Irene Hogg

A celebration of the life of this beloved headteacher

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Irene Hogg.

Commenting after hearing the news Scottish Borders Council’s Director of Education Glenn Rodger said: “We are all deeply shocked and distressed by the tragic news of this much loved headteacher’s death. We will make a more detailed statement in the future but at the moment our focus is on providing support to Miss Hogg's pupils and colleagues. We would however like to extend our profound sympathy to her parents and family. This is a dreadful loss."

Contributions

We hope that former pupils and colleagues of Miss Hogg will contribute to this page so that we can share our memories of this wonderful teacher and celebrate her work.

Contributions from 27 March 2008

"What a great loss to education and the community. As a former pupil I have only good memories of my time at Glendinning and this is mostly to do with the commitment Irene had to every individual pupil and family. She will be greatly missed". Shona Thomson - Kelso.
"I have known Irene since coming to work in SBC some 23 years ago. I will always remember her as an exceedingly professional colleague, held in great esteem and respected by all who knew her. Her ready smile and sense of humour leavened many a dull meeting. Most of all I will remember her eyes – full of light , laughter and a huge enthusiasm for all she undertook. Her school was renowned within the local community as providing a very happy safe and secure learning environment for children. I will miss her greatly as will her colleagues , parents and most of all by her pupils". Rosemarie Andrew - Headteacher Drumlanrig St Cuthbert's Primary School, St Joseph's Primary School, St Margaret's Primary School (Hawick) and Roberton Primary School.
"On behalf of the other headteachers in Jedburgh and as a representative of the BHTA - our thoughts are with Irene's family & friends, and the staff and pupils of Glendinning in dealing with this tragic loss. What very sad news". Ruth Strathie - Headteacher, Howdenburn Primary School, Jedburgh.
"Just to say we are all very saddened by this tragic news. The staff and pupils of Glendinning Terrace Primary are very much in our thoughts as are Irene’s family. We all send our best wishes and support at this most difficult of times". Chris Mckeesick - Headteacher, St Ronan's Primary School Innerleithen.
"What a tragedy! I have known Irene for many years and always found her to be a true professional, someone who cared deeply about education and in particular the children, staff and parents of her school. I will truly miss her, we shared many a happy moment especially through our joint work on the BHTA. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone at Glendinning, her family and colleagues". Ian Topping - Headteacher, Wilton Primary School, Hawick.
"I will remember your lovely smile, your laughter and excellent advice". Michelle Matthews - Headteacher Ayton Primary School, Acting Headteacher Reston Primary School.
"I for one am deeply grieved that we should lose such a dedicated, caring, inspiring and affectionate, and respected educational leader. I was in teaching once, and had my own department, and agree that certainly we have to have inspections. They pick up inefficiency or laziness, which is rare. They are a defence against abuse. Often they bring in an objective, fresh look. They can make constructive suggestions from the wider scene that can bring new light, or help unlock a local situation.. A Headteacher like Irene Hogg is more than just a local Teacher. She was a major asset to the whole community". W Brown.
"George and Noose on behalf of The Borders Equality Forum would like to pay our respects to a woman who gave 100% in what she did. One example of her help and generosity was with her staff and pupil in helping Culture awareness through the Borders. Photo (right) is a Thai Culture Evening and Irene and her school who were involved with this event. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Irene, her family and all who will miss her". George Higgs.
"As the mother of two daughters who were the third generation to go to Glendinning Primary School, I like everyone else was saddened by the news of Irene's death. She was a fantastic teacher who knew each and every one of her pupils by name and followed their progress when they moved on to High School and beyond. My daughters are now young adults but were both extremely fond of Miss Hogg who had a great influence on their school lives. This caring, committed and dedicated Headteacher will ge a great loss to Glendinning Terrace Primary School. My condolences to all family and friends". Irene Aitchison.
