At the time, I wasn’t fully aware of the financial mechanisms in place. As a child, I simply knew that I was able to stay in the school I loved, surrounded by friends and teachers who supported and encouraged me. The prospect of leaving was daunting, but thanks to the generosity of the bursary programme, I was able to remain within the nurturing and inspiring environment that had become my second home.
My years at SMC were incredibly happy. I made lifelong friendships, many of which remain strong to this day. The school fostered a unique sense of inclusivity – it never felt like a traditional independent school, and my background was never a factor in how I was treated. My friends came from a range of backgrounds, including those whose parents were in creative professions like architecture, design, and the arts. This diversity shaped my worldview and enriched my school experience.
Academically and personally, SMC provided me with invaluable opportunities. I played cricket, participated in outdoor activities like kayaking and hill walking, and even learned to swim at school. The extracurricular opportunities extended beyond sports – I played chess, enjoyed tennis, and explored the Highlands on school trips. These experiences broadened my horizons in ways I would never have encountered otherwise.
A pivotal influence in my journey was the school’s exceptional art department, led by Angus Maclean. He was the best teacher I ever had, in school or beyond, and he instilled in me a passion for learning and creativity. Initially studying graphic design, I eventually pursued a career in architecture, inspired by the support and guidance I received at SMC. I completed my degree at the Glasgow School of Art and have since built a career working in architectural practices across Edinburgh, Australia, London, and Cambridge.
The values I absorbed at SMC continue to shape who I am today. The school set a high bar for both academic achievement and personal conduct. The emphasis on responsibility and integrity was deeply embedded in the school culture. While I sometimes wished the school had encouraged more risk-taking, the confidence and resilience it instilled in me have been essential throughout my career and life.
Reflecting on the long-term impact of the bursary support I received, I am profoundly grateful. Without it, I would have missed out on the opportunities that defined my formative years and shaped my future. I believe strongly in the importance of maintaining diversity within the student body. Bringing together students from different backgrounds strengthens the school community, fostering a richer exchange of perspectives.
Today, as a parent myself, I recognize even more how vital these opportunities are. While my own children currently attend state school, I am always mindful of the unique experiences I had at SMC. For those considering supporting the bursary programme, I can confidently say that your contributions have a lasting impact. You are not just funding an education; you are investing in the lifelong growth and success of students like me.
Norman Paterson, SMC 1988
