As the school year draws to a close, we are saying farewell to our Rector, Lise Hudson, after a remarkable 36 years of dedicated service to The High School of Dundee.
While Lise will remain in post to oversee this summer’s examination results, the end of term marks the conclusion of her time at the heart of daily life at the School.
In school we’ve been recognising her outstanding contribution and the lasting impact she has made on generations of pupils, staff and the wider school community.
Since joining HSD as a young History Teacher in 1990, she has served with distinction as Principal Teacher of Guidance, Deputy Head Pastoral, Deputy Rector and, since 2020, Rector.
Chair of the Board of Directors, David Thomson, said, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our deepest gratitude to Lise for her exceptional dedication, loyalty and leadership. The High School of Dundee is stronger because of her service, and future generations will continue to benefit from the values, structures and culture she has helped create.
“She will leave a profound mark on HSD. Lise’s leadership has been rooted in the powerful belief that young people flourish when they are known, supported and encouraged to become the very best versions of themselves. She has shaped a transformation in Pastoral Care and Guidance at HSD, helping to create the culture that defines HSD today: ambitious and compassionate.
“As Rector, she led the School through some of the most challenging years in modern education with energy, focus and positivity, while ensuring that our values have remained constant. Under her guidance, HSD has strengthened its sense of community, invested in pupil and staff wellbeing, developed exciting facilities like the new playground and school canteen, and continued to provide an all round educational experience that is second to none.
“Lise has also been a pioneering figure. As the first female Rector in the School’s long history she has been an inspiring role model for generations of young people. She has influenced so many lives for the better and set so many young people on their path to success.”
Lise said, “It has been the greatest privilege to dedicate my entire professional life to this extraordinary place. HSD is not just a school – it is a family, and the bonds I’ve formed here with pupils, staff, parents, and the wider community are ones I will carry with me always.
“Brilliant young people need inspirational teachers, coaches and support staff who care deeply. To every colleague across the School, teaching and support alike, from Nursery to Form 6, from Mayfield to Meadowside, thank you for your dedication, every single day.
“Working at the High School has been so much more than a job. The DNA of this place is precious.
“In August I hand this school to Irfan Latif, our new Executive Rector, and I do so with real pride and anticipation because I know he understands and values what makes this community unique.”
On behalf of the whole school community, thank you Mrs Hudson for your dedication and commitment to HSD across a remarkable four decades.
You can read a special Q&A with Lise here.