The head teacher of Trinity High has announced that he will retire in the summer.
Peter Bollen has been in charge of the school for the past 13-and-a-half years, and has spent 37 years teaching overall.
In his time at Trinity, the school has won several accolades, including a COSLA Award for Excellence, a Champions for Change honour for their work against sectarianism and a gold award for being a health promoting school.
Parents and pupils were informed by letter last week of his decision, which he stated would let him spend more time with his family.
Mr Bollen said: “After much soul-searching I have decided to retire later in the session
“I have always loved working in Trinity High School and meeting daily the families and young people from Rutherglen, Cambuslang, Carmyle and Kings Park.
“It is a big wrench but it is time to pass the baton on to the next person who can bring renewed passion and commitment to taking the school forward.
“I will always be grateful to South Lanarkshire for giving me the opportunity to lead this wonderful school.”
He went on: “The community support I have received from parents, partners, primary schools, priests and churches has been superb.
“I want to thank everyone who has helped me during my period as a head teacher, especially the parent council.
“I also wish to thank the staff for putting up with me. It is my deepest hope that the school goes forward and continues to serve the great people of this area.”
South Lanarkshire Council’s Executive Director of Education Resources, Tony McDaid paid a fulsome tribute to the teacher.
He said: “Peter has been an outstanding head teacher. He has been committed to the young people and families within the Trinity High School Community and under his leadership the school has gone from strength to strength.
“He is able to retire knowing the positive difference his leadership has made to a generation of young people.”
The list MSP James Kelly, who regularly worked with the school on various initiatives, also paid tribute.
He said: “Peter Bollen has been an excellent head teacher at Trinity High School.
“He has always led his staff team with resolve and given great attention to the education and wellbeing of the pupils. I want to thank him for his service and wish him and his family well in his retirement.”
Rutherglen South councillor Robert Brown said: “I wish Peter Bollen every happiness in his retirement.
“He will be a big loss and a difficult act to follow. His enthusiasm and commitment were legendary and infectious as was his obvious affection for Trinity High School. It is the end of an era!”
