privilege being the Head of Junior School for the past ten years. I am sure St Margaret’s will continue to thrive and live up to the high expectations it sets for itself and I wish you all well in the coming session.

Norma Murray Head of Junior School

17

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | AFTER SCHOOL CARE AND HOLIDAY CLUB

After School Care and Holiday Club WE HAVE A BUSY AFTER SCHOOL CARE (ASC) AND THE CHILDREN LOVE COMING TO HAVE FUN WITH THEIR FRIENDS. THE NURSERY CHILDREN STAY IN THE NURSERY ROOM AND THE JUNIORS USE THE DINING AREA WHICH IS CHANGED INTO A PLAY AREA. BOTH AGE GROUPS HAVE ACCESS TO THE FULLY ENCLOSED PLAYGROUND WHICH INCLUDES A GRASSY AREA, PLAY EQUIPMENT AND AN OUTDOOR CLASSROOM AREA.

A their ideas which are collected via a mind map

variety of activities are offered to the children using

every month. The most popular activities include playing outside and taking part in craft projects,

creating role play areas and playing board games.

This year we did tie-dye for the first time and also made sock puppets. Outdoors, ‘loose parts’ are very popular and the children come up with wonderful ideas of how to use items that would otherwise be considered as

It is tradition that the meeting is led by the oldest girls in the group. This allows the children to make decisions on how the ASC is run.

We also hold an annual charity event which usually involves making lots of crafts to sell. This year we raised money for AberNecessities. This was chosen by the children via a voting system. Parents also got involved in placing their votes.

junk. Leftover plastic piping was used to make a horse

The school Holiday Clubs run in the October, Easter and

jumping arena, and various dens were built using

summer holidays and the children have lots of fun. We

tarpaulin and tyres. Some children even made a tree

had external visitors running activities such as a foam

swing out of the loose parts.

party, ride on animals, and a magician. We also went to

We also have an outdoor kitchen which is extremely popular with all age groups. Some girls made a café where you could buy lovely mud cakes using little stones as ‘currency’.

The children who attend ASC receive a healthy snack which includes either fruit or vegetables every day.

Once a year, we hold a Pupil Conference where the children share more ideas and thoughts about ASC.

18

Movement Evolution in Banchory where we developed Parkour skills. We have also been on trips to Hazlehead, Wynford Farm and Crathes Castle. Everyone had a lot of fun and we all look forward to planning the next club.

Sandra Thomson After School Care & Holiday Club Manager

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR SCHOOL REPORT

Senior

SCHOOL REPORT

As we came together at the start of session 2022 – 2023 and I looked forward to the many events that were already in the school calendar, I was reminded of our values of respect, ambition, hard work, equality and community. These values form an integral part of school life and are the bedrock of all that we do in school and beyond.

T

he autumn term started with a sense of excitement

event of the year! In December, III Senior enthusiastically

as the familiar sound of animated chatter was

represented a variety of local charities as part of the

heard across the school. A new academic year brings

Youth Philanthropy Initiative. The winning team this year,

new opportunities in and out of the classroom and it was

presented £3,000 to MISS, a charity providing support

pleasing to see pupils so involved in the extra-curricular

to those who have experienced miscarriage. As ever,

programme and engaged in the election of new office

the Carol Service held at the Beach Ballroom brought the

bearers. As they started their senior school journey,

busy term to an end in splendour.

I Senior participated in a team building day led by the ranger at Hazlehead park, while at the other end of the school, at the VI Senior conference, girls were planning their pathways for life beyond St Margaret’s.

We were delighted to welcome parents into school throughout the session for a variety of family learning events. Popular sessions included emotion coaching, understanding friendships and RSHP (relationship,

European Week of Languages offered pupils the

sexual health and parenthood) education. Child protection

opportunity to attend taster sessions in many languages

expert, Leeanne Turner, led an informative online safety

and our ambassadors ran a very successful quiz, enjoyed

event, supporting parents to navigate the current risks and

by all. In September we were also pleased to see a

share resources to help them stay informed and safeguard

very healthy number of III – VI Senior pupils brave the

their child’s virtual world. In February, Simon Leigh

elements as they set off on Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke

travelled from London to present to girls and parents

of Edinburgh expeditions.

on the subject of addiction. Simon spoke from his own

Culture Week was a particular highlight as we approached the October holiday. This was led entirely by our race and culture committee, demonstrating pupil leadership at its absolute best. Pupils were issued with a culture passport to capture and reflect on their experiences throughout the week. Every day saw a variety of activities on offer, from docu-lunches and a culture

personal experiences, sharing the hard-hitting facts and dispelling myths, which was a very powerful experience.

II Senior ably led the way for Children’s Mental Health Week in February. This year’s theme was ‘Let’s Connect’ and the week started with a pupil-led assembly which they followed up with a wellbeing fair, offering lots of helpful advice and resources to support mental health

cinema to creating Chinese lanterns and participating in

and wellbeing.

world theatre workshops. The committee also provided

On a snowy Sunday in March our school community

a range of activities for junior school pupils including a

came together to plant 420 saplings at the foot of

traditional Polish dance session and playground games

Bennachie. These trees are a native deciduous species,

from around the world. Without doubt a particular

and will contribute to the replacement of trees which

highlight was the culture fashion show, which was a

suffered from the winter storms the previous year on

colourful celebration of cultural diversity at St Margaret’s.

the site. The pupil-led neurodiversity cafe and craft in

The second half of the autumn term is always a hive of activity in the senior school and this year was no exception.

company sessions proved very popular as part of our celebration of Neurodiversity Week.

Our young performers took to the stage in a super

As well as being a busy period of examinations, and SQA

production of The Wizard of OZ. This was closely followed

coursework deadlines, the spring term is also when our

by the V/VI Senior dance, which is undoubtedly the social

older girls make subject choices. It is always a pleasure

20

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR SCHOOL REPORT

to support pupils at this important time and we were

adventures with their peers. Closer to home, girls took

delighted to also welcome St Andrew’s University, the

part in a wide variety of activities from achieving a

University of Aberdeen and NESCOL to contribute to this

science and engineering CREST award to creating a

process as part of our subject fair. Following a busy term,

news programme at SKY TV studios.

staff and pupils alike welcomed the start of the spring holiday, a chance to recharge the batteries.

I have only been able to share with you a snapshot of the many activities and events that took place throughout

Summer term marked the start of the formal SQA

the year but as I reflect on where we are I think back to

examinations and there was a sense of excitement and

those core values and I am very proud of all that the staff

anticipation alongside a tinge of sadness as this marked

and pupils have achieved.

the start of the final weeks for our VI Senior pupils. Of course there was the leavers’ week programme to look forward to and in the final week of term the leavers’

Deirdre Latimer Deputy Head (Academic)

ceremony was a fitting tribute to all that this wonderful group of girls have contributed to the life of our school as they make their way in the world beyond St Margaret’s.

With IV – VI Senior girls off on study leave, you would imagine that the senior school would become a quieter place, but on the contrary, this is an opportunity for our I – III Senior pupils to take their place in the limelight.

I Senior gave Poirot a run for his money in a super detective drama performance which they had devised themselves, II Senior impressed judges throughout their team building day with their innovative and creative upcycling solutions, and our young musicians wowed audiences with a variety of solo and ensemble

2022/23 Head Girl Team

performances in the summer concert.

In the penultimate week of term, the girls came back together to participate in activities week. Cultural trips departed for France, Iceland and Italy, giving pupils the opportunity to enjoy new

Culture Week

21

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | CHARITY EVENTS

Charity Events 2022-2023 Charity events were undertaken in full this year after the difficulties of organising events during Covid restrictions. The girls in each form class worked hard to raise funds and collect goods (including food donations and sanitary donations). They also raised the profiles of the charities that they were fundraising for, around the school.

Senior School I SENIOR IA collected dog and cat food donations for Mrs Murray’s Cat and Dog Home.

IM meanwhile raised £172.80 for Save the Children.

II SENIOR

III SENIOR

IIA raised £134.88 for Aberdeen Royal

The girls in IIIA and IIIM worked together to host a very successful

Infirmary’s ICU by hosting a fair that

lunchtime fair, the proceeds of which went to the winning YPI

included a number of stalls. The girls

(Youth Philanthropy Initiative) – MISS Aberdeen. They raised £327.51

had the chance to win soft toys amongst

and also received a number of generous donations, taking their total

other things. IIM collected food and

to £504.11.

sanitary products for Instant Neighbour.

22

IV Senior IVA raised £155 for One Mission, by selling hot chocolate reindeer sachets.

