Richard GloverTeacher of English, Deputy house parent Laidlaw South

I grew up in the beautiful coastal town of Portstewart, Northern Ireland and have always loved being close to the sea. I attended Dalriada Grammar School where I fell in love with school and rugby, which prompted my desire to work in education. After graduating from the University of Aberdeen I completed a PGCE at the University of Ulster. I then worked as an English and History teacher in my home town for a year before emigrating to the United States in 2012.

In the US, I was fortunate to work in several fantastic educational institutions in various States. In West Virginia I worked as a Social Studies teacher at Suncrest Middle School for four years before working full time for a residential summer camp, Camp Twin Creeks in Philadelphia. 

In 2018 I started a new job as vice principal at a primary school in Brooklyn, New York. I loved this experience and learned a lot about leadership and pastoral care. Eventually the siren call of home, friends and family became too strong and I moved back to the UK and joined Merchiston in September 2020. 

I thoroughly enjoy my time here and love the fantastic opportunities for pupils to get outdoors and enjoy the wealth of co-curricular activities available here. Being able to teach and get involved with the boarding houses has been a very rewarding experience.

INTERESTS 

My main passion is rugby and I have been involved in this sport since I was 10 years old. I am a massive supporter of Ulster, Ireland and the Lions! I also enjoy keeping fit and getting outdoors as much as possible. I love having the Pentlands right on my doorstep at school and you’ll often find me hiking and camping up there with friends.

GREATEST ACHIEVEMENTS

My greatest achievement was coaching the West Virginia University rugby team to two consecutive Division 1 conference championships. These results also allowed us to compete in the national championships for the very first time in the club's history.

FUNNIEST MEMORY

I love halloween and my school in New York always encouraged staff to dress up for the occasion. Staff always went above and beyond and some of the costumes were unbelievable. It definitely provided some great laughs and memories.

INSPIRING MOMENT

In the summer of 2021, I helped coach the Pringle cricket team and found the experience very special. For many pupils, it was their first opportunity to play competitive sport following the limitations of the pandemic lockdowns. Seeing the boys get ready for their first game, the nerves, the excitement and the focus is something I’ll never forget.