Margaret Alcorn, a pioneering figure in Scottish education who developed the concept of 'learning rounds' for teachers, has died at the age of 78. Her work transformed professional development for educators across Scotland.
Early Life and Career
Born in Edinburgh, Margaret was the daughter of Harry Henretty, a paper manufacturing worker, and Betty (nee Beveridge), a barmaid and waitress. She attended Broughton High School before studying English literature at the University of Edinburgh from 1968 to 1971.
She began her teaching career at her alma mater, Broughton High School, later moving to Forrester High School in the capital and then to Wester Hailes Education Centre, also in Edinburgh.
Leadership in Education
In 1988, Margaret joined Castlebrae Community High School in Edinburgh, where she served as assistant head teacher. She was later seconded to the City of Edinburgh Council, leading the professional development of teachers—a role she made permanent in 2001. From 2004 until her retirement in 2012, she served as Scotland's first national continuing professional development coordinator at the Scottish Executive.
In this capacity, she built a dedicated team and collaborated with colleagues in every local authority. She also led an international programme that resulted in the creation of 'learning rounds,' inspired by medical rounds used by doctors. These rounds involved groups of teachers observing classroom practice across the country to share best practices.
Contributions and Legacy
Margaret and the writer met in 1999 while serving on a working group at the University of Edinburgh, drafting one of the national professional standards for teachers. In all her roles, she was consistently insightful and inspiring.
She was occasionally invited abroad to share her expertise and brought inspiring educators to Scotland to share their knowledge. She also served as convener of the Scottish Educational Leadership Management and Administration Society from 2010 to 2019.
In retirement, Margaret continued to inspire others, including the writer. She was described as a strong, kind, funny, and influential woman. Beyond education, she enjoyed theatre, particularly the Edinburgh Fringe, cakes, wine, and socialising.
Personal Life
Margaret married Bill Alcorn in 1966; he predeceased her in 2013. She is survived by their daughter, Rhona, and her sister Irene.