In October IVM made a harvest hamper and raffled this, raising £53.25 for the Rainforest Trust.

V Senior VA collected food donations for Cyrenians, while VM raised £143.89 for SensationALL Aberdeen by hosting a Christmas talent show.

VI Senior The VI Senior girls held their traditional Winter Wonderland event for the first time in two years.

They had a number of stalls and games for pupils of all ages. They raised £311.43 for the Survivor’s Trust.

They also raffled a Charlie Dog for Charlie House and raised £60.

Fiona Stone Charities Coordinator 23

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | CAREERS

Careers EVERY YEAR AT ST MARGARET’S, GIRLS BENEFIT FROM A WEEK OF INSIGHTFUL CAREERS EVENTS HELD IN SCHOOL. THE FIRST DAY OF IV SENIOR CAREERS WEEK STARTED OFF WITH AN EXCITING TALK FROM DR KRZANICH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN. SHE GAVE AN INFORMATIVE PRESENTATION ABOUT STUDYING LAW AND THE VARIOUS CAREER PATHS IT CAN LEAD TO. IV SENIOR FOUND THE TALK INSPIRING AS THEY LEARNED ABOUT THE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE UNIVERSITY.

Next, Mr Mike Melvin from Aberdeen Council of

In addition, Ms Avitskaya from Minerva University joined

Voluntary Organisations visited to talk about

online. Minerva takes a unique approach to education,

volunteering. The girls learned about different roles,

with students taking charge of their own learning and

the benefits of building transferable skills, and how

gaining real-world experiences. They also have the

volunteering can give back to the community. Mr. Melvin

opportunity to travel to different countries during their

also introduced the Saltire Award, which will be

university journey.

available to all ages at the school.

Potential medics in IV and V Senior attended our Mini

The girls then took part in a workshop by NatWest,

Medic Event, where they received valuable insights

focusing on the core capabilities needed for

from current VI Senior medics who have successfully

employment. They completed tasks related to

secured places to study medicine in the UK. They shared

sustainability, fraud detection, and customer service,

their experiences with UCAS applications, personal

using important skills like problem solving, teamwork,

statements, work experience, and the UCAT exams.

innovation, and relationship building.

They also discussed the Multiple Mini Interview process,

The army visited the school to break stereotypes and

providing realistic yet encouraging advice for the girls.

showcase the variety of careers available. Corporal

The event also featured Dr MacLennan, a former pupil of

Davidson explained the two routes to join the army

St Margaret's, who now works at Albyn Hospital as a GP.

and discussed the application process.

She shared her love for the profession and discussed the

After the talk, the girls participated in a STEM activity, building structures with limited time and materials.

They also got a feel for the weight of combat equipment!

It was an informative and fun workshop that sparked interest in a potential army career.

24

importance of exam grades and hard work in pursuing a medical career.

NatWest Employment Skills Workshop

Dr Robinson, an Emergency Medicine Consultant, was the final guest speaker. She shared her journey to becoming a consultant and highlighted the importance of work-life balance and managing the stress of the job.

Her inspiring message emphasised the value of working hard and finding passion in your chosen profession as the true measure of success.

Mini Medic Event

Day two of the IV Senior careers event was filled with exciting and informative talks. Professor Ivanovic from the University of Aberdeen inspired pupils to consider a career in engineering, discussing its potential to reshape the world. Mrs McKee from BP presented a workshop on sustainable energy, engaging the girls in activities that made them consider the challenges and benefits of BP’s offshore windfarm and Hydrogen Hub plans.

Then there was the entrepreneurship workshop which focused on transferable skills, with the girls learning from

MMI Interviews

successful female entrepreneurs. They participated in activities and watched videos that provided strategies to improve these skills. Ms Cowell from Heriot-Watt University gave a comprehensive talk on choosing and applying to university, discussing location, accommodation, reputation, and student life.

Psychologists Dr Hamlet and Ms Robertson from the University of Aberdeen deepened the girls’ understanding of studying psychology, sharing the diverse paths graduates can pursue. Then a talk from Dr Rusu, a renowned criminologist, offered valuable insights into the world of criminology, emphasising criminal reform

Entrepreneurship Workshop

and public safety.

In the afternoon, a Mini Computing Event catered to the considerable number of girls interested in computing degrees. Professor Oren and Dr Sinclair from the University of Aberdeen presented the undergraduate course for computing science, discussing job prospects and the flexibility of the degree.

On UCAS Day, Ms Shimmin from the University of Stirling highlighted student life on campus, emphasising the convenience of having everything in one place.

Mrs Ziegler from the University of Aberdeen talked about

Mini Computing Event

student accommodation and provided guidance and helpful practical advice. And finally, Ms Stratton from the University of Aberdeen spoke about international opportunities within some degrees on offer at Aberdeen, explaining how studying abroad can benefit students academically, professionally, and personally.

25

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | CAREERS

To demystify the apprenticeship route, Mr. Hermiston

own Miss Rodger, provided valuable feedback. Eventually,

discussed different types of apprenticeships, with a focus

two teams were declared joint winners. The event was a

on graduate apprenticeships. These apprenticeships

great success, combining challenge, creativity, and fun.

provide valuable work experience and increase the likelihood of employment after university.

Overall, it was an informative and busy week. The girls’ enthusiasm and warm welcomes for our guests were

Following this, the girls had a CV writing workshop led

exceptional. I hope they feel more “career ready” for their

by Ms Bavidge and Mr Fletcher from Thorpe Molloy

future endeavours. I would like to express my gratitude

McCulloch. They taught the girls how to create a

to everyone who participated in and supported these

standout CV that catches employers’ attention. They

activities, both in person and online. Your dedication is

emphasised the importance of aligning their skills and

greatly appreciated as we prepare the girls for life beyond

experiences with the job requirements. The girls also

our school walls.

learned that adding extra-curricular activities to their CV can enhance their future prospects.

Afterward, Mr Melvin from Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations joined the girls to discuss the numerous volunteering opportunities available. He inspired the girls by highlighting the impactful work carried out by the organisation and stressed how even a few hours a week can make a difference in people’s lives. The girls gained insights into the various types of charitable work in Aberdeen and discovered ways to get involved.

To conclude the week, the II Senior Team Building Event was held with a focus on sustainability and upcycling. The girls formed teams and created unique products that were environmentally friendly. They worked collaboratively, utilising their skills, to develop a business strategy and a compelling presentation. The event was filled with excitement as the teams showcased their products to the judges. Mrs Studd, an upcycling expert and founder of Repair What You Wear on YouTube, along with our very

26

Susan Brown Head of Careers

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN THE NEWS

In the News St Margaret's School Celebrates Women in STEM International Day of Women and Girls in Science

ST MARGARET'S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS WELCOMED GUEST SPEAKERS AND ABERDEEN SCHOOLS TO THEIR EVENT ON INTERNATIONAL DAY OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE. AT ST MARGARET’S WE UNRESERVEDLY SUPPORT BREAKING GENDER BARRIERS IN CLASSROOMS, LABS, AND BOARDROOMS, USHERING MORE WOMEN INTO STEM.

F

or over a century, our school has defied stereotypes, fostering young women’s passions with expert faculty

and top-notch facilities. In 2022, one-third of our graduates embraced STEM at university, benefiting from our close-knit, forward-looking community.

This year, we partnered with Techfest and Apache to inspire local Aberdeen schools. Our event featured remarkable female scientists sharing their journeys. Professor Sinead Farrington, a St Margaret's alumna and particle physicist at The University of Edinburgh, highlighted the vital role of women in physics.

Alison McLure, our second speaker, leads Scotland’s Institute of Physics, ensuring equal access to physics opportunities.

Pupils also enjoyed various physics workshops and activities.

Thanks to TechFest and Apache for their support in making this event possible. Together, we’re lighting the path for women in STEM. 28

Jenny Lawrence visits St Margaret’s

Jenny Lawrence came up from Manchester to talk with pupils about her career in the media, most recently as a presenter for Newsround. The whole school was captivated by her at assembly and she spent time running workshops and discussing her career with a range of age groups through the day.

A

regular contributor to the St Margaret’s School for

“If you don’t know what you want to do right now

Girls newspaper as a student, Ms Lawrence

then that’s okay. Sometimes when you think

wanted to show the pupils that every career is open

something is a flaw it might end up being your

to them. She told pupils not to get discouraged if they

greatest asset. I was really chatty in school but that’s

don’t see their dream job on the curriculum.

a good thing in my job now.

“There are lots of different ways (to start a career).

