Gordonstoun will ‘sorely miss’ fun duke
Gordonstoun School has remembered the Duke of Edinburgh as an “immensely strong character with a unique sense of fun” who would be sorely missed.
The duke joined Gordonstoun in Moray in September 1934 when he was aged 13.
He returned frequently to the school, where he sent three of his children, which mixes academic study with outdoor education in the often merciless climate of the north.
Most recently, the duke appeared in 2014 on a private visit when he insisted on joining the lunch queue with pupils instead of being served at a table.
Lisa Kerr, principal of Gordonstoun, said the school community sent its “sincerest condolences” to the Queen and the Royal family following the Duke’s death.
Ms Kerr said: “Students and staff at Gordonstoun remember HRH The Duke of Edinburgh as someone who made students feel at ease in his presence and who shared
their love of Gordonstoun. He had an immensely strong character, combined with a unique sense of fun, infectious optimism and strong sense of duty.
“More than anything, he understood and was hugely supportive of Gordonstoun’s educational ethos of not only fulfilling academic potential but also of developing life skills through experiences outside the classroom, including sailing and community service.
"We are immensely grateful for his support over the years and his presence and support in the school’s life will be sorely missed.”