The Wallace High School said goodbye this week to a dynamic and committed teacher, Head of Art and Design Mrs Linda McClelland. Linda, who came to Wallace as Head of Department in 1999, is embarking on an exciting new challenge, coordinating the Playfair scheme organised by the National Galleries of Scotland. She will be based on Prince’s Street in Edinburgh and is greatly looking forward to the official opening of the scheme in August 2004.
She commented, ” As Education Coordinator I will be working not only with schools but also with underprivileged groups and ethnic minorities as well training artists before they go out to deliver community workshops. I’ll also be initiating a volunteer programme. I must admit that my emotions are rather mixed at the moment. I’m obviously elated about this exciting opportunity but that’s tinged with sadness at leaving Wallace and Northern Ireland. There’s also a fair bit of trepidation about the challenges of my new post. I have been a frequent visitor to Edinburgh over the years and I’m really looking forward to embracing the cultural life of the city.”
Linda began her teaching career in Glengormley High and also worked in Victoria College. during her time in Walalce she also enjoyed a year’s secondment in CCEA, working on the current curriculum review.
Reflecting on her time in Wallace, Linda said, “I’ve always been made feel very welcome at Wallace. It’s a very supportive school with excellent pupils, teachers and ancillary staff. The Art and Design Department has welcomed a range of teachers and technicians during my time here in Wallace and I have really valued their individual talents and expertise . It gives me great pleasure that one of our technicians Anna Donovan is now Prop Manager at the Lyric Theatre whilst another , Jacqui Taylor, has now returned to us on her teacher training PGCE placement. Highlights of my time in Wallace include Sixth year study trips to London, Glasgow, Dublin and Newcastle upon Tyne; these trips have helped classes gel as a group and embraced education in an holistic sense.”
Undoubtedly Linda will be best remembered at Wallace for her incredible efforts with “Creativity is Catching”, a week of creative opportunities for the entire school community sponsored by First Trust and Arts and Business. Workshops involving dance, sculpure, music and drama were enjoyed by pupils and staff and have spurred many into pursuing new creative interests.
Principal of Wallace Mrs Anne McBride commented, “Linda McClelland will be remebered for her energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the promotion of creativity here at Wallace. She led a busy and successful Art Department where pupils are encouraged to be imaginative yet also disciplined in their approach to their studies. We wish Linda well in her new role in Edinburgh.”
Last modified: February 24, 2016