“News is different every day and I love that about

Once you find the area that you want to work in,

it and I would like the girls to know that they can

it’s about working really hard and trying to get as

achieve anything.”

much experience as you can.”

And sometimes there’s no better lesson than a mistake.

She told the pupils not to let setbacks discourage them.

29

INDUSTRIAL CADETS BRONZE STEM CHALLENGE ON 27TH APRIL, WE COMPLETED THE 12-WEEK INDUSTRIAL CADETS BRONZE CHALLENGE, WHICH IS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE ENGINEERING DEVELOPMENT TRUST (EDT)’S PORTFOLIO. IT CREATES PATHWAYS TO UNLOCK POTENTIAL AND PROMOTE ACHIEVEMENT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. INDUSTRIAL CADETS IS A WELL-KNOWN SKILLS-BASED QUALITY FRAMEWORK ACCREDITATION THAT ENABLES PARTICIPANTS TO GAIN INDUSTRY-LED RECOGNITION AWARDS. THE PROGRAM WAS INSPIRED BY HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS HM KING CHARLES III.

D

uring the challenge, we developed valuable employability skills such as communication, problem-solving, and project management. We were also supported throughout the project by an industry mentor Mr Phillips

and our teacher Mrs Arthur. At the Industrial Cadets Bronze Project Graduation Event, which was held at the University of Aberdeen, we presented our project on designing a building that is future-proofed against the effects of climate change. Here are some comments from our team:

30

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN THE NEWS

OLIVIA During our presentation, I felt that everyone spoke

to the judges. Additionally, I found it intriguing to see

clearly and respectfully without interrupting each

other people’s solutions and the ideas they had come

other. Personally, I had a good understanding of the

up with. Overall, this was an incredible journey, and I

topic I presented, which allowed me to communicate

learned a lot from it.

confidently and effectively. I also enjoyed building my skills for the animation we displayed at the presentation.

DAMI

Overall, I found the experience to be fantastic, and I gained a lot of valuable knowledge from it.

LIBBY

I had an incredible experience in the EDT competition.

We took a tour all over the Aberdeen University campus and were able to see all the possible subjects and areas we could study in the future. We also managed

This was an incredible project to work on and I had an

to set up our models and presentation and take a look

amazing time working together in our team. We had

at the other entries. We all enjoyed presenting our work

such a great time together and I loved working on the

and answering the judges’ intriguing questions while

model as it is something that I am really passionate

also listening to our competitors’ presentations as well.

about. The presentation to the judges went really well

Overall, I have learnt many new skills that will help me

and we got lots of great feedback. I also loved putting

in the future and I had a great time.

together the presentation with everyone and I thought it turned out brilliantly.

LENA

FREYA I had a fantastic time working with this team. We all cooperated with each other easily and swiftly in order

The presentation was an excellent experience and I

to complete tasks on time. At first, I was slightly nervous

really enjoyed the challenge of answering questions at

about the presentation and was unsure what to think

the end and trying to work on my on-the-spot thinking.

of it, but once we started my confidence grew and we

I also enjoyed putting together the board and making

gave our best. I would most definitely do this again if I

it look really good when the judges came over to our

was given the option and it was an incredible experience.

table to see what we had been working on. I definitely learned a lot of new skills and had a lot of fun along the way!

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed and found this process fascinating. We gained valuable skills that we can use later in life. It was incredible to see how all the pieces came together, and we are grateful to our mentor and

AISHAH

our teachers Mrs Arthur and Mrs Tapper. We hope to have more opportunities to experience similar projects

I enjoyed attending the graduation event and exploring

in the future.

the Aberdeen University campus. It was fascinating to see various places on the campus. The presentation was a great opportunity for us to showcase our findings

Olivia, Libby, Lena, Aishah, Dami, Freya.

31

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN THE NEWS

Best Exam Results in Two Decades!

St Margaret’s School for Girls has achieved its best exam results in two decades, with an outstanding pass rate of 99.3% for V Senior pupils sitting their Highers and 98.5% for IV Senior pupils sitting their National 5 exams.

A

mong the school’s straight-A achievers is Abigail

“We are very proud of the achievements of our learners

Allan, a VI Senior leaver who plans to spend her

and extend particularly warm wishes to our sixth-year

gap year teaching English in Costa Rica before studying

leavers who are now taking up places at an impressive

Forensics and Analytical chemistry at the University of

range of universities to study subjects as diverse as

Strathclyde. Abigail credits the school’s individualised

medicine, economics, computing science and drama,

careers advice and tailored support for broadening her

to name just a few.”

horizons and encouraging her to explore the vast range of possibilities available to her, rather than conforming to gender stereotypes.

Another straight-A achiever, Alexa Odell, is pursuing her passion for Fine Art, fuelled by the small class sizes and supportive environment of St Margaret’s. Miss Tomlinson commends the pupils’ hard work and motivation, as well as the dedication and skill of the teaching staff.

She expresses pride in the diverse range of subjects and universities that the sixth-year leavers have chosen for their next steps:

32

The school’s commitment to nurturing individual learners and encouraging them to be their own person has resulted in outstanding academic outcomes and empowering paths for each student.

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN THE NEWS

St Margaret's School for Girls Leads Reforestation Effort After Storm Arwen IN RESPONSE TO THE DEVASTATION CAUSED BY STORM ARWEN, STUDENTS EMBARKED ON AN IMPRESSIVE WOODLAND RESTORATION PROJECT. GREEN-THUMBED PUPILS, ALONG WITH TEACHERS, PARENTS, AND FRIENDS, PLANTED MORE THAN 400 TREE SAPLINGS IN WHITEHILL WOODS WITH THEIR EFFORTS BOLSTERED BY SUPPORT FROM THE WOODLAND TRUST. Senior student Marcy expressed

v her pride in contributing to the

The Woodland Trust highlighted the

Learning for Sustainability.

significant damage inflicted by Storm

She explained:

recovery of this natural haven.

Arwen in November 2021 and applauded

She noted, “It is exciting to think

tree-planting initiatives like the

that in years to come we will be

one at St Margaret's for their role in

able to look at this woodland and

addressing the climate emergency.

know that we played a part in

“Our goal is to facilitate Learning for Sustainability in the curriculum at every level. We have woven aspects of this project into many subjects.

George Anderson of Woodland

Our maths students were even

Trust Scotland remarked, “We are

helping to calculate the spacing

facing both a climate emergency

required for best planting

The tree-planting project, described

and a nature crisis. Twice a year,

conditions! This initiative has helped

as “mammoth” by the school staff,

the Woodland Trust distributes free

our students connect with nature

aims to restore woodlands between

trees to schools and community

and improve our local environment,

Blairdaff and the Bennachie

groups across the UK. We are

in particular helping to repair some

Centre, on land owned by retired

delighted that St Margaret's School

of the damage caused by last year’s

St Margaret's art teacher Jane

for Girls is getting involved.”

Storm Arwen.”

planting it. It’s great to think that we helped our local environment.”

Richardson. Jane commended the volunteers who persevered through wintry conditions, emphasizing the importance of planting 420 native species to restore local biodiversity.

Abby Miller, St Margaret's Head of Sustainability, lauded the project’s success and its integration into the school’s curriculum focused on 33

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN THE NEWS

Kilgraston Equestrian Success In March, Miss Tomlinson travelled down to HOWE EQUESTRIAN in Fife to support our equestrian teams comprised of Grace, Romy, Marcy and Hilary, as they competed in the KILGRASTON SCHOOL SCOTTISH EQUESTRIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS. There were over 150 competitors entered from lots of schools. As well as picking up individual placings, both our dressage teams finished second overall in their sections and qualified for the NSEA National Championships, which is a wonderful achievement, and we wish them well for the next stage!

34

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | IN THE NEWS

AT St Margaret's SCHOOL FOR GIRLS, EVERY DAY IS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY. STUDENTS AND ALUMNI CHERISH A LEGACY OF CELEBRATING WOMEN’S ACHIEVEMENTS. Founded by Miss Ann Stephen in 1846, St Margaret's is Scotland’s oldest all-girls school. The 2022-2023 Head Girl, Eve, describes it as a place where possibilities know no bounds. The school instils a spirit of ambition and hard work, inspiring students to follow their dreams and connect with inspirational women from various fields.

Younger students, Ava and Yasmin, admire older girls who serve as role models. They find inspiration in the array of academic and extra-curricular opportunities: “At St Margaret’s we are inspired every day by the range of opportunities in subjects, careers and extra-curricular activities. We really look up to the oldest girls in school and it is really exciting when we see them taking on leadership roles and doing amazing things when they leave school.”

