An Aberdeen school was in mourning last night following the death of an “inspirational” and much-loved teacher.
Clayton Jamieson, who was head of physical education at St Machar Academy, died on Sunday night after arriving home from a school trip with students at the weekend.
The father-of-two was aged just 44.
Last night, pupils past and present paid tribute to one of the “best teachers they ever had” – and a man who always saw the good in people.
Students were asked to arrive at the school later than usual yesterday morning due to “unforeseen circumstances”.
They were later told the tragic news.
Hundreds of people took to social networking sites to say that without Mr Jamieson, they may not have done as well at school, and that his legacy would live on in the countless students he inspired.
He was a well-known member of the north-east rugby community and was also praised by the Aberdeenshire Rugby Football Club for encouraging so many youngsters to take up the sport.
President, Alasdair Farquharson, said he had done a “remarkable” amount of work during his career, and that his incredible passion for the game had rubbed-off on the thousands of people he taught.
Mr Farquharson said he coached Mr Jamieson when he was a budding player and captain of the under-18 Colts side, and was delighted when he got involved with the club again several years later.
“Anyone in a teaching capacity will have thousands of kids pass through their hands, but sometimes they don’t realise just what effect they are having on them,” he said.
“It’s testament to Clayton, all the inspirational things that have been said about him.
“He was passionate about interesting kids in rugby, but also about using it to improve their behaviour at the same time. I was thinking about him recently as we had been discussing expanding the club at youth level and wanted his input.
“Clayton was highly thought of at St Machar Academy and highly thought of by us at the club.
“We are shocked and overwhelmed by what has happened. He will be sorely missed.”
Students described Mr Jamieson as a “joker” who accompanied them on numerous class trips abroad.
But they also said he was always there for them when they needed help or guidance.
One pupil, Rachel Reid, said: “You were not only a teacher to me, you were a father figure and a trusted friend.
“No matter what happened you were always there. I’ll never forget all the incredible experiences I’ve had thanks to you. You were honestly the kindest person I’ve ever met.
“He always looked for the best in people, and he always found it.”
Ben MacDonald said Mr Jamieson was “one of the best” teachers St Machar Academy had.
“I wouldn’t have made it through PE without him,” he said.
Robyn Topen added: “Every student at St Machar Academy would say you have been an inspiration.”
Stewart Gordon said:
“Great man – the school will be worse off without him.”