Founders’ Day 2025

Our Founders’ Day service took place at Glasgow Cathedral last week, where we welcomed Former Pupil Peter Silverstone, C1996, and Chief Commercial Officer at Newcastle United Football Club.

Founders’ Day provides a special opportunity to commemorate our founders, George and Thomas Hutcheson, and to reflect on the School’s long and successful history. With the sun shining, it was a beautiful day for the momentous occasion.

Peter delivered an excellent, relatable speech that connected well with all ages. He spoke about truth, and his candid reflections on the highs and lows of his career offered valuable insights.

Peter spoke about his time at the school, from when he joined in Primary 6, right through to his 5th year in Secondary. He said;

“The school values of hard work, resilience, curiosity, independence of mind undoubtedly what have got me to where I am today. I always aimed high and that is why I have the job/career which is the envy of many of my friends.”

Peter continued;

“Career paths needing to be flexible…Comfort Zones and Uncomfortable Zones…career choices can often involve sacrifice or risk…but sometimes this is what is needed to move forward. Things don’t always go as planned. You need to adapt your tactics in game.”

He also spoke about giving back;

“I’ve also used my role to make differences in other areas. In my time at Arsenal, I led the organisation of a charity match (Arsenal Legends vs. AC Milan Legends) which raised over £1m for the Arsenal Foundation & Save The Children. Similarly, I’ve also been a huge driver behind the growth of Women’s football game at both Arsenal and Newcastle.”

Founders’ Day is also a moment to look ahead–to draw inspiration from those who came before us, and to consider the legacy we wish to leave behind, and Peter’s speech emphasised how adaptability and resilience enable us to take risks and embrace new opportunities. It was an inspiring listen for all in attendance.

Our choir, led by Music Director Mr Tim Rhodes, sang beautifully, opening the service with Anton Bruckner’s Locus Iste and then during the service John Rutter’s This is the Day.

Head Girl Arianna and Head Boy Robbie continued the service when they spoke with confidence in their readings, The Old Testament Book of Psalms, Psalm 139 vs 1 – 12 and 23 – 24, and Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 13 vs 4- 13, respectively.

We extend our special thanks to Peter for his inspirational address, as well as special thanks to Rev Mark E Johnstone for leading the service, and Clergy and Office Bearers for their valuable assistance.

Photographs taken by Rob Lindblade Photography.