Georgie Parker, president of the Former Pupil Club and retired Head of PE, emphasises how the school’s values inspire generations of women to aim high and contribute to the world: “Over many years I have witnessed how intrinsic the school values are in inspiring generations of young women at St Margaret’s to reach high and be the best versions of themselves that they can be. They are not just ambitious for themselves but for the wider world.”

St Margaret's began as a boarding school in the 1850s, challenging gender norms by offering a well-rounded education. Miss Stephen taught subjects like writing and languages alongside traditional “feminine” subjects, pioneering girls’ education in the north-east.

Celebrating its 175th anniversary, St Margaret's continues to empower and celebrate the achievements of women, from its Victorian beginnings to the present day.

35

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | WHOLE SCHOOL EVENTS

Whole School Events

The planning of the very first St Margaret’s Culture Week was one that a group of sixth years and I were extremely excited about. A culture committee was set up with students in the senior school which they could join in order to give any ideas they had for culture week. There were so many ideas and it was a case of fitting as many of these different activities as we could into one week. After weeks of planning, the long-awaited Culture Week had finally come.

36

T

he week began with my assembly on my

Nigerian culture which featured information on

Nigerian traditional attire, music and food. The rest of the week included a range of activities such as an around the world mini-workshop, origami bookmark making and Polish dancing.

The henna station was an activity that was very popular! The movie night on Monday and Wednesday was a huge success with screenings of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Black Panther. On Thursday, there was a culture week quiz with the questions taken from the information on the fact sheets that had been hidden around the school.

The week ended on a high with the culture fashion show which was a great opportunity to admire all the beautiful traditional clothing from different parts of the world.

It was an amazing time to learn about and embrace all the different cultures in our school community...

Throughout the week, the whole atmosphere in the school was buzzing, with everyone trying to attend as many activities as they could in order to collect as many stamps as possible in their culture week passport. It was an amazing time to learn about and embrace all the different cultures in our school community and we look forward to continuing to celebrate these cultures throughout the rest of the year.

Oluwasekemi Adenuga Senior Prefect

37

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | WHOLE SCHOOL EVENTS

QUEEN ELIZABETH II 1926-2022

Death of the Queen Upon the death of Her Majesty the Queen St Margaret’s School for Girls sent their heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family. As a school community we mourned the loss of a remarkable monarch, whose unwavering duty and dedicated service to the country and its people have been an inspiration to generations of St Margaret’s pupils.

A

Service of Thanksgiving for

around the ancient cathedral, as did

minute. The music suddenly stopped

the singing of the Old Hundredth

outside the West Door of the Abbey

Queen was held in St Giles’

Psalm, and Psalm 23, to the tune

and almost immediately the coffin

Cathedral on Monday 12th

Crimond. It was truly a privilege to

appeared, topped by a beautiful

September 2022, to which former

be present, and to pay my personal

wreath of flowers from the gardens

St Margaret’s Head from 1989

respects in front of the coffin as I left

at Buckingham Palace, Clarence

to 1998, Miss Lorna Ogilvie, was

the cathedral.

House and Highgrove.

The invitation to attend the State

The service was memorable with

Funeral at Westminster Abbey

magnificent music from the choir, the

the life of Her Majesty the

invited, as Chairman of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society.

Miss Ogilvie was also invited to the Queen’s State Funeral at Westminster Abbey on Monday 19th September and shares her experience of both events below:

on Monday 19th September 2022 arrived on the day of the service in Edinburgh. As RSCDS Chairman I was honoured, and humbled to be invited alongside foreign royalty,

boy sopranos, and the congregation singing the hymns. The Archbishop’s words felt very appropriate and the final consecration, two-minute silence, national anthem and solo

“The service at St Giles was very

Commonwealth representatives, and

moving and intimate. For those of

heads of state. Inevitably security was

us attending it felt like being at a

tight, but the two hours watching as

family funeral. The grief of the King

the Abbey filled with around 2,000

and his family was palpable as they

guests, was very slick and timed

followed the coffin up the aisle,

perfectly to the minute. Seated in

with its wreath of flowers from the

the Nave I could glimpse the arrival

Balmoral estate. The atmosphere

of the Royal family. We then heard

It is very hard for me to express

was sombre yet uplifting. The lessons

the sound of the distant pipe band

what a privilege it was to be present

and music from the choir echoed

approaching, getting louder by the

at such a historical moment.”

38

piper’s lament fading away, were very emotional. The King and Queen Consort’s intense grief was visible to all as they left the Abbey to travel to Windsor Castle to lay Her Majesty to rest alongside her late husband.

Celebrating St Margaret’s Day IT WAS WONDERFUL TO RETURN TO THE MAGNIFICENT SURROUNDINGS OF ST MACHAR’S CATHEDRAL TO CELEBRATE ST MARGARET’S DAY.

I

nstead of a monetary collection, we asked our community to donate items for the Abernecessities Christmas Appeal. Thank you to everyone for their generosity in supporting this appeal. During

the celebration we were treated to inspiring readings and musical performances.

39

Sports Day

2nd June 2023

40

41

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT

The Music Department This year saw the return to a full programme of concerts, shows and services, giving the girls at every stage many opportunities to participate in a wide range of musical events. It was also a delight to be able to perform for live audiences once again, starting with our harvest celebration in October for girls from nursery – 7 Junior. Below is a flavour of some of the musical events and successes seen at St Margaret’s over the past session.

I

t was special to be back in the unique surroundings

the premiere of an orchestral piece (‘Revival’) composed

of St Machar’s Cathedral for the annual St Margaret’s

by Ellen MacDonald, VIS and the massed choirs and

Day service in November. This year featured the

orchestra performing ‘Figlio Perduto’ (the Lost Son) with

senior and chamber choirs, as well as instrumentalists,

soloists Eve Reynolds and Freya Corry.

soloists and the whole of 1-7 Junior.

At the summer concert, the audience was treated to a

No Christmas would be complete without musical

wide variety of musical styles, from Baroque to jazz,

celebration and this year was no exception. The chamber

musical theatre and traditional Scottish music. The Corelli

and senior choirs, along with some instrumentalists,

ensemble, junior choir, cello and bass club and concert

joined the Granite City Chorus in a Christmas concert

band all featured in the programme, alongside a variety

at Midstocket Church to help raise funds for Maggie’s

of solos, duets, trios and ensembles.

cancer charity. A total of £2,151 was raised to help support people in the North East living with cancer.

Over the course of the year, several informal concerts were held, giving girls the experience, some for the first

In the last week of term, some of our instrumentalists

time, of performing in front of a live audience. Additionally,

brought some festive cheer by forming a flash mob

for those preparing to sit music exams, this served as

at reception.

good practice for them. Girls from 2 Junior – VI Senior

Our annual Christmas carol service was held in Aberdeen Music Hall and featured all girls from 1 Junior – VI Senior.

Our annual spring concert was held at Queen’s Cross Church on Thursday 30th March. Two highlights were

performed a wide range of repertoire on all manner of instruments and voices. Well done to all!

| FROM THE CHRONICLE THE CHRONICLE 2023 | THE 2022 MUSIC DEPARTMENT THE HEAD

Holocaust Memorial Commemoration On Friday 27th January Freya Corry, Ellen MacDonald and

Rosebowl, Murray and Lamont Competitions

Hannah Brown were privileged to represent St Margaret’s

The annual Betty Wyness Rosebowl Piano

at the annual Holocaust Memorial Commemoration at

Competition and the Murray and Lamont

the Cowdray Hall, performing a selection of reflective music.

competitions were held in March and June.

The standard was very high for each

Aberdeen City Orchestra – Youth Ensemble On Saturday 20th May, nine of our pupils took part in the Aberdeen City Orchestra – Youth Ensemble concert at Midstocket Church. Altogether there were 80 players in the orchestra and the sound and standard was exceptional.

Aberdeen and North East Music Festival In June, several girls participated individually in the Aberdeen Music Festival as well as the whole of the 4 Junior class. For some girls this was the very first appearance at the festival, with violins, cello, guitar and piano. It was also a good opportunity to hear pupils from other schools perform and again, a great opportunity for some of our girls to participate in live events.

ABRSM, Trinity and LCM Successes

competition and the judges were impressed by the variety and quality of the programmes performed, finding it difficult to choose winners.

In the end, Liz Gao won the Rosebowl, Lydia Cherrie won the Murray and Hannah Brown won the Lamont competition.

