Geri Collins the head teacher loves Hillpark Secondary School. She’s been there almost two years. Hillpark opened in December 1967. A black and white photo hangs in Geri’s office. It shows the school’s opening day. The photo was left by previous head teachers. It inspired Geri to celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary.
Hillpark is unique. It’s a culturally diverse school. Students embrace this diversity. Geri loves the international feel. The staff are incredible. They work hard. They go above and beyond their daily jobs.
Hillpark faces challenges. It serves students from both ends of the socioeconomic spectrum. There are vulnerable students and high-achievers. Two students even went to Oxford University last year. The school adapts to meet the needs of all its students. This makes Hillpark interesting and rewarding for Geri.
The school celebrated its 50th anniversary. Former staff and students returned to the Cairngorm Drive premises. They reminisced about the past five decades. Third-year students conducted tours for former pupils. They sold keyrings and mugs to raise money for Mary’s Meals. This is one of the school’s charity initiatives.
Hillpark is making plans for the future. A new 4G pitch is being built. The school anticipates increased enrollment due to nearby housing developments. One student said they would miss the pastoral care support. They’re always there to help with problems. The students read Malala Yousafzai quotes in 32 languages. Each language is spoken by a student at Hillpark.
Hillpark Secondary School is a fantastic school. Geri plans to stay for a long time. She hopes to see the school thrive for many years to come. Perhaps she’ll even be there for the 75th anniversary. Hillpark is a cracking school a brilliant school. There’s no reason why it cannot continue for the next 50 years.