Founders’ Day 2026

Our annual Founders’ Day service took place this week, where we welcomed Former Pupil Imtiaz Dharker (C1968) as our guest speaker.

Taking place at Glasgow Cathedral, the service began with a warm welcome by Reverend Mark E Johnstone DL MA BD Minister, followed by our choir opening with Ave Verum by Philip Stopford.

Together, we joined in hymns by Charles Wesley (1707-1788) and William Williams (1717-1791) before our Rector, Mr Mark Ronan addressed the audience. School Captains Ava and Ainsley delivered thoughtful readings from The Old Testament Book of Psalms, Psalm 139 vs 1-12 and 23-24, and Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 13 vs 4-13, respectively.

Guest speaker Imtiaz Dharker, a celebrated poet, artist and filmmaker, gave a truly inspiring address, reflecting on her time at Hutchesons’ and how it shaped her sense of self.

“It was a great teacher, like the teachers here, who changed my life, showed me what I could be, and that I needn’t accept limits. I’m sure that as Hutchesonians, you have teachers like this in your lives, exceptional people who encourage and inspire you.”

Reading her poem Alan or David or John, she discussed her life as a Pakistani, Glaswegian woman and reflected on all that the School, Glasgow, University and the wider world, had taught her about life and how connection to poetry and words are key to human bond and reflection.
In her advice to our pupils, she said,

“Whatever course of study you choose… listen carefully to how people use language. Take nothing for granted. Listen for the great changes that are happening around you, for the human voice that cuts across borderlines, because the language of being human is the only one that really counts…in this space we share with every cell and insect, every living creature. How you treat the weak will be a measure of your strength. How you treat the soil beneath your feet will be remembered by the sky, so step into the radiance of who you are. Take your promise into the world and look at it afresh.”

Founders’ Day provides a special opportunity to remember our founders, George and Thomas Hutcheson, and to reflect on the School’s rich history. It stands as a reminder to draw inspiration from those who came before us, and Imtiaz’ speech signified the importance of being inspired, believing in yourself and learning from each other. We extend our special thanks to Imtiaz for her address.

It was a memorable and meaningful occasion for all who attended, and we give our grateful thanks to Rev Mark E Johnstone for leading the service, and Clergy and Office Bearers for their valuable assistance.

Thank you to our photographer Martin Shields – a full gallery of the day can be viewed below: