20th Mar 2026
Join us as we speak with former pupil, Gillian McClinton, to reflect on their memories, achievements, and how the school helped prepare them for the future.
Name: Gillian McClinton
Time period as a pupil at Belmont House: 2001 – 2006
Current Occupation: Business Lecturer
How did your time at Belmont House School shape your career path?
My experience at Belmont House School played a significant role in shaping both my personal confidence and professional mindset. As the first female pupil, I was in a unique position that required resilience, adaptability, and the ability to navigate change from an early stage.
Being in that environment encouraged me to develop a strong sense of independence and self-belief, as well as the confidence to contribute my voice even when I was in the minority. These are qualities that have been invaluable in my career.
Professionally, this experience has influenced my approach as a Business Lecturer. I place a strong emphasis on creating inclusive, supportive learning environments where all students feel confident to participate and develop their skills. The ability to adapt, communicate effectively, and support others, skills I began developing at Belmont, are now central to both my teaching practice and my wider professional approach.
Can you share a key moment or memory from your time at Belmont that had a lasting impact on you?
I was incredibly fortunate to be taught by so many amazing teachers at Belmont House School, many of whom I still feel very fond of today. It was also a full-circle moment for me to return to the school for a short period in a business development role, working alongside people who had such a positive impact on my education.
Firstly, a special mention has to go to Mr Shanks, who was Deputy Head during my time and is now Head Teacher. He is a supportive and inspiring leader, as well as someone who genuinely cares about his pupils.
Mr Teiger also deserves recognition for patiently dealing with my endless excuses for not participating in PE, especially those bleep tests! Mrs Muir played a huge role in inspiring my love of languages and supported a small group of 4 of us in achieving 1st place in our category and 2nd overall in a German competition at the University of St Andrews.
Mr Doak made chemistry engaging and accessible, even for those who didn’t naturally gravitate towards science, and he is the perfect person for the new alumni role keeping pupils connected with the school after they leave, which can be seen by just how many former pupils have completed the alumni profiles.
Mr Cavers always brought humour and energy to physics lessons, making them enjoyable and memorable. Ms MacDonald created a supportive and enjoyable environment in art, encouraging creativity and confidence. Mr Parr always encouraged and supported me, even when geography wasn’t my best subject!
Finally, a very special mention goes to Mr Maguire, truly one of Belmont’s greatest assets. He was always there with support, guidance, and a listening ear whenever I needed it, and his kindness extended far beyond the classroom, to even being there on my wedding day. He really is one is a kind and made my time at Belmont House School more special.
What skills or lessons learned at Belmont have been most valuable in your professional life?
After leaving Belmont in 2006, I initially pursued a path in Primary Teaching. While I valued the experience and what I learned from it, I quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit for me long-term. That decision gave me the confidence to reassess my direction and move into the field of business, which was a much better match for my skills and interests.
I began my professional career with Morgan Stanley, where I developed a strong foundation in the corporate environment, particularly around professionalism, communication, and working as part of a team. I later transitioned into education and now work as a Business Lecturer at City of Glasgow College, teaching HNC and HND students and supporting them in developing practical, real-world business skills.
Alongside my career, I’ve also built a busy family life and am a mum to three children, which has further strengthened my organisational skills, resilience, and ability to balance multiple priorities.
Looking back, my time at Belmont helped prepare me for these transitions by building my confidence, adaptability, and willingness to step outside my comfort zone. Being part of a changing environment at the school meant I was more open to change in my own life, and more confident in making decisions that were right for me, even when that meant taking a different path.
In what ways did Belmont House School’s community or culture contribute to your personal growth?
Being part of the Belmont House School alumni community means being connected to a place that played a significant role in shaping who I am today. It’s something I feel genuinely proud of, particularly having been part of such a pivotal time in the school’s history as the first female pupil.
There’s a strong sense of shared experience and connection, not just with former classmates but also with the teachers who made such a lasting impact. Returning to the school in a professional capacity was a lovely moment and reinforced that sense of belonging. It feels like a family rather than just a school.
Now, in my role as a lecturer, I really value being part of a wider community that supports young people in their development. Belmont House School will always be a part of that journey for me, and I’m proud to still feel connected to it today.
What advice would you give to current Belmont students who want to follow a similar path to yours?
My biggest piece of advice would be not to feel pressured to have everything figured out straight away. It’s completely normal for your path to change, I initially pursued Primary Teaching before realising it wasn’t the right fit, and that led me to a career in business and education that I truly enjoy.
Take opportunities when they come, even if they feel outside your comfort zone (like a German public speaking competition) as they often help you discover what you do and don’t want to do. The skills you build along the way, such as communication, teamwork, and resilience, are just as important as academic results.
I would also encourage pupils to be confident in themselves and their abilities. Belmont House School provides a strong foundation, but it’s how you apply those skills, adapt to change, and stay open to new experiences that will shape your future.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to change direction if something doesn’t feel right, sometimes the best opportunities come from taking a different path.
Our thanks to Gillian for sharing their experiences – would you like to feature as part of our Alumni of Belmont House School?
Please feel free to get in touch with Richard Doak via email: RDoak@belmontschool.co.uk