"My thoughts and prayers are with all Irene's family and friends. Irene gave so much of herself to all those who knew her, she will sorely missed by the whole community. To you all at Glendinning, both present and past - I can't imagine how deeply devastated you all must be feeling at this tragic waste of your wonderful Headteacher's life. Irene was an inspirational, dedicated and highly driven teacher whose belief in moral justice and fair treatment of all should be held as an example to all in Education. When I worked with you all during my placement, Irene not only supported me but inspired me to try and give children in my future care a wholesome and enjoyable learning experience which would always address the needs of the whole person, not just their educational attainment! Love to all". Linda Runciman.
"We were all saddened to hear the tragic news of Irene's death. My first experience of primary school, as a parent, was of taking my son to Glendinning Primary for his first day of school. I still remember the atmosphere of welcome and security in Irene's class and am grateful for the wonderful start to his education that he received there. Our thoughts are with all members of the school community at this sad and difficult time". Anne Welsh, Headteacher - Ednam Primary School.
"Miss Hogg was an amazing teacher who made me smile and taught me a lot. I will always try and do my best in her memory". Blair Duff P6 Glendinning Primary School.
"I was very upset to hear about the death of Miss Hogg. She was an excellent teacher and made a big difference in my life by encouraging and helping me whenever I needed it. It is a great loss to the people she knew, the children she taught, and those she would have taught in years to come. My thoughts are with her family". Rachel Johnston Former Pupil 1989-1996
"On behalf of the pupils and staff at Ettrick and Yarrow Primary Schools, I would like to express our great sadness and shock on the tragic loss of Irene Hogg. Our thoughts are with Irene's family, friends and the pupils and staff of Glendinning Primary School at this very sad time". Russell Williams (Acting Headteacher, Ettrick & Yarrow Primary Schools).
"Just wanted to say that I am desperately sorry to hear that Irene is no longer with us. I worked with her for two years from 1997-1999 and have many happy memories of my time at Glendinning Terrace. I had great respect for Irene as both a class teacher and headteacher, a job which is so demanding at the best of times. To me, she seemed a very strong and capable lady with a huge sense of fun and a very mischievous twinkle. The pupils were well motivated and successful in so many ways under her guidance and the school in general felt warm and friendly . Irene gave so much of herself to Glendinning School that I am sure everyone who worked with her whether pupil, colleague or parent will be devastated by her loss. To her parents, brother and all in close contact I offer my heartfelt sympathies". Elaine Colvin
"I have known Irene for many years. We both started our teaching life in the Borders - both enthusiastic, hard working probationers. At one time Irene even taught alongside my mother. She never lost that drive and commitment. I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my deepest condolences to her family and friends at this very sad time. Irene was also Godmother to one of my daughters - we will remember her with great fondness and affection". Mrs Ann Gunstone (nee Cornforth) Cupar.
"I used to go to Glendinning Primary School and really liked it. Miss Hogg was a brilliant headmistress and she treated all the pupils well. I was in Galashiels in February and I went to Glendinning for a day, and a smiling Miss Hogg met me at the door and made me very welcome. It was a shock when I was told that she'd died and I was very sad for her and all the people that knew her". (Alexander..aged 9 - Cyprus)
"I only moved to Glendinning in P3 and I hated school before I came here but Miss Hogg and her teachers totally changed that. My time in her class was the best of my school years and it was a pleasure to be taught by her. So sad that I'm not going to see her again. Wish she could have been here to support me when I went to the Academy. Don't want to go to Kingswood now cause Miss Hogg won't be there to look after us". Michael Hutchison P6.
"I have fond memories of Irene Hogg as she was my first teacher 34 years ago at Newtown Primary. We always managed to bump into each other through the years and catch up. One of the funniest things I have ever heard was her singing and used to get frequent tellings off for laughing at her. She will be sadly missed by all that knew her". Mr Allan Mitchell, Lilliesleaf.
"The golfing community in the Borders is shocked and greatly saddened to hear of Irene's death. Not only will she be remember by her strange, unorthodox - but very effective - swing, but we will all miss her enthusiasm, dedication and good humour in whatever task she undertook. I am sure that all the members of Melrose and Minto Golf Clubs know that we have lost a great golfing partner and our heartfelt condolences go to Irene's family". Janet Brown, Melrose.
