 Barbara and I have much enjoyed meeting all the boys in the School at a series of Gatherings; these encompass drinks in the Old Library or the Memorial Hall, before adjourning to the Dining Hall for a leisurely three-course dinner. It has been stimulating talking to the boys and listening to their views. What has particularly struck us is that the Sixth Form, while commenting on the inspiration provided by the staff, both in and out of the classroom, have also mentioned the huge impact on them of the prefects; it was quite inspiring to hear Upper Sixth Formers talking with great fondness and respect about their former prefects when they first arrived at Merchiston, sometimes five, six, seven or eight years ago. This underlined to us again that role-modelling at Merchiston is vital.
The Merchistonian Golf Club Dinner at Elie was yet again a superb event and we were delighted that two pupils and a member of staff were invited to play on the wonderful golf course and then join the Dinner. A ten-year reunion was held at Merchiston for Merchistonians and St George's pupils. Rugby supporters' lunches have taken place as have the Pringle Parents' Dinner, the Chalmers Parents' Dinner, and Drinks Receptions for parents of Rogerson East, Rogerson West and Pringle pupils in the 6A Club. We also enjoyed a convivial evening of carol singing and supper for staff and partners at Castle Gates. 
At the other end of the spectrum, present and former Governors and leading members of staff marked the retirement of Charles Abram from the Board of Governors with a Dinner held at Merchiston. Charles joined the Board of Governors in 1989, becoming Deputy Chairman in 1996 and finally Chairman in 2000. It is difficult to do justice in words to the sense of bonhomie and goodwill of such an evening. I am most grateful to our Governors for the time and effort they expend on Merchiston's behalf; whilst these are rewarding times for independent schools, they are also challenging ones.
Throughout the year, our catering staff work so hard to provide good quality, nourishing and appetising food for the pupils and staff on a daily basis, as well as good fare and refreshments at the special functions to which I have referred. Incidentally, we purchase all our own food to try to ensure that the catering is of the highest standard. After an exceptionally busy term for our caterers, it is, thus, all the more remarkable that they finish with three tremendous Christmas Dinners, and we much enjoyed the entertainment provided by our rock bands. |
