The High School of Dundee has marked the end of school year 2023/24 with its traditional prize-giving ceremony.
At the Caird Hall, pupils, proud parents and staff came together to watch F6 pupils bid their official farewells to the School, and to see pupils from L4 upwards presented with prizes in recognition of their efforts and achievements in a range of subjects.
Rector Lise Hudson reflected on some of the highlights from a packed academic session, spanning the whole spectrum of school life including academic, sporting, music and drama, co-curricular, pastoral, charity fundraising and more.
She also thanked the staff for their hard work, dedication and willingness to go above and beyond every day, before paying special tribute to the staff members who are retiring or moving on.
She commented: “Our annual Prize-giving is about recognising the achievements of our pupils across so many facets of school life. However, many more, who will not cross the stage today, have achieved in the widest sense. They may not be receiving a prize today but they have made their teachers, parents, and I hope themselves, very proud indeed.
“Brilliant young people need inspirational teachers, instructors, coaches, and supporters, who really care about creating an exceptional learning environment.
“The school is looking forward positively, determined to embrace challenge as a force for good. Humble. Community and environmentally focused. Excited about innovation and the power of diverse thinking. Determined to collaborate with kindness and compassion.”
The High School of Dundee was delighted to welcome back former pupil Sean Smith, Professor of Future Construction and Director of the Centre for Future Infrastructure within Edinburgh University’s School of Engineering, to present prize-giving.
Professor Smith shared some anecdotes from his own time at the School and his fascinating career before encouraging the pupils to embrace the opportunities which lie ahead; and to tackle challenges and barriers without fear and to best of their abilities.
Turning to the departing F6 cohort, who are getting ready to head off to universities across the UK and beyond, he added: “Remember to avoid the word ‘can’t’, be bold and be ambitious, and when the going gets tough dig deep and power through.”
And as the ceremony drew to a close and the pupils, parents and staff moved outside to City Square for the School’s summer holidays to begin.