Scottish Opera In June, girls in 5-7 Junior had the exciting opportunity to work with four Scottish Opera professionals in preparation for their performance of ‘The Curse of the Maccabbra Opera House’. The girls had been rehearsing the songs and moves for the show during some of their music classes and this culminated in a workshop and two performances. The Scottish Opera

This session was a successful one for those girls sitting

professionals were extremely impressed

ABRSM, Trinity and LCM music exams, with many

with the girls’ singing and acting, as well

achieving merit or distinction results. Six girls successfully

as the exemplary way in which they

passed Grade 8 in Musical Theatre, viola and piano,

conducted themselves. During both shows

all with merit or distinction.

the girls raised the roof with their strong singing and animated performances.

National Youth Orchestra of Scotland Ellen MacDonald secured a place in the NYOS Symphony

Count on Me

Orchestra and Isla MacFadyen a place in the NYOS

In March, I Senior pupils practised and

Development Orchestra. They both attended two

recorded the song ‘Count on Me’ by

residential courses at Strathallan in the Easter and

Bruno Mars during class music. As well as

summer holidays, working towards very impressive

singing, they played a mixture of classroom

concerts at the end of each of the courses. Congratulations

instruments, including keyboards,

also go to Isla for being selected for the Royal Conservatoire

glockenspiels and ukuleles and had great

of Scotland Juniors for double bass and saxophone.

fun in the process.

Scholarships

Mrs Murray’s Retirement

Congratulations to Freya Corry (voice), Isla MacFadyen

To mark the retirement of Mrs Murray,

(double bass), Hannah Magill (oboe), Tiana Mudkavi

girls in 1-7 Junior rehearsed, performed and

(voice), Noemi Moleda (piano) for gaining scholarships

recorded some memorable songs for a

at NESMS (North East of Scotland Music School).

special assembly. Mrs Murray’s love of

Congratulations to Tiana for her choral scholarship at

sunflowers featured, and the assembly

Queen’s Cross Church.

culminated in the song ‘Our Story’, with

Shirley Magill Head of Music

words adapted to suit the occasion. It was emotional for both the girls, teachers and Mrs Murray and the girls performed brilliantly.

43

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SPORTS REVIEW

Sports Review 2022-2023 WHILE I WAS THINKING ABOUT WHAT I WOULD WRITE FOR THIS ARTICLE I FELT THE SPORTS YEAR COULD BE DESCRIBED PERFECTLY UNDER THE HEADINGS OF CREATIVITY, COMPETITION, CHAMPIONS AND COMMUNITY.

Creativity

CREATIVITY is where the pupils have been given

COMPETITION is also a healthy part of sport

the opportunity to use their imagination especially in

which can develop mental toughness and resilience

gymnastics and dance to design routines according to

by overcoming challenges. Pupils are provided with

a set brief. Although there are some criteria to follow,

many school competitions as well as being given

the ownership is given to pupils who can choose how

opportunities to compete at larger events.

they achieve the set task. In our annual gymnastics and dance cup school competitions we had over 70 pupils participating. We were also treated to some dance performances by the members of the street dance and showstoppers clubs respectively.

Of course there is so

The third year and the 1st XI hockey teams competed in the Scottish Hockey challenge cup competitions and very narrowly missed out on places in the final.

There was a second/third year netball team playing in the league for the first time who enjoyed much success.

The junior netball team participated in a festival and the busy Rosebowl competition where they reached

much more to sport and

the semi-final. The school cross-country championships

physical education than

the top place then competing at the regional

just being a winner.

placed individuals and three third team places at this

were an opportunity for our runners to shine with competition. We had one first placed runner, two third event. Our athletes competed in two primary and one senior meet as well as our own traditional whole school sports day. This year we also held our very first ski race event for both the juniors and seniors at the local ski centre. We would have competed in the Scottish Schools Ski competition…… if there had been snow!

44

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SPORTS REVIEW

Closely linked with competition is our third heading

of CHAMPIONS . We have our annual badminton

netball strip and provided the food and drink on sports day. A local flower company, Flower Vogue, sponsored

championships for the senior school and also opened it

the 1st XI hockey strip. The PE department is fortunate

up to our 7 Junior class this year because we had such a

to have other staff members to help run the various

strong talent of players. In December we ran the senior

clubs or help at galas or sports days which strengthens

school swimming gala and then in February it was the

relationships across the whole school. As Helen Keller

5-7 Junior gala. Although time was tight with sports

said ‘Alone, we can do so little: together we can do

days and activity trips we also managed to run a few

so much’.

tennis competitions at the end of the school year. We were delighted when our first and third year hockey teams won their respective local tournaments with the second years coming runners-up. In horse-riding our dressage teams were placed second overall in the Scottish schools competition and qualified for the next round held in England during the Summer holidays.

Of course there is so much more to sport and physical education than just being a winner. This is where my final, but not least important, heading of

COMMUNITY comes in. The benefits of participating in sport and having a sense of belonging are well documented. All the different clubs we offer (athletics, badminton, basketball, cross-country, dance, football,

I can’t wait to see what next year will bring…

gymnastics, hockey, netball, skiing, tennis and volleyball)

Karen Norval

provide opportunities to socialise, lead and have fun

Head of PE

with a variety of year groups where everyone is included and welcomed. We have also been thankful to the wider school community too where the PTA sponsored a new

45

1 JUNIOR AND II SENIOR

Gingerbread Baking 1 Junior had a wonderful morning baking gingerbread with help from II Senior as part of their Fairy-tale topic. The girls really enjoyed working together and so much was learned from the experience.

Jenny Evans and Vanessa Gerbrandy

Knight visit T He told stories of battles he was in and then the girls made their own shields and helmets!

he girls loved their visit from Sir Andrew Moray, who gave the girls an insight on being a knight.

Judith Garden

47

Trip to Pizza Express t

he class designed their own chef hats and the pizza chef showed the girls how to roll dough and add toppings. Rolling and tossing

the dough was especially fun.

2 Junior had the amazing opportunity to visit the OHS Oil and Gas Search and Rescue Unit at Aberdeen Airport.

We took the train to Dyce and spent time looking round one of the helicopters used for Search and Rescue and they got the chance to sit in the cockpit!

They were also shown equipment used for medical training by one of the helicopter paramedics.

An experience they will never forget!

Mel Binfield

48

Viking Visit 3 Junior loved their Viking visit as they got to see what life was like centuries ago.

They tried on Viking clothes and held weapons and even practiced their best Viking faces!

emoji workshop THE GIRLS TOOK PART IN A WORKSHOP THAT WAS ALL ABOUT MAKING YOUR OWN EMOJI! The app they used was called ‘Procreate’ and the girls were using iPads and an Apple pencil to draw. The creativity was amazing – they all loved it. The staff at Apple praised the girls on their behaviour, enthusiasm and positivity.

Sophie Munro

35 49

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

Farming Outdoor Classroom

RARE BREED PARK FARM

4 JUNIOR WERE VISITED BY THE FARMING

4 Junior headed to Doonies Park Farm to find

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM.

out about the rare breed animals they have on

The girls learned about the different kinds of crops

their farm.

that are grown on their doorstep, and all the different

They met some really nice hens, lots of lambs, short

uses that these crops have, showing them first hand

horn cows and an Eriskay pony. The farmer also pointed

just how much of an impact farming has on their

out twin Guernsey girl goats, our twins Isla and Freya

own lives. They even got to say hello to the sheep

were delighted to meet them!

Lucky and Charm who loved meeting the girls!

Paula Twigg

50

Art Gallery Trip Painting by Joseph Farqhuarson

4 and 5 Junior visited Aberdeen Art Gallery to look at artwork from Scottish landscape artists Joan Eardley and Joseph Farqhuarson.

The girls enjoyed the trip and found out how these artists were inspired by the landscapes around Catterline and Finzean. There was also the opportunity to view Greek artefacts. Throughout the morning they were encouraged to think about the paintings and how they made them feel.

Culture Week Talks DURING CULTURE WEEK, SOME OF THE GIRLS FROM 5 JUNIOR SHARED INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THEIR FAMILY’S CULTURES. Isabel, Bonnie, XiNing, Naureen, Dani, Hajar, Clara, Anisha, and Abigail did a fantastic job in sharing some of their traditions with the class.

Monica Smith

35 51

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

French Breakfast 6 JUNIOR FINISHED THEIR BREAKFAST TOPIC IN THEIR FRENCH LESSONS

BY CELEBRATING WITH A REAL FRENCH BREAKFAST! Each of the girls was given €5 to spend and they could choose from a selection of pastries. Orders were placed in French to practise vocabulary in a real context.

