Tributes paid to Brae teacher

A BOOK of condolence has been started at Brae High School for a popular teacher who passed away on Friday following a short illness.

Graeme Callander taught at the school for around 30 years and he was described as one of its “genuine characters”.

The modern studies teacher was also a keen lover of fly fishing and regularly took part in competitions as well as holding tutorial sessions with pupils during breaks.

The school said in a Facebook post that his “approach made pupils comfortable and he was ahead of the game in what we now call a ‘nurturing approach’.”

“He was always available over each and every break and lunch for pupils to come in and chat with fly tying as the distraction,” the school added.

“Many did use that space and will appreciate his willingness to listen and spend time with them.”

One pupil said “Mr C was not just a teacher, he was a friend”, while another said he was a “brilliant teacher with a great personality”.

The school is inviting ex-pupils and those with memories of Graeme to add messages to a book of condolence by getting in touch on Facebook or emailing at brae.school@shetland.gov.uk.

Alternatively, people can visit the school and write in the message in person.