Popular head teacher retires after 40 years in education

Mrs Karen Waugh was showered with good wishes for her retirement from hundreds of pupils, former pupils, parents and the local community on her last day at the school.

Mrs Waugh, said: “I’m overwhelmed by the cards and goodwill messages I’ve received. I have enjoyed every minute of my time at the Junior School and with around 360 pupils, there is a good family atmosphere here. I will really miss this and the daily contact with pupils, teachers and support staff and parents”

In 2001, Mrs Waugh was appointed headteacher at the school after being headteacher for 10 years at one of Scotland’s largest primaries in Glasgow’s southside - Mearns Primary.

Brian Adair, chair of the High School Board of Governors said: “Karen Waugh has been an inspirational and innovative Junior School head, and has upheld the high traditions of the High School. All the school community wish her a well-deserved and rewarding retirement”

Over the last 15 years, Mrs Waugh has seen through a number of developments including major refurbishments, new classrooms and a modernised curriculum.

In 2007 Mrs Waugh was appointed as an associate part-time assessor with the Inspectorate at Education Scotland. In this role, she took part in school inspections across Scotland, talking to pupils, teachers and other headteachers.

In retirement, Mrs Waugh – who last year achieved a black belt in karate - hopes to continue karate and take up golf. She plans to have more time for charity work through both the Trades House and Merchants Houses of Glasgow. At the Trades House, Mrs Waugh is an office-bearer for the Incorporation of Barbers.

High School Boys’ captain sixth year pupil Matthew Miller (17) added to the many good wishes.

Matthew started at the Junior School in the kindergarten 14 years ago, just after Mrs Waugh became head.

Matthew said: “Mrs Waugh is a very kind and generous professional. The values and lessons she instilled in us at Junior School will be with us for many years to come”

Heather Fuller, currently depute to Mrs Waugh, takes over as the headteacher in August.