Karen Williamson Head of Modern Languages

Teambuilding The girls in 6 Junior enjoyed a fun filled day with Crieff Adventure Centre doing team building games.

They had to work together guiding each other through the playground with one girl blindfolded and they had to fold a parachute in half without standing on the grass, but the most exciting activity was to work together and build a parachute to allow a real egg to drop from Miss Tomlinson’s balcony without it smashing!

Vanessa Gerbrandy 52

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

WWII

Workshop Mr Patterson from Urban Studies Trust came into school and set up a World War II workshop in the 7 Junior classrooms.

Before we got to work we were given some background information about how the war affected Aberdeen and we were shown pictures of some of the devastation. Between both rooms there were eleven different stations. We learnt about: gas attacks, head gear, Anderson shelters, school life, bombing, role of women, civilian identification, the blackout, food rationing, Morrison shelters and air raids.

Butterfly Release The 7 Juniors learned about the life cycle of different animals and plants and they chose to get butterflies so that they can easily see the life cycle of the butterfly in action!

They got delivered as tiny caterpillars and over about 5/6 weeks, they watched them get bigger, turn into chrysalises and then hatch out into butterflies.

Alison Dressel and Nicola O'Neill

35 53

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR RESIDENTIAL TRIP

Crieff Trip

F

rom 12th-16th June, a group of 7 Juniors embarked on a residential trip to Crieff.

They arrived at Summerhill at 8:30 am, then headed to Camperdown for a snack before taking a bus to Crieff, reaching there around lunchtime. After lunch, they settled into their dorms (Erskine House) and prepared for their first activity.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

The first activity was the High Ropes

They enjoyed a breakfast of

The day featured a mountain

Course, where they scaled trees and

croissants, cereals, and toast, packed

adventure with both groups, during

slid down ziplines. They learned to

sandwiches for lunch, and went rock

which they spotted wildlife like a

use harnesses and tackled both

climbing in two groups. This was a

Red Admiral Butterfly wing and

mini and higher obstacle courses.

favourite activity for some. Afterward,

squirrels. They played "capture the

The highlight was a thrilling long

they went canoeing, learning various

flag," had lunch, free time, and

zipline. Afterward, they relaxed in

paddle techniques and playing

dinner. Group one did archery, and

their dorms, some went to the cricket

games on the water. Back at their

group two tried air rifles, aiming

pitch, had dinner, and participated

dorms at 4:30 pm, they relaxed for

at targets with single-shot rifles.

in evening activities – axe throwing

an hour, had dinner, and participated

Evening preparations followed.

and archery, which involved target

in another round of axe throwing.

shooting and fun games.

116 54

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR RESIDENTIAL TRIP

The week was incredibly fun and the warm weather was lovely!

Lily Downey, Mathea Furo, Katie Thomson, 7 Junior

When I was waiting in the line, I felt as though I really wanted to do it, but when stood at the top of the cliff, looking down, I felt as if I wanted to change my mind and turn back, but I did it anyway and now I would like to do it again because the experience was exhilarating.

We raced the other boats up the river and went through rapids. We got stuck in the low river and laughed and splashed each other!

Frances Butler, 7 Junior

Thursday

Friday

After breakfast, groups one and two

On their departure day, they had

went white water rafting. They had

breakfast, packed sandwiches, and

packed lunches and later went gorge

enjoyed various games like capture

walking, including trekking and cliff

the flag, tug of war, "22," fish and

jumping. The cliff jump proved

sharks, and football before heading

exhilarating. Back at their dorms,

home on the bus.

they prepared for dinner and played laser tag in the woods in the evening.

Overall, the trip included a wide range of outdoor activities,

Thejal Senthil, 7 Junior

This will be a cherished memory forever.

Penny Fraser, 6 Junior, Odein Barango, 7 Junior

bonding experiences, and exciting adventures.

55

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

®

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

Duke of Edinburgh EXPEDITION n the 27th of May, 2023, many III Senior girls took

O part in the bronze DofE expedition near Banchory.

The expedition was roughly 12 miles, walked over the span of two days, but it varied as groups were able to choose their own path!

One challenge that many teams faced was timekeeping, which was overcome by ensuring that the walking speed and amount of breaks was suitable for everyone in the group.

Another skill we had to learn was cooking with the camping stoves, and putting up the tents. We kept ourselves busy in the evening by playing fun games such as hide and seek which everyone enjoyed!

Overall, it was a really fun experience and I feel as a collective I can say that we all learnt a lot!

Mia Bonandrini III Senior

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

57

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

J P Morgan GENERATION TECH OPENING CEREMONY In September, a group of senior girls began their journey to Glasgow to attend the J P Morgan Generation Tech Opening Ceremony. Generation Tech is a virtual three-week design-based technology challenge where teams will design a solution for a U.N. Sustainable Development Goal. The competition is aimed at young people aged between fourteen to eighteen years old to get involved in technology and sustainability.

T

he St Margaret’s team was assigned number 13 (Climate Action) and they designed a solution to

educate the public on this issue. After two workshops on mobile and web development they began the process of brainstorming their solution. They met with their J P Morgan technologist mentor to brainstorm their ideas and they continued to meet with her weekly on the days leading up to the final where thirteen other teams also presented their solutions.

The girls shared their thoughts on their experience of the finals.

APP JENNY

I really enjoyed building our app on Thunkable. I got to explore new ways of inventing an app that could be impactful to future generations. Climate change is an important aspect of our daily lives, and people should know how to care for the planet they live in. It is also crucial to understand what they can do to help prevent climate change from becoming a more dangerous and complicated issue.

Overall, I found this very exciting and hope to join other future events from JP Morgan.

RACHEL

PRESENTATION

Being able to present our ideas to a room full of professionals was an enjoyable and educational experience. Watching other teams also present their projects was an interesting opportunity in which we all learned a lot about how others had approached the problem as well as other techniques that we had never considered before. Despite how nervous we all were, it was a great chance to develop our presentation skills.

58

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

SEVANI

WEBSITE CONTENT

Our home page talks about an overview of what our project is all about, which is to provide a solution to how people can learn more about climate change.

Our Climate Change page goes into detail about the causes and effects of Climate Change. Our Make a Change page encourages the public to take an active role in reducing the impact of Climate Change. We also have a page in our website about our app that we developed.

ELLIE

OVERALL

Our team created an app and a website to display our findings on climate change.

Jenny, Rachel and Ellie worked on the app whilst Sevani and I coded the website.

We used HTML and CSS to put together a multipage, informative site on climate change and the effect it is having on our world. We hoped this would help educate the public and help people make more sustainable choices. We really enjoyed spending time coding the site together and we learned a lot. Ellie, Jenny, and Rachel used Thunkable to build up an interactive mobile app.

CELINE

OVERALL

It was an immensely fascinating yet challenging experience, where we were able to combine our knowledge of web design and app development to present innovative real-life solutions. Working in collaboration with skilled staff from JP Morgan, we were able to expand our knowledge above our current IV Senior level.

59

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

VI Senior Conference

At the beginning of the new school year, the VI Senior girls attended their annual conference at Woodbank Hotel.

T

he main speaker was Sarah Smith of Lightbulb Coaching. They learned about different personality

styles and how to build rapport quickly. They also considered their strengths, and how they would explain them in an interview situation.

During the afternoon, they participated in a range of team building activities.

60

Model United Nations Club

T

his year was an excellent year

mining, discussing its future and if

impressed by the improvements in

for St Margaret’s Model

countries would agree to participating

confidence and skill displayed by

United Nations team. The year

in such endeavours. In addition, how

every member of the team. Thanks

saw the return of many in person

to keep countries who already have

also goes to Amy Coxon, Resolutions

conferences including conferences

these resources economically stable

and Positions Officer, and Emma

at Albyn and the International

was also debated. An emergency

Murray, Media Officer.

School of Aberdeen. St Margarets

debate followed about cupid resigning.

dominated these events with girls

At the conference Best Delegate was

winning at each one.

awarded to Georgia Leslie.

The first conference of the year was

These were impressive results,

a success at Albyn’s mini Model UN

especially considering these events

conference. The committee topic

were the first in person conferences

was 21st century colonisation and

for many of the girls in the team.

an emergency debate relating to Russia's nuclear submarines and loss of crops. Our team spoke exceptionally, with both Pakistan and Vietnam delegates from St Margaret's getting their committee resolution passed.

Blessed McDonald and Georgia Leslie Secretary and Deputy Secretary General

Through the course of the school year the team met weekly for meetings, at which various activities were carried out to strengthen everyone's skills in public speaking, researching and writing in a Model UN format.

