Hawick Headteacher follows in the footsteps of his former teacher
Thursday, January 4 2007
After 13 years of leadership at Hawick High School, Headteacher Neil Horne has passed on his duties to his former pupil and Depute, Alan Williamson.
Alan lives in Hawick with his wife and two daughters and started his new post as Headteacher at the end of October. He explained how he is truly delighted to be given the chance to continue his former school-teacher's inspirational work. "I am extremely honoured to be given the opportunity to serve the community of Hawick as Headteacher of the High School," explained Alan, "It is somewhat ironic that Neil was my teacher when I was in school. He taught me French and Russian, and has continued to be my teacher in my professional development, teaching me 'the art of leadership'. Under his guidance I have been on a steep learning curve and have learned to model his skills - most importantly his ability to listen and create effective teams to ensure school improvement. Neil has been a tremendous Headteacher as well as an inspirational coach and mentor to me. He will be a tremendous miss and a very hard act to follow".
Speaking of his years of leadership at Hawick High School, Neil Horne explained, "I have done my best to ensure that the school offers a broad and balanced curriculum for all, and thanks to the devotion and commitment of the staff at the school for their ongoing hard work. I am confident that they will continue to support Alan as he leads the school towards ever more success. It is a much deserved appointment".
Alan's professional career has proven him to be a man of commitment and drive. Previously, he taught History and Modern Studies at Hawick High School before moving to the Highland Council. He then returned to be Principal Teacher of History at Earlston High School before being appointed as Depute Headteacher in Hawick High School in 2002. During this time he led and managed staff, pupils, parents and other stakeholders in the successful bid to become a ‘School of Ambition' which has brought the school national recognition for its considerable achievements across a number areas. He recently graduated from the Columba 1400 Headteachers' Leadership Academy and the Harvard School of Education's Principals Centre.
Alan is also a keen sports fan and up until his appointment of Headteacher, was a Premier 1 SRU rugby referee. He has represented his town and country at various age-grade internationals including tournaments and games in South Africa and France and also coached North & Midlands schools for 2 years.
Now over a month into the job, Alan is clearly settling into his new role, "I am enjoying immensely the important post of leading Hawick High School. I have had tremendous support from the community - from parents, pupils and the staff and this has given me a real confidence and desire to continue our journey to bring school improvement to the pupils we serve. Even within this initial period I feel that we are making good progress".
He added, "I believe that we have outstanding teaching and non-teaching staff in Hawick High School and a supportive and strong School Board and Parents in Partnership Group", explained Alan, "As well as this, we have an effective and ambitious support team in place at the Local Authority who are keen to support the school in its improvement programmes. Working together, I believe we can deliver a quality of education that will continue to raise achievement and attainment for the young people of Hawick. My aim is to follow Neil's high standards which he has maintained in the school for so many years".
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