High school dux thanks all her supporters
The Islay High School dux winner has paid tribute to all those who supported her through her secondary schooling.
Samantha MacArthur was not able to make the traditional speech at an official awards ceremony so she penned her own instead and posted it on the school’s Facebook page.
‘I wish I could have made this speech in person to thank all the people who mean the most to me but due to the current circumstances, the celebration of achievements has been cancelled and so all of the students have missed the opportunity to be presented with their well-earned rewards,’ she wrote.
As well as mentioning highlights of her secondary school years the 18-year-old sent a heartfelt thanks to all the teachers and staff that had helped her along the way including Mr Pollock, Ms Priestly, Mr Weatherhogg, Dr Weatherhogg, Ms Fuery, Mr Kitching, Mrs Mitchell, Mr McDermott, Mr Harrison, Mrs Carmichael and Mrs Bauld.
Samantha also thanked her parents Mairi and Iain, her big sister Kirsty, Gran Gilda and Nana Merrick and her wider family and friends.
By the end of her time at Islay High School Samantha had achieved eight national 5s, eight highers and two advanced highers. She has excelled in English, Maths, Music, Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Business Management.
Samantha and older sibling Kirsty celebrated their respective 18th and 21st birthdays during lockdown.