Awards were given to Amy Coxon, Molly Macdonald, and Freya Corry for highly commended senior delegates representing DPRK and to Annabel Welsh and Hannah Burton for highly

St Margarets dominated these events with girls winning at each one.

commended junior delegates representing Turkey.

We would like to say a huge thank

There was another successful mini

you to everyone who participated

at ISA with the topics covering space

in Model United Nations and are so

61 71

Dancale niororw e S I V d ood H n Va at N ber 2023 18 th N o v

74 62

em

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

AberNe

cessitie s

Sunrise Partnership

ay hw Arc

Touch

ve of Lo

Youth Philanthropy Initiative Every year, our III Senior pupils take part in YPI (the Youth Philanthropy Initiative) which is a programme that aims to teach secondary school students the fundamentals of philanthropy, and provide them with the unique opportunity to use their creative and ICT skills to raise awareness about their chosen charity and make a generous donation to a local, grassroots organisation within their community.

Working in teams, students have to identify a

different kinds of support for mothers and fathers

local charity that supports a social issue they feel

through miscarriage, during their next pregnancy, and

strongly about, and create a presentation to show

different pathways such as adoption, fostering and IVF.

a panel of judges as to why they feel their charity

We researched and interviewed the charity, and enjoyed

should be awarded the £3,000 grant.

learning more about the important work they do.

Last year, my team took part and chose the topic of

We were so happy to win the competition, awarding MISS

early pregnancy loss and miscarriage as we felt it was important and not spoken about enough. We found the charity MISS (Miscarriage Support Service), which is the only early pregnancy loss support service found in Scotland, based in Aberdeen. MISS provides several 116 64

with a £3,000 grant – a life changing sum of money. During the whole process we learnt the importance of teamwork and commitment, and we all agree that YPI helped to develop our confidence in our public speaking skills.

Mia Bonandrini III Senior

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ACTIVITIES & EXTRA-CURRICULAR

n Actio deen ability Aber is D on

Unders

tandin

Gra Wo mpia me n n's Aid

Faceyou th

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MISS winning team

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR RESIDENTIAL TRIPS

Activities Week Activities week at St Margaret's was a dynamic and enriching experience for students.

Some students immersed themselves in the world of Art and Design, starting with a trip to Aberdeen beach for inspiration and exploring various creative mediums such as clay sculpting, painting, and origami-engineering.

M

eanwhile, others delved into

For the sports enthusiasts, pupils

Social Media Marketing, where

engaged in an array of sporting

they collaborated on making their

challenges, including Army cadet

own advertisements for the school,

activities, footgolf, rugby, indoor

filming, editing, and presenting

bowls, rowing, and paddle tennis.

their creations.

The week culminated in a thrilling

Additionally, ‘Lights, Camera, Action’

day at Aberdeen beach with Scotsurf

took centre stage as students wrote,

learning beach skills, water safety,

edited, and performed a fantasy-

and lifeguard skills. The pupils had a

themed script, enhancing it with

great day under the supervision of

sound effects and melodies before

instructors Campbell and Alex,

performing in front of a live audience.

with the yellow team winning the

Further options included gallery tours, creative studio sessions, and an avant-garde make-up workshop.

66

afternoon challenges

Opal Coast On Monday 19th June we set off on our way to France for activities week. At 2:30am, after a cancelled flight and a long, fun day of travelling, a bus full of very excited girls finally arrived at the accommodation and settled down to get a good night’s sleep for the upcoming days of activities.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, we visited a variety of different places such as; Boulognesur – Mer, Blockhaus d’Éperlecques, Nausicaá (Europe’s Largest Aquarium), a ceramic museum and a bakery.

On the first morning we walked to a local French market where we got into teams and had a competition on which group could buy and create the best picnic!

We also went on the Rando rail which involved cycling a cart on an old railway line, taking in the beautiful scenery of the area, took part in a ceramic workshop and on our visit to a chocolate factory, got to sample some delicious chocolate! On Thursday we spent the whole day at the wonderful Parc Bagatelle, which had many different exciting rides! We then headed back to the hotel to pack and get ready to leave early the next morning.

Overall, I had an incredible time in France and know that the many amazing memories we made will stick with me for a lifetime! I also found this trip a great opportunity to practise my French speaking and listening and I would love to go back one day!

Millie Leighton I Senior

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iceland AS PART OF ACTIVITIES WEEK, GIRLS ENJOYED A TRIP TO THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY OF ICELAND! The trip included a range of excursions and activities, such as Reykjanes Geopark, including Bridge Between Two Continents, Gunnuhver Hot Springs, Krysuvik and Eldborg Crater, and a Golden Circle day, including bathing in the Secret Lagoon. This was a fantastic opportunity to visit somewhere different!

Hillary Jennings Head of Geography and R&P

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Sorrento t the end of session 2022-23, twenty-seven pupils and four members of staff took part in a memorable trip to Sorrento.

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We explored the ancient towns of POMPEII and HERCULANEUM, went up MT VESUVIUS and discovered CAPRI and underground NAPLES. Véronique Oldham Head of Classics

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR ART GALLERY

Junior Art Gallery A Selection of Work from 5 Junior

Fern Hawkins

Bonnie Zuidweg

5 Junior Waves

5 Junior Greek tiles

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Jessica King

Automatic Drawing Zoe Eke

A Selection of Work from 6 Junior

Emilie Ayres

6 Junior Forest

6 Junior Printing

A Selection of Work from 6 Junior

Meishana Johnstone

Manuela Lares

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | JUNIOR ART GALLERY

A Selection of Work from 7 Junior

Emily Dillon

7 Junior Masks

7 Junior Pepper Line Studies

April Campbell

7A class project inspired by Barbara Hepworth

Liz Gao and Penny Campbell

7 Junior Peppers

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ART GALLERY

A Selection of Work from I Senior

Amelia Blythe

Rhona Nesbitt

Safiya Rahman

Lucy Cherrie

Selection of IA Ceramics

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Emilie Parkinson

Poppy main, Jodie Macrae, Betsy Stephen, Automatic Emilie Parkinson Drawing

Ogo Nwakozor

Mya Kelly

Michaela Okosodo, Hannah Waring, Libby Butler, Michelle Njoku Hangings

Lena Van Niekerk

Martha Hurry

Mary-Kate Kennedy

A Selection of Work from II Senior

Libby Butler and Eileen Joseph

Sylvie Muir

Libby Butler

Sylvie Muir, Olivia Arthur, Ogo Nwakozor, Sophie Muir

Olivia Arthur

Amy Braisby

Amy Braisby, Grace Barker, Anastasia Ionescu, Mumba Mwansa

A Selection of Work from III Senior

AliceHangings Downey

Details of techniques from IIIS design project

Gwen MacDonald

Mumba Mwansa

IIIS Product design

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ART GALLERY

A Selection of Work from IV Senior – National 5: Design

Elizaveta Thorn

Hiba Tahhan

Vanessa James

Keanna Harris

Emer Dreelan

Hannah Milne

Hannah Brown

Oluwabukunmi Adejuwon

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ART GALLERY

A Selection of Work from IV Senior – National 5

Milly Moyes

Ogheneyoma Omaruaye

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Alina Imran

Noemi Freya Moleda Miller

Chizaram Nwajiuba

Olutobilola Awonuga

Jewel Ifezulike

Laura Thorn

Milly Finnie

Marion Ikuenobe

Milly Finnie

Automatic Orla Drawing Madden

Marion Hangings Ikuenobe

Work from V Senior – Higher: Design

Orla Madden

Jorja Clarke

Freya Miller

Freya Miller

Jorja Clarke

95 91 Rose Main

Rose Main

Joanna Malikebu

Freya Miller

Freya Miller

Rose Main

Milly Finnie

A Selection of Work from V Senior – Higher: Expressive

Joanna Malikebu

Marion Ikuenobe

Marion Ikuenobe

Jorja Clarke

Jorja Clarke

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ART GALLERY

A Selection of Work from VI Senior Advanced Higher

Joanne Sharples

Yousra Khalifa

Alexa Odell

Kyla Almeida

Amal Freigoun

Amal Freigoun

Alexa Odell

Bethan Wood

Bethan Wood

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SENIOR ART GALLERY

A Selection of Work from VI Senior – Advanced Higher

Yousra Khalifa

Ella Moyes

Joanne Sharples

Alexa Odell

Joanne Sharples

Kyla Almeida

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Ella Moyes

Making a Will is an important responsibility, especially if you have a family or dependants. Once you have considered your loved ones, we would be grateful if you included St Margaret's School for Girls in your Will.

