Margaret Alcorn, a pioneering figure in Scottish education who created 'learning rounds' for teachers, has died at the age of 78. Her innovative approach, inspired by medical rounds used by doctors, involved groups of teachers observing classroom practices across the country.
Career and Contributions
Starting as a teacher, Alcorn rose to become the City of Edinburgh council's quality development manager and later Scotland's first national continuing professional development (CPD) co-ordinator. In this role, she built a dedicated team and connected with educators in every local authority. She also led an international programme that resulted in the development of learning rounds, fundamentally changing how teachers learn from each other.
Early Life and Education
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 and later the University of Edinburgh (1968-71), earning a degree in English literature.
Her teaching career began at her alma mater, Broughton High School, before moving to Forrester High School in Edinburgh and then to Wester Hailes Education Centre. In 1988, she joined Castlebrae Community High School as an assistant head teacher. She was later seconded to the City of Edinburgh Council to lead teacher professional development, a role she made permanent from 2001 to 2004. She then became national CPD co-ordinator at the Scottish Executive, serving until her retirement in 2012.
Professional Impact
The writer met Alcorn in 1999 while both served on a working group at the University of Edinburgh, drafting national professional standards for teachers. In all her roles, she was described as insightful and inspiring. Alcorn was occasionally invited abroad to share her expertise and brought inspiring educators to Scotland. She also served as convener of the Scottish Educational Leadership Management and Administration Society from 2010 to 2019.
In retirement, she continued to inspire others. Known for her strength, kindness, humour, and influence, she enjoyed theatre (especially the Edinburgh Fringe), cakes, wine, and socialising. She often engaged in lively discussions about education.
Personal Life
Margaret married Bill Alcorn in 1966; he died in 2013. She is survived by their daughter, Rhona, and her sister Irene.