"Miss Hogg you were not just my teacher you were my friend. I promise to continue working hard and doing my best. I will miss you always". Love Paige Minnikin, P6.
"You are a very nice headteacher and always will be. You gave me a certificate 3 weeks ago for good writing I will treasure for ever. Will miss you".
Love from Caoimhe Minnikin P1.
"A much respected colleague, you touched so many lives. Your professionalism, your infectious laugh and ready smile, your willingness to speak up for what you believed in – always, making decisions based on what was best for the pupils in your care. We will all miss you so much. Our thoughts are with your loved ones". Helen Lumsden and staff, Stow & Fountainhall Primary Schools.
"Irene Hogg deserves to be remembered as an excellent Headteacher, dedicated to her work and respected by both pupils and parents alike. As parents of 2 children at Glendinning, over a period of approx. 10 years, we had the pleasure of assisting Irene on school activities and excursions during the 1990s. We saw at first hand how efficient she was in her role as Head and how her pupils admired and looked up to her. A sad loss". Sheila and Harry Scott, Galashiels.
"I will miss you alot Miss Hogg. You were a great teacher and school wont be the same without you when we return after the easter break". x x x chloe ferguson p7 x x x
"As a former pupil of Ms Hogg's, It was very sad to hear of her death. She will be really missed at Glendinning Terrace". Mr Steve Scott, Galashiels.
"I will miss you greatly, Miss Hogg. You were such a lovely, charming person. Rest in peace dear lady". Emma Paxton, Berwick Upon Tweed.
"I have only fond memories of Miss Hogg during my primary 5,6&7 (1975,76,77) in Newtown Primary School. She was a brilliant teacher full of encouragement towards all pupils. She will be a huge loss in the Borders to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. My thoughts are with her family at this sad time". Jacqui Ramage.
"Irene You will always be remembered with much fondest". From all at Melrose Primary School.
"You will be much missed by all, if only you could have seen the value of your contribution. I enjoyed working with you in the Gala cluster, you were able to say what others only thought! We were able to compliment each other on our dress sense, I'll miss this! You gave so much to work and ultimately perhaps this dedication and commitment were some of the reasons you lost sight of your worth. I hope you find peace for your troubled mind. I hope too that your passing will encourage others to look at their work/life balance and remember nothing is too big/bad or difficult to talk about - the value of communication". Remembered with fondest, Gilly Innes.
"The thoughts and prayers of all the staff & pupils of Hawick High School go out to Irene's family and friends as well as to the staff and pupils of Glendinning Prmary School. Irene was a wonderful teacher and fellow Headteacher - as a former pupil of Hawick High School she will always be one of our 'girls of ambition'. As with the other messages I will miss her smile and humour at the SBC Headteacher Meetings. A tremendous loss to education in the Borders". Alan Williamson, Rector Hawick High School.
"Miss Hogg was a brilliant teacher and I will miss her loads as will the rest of the school.She loved Scottish things and we had great Burn's Denners. I did the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns twice and I hope Miss Hogg's memory lives on and will never be forgotten. She will always have a place in my heart. I was really lucky to have her as a teacher". Mr Robbie Czajka, P6.
"Miss Hogg was my teacher at Newtown St. Boswells. She was one of these great teachers that made learning fun whilst still managing to instill a bit of discipline! When she was my teacher I always looked forward to going to school. My family and I were so sad to hear the news last week and our thoughts are with Miss Hogg's family and friends". Miss Kirsty McLaren
"As a former pupil at Glendinning Terrace Primary School, I am very saddened to hear about the tragic loss of a brilliant teacher. I have fond memories of the fun times I had in Miss Hogg's class, she was always there to give advice and encouragement and was so dedicated to her pupils. She was a great inspiration in my life and I know she will be a massive miss to everyone who knew her. My thoughts are with her family and friends at this time". Michelle Aitchison, Former Pupil 1990 /1997.
"As Chairman of the local branch of the Macmillan Cancer Support Committee, I would like to pass on our sorry at losing one of our Committee members. Irene worked so hard and yet still found time to give us her help for any events we were holding. She had lots of ideas for fund-raising and she will be missed. In her quiet way she got on with any task she was asked to do". With Sympathy, Pat Crichton.
