A TOTAL of nine teachers said goodbye to Galashiels Academy last week. Social Subjects teacher Alan Paterson is one of seven teachers to retire. He had been with the school 38 years. On leaving, Mr Paterson said: “The academy is a brilliant school. I have been here since Scotland beat England at Wembley in 1977. The school has great pupils with amazing characters. “There is also a great social life that comes with it too. I am not really looking forward to leaving as I have made so many friends.

“I’ll be spending my free time going to Scotland away matches, fixing Mr Crosbie’s wall, going on the train, walking and going on holiday. My life will be stress free.

“I’ll miss my pupils and the lovely view outside of my room. Not forgetting Mr Clement’s laugh and Mr Jeffries’ dress sense.” Jane Allan was a guidance teacher at the school. She had been a popular figure at the school for 26 years and her four children were also educated at Galashiels Academy.

She said: “I’ll miss working with young people as it is such a privilege to have an impact on their life. The pupils are lovely to work with and so are the staff.

“I’m looking forward to leaving as my first grandchild is on the way and I’ll be able to spend time with my three dogs. My husband and I are also going on holiday in September to America. As a guidance teacher every day was different. I’ll also really miss the guidance team.” Frank Wright taught Religious Education and was with the school for 25 years. He says he is looking forward to retirement and tending his garden. “I’ll miss all the pupils. I’d like to wish Gala Academy the best of luck for the future.” Maths teacher Bill Russell said he enjoyed his eight years at the school, and that he will miss the general routine of work. That’s not to say he isn’t looking forward to his retirement. “I’m looking forward to playing more golf.” he said. “I’ll also be doing jobs around the house and travelling. But I will miss the general routine of work.” Eileen Hume taught Social Subjects, and she plans to spend her free time with her four (soon to be five) grandchildren. “I will also be watching Andy Murray play tennis tournaments. I will miss teaching the pupils and the animated break time discussions with staff,” she said.

Modern Languages teacher Bill Tinman had only been with the school for a year. But Galashiels Academy has made a lasting impression on him. “I have loved my time here!” he beamed. “I feel like I could work for another 30 years. I love the subjects I teach and I love teaching the pupils. I’m planning on moving to Blackpool to help the homeless and working with the church. I’ll miss interacting with the pupils, as they give so much back. There is such a good atmosphere around the school.” Technologies teacher Adam Henderson had been with the school for 23 years. He is officially retiring, but still plans to teach. “I have enjoyed spending 23 years of my time here. It was a great learning experience and it develops you personally and builds your character.

“I’m looking forward to relaxing and not having to get up early every morning. I won’t miss the meetings and paper work that comes with the job! I will be going on the supply teachers list so I’ll still be around school. I’m also going to become more active and build a sun house on the garden. I will miss the interactions with students as it is rewarding to see young people learn and develop in front of you.” Headteacher Kevin Ryalls said: “On behalf of the school community and colleagues past and present I would like to thank departing staff for their huge contribution to our school.”