TEENAGER Alistair Fell has continued a remarkable family tradition after being selected as Head Boy at Dunbar Grammar School.

Older sister Kirsten, now studying psychology and politics at Strathclyde University, was 2016/17 Head Girl at the school.

While in 1987/88, mum Elaine (nee Cunningham), now a modern studies teacher at the school, was Head Girl – while dad Martin, who was an English teacher at North Berwick High School, where he still does supply teaching, was Head Boy at Dunbar Grammar in 1973/74!

Alistair, of Spott, told the Courier: “Everyone in my family was Head Boy or Head Girl!

“I’ve had such a great time at the school and taken so much from it, that I want everyone here to get as good an experience as I have had really.

“I spoke to mum and dad about the role but I would say I’ve taken more advice from Kirsten.”

Alistair, 17, who is studying advanced higher modern studies and higher politics and business management, will be working alongside Head Girl Heather Cameron, of Belhaven, and fellow S6 pupils Anique Burke, Lewis Thomson, Caitlin Daff and Zosia Kuczok, who will be their deputes.

East Lothian Courier:

Alistair and Heather both attended West Barns Primary School.

Heather, who is also one of the county’s two Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs), said: “We have had a good school experience and I did want to try to give something back in my last year.

“I really enjoy feeling a part of the school community and want to try to make sure all the students can have as good a time at school as I have had.

“I would possibly like to do something with mental health.

“That was a personal priority for me when I put myself forward.”

The duo were among a number of youngsters who put themselves forward for the roles.

Gradually, through an election process which featured giving speeches to fellow S5 and S6 students and being interviewed by senior members of staff at the school, the senior team were chosen.

The school is due to undergo a £10 million expansion, which will include additional classrooms, as well as staff bases, a new home economics department, a new library and learning centre with dedicated IT space and more.

Alistair added: “In the space of a year there is a lot going on in the building and it will not be too easy to make changes but just ensure everyone gets the best experience that they can.”

Paul Raffaelli, headteacher at Dunbar Grammar School, welcomed both Alistair and Heather into their new roles.

He said: “We are delighted with the appointment of Alistair Fell to the position of Head Boy and Heather Cameron as Head Girl.

“They both follow a long line of hard-working Head Boys and Head Girls who have been a credit to themselves and the school, and we look forward to working with both Alistair and Heather in the session ahead.”