Celtic Day Brings Tradition with a Twist

Though the rain postponed the full Celtic Day festivities, the Boys’ School still embraced the opportunity to honour tradition in a meaningful way. Dressed in their House shirts, students gathered for an assembly that celebrated Scottish heritage through music, story, and reflection.

The Pipe Band opened the morning with stirring enthusiasm, setting the tone for a proud and joyful occasion. Deputy Principal Richard Kirk shared reflections on Principal Peter Cassie’s current visit to Scotland, including images of Glasgow Cathedral and a city lamp post marked with the same four symbols that adorn the boys’ blazers – tree, bird, bell, and fish. These emblems are drawn from the miracles of Saint Mungo, shared in a thoughtful presentation by the House Prefects titled The Kind Heart of Mungo.

Between addresses, Boyi Yujin performed a beautiful violin solo alongside the Performers Choir’s rendition of The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond. A spirited whole-school singalong of Jimmy of the Hielands and Scotland the Brave followed, filling the hall with voices in full chorus.

As tradition holds, Head Boy Austin Watson recited the Ode to the Haggis with vigour, joined in a toast by Deputy Head Boy Charlie Henderson, Rev. Reuben Hardie, and Mr Kirk – paying tribute to the legacy of the school and the Head Boys who came before.

The morning concluded with a sausage sizzle and House activities. Proof that even a rainy forecast couldn’t dampen the unmistakable spirit of Celtic Day.