Should you decide to include St Margaret's School as a beneficiary in your Will, we would be grateful if you could let us know. We would welcome the opportunity to thank you and keep you informed about the impact of gifts to the school.

If you would like to discuss leaving a gift in your Will please contact our Development Office:

Telephone: 01224 584466

Email: development@st-margaret.uk

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | DRAMA

I Senior performance

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his year, I Senior Drama Club, with support from VI Senior pupils, embarked on creating a unique devised

performance. After brainstorming ideas, they settled on a 1920s murder mystery set on a train.

Each group member contributed a character, motive, and backstory, which, with guidance from VI Senior pupils and Mrs McGovern, were woven into a complex plot with a surprising twist. The students handled costumes, props, lighting design, and sound effects themselves, culminating in a successful and well-received performance for parents and friends.

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | DRAMA

7 Junior Shakespeare 7 Junior showcased their talents in a fantastic performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at The Lemon Tree.

T audience being treated to a delightful fusion of humour and magic

hey brought Shakespeare’s enchanting tale to life on stage with the

as the young actors skilfully portrayed the iconic characters. The energy and creativity of the 7 Junior cast left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. Well done, 7 Junior!

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Alice in Wonderland

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ROM JANUARY TO MAY, STUDENTS IN 4-6 JUNIOR PARTICIPATED IN SHOWCLUB EVERY WEDNESDAY AFTER SCHOOL. THE GIRLS WERE EXCITED

TO STAGE ‘ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR’ AT THE LEMON TREE, EMBRACING THE

WHIMSICAL CHARACTERS AND MASTERING THE MUSICAL’S DANCES AND SONGS. Their talent and dedication shone brightly, with sold-out performances each night, leaving friends and family thoroughly impressed.

Congratulations, Showclub!

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | DRAMA

The Wizard of Oz

S

t Margaret’s staged our first senior school musical since 2019, performing

“The Wizard of Oz.” Auditions and rehearsals quickly followed the summer break, with blocking scenes and mastering musical numbers being the highlights.

The production ran successfully for three nights in November, wowing the audience with exceptional singing, dancing, and acting.

The positive feedback from the audience made the hard work worthwhile, and school productions continue to be a unifying and enjoyable experience for all. Anticipation builds for next year’s production.

Kirsty McGovern Head of Drama

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | SILVER AWARDS

Silver Awards Every year the Silver Award is presented to girls who have spent the entirety of their school lives at St Margaret’s. This year we were delighted to present this award to Ava Airnes, Freya Corry, Amy Coxon, Erin Gibson and Jessica Rhodes. Thanks go to each and every one of you for all that you have contributed to life at St Margaret’s, we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours!

L to R:

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Erin, Av a, Freya

, Jessic

a, Amy

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION

Parent Teacher Association IT HAS BEEN ANOTHER BUSY YEAR FOR THE PTA WITH A FULL PROGRAMME OF EVENTS RETURNING TO THE SCHOOL CALENDAR. FISH AND CHIPS QUIZ

SUMMER FAIR AND UNIFORM SALE

Teams fought hard for the coveted first place position

The PTA were delighted the Summer Fair and Uniform

fueled by Ashvale fish suppers! The eventual victors,

Sale raised over £6,000 in sales. We were incredibly

Quiz Akabusi, relished in their success as they were

fortunate with fantastic weather, allowing us to set up

presented with the first-place prizes. A thoroughly

all the stalls outside in the playground.

good night was had by all and the event raised over

FUNDRAISING

£930 for the PTA.

FESTIVE FAMILY FUN EVENT It was great to see so many of our families at the PTA Festive Family Fun Event. Guests enjoyed a festive quiz, lucky dips, glitter tattoos, and lots of delicious treats!

FESTIVE HAMPERS PRIZE DRAW Our classes each donated a luxury hamper to our prize draw – 14 hampers were donated! The hamper prize draw raised a whopping £1,725 so huge thanks to all the classes for organising such amazing hampers.

This year the PTA have met the cost of a range of new school equipment to support learning, wellbeing and fun for pupils: • Staging blocks (drama) • Grand piano for the school hall • Oscilloscopes (science) • Keyboards (music) • Bean bags (library) • Fire station (nursery) • Performance netball dresses featuring the PTA logo (PE)

SPORTS DAY BARBEQUE AND REFRESHMENTS

THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS!

Sports Day 2023 guests enjoyed a fantastic barbeque

their time to support the PTA at our events over the

laid on by the PTA. There was also a selection of crisps,

year. A special mention goes to everyone who helps

fresh sausage rolls and quiche for a savoury snack,

with the second-hand uniform and book sales. We rely

but the Barra Berries strawberries with cream were a

on the efforts of volunteers who contribute to sorting,

particular hit.

selling and managing the inventory. Thank you!

Heartfelt thanks goes out to the volunteers who donated

Sally McDonald Chair

Join us!

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED ABOUT MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT ON SCHOOL LIFE AND WOULD LIKE TO GET INVOLVED, PLEASE LET US KNOW.

Meetings are held termly, for around an hour or so, and as we only hold a few events over the school year, it’s a great way to get to know other parents and an enjoyable way to be involved with school life.

Get in touch at PTA@st-margaret.uk or find us on Facebook St Margaret’s School for Girls PTA 89

THE CHRONICLE 2023 | DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

UPDATE FROM THE

t has been another busy year in the Development Office. We have met with alumnae and friends of the school at events in Edinburgh, London and Aberdeen. A Spring Ball was held at the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, two years later than originally planned. And we welcomed former pupils and staff back to school in April for our annual reunion.

Alumnae engagement Alumnae have supported career events, provided advice to current pupils and we are always interested to hear about successes and achievements in our wider school community.

Christina Gordon, class of 2012, kindly visited school during a week in Aberdeen when she was performing at His Majesty’s Theatre.

She took the time to speak with our Higher Drama pupils.

Jenny Lawrence, currently a presenter on BBC Newsround, visited school for a busy morning of journalism Q&A’s and activities.

Pupils enjoyed meeting Jenny and learning about her work at the BBC. In the Spring term we marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science featuring guest speaker and former pupil, Professor Sinead Farrington.

The event was open to all primary schools in the city and shire, and was organised jointly with Techfest.

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

Fundraising for bursaries SPRING BALL: Our Spring Ball and Online Auction held at the end of April raised a whopping £16,000.

A donation from the funds raised was made to local charity Charlie House and the remainder of the funds supported our means-tested Bursary Programme.

Support from our community Many independent schools have significant endowment funds from which they draw income to support bursaries.

St Margaret’s, however, does not benefit from such resources. It is only through careful management of school finances together with kind donations from our community that the school is able to provide means-tested bursaries. With the addition of gift aid they make a significant impact on the level of support the school can extend.

Keeping in touch Keep up to date with the latest news from school through St Margaret’s Connect, our online community. Get in touch at development@st-margaret.uk to register or update your details.

Rachel Paterson-Davies, Head of Development

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THE CHRONICLE 2023 | FP PRESIDENT’S REPORT

FP President’s Report Festive Cooking Demonstration

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ur first in-person event after the pandemic was held in school in December. We had a delightful evening with school chef Mark who treated us to a festive cooking demonstration.

He created a menu using up leftovers from Christmas dinner – infused with a generous splash of holiday cheer. Everyone had a fantastic time, and the simple yet delicious ice-cream recipe was particularly well-received (for a similar recipe BBC Good Food has a No-churn ice cream – Mark’s suggestion to add sherry is optional!).

A raffle on the night raised £300 which was donated to local charity Friends of Anchor.

AGM Our AGM was held in the Royal Northern and University Club at the end of January.

After the conclusion of the formal business, there was discussion around the future of the Club after a couple of quiet years during the pandemic. It was agreed by all that there was still great interest in continuing the Club and working alongside the school to organise and support alumnae events.

Following on from the AGM it was agreed at subsequent meetings that the Club could help raise its profile by having its own logo. This has now been designed and will feature on all our events and communications going forward.

Return of the Quiz Night In June, we held our popular Quiz Night at Rubislaw Church Centre. We were pleased to a good mix of new and familiar faces take part in the quiz. A raffle on the night also raised over £100 for the Club.

Leavers’ Ceremony We ended the school year by sponsoring and serving refreshments at the Leavers’ Ceremony. Although lack of the sunny weather meant the refreshments were served indoors rather than out in the playground, guests enjoyed a glass of fizz with fruit canapés and chocolate strawberries. Lovely!

It was wonderful to see the VIS class mark the end of their time as a pupil at St Margaret’s and be part of such a special occasion.

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