Hundreds tour Buckhaven High for the very last time

Groups were given conducted tours by current pupils throughclassrooms, art studios and gyms, bringing back memories of teachers, fellow pupils, and escapades good and bad.

At least one visitor had been among the first intake to BHS, others had left only a year or two before, but all had their own reminiscences and recollections.

For some, much of it was new – the extension to the school hadn’t been there when some left – others recognised the graffiti, some even finding etchings on desks done by friends.

And as well as the opportunity to talk to youngsters still at the school, there were some teachers from the past there, with their own memories of the thousands of children who had passed through their hands over the years.

Jim Barclay spent 30 years at Buckhaven as an art and guidance teacher. He recalled on pupil in particular who had stood out.

“David Mach came to see me as a guidance teacher and we talked about his future and came to the conclusion that he should go to college.”

The rest is history, though Mr Barclay commented: “It’s nice to have that special memory of a former pupil.”

Catherine Punton, nee Arthur, had memories stretching even further back than Mr Barclay – she started at the school in 1955, leaving three years later. She recalled one teacher, Mrs Dawson: “She gave us algebra, in an all girls class – I never understood it!

“I do remember it was the only class where I got the belt!”

Scott Bissett was at Buckhaven between 1997 and 2003 and was vice captain of Balgonie house: “I remember hiding out with some of my mates in the .... cupboard!”

Amanda Thomson was a regular visitor to the school – both of her children are pupils there now, as was her husband. “I have fantastic memories,” she enthused after finding a picture of herself in the hockey team, “It is great they have managed to do this open day.”

Lee Mathieson found a picture of himself too: “I played in all the sports teams – school was all right,” he said, fondly recalling gym teacher Mr Allan.