School's out for long serving home economics and guidance teacher in Huntly
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A WOMAN whose entire teaching career has been at The Gordon Schools retires tomorrow.
Pat Emslie took up a post as a home economics teacher in August 1978 after attending the 'dough school' at Kepplestone and gaining her teacher training qualification at college in Aberdeen.
Colleagues past and present sprung a surprise farewell party on Mrs Emslie who was piped in by Moby Knight.
Rector Phil Gaiter said that it was hard to know where to begin when paying tribute to the service Mrs Emslie, who for the past 15 years has been a principal teacher of guidance, had given the school.
He said: "You have done so much, and given so much, to so many people here at The Gordon Schools and in our community.
"There are so many other and much better placed people than myself here today and absent friends and colleagues, who have created and shared many, many fantastic times and memories with you – and that in itself is tribute and testimony to all you have achieved during your time at The Gordon Schools."
People had been asked for their recollections of Mrs Emslie and fellow teacher, Isla Gardner recalled how in a report on her sister, she had written “If only Mairi’s hands could work as fast as her tongue.”
Many of the memories shared about Pat were about food and former maths teacher, Ellie Ingram had said that any occasions that required food, Pat was always so efficient and everything was so tasty.
Mr Gaiter continued: "Pat is always keen to pass on her skills and very passionate about supporting the many vulnerable young people who really loved their cookery sessions with her.
“Pat always holds the school in the highest esteem - testimony to the great loyalty she has shown during her years with us. Her enthusiasm and organisational skills have always been to the fore, to the benefit of The Gordon Schools."
Former colleagues spoke of the hand off friendship which Pat had extended to them and the kindness and generosity shown to many over the years.
Mr Gaiter concluded: "Thank you for everything you have given and done for The Gordon Schools and our community, please look after yourself and enjoy a very happy and healthy retirement."
Mrs Emslie said she had been overwhelmed by the send off.
Looking back on her career she said the impact of technology had been huge and there were now so many opportunities and options for pupils that home economics now had a reduced presence on the timetable.
She said: "It has just been so satisfying to see pupils progress and make their way in life and many of them now with their own families. Living in the community I know people very well and that has been beneficial.
"I could not have hoped for a better career, working in a school on a beautiful campus and I hope that when needed I have been able to help pupils through challenging times."
