Petition aims to bring back school janitor

Anorth community has mobilised to try to hold on to the local school’s much-loved janitor. David Aitchison has been at Smithton Primary School for 18 years and knows every pupil – and most of the parents – by name.

So when he was told he was being transferred to another school just over a mile away, young and notso-young fans were upset.

And now hundreds of parents, pupils and locals have come together to try to save their janitor, who they call Mr Aitch.

Almost 300 people have already signed a petition demanding Mr Aitchison’s employers, Highland Council, halt the transfer.

The petition on change.org describes Mr Aitchison as “an integral part of Smithton School and community”.

It asks Highland Council to reverse a decision that would transfer Mr Aitchison to Duncan Forbes Primary.

Highland Council said that transfers can happen within local school groups.

Mr Aitchison did not want to comment, although it is understood he doesn’t want to move – but dozens of people on social media have made clear that they want him to stay.

The organisers of the “Save our Janitor” petition said that the school and wider community would miss Mr Aitchison’s presence.

“He is loyal, approachable, friendly and never forgets any of the kids,” they said.

Since the community council shared the petition on Friday, people have flooded the council’s Facebook page with supportive comments.

Petitioner Brenda Thompson agreed the school isn’t the same without Mr Aitchison, adding: “Please come back, we miss you.”

Another commenter named Robert Lee said a move would be “devastating”.

“David as a personal friend and former colleague is one of the best people I have ever had the pleasure to have met.

“I’m not surprised everyone would be devastated if he were moved from his current position.”

Highland Council declined to address the petition directly but a spokesperson said: “Our facilities management staff are contractually employed to cover associated school groups which relate to specific clusters of schools in a particular area.

“Janitorial staff are deployed from time to time in line with their contract to ensure business needs are met.”

Organisers updated their page yesterday afternoon, saying the petition was closed and adding: “the situation is now being investigated by the appropriate individuals.”

The petition to stop the transfer of long-time Smithton Primary School janitor, David Aitchison, is a reminder that it is not only teachers who have a profound impact on our lives as children.

Current and former pupils alike shared fond memories of the beloved “Mr Aitch”, who has been a constant figure at the school for the last 18 years. Many of us will recall support staff and other positive adult figures who showed us kindness and understanding as kids, and ultimately inspired us to become better grown-ups.

POPULAR: Colleagues and families are showing support for David Aitchison.