"I only met Irene twice and on both occasions found her to be a kind and hearty soul, much like her brother. I can only offer my sympathies for her sufferings and to her family for their loss". Steve Dickson, Melbourne, Australia.
"I was deeply saddened by the death of Irene, I am an ex-pupil of Glendinning terrace primary school. Irene was a fantastic head teacher and cared for the school, her fellow teacher, the pupils, the parents...the list is endless. I hope that she is now at peace, but that wee school and the community will miss her terribly". Miss Deborah Thomson.
"Just about 30 years ago Irene Hogg was our Primary 7 teacher, we were looking forward to reminiscing with her at our Primary School reunion in May which she was really looking forward to. We will raise a glass in your honour 'Miss Hogg'. Education have lost one of the best". Mrs Karen McIlroy.
"My heart goes out to the family and friends of Irene Hogg - what a tragic loss. I wish staff, pupils and parents all the strength they require to face the new term and beyond. As you support each other and work together you will find many ways to honour the memory of a fine teacher and head teacher. Be brave". Mrs Alison Simpson, Edinburgh.
"I am an ex-pupil from Glendinning Terrace Primary School, and have lived next door to the school for almost 12 years. As a teacher Miss Hogg was one of the best, kind and friendly with a great sense of humour, always there to offer a helping hand . I will never forget the emotion present on that day I was leaving Glendinning to head up to the Academy, a smiling, proud Miss Hogg presented me with a book that I will cherish forever. I cannot believe, that just last week I was there with all my old classmates to attend the celebration of Miss Hogg's life which showed how much respect and love everyone had for her. She will be sadly missed and never forgotten". Miss Nicole McEwan, Galashiels.
"It's taken some time to think of the right words to say that haven't already been said before about a wonderful, caring and highly dedicated person. My son attends Glendinning Terrace school and we really cant rate the school highly enough and believe that this is down to the leadership of Miss Hogg. The children and parents will miss you so much and pray that the teachers will find the strength to carry on your work". Mrs Nicola Fotheringham.
"As a former parent at Glendinning I was stunned to hear the news of Irene's death. She was head at the school for all seven years of my son's primary education. Irene was a wonderful teacher and always made you feel very welcome. You knew that she genuinely cared for your child and she certainly gave my son a brilliant start to his academic career. She will be sorely missed". Janice Sanchez.
"We the staff and pupils of St Margaret's Primary School in Galashiels are saddened deeply by this tragedy. Irene and Glendinning school have always had close links with all the Gala cluster schools. As a community we feel her loss and offer our heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers to her family, staff and children in her school. Irene you have always been a rock of support for others. We will miss you and your vibrant smile". Grace Frew (Headteacher)
"We send our deepest sympathy to Miss Hogg's family. She taught my three oldest children and was an inspirational teacher. She was truly loved and is an irreplaceable loss. We will always remember her with love and respect". From Rebecca, Neal Joe,Katharine,Peter and Georgia Wade.
"Irene will be missed in countless ways by so many people. During the time I worked for Irene I benefited from her good advice support and human management style. My heartfelt sympathies go to all at Glendinning, to her family and to her many friends. I hope Irene is in a peaceful place". Mrs Janet Cass.
"Simply the best we will miss you and never forget you thankyou for guiding us." Love always - Daniel, Lucy and Corey.
"Miss Hogg was my primary school teacher at Newtown Primary School and have nothing but fond memories of her. What a great loss to the teaching profession". Mrs Lee McLeish, St Boswells.
"Miss Hogg was a very kind person. When I started P1 last year, I thought it was a bit noisy at lunchtime in the hall but Miss Hogg would put her hand up so everyone would be quieter. She made sure we were all happy. I also got a sticker from her for being helpful. I will miss her very much". Mr Morgan Harper.
"I'll really miss Miss Hogg, she was a great head teacher and I was looking forward to getting her next year. My sister said I would have enjoyed being in her class because she made learning fun and made her laugh! We will all miss you xx." Mr Scott Davidson.
"Thank you for believing in me. x" Miss Sara Christie.
