School saddened by death of much-loved and valued teacher

Rector in praise of dedicated staff member who had a passion for teaching and cadet force participation

Tributes have been paid to a “warmhearted and genuine” Dundee teacher who died suddenly.

Dundee High teacher Dave Preston, who joined the school in 2007, fell ill and passed away at home on July 31.

He initially taught graphic communication and then technology, engineering science and latterly, physics.

He was a leading figure at the school’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and was involved in numerous camps, exercises, parades and weekly training.

Rector Lise Hudson said the school has received a number of tributes from staff, pupils, and parents.

She said: “Dave was such a warmhearted and genuine colleague.

“His quiet manner belied his deep intellect and passion for teaching and engaging with the young people in his care.

“He was beloved by his pupils and was a teacher who thought deeply about how to bring out the best in every individual.

“Dave always took particular time to check in that all was going well.

“He frequently popped his head round office and classroom doors or stopped in the corridor to ask how everything was going.”

The school says it will be taking time to consider the best ways to remember Mr Preston and to have a lasting memorial to him in the school.

CCF contingent commander Colin McAdam also paid tribute.

He said: “From the outset, he showed himself to be passionately committed to the development of the unit as well as to the enhancement of the cadet experience for all the cadets he interacted with.

“I greatly valued his loyalty and diplomacy as well as his selfless commitment and respected the pride he had in wearing the uniform and serving as an officer in Dundee High School CCF.”

Mrs Hudson added: “We will always remember his kind words of encouragement at difficult times. He was totally committed to HSD and passionate about the opportunities that the school provided for young people.

“Most importantly, Dave was a devoted father and husband who understood the importance of family life. Dave will be hugely missed by us all.”

“His quiet manner belied his deep intellect and passion for teaching and engaging with the young people in his care. RECTOR LISE HUDSON

Dundee High teacher Dave Preston was respected by staff, pupils and parents alike.