Audrey Diamond, former Depute Rector at Kirkcaldy High School, sadly passed away on Saturday 11th October, aged 58.
After graduating from Stirling University with a Joint Degree in English and History, Audrey took up her first teaching post in Fife, in January 1990 as an English Teacher at Glenrothes HS. This is where she first crossed paths with former KHS Rector, Derek Allan, who was a Guidance teacher there at the time.
Audrey moved to Beath HS in 1992 before a move to Kirkcaldy HS as a Guidance teacher, whilst still teaching English in January 1995. Audrey always had a genuine interest in the youngsters and would be their advocate whilst challenging them to be the best version of themselves. In 2007, Audrey was promoted to be an additional Depute Rector when KHS was awarded School of Ambition under Gwen Kinghorn. It was no surprise to any of her colleagues that she tackled the job with her usual valour, honesty, candour and great sense of humour. Her dedication to the cause paid off and she became a permanent Depute in August, 2012, where she would work with Derek Allan once more. Audrey was always a master in developing relationships with youngsters and staff, and this was key when dealing with challenges around school and as the Child Protection Coordinator.
On a lighter note, Audrey had a great sense of humour and was renowned for a few catch phrases. Even the pupils would say them to her- ‘Litter abuse, there’s no excuse!’
Audrey gained the respect from the pupils by her relentless commitment to them and their families and had a unique ability to engage the most complex and challenging youngsters, ensuring they achieved qualifications which would ultimately improve their life chances. Audrey valued education and was held in high regard by colleagues both in school, across Fife and at SQA, where she was Principal Assessor for English for 25 years whilst doing her day job!
There are very few people in life who will have had the opportunity to influence and improve so many young lives. Audrey was indeed a ‘diamond’, and one that will be remembered with much love and fondness for a very long time.
Best wishes,
Chris McKay
Rector
