“Together We Are.” This motto encapsulates the spirit of Duncanrig Secondary School. Duncanrig Secondary School is not just a place of learning. It is a community hub in East Kilbride.
Duncanrig Secondary School has a rich history. The original building was designed by the renowned Scottish architect Basil Spence in 1953. Spence also designed Coventry Cathedral. His design for Duncanrig was playful and theatrical. A large mural by William Crosbie once graced the main entrance of Duncanrig Secondary School. It depicted the history of the Clyde.
The original Duncanrig Secondary School building was demolished in 2007. A new school was built on the playing fields. It opened in 2008 as part of South Lanarkshire’s Schools Modernisation Programme. The new building includes indoor and outdoor sports facilities.
Duncanrig Secondary School merged with Ballerup High School during the modernisation. The name Duncanrig Secondary School was retained. The school was temporarily housed in the existing building. The four other mainstream secondary schools in East Kilbride also went through mergers.
Duncanrig Secondary School is a comprehensive school. It serves over 1700 young people. The school is part of the Duncanrig Learning Community. This includes nine associated primary schools and Early Years partners. Duncanrig also provides supported learning for young people with additional support needs.
The school’s values are ambition, respect and community. These values create an inclusive and supportive environment. Duncanrig Secondary School sets high expectations. It strives for excellence in learning and teaching.
A unique aspect of Duncanrig Secondary School is its Computing Pupil Ambassadors Scheme. Senior students volunteer to troubleshoot technology issues. They support their peers, teachers and administration staff. The ambassadors fix technical problems. They also support staff with equipment.
The Computing Pupil Ambassadors Scheme empowers young people. It helps them hone skills they will need later in life. The pupils create posters with a QR code to report issues. The ambassadors assess these issues. They resolve many problems themselves. More complicated tickets are passed to the service provider.
The school leadership trusts the pupils. They give them the freedom to develop the program. The ambassadors gain experience in leadership, planning and organising. They share their love for computing with other year groups.
Duncanrig Secondary School uses technology to enhance learning. Google Classroom is used across the school. Students who cannot attend school can still participate in lessons. Staff can book ICT rooms and request support online.
Duncanrig Secondary School was awarded a Digital Schools Award. This recognises the use of digital technology within the school. The Computing Pupil Ambassadors programme contributed to this award. The school has a vision to provide a computer device to every student.
Connectivity is important at Duncanrig Secondary School. The local authority invested in high-quality broadband and Wi-Fi. This ensures that connectivity is not a major concern. Duncanrig embraces technology to enrich lessons and encourage collaboration.
Lisa Cameron is one of the notable alumni of Duncanrig Secondary School. She is a clinical psychologist and Conservative Party MP.
Duncanrig Secondary School prepares its students for the future. The Computing Pupil Ambassadors Scheme offers invaluable experience. Students build confidence and develop essential life skills. Duncanrig Secondary School equips young people with the skills they need to succeed.