AFTER 16 years as principal of Ladies’ College, Margaret Macdonald was bade farewell with a special assembly. Miss Macdonald, 64 (pictured), is retiring today and the whole school attended the assembly, which included a piper as part of the festivities.
‘It was a lovely gesture,’ she said. ‘But the piper was a complete surprise.’ Miss Macdonald, originally from St Andrews, Scotland, had never visited Guernsey before she took the post.
‘I had never even been here for a holiday. But I saw all the boats on the water and loved it from day one.’
Miss Macdonald is taking away many memories of the school. ‘I particularly remember the 1995 Liberation Day. Also, 1997 was a very special year for the school as it celebrated its anniversary. But there are always celebrations in the school which make good memories.’
Miss Macdonald has received many gifts, including a puppet of her made by Melrose pupils.
‘They were putting on a show of Snow White and the seven dwarfs with puppets that they had made and then there I was, on stage.’
She said she had been given enough flowers to open a florist’s shop.
Miss Macdonald is taking a holiday in Scotland and is planning further breaks.
‘I need to do something in September, because with the school going back, I feel I should be busy.’
Deputy principal Jo Riches will take over as principal next term.
‘I haven’t offered her any advice. I think it’s best to let her make her own way. But she’s already on the staff, so it should be a smooth handover.’
After many years of teaching, Miss Macdonald will particularly miss her students.
‘I’m going to miss all the girls. They have been a real pleasure to work with.’
Article posted on 4th July, 2008 - 11.30am
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