In recent times, learning about History seems to have become very popular and interesting. The TV series entitled 'Horrible Histories' has won various awards and, in our household, it has been compulsive viewing for our two daughters. How then as schools do we follow that? I am delighted to report that at Gillespie's High School, History is thriving! One example of the wonderful work we do was staged in our assembly hall today when Dave Clarke (a practising teacher of History at Stewart's Melville and a former student at Liberton High School) presented to several enthralled assemblies. At the end of the day I set off from my office with the intention of popping into a few classes. What was to have been a fleeting visit to the hall, as I particularly wished to go and see some of our new S1 classes in action, turned out to be so amazing that I stayed for 45 minutes. Dave Clarke was inspirational and the pupils and staff were transfixed. Amongst other amazing facts we learned about moustaches, polishing buttons, how to use bayonets, Elsie Inglis and the fearsome reputation of the Highland regiments. This was curriculum for excellence at its glorious best.
After a rapturous round of applause several pupils and staff stayed to survey and hold the various items that were utilised during the presentations. A particular favourite of mine was an actual 'dog-tag' from a fallen soldier. As the pupils departed I asked several what they thought of the presentation. Comments included: 'He was amazing - he should be performing at the Fringe' and 'That's how to teach History sir' give an accurate representation of the awe and wonder among the pupils who were there. Many thanks to the History department and Mrs Carruthers in particular for organising such a superb experience.
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