This week has been a week of celebration for staff, pupils and families at St Mary’s Primary in Maryhill. They have been marking their 50^th anniversary at their current site. I was lucky enough to attend a celebratory mass at the Immaculate Conception Church on Monday and to pop in today (Friday) to see Head Teacher Madeline McGeachie and chat with some of the pupils during ‘non-uniform’ day. I was also pleased to commemorate the 50^th anniversary by submitting a parliamentary motion marking the occasion.

My thanks to everyone from the school community both past and present for their dedication and service over many years. 

Full Text of the Motion to the Scottish Parliament:

Congratulations to St Mary’s Primary School, Maryhill

That the Parliament congratulates everyone at St Mary's Primary School in Maryhill on the school reaching the landmark of 50 years of educational and community service to families across Maryhill at its current location on Kilmun Street.

Understands that St Mary’s Primary School first started delivering denominational education in 1851 and that, for several years, the school was relocated at St Mary’s annexe near Maryhill Barracks from 1941, following an air raid that destroyed the school and sadly claimed the lives of 107 local residents; recognises that a new school was later constructed and opened at the present site on 26 February 1974

Applauds the efforts of the staff team, who support close to 300 pupils from a diverse range of backgrounds and speaking over 30 languages

Commends St Mary’s Primary School for its commitment to Catholic education

Recognises the school’s key partnership with pupils, their families and the local parishes, The Immaculate Conception Church, Maryhill, and St Gregory’s Church, Wyndford

Commends the school’s efforts within the wider community to develop important partnerships, including the "Introduction to University" at the Maryhill Hub and parent support initiatives with the Maryhill Health Centre

Acknowledges the quality of education provided by St Mary’s Primary School staff, both past and present, over many years, including by the school's first headteacher on the current site, Brother Jerome, and its current headteacher, Madeline McGeachie

Rcognises that a celebratory mass was held on 18 March 2024, led by His Grace Archbishop Nolan

Thanks parents, staff and pupils alike over many years for their significant efforts, dedication and enthusiasm, which has delivered on the school’s vision to be "united in nurturing our St Mary’s family towards growth and success", and wishes all involved with St Mary’s Primary School further success for many years to come.