History of the Berwickshire High School

The Berwickshire High School was opened in 1896, its first Rector, Mr Walter John Mabbott, being appointed to the post on 6 th August of that year.

The formal opening ceremony took place on Tuesday 15th September 1896 with accommodation for 80 pupils.

A new extension to the school building was completed in 1911 and was officially opened on Wednesday 20 th September.

This building in Newtown Street was deemed to be overcrowded by the mid 1950s and plans were afoot for a new building, situated on the outskirts of the town (West).

Hundreds of students have passed through the doors of the Berwickshire High School, making a name for themselves after college or university. Such was the feeling and ambiance of the place that many came back to their ‘alma mater’ as teachers themselves.

The Berwickshire High School, like any other school, has experienced many changes and many additions in its lifetime.

At present, the building itself has become increasingly unsuitable to cater for the increasing educational needs of its students.

It is due for replacement and we all look forward to the new Berwickshire High School moving across to its resplendent glory towards the end of 2008.

“To Strive, To Seek, To Find and not to yield”.


The Berwickshire High School 1896	The Berwickshire High School 1911