"Irene - 37 years a friend, a fellow student, a fellow teacher, a fellow Head Teacher. I shall miss your smiles, your wicked sense of humour and your vision. You inspired us all to give our pupils 'roots and wings.' On behalf of Kirkhope Primary I would like to send our heartfelt condolences to Irene's family and the pupils, staff and parents of Glendinning Primary". Mo Brown, Headteacher.
"It was with great sadness I learned of Irene's death. Glendinning school is such a splendidly welcoming place. The warm, nurturing atmosphere was generated by a deeply committed headteacher who had her priorities right. She was a tower of strength and inspiration to her colleagues and pupils. Sincere condolensces to her family". Mrs Ruth Flavin, Stow.
"Miss Hogg was a wonderful teacher she always made things fun to do she will always be missed by many people but she will always stay in our hearts" xxEilidh P7xx
“Miss Hogg was an amazing teacher and we will miss her dearly, she was always kind to us and gave us help if we needed it” Mr Lisa and Scott McCrirrick
“Irene you will be deeply missed by ALL who knew you family, friends,pupils and work colleagues. You were a great leader and a good listener, I will never forget you. Thank you for being there for all of us”. Mrs Carol Oliver
“It's with much respect and affection that we will remember Miss Hogg.Simpy a great person who was dedicated and committed to Glendinning school life and all that that entailed.She was professional yet caring with a great sense of fun,we feel lucky to have known her. Rest in peace Miss Hogg”. Stevie, Linda, Jack and Tom.
“Miss hogg..were to start.. she was a fab teacher..I still cant believe that this has happened.. she doesn’t deserve this.. and no matter what anybody said she did a wonderful job and I think she’s amazing! I’ll always remember her from her fluttering eyelashes..her smell of coffee her little giggle how she loved mint humbugs and cured your hiccups and how she was such a wonderful story teller! You will always have a place in my heart! love you x3 oxx” Miss Samantha Brown
“Very Sad to hear the news about Miss Hogg. As an instructor visiting the school weekly, I always found her to be warm, helpful, good humoured and friendly with a great rapport with the children.
She will be greatly missed”. R Milligan Music Instructor
“It was with a mixture of great sadness and bewilderment I read of the sad circumstances of the death of Ms Hogg. On two occasions Glendinning has won my Christmas Card competition and I am aware of many other awards for the school which I have visited several times over the years. The school is a bright, lively and a happy environment which is a tribute to Ms Hogg, her staff and the parents and children.I await the inspectorate report with interest which may require questions to be raised about the pressures and impact of inspections on good teachers, should it prove to have been contributory to her deep despair.My heartfelt condolences to all her family, in particular her elderly parents and her brother for such a funny and moving tribute, and to colleagues and pupils both past and present so obviously saddened by her untimely loss”. Ms Christine Grahame MSP.
“I am an ex-pupil of Glendinning Primary and was shocked to hear about the tragic death of Miss Hogg. I really believe I would not be where I am today without the help and kindness of such a wonderful head teacher. Thank you for a great start to my education Miss Hogg. I hope you will rest in peace”. Mrs Pauline Kelly
“Thank you for being a fantastic teacher, we are all going to miss you so much after the holidays. School will be a very sad place without you”. Mr Greig Fotheringham P4.
“My 2 children attend Glendinning Terrace Primary School and we are all absolutely devastated at this tragic loss to the School and the community. In the poem my son wrote about Miss Hogg following the tragic news, one of the verses read :
"I will remember Miss Hogg
For everything she done
She was very, very strict
But oh, so much fun" - and that is so true. She was a remarkable woman who had every quality a parent looks for in a teacher and it was so re-assuring to know that as well as teach them to the highest standard, Miss Hogg could also comfort them when upset, amuse them with her stories, praise them for good work and at the same time, they knew that she would not take any nonsense from them and for these qualities, the children (and parents) admired her, respected her and genuinely adored her. I'm sure I speak for all the parents and children of GTPS when I say we will do all we can to help the remaining dedicated, wonderful teachers and staff to carry on their good work despite losing their 'rock'. Rest in Peace Miss Hogg, you will be sorely missed by all who knew you”. Mrs Tracey Hutchison
“My three daughters were at Glendinning school when Irene started as head teacher they all thought the world of her. She was so good and always so approachable. She will be sadly missed”. Mrs Doreen Thomson
“Miss Hogg was a lovely teacher, I am very sad she is gone and I will always remember her in my heart.” Mr Greig Fotheringham P4.
“I am filled with sadness to-day as I read about Irene Hogg. As a headteacher of 28 years I can't help but think: "Who really has the right to cause any hard working and dedicated teacher such despair that she takes her own life?".Tragically there are so many of us, dedicated to the promotion of Education and Life long learning, wondering where all this rigorous monitoring, evaluation and inspection is leading to... the road to Excellence? Excellence comes from committment, dedication and sheer hard work which clearly Irene spent her career delivering”. Marie Pisaneschi.
“Irene's talents as a teacher and head teacher have been well documented. However there was more to Irene than her dedication to teaching. She was a keen sportswoman. I have fond memories of her on sunny days on the golf course. In years gone by we spent snowy nights travelling to Langholm, Dumfries and other Border towns to compete in squash matches. Irene was fiercely competitive but always fair. There was always a great sense of fun and camaraderie on these journeys. My thoughts today are with Irene's family and friends”. Mrs Christine Duncan
“As a Principal Teacher of Guidance I worked with Irene for many years preparing the transition from Primary to Secondary. Glendinning Primary was a delight to visit as Irene had made it a safe and welcoming environment for all.She was a down to earth person always bright and cheery and I am very sad that she is gone and in such a tragic way. I will always remember with fondness my visits to her school and the admiration I felt for her as a teaching head and all the work her job involved. We have lost not only an excellent headteacher but a woman with committment and integrity. Her infectious laugh and sense of humour will be heard no more. What a waste!” Fiona McMurray (Retired Principal Teacher Guidance, Galashiels Academy)
“It was with great sadness that I learned of Irene's death. I played golf with Irene in various golfing competitions over the years and although she did have an unorthodox but effective swing she will also be remembered for her putting ability especially when we participated in various Texas Scrambles. My condolences go out to Irene's family”. Joyce Michie, President, BLCGA.
“I was very saddened and shocked at the tragic death of Irene. She was a past and present member of BHTA. Her ideas and sense of humour will be missed by all of us. She was one of the group of twelve serving head teachers who were educated at Hawick High School who had their photograph taken for the girls of ambition project (right)”. Janice Chapman Burnfoot Community School
“My feelings when I heard the news about Irene were ones of great sadness but also anger at the loss of such a very devoted teacher/headteacher. I don't ever remember seeing Irene with anything other than a smile. She had such a twinkle in her eye and you could just imagine her with the children in class - inspiring, challenging but always with a sense of humour.
I was a teaching head for 22 years and I know only too well the pressures and rewards of the job. My anger about Irene's death comes from the fact that a headteacher's job can be a very isolating one. They support the pupils, the staff and the parents at times as well but who is supporting them? Perhaps this is the time to address this gap. It won't bring Irene back but it may help others in the future. I send deepest condolences to Irene's family and the pupils and staff at Glendinning Terrace”. Mrs Moira Sinclair.
“On behalf of Galashiels and Langlee Community Council we would like to express our sadness at the lost of such a wonderful headteacher.Our thought's are with you all”. Miss Pauline Ward.
I remember Irene as always cheerful and able to question and challenge with confidence. She was a great support to her colleagues and she was a hands -on teacher and headteacher, much respected by colleagues, staff, parents and pupils.
She will be very much missed”. Sheena McPherson, Headteacher, Sprouston Primary School
“On behalf of all the staff and pupils at Tweedbank Primary School our thoughts go out to Irene's family, friends and everyone from Glendinning School. Irene was a wonderful headteacher and meant so much to so many people. She will be greatly missed”. Miss Jane Nimmo.
"Miss Hogg you were always there for me when i was upset or worried and i will miss that alot.You were a brilliant teacher and was alot of fun and taught everthing so well. I will miss u very much and i will try my best to remember everything you taught me.You were not just a teacher you a friend to me too". Miss Melissa Learmonth.

Please note that the views expressed on this page may not necessarily be the views of Scottish Borders Council.

Irene Hogg

A celebration of the life of this beloved headteacher

Contributions

Contributions from 27 March 2008

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