The Lent Term sees its fair share of gatherings of pupils, parents and staff. The Fifth Form Parents’ Dinner was a very successful occasion and the Sixth Form Dinner for parents and pupils was also well attended. Barbara and I were pleased to welcome the parents of Chalmers pupils to the infamous 6A Club, and we also entertained the Heads of Department, Housemasters and spouses to drinks in the 6A Club, before dinner in the village. I know that the Merchiston attendance at the St George’s Burns Supper was valued hugely. Mr and Mrs Houston again hosted a Charity Highland Ball at Merchiston. Barbara and I always enjoy spending an evening having drinks with the Upper Sixth, also followed by dinner in the village. Such an occasion makes one realise even more what a huge contribution these young people make to life at Merchiston, and, hopefully, they will springboard into even better futures, continue to fulfil their talents and make their mark in whatever their field of endeavour. Moreover, the Celebration of Boarding supper at the end of the Merchiston Sevens is always an excellent occasion; many boys help out at this huge event.
We celebrated the Year of the Rat at this year’s Chinese New Year Dinner with St George’s and, as ever, the pupils from both schools received the traditional lucky money. I am particularly pleased that the Sixth Form Highland Ball was such a success, involving practice evenings before the event with girls from St George’s, Kilgraston and St Margaret’s. I am most grateful to Deputy Head Nigel Rickard for organising the Ball, and yet again to Dr Oswald for her excellent coaching in Scottish Country Dancing throughout the year. She is a former parent and a teacher at St George’s.
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