The High School of Dundee was stunned and saddened by the death of teacher Dave Preston, very suddenly at home on 31st July 2020. Dave joined the school in 2007, initially teaching Graphic Communication and then Technology, Engineering Science and latterly also Physics.
He was a hugely dedicated member of the School’s Combined Cadet Force and was a crucial member of staff on numerous camps, exercises, parades and weekly training. Dave brought a calm good sense and pragmatism, combined with a kindness and compassion which ensured excellent pastoral care at all times.
Our Rector Lise Hudson has said, “Dave was such a warm-hearted and genuine colleague. His quiet manner belied his deep intellect and passion for teaching and engaging with the young people in his care. He was beloved by his pupils and was a teacher who thought deeply about how to bring out the best in every individual. “Dave always took particular time to check in that all was going well. He frequently popped his head round office and classroom doors or stopped in the corridor to ask how everything was going. We will always remember his kind words of encouragement at difficult times. He was totally committed to HSD and passionate about the opportunities that the School provided for young people.” Our CCF Contingent Commander, Colin McAdam, also paid tribute to Dave saying, “From the outset, he showed himself to be passionately committed to the development of the unit as well as to the enhancement of the cadet experience for all the cadets he interacted with.
“I greatly valued his loyalty and diplomacy as well as his selfless commitment and respected the pride he had in wearing the uniform and serving as an officer in the Dundee High School CCF.” Lise Hudson also highlighted, “Most importantly Dave was a devoted father and husband who understood the importance of family life to all that he met professionally and personally. Dave is going to be hugely missed by us all.”
