On 28th November the Stirling School of English celebrated St. Andrew’s Day slightly early with a ceilidh in Stirling’s Albert Halls. It was a very successful evening with a great attendance of over 80 people from more than 20 different countries.

David Howes, the chairman of the charity, opened up the evening with a short presentation on the life of St Andrew and how he became the patron saint of Scotland. 

Then, every table worked on answering questions about Scotland. The winners got all 14 answers correct and won a quality prize – Quality Street sweets – which they kindly shared with everyone.

Following a supper of stovies prepared by the Sunlite Cafe, the attendees danced the night away with country dancing – Gay Gordons, Dashing White Sergeant, Strip the Willow and many more. These were expertly taught to us by Duncan and Margaret.

To keep revellers busy when they weren’t wheeling around the dance floor, Duncan and Jim fully engaged them in singing some traditional Scottish songs, adding the Proclaimers’ “500 Miles” to the list, as this is a firm favourite. Jeremy played some Irish music for flute and children had fun playing ‘pass the parcel’ before discovering the amazing raffle prizes kindly donated by students and tutors.

Everyone made some international friends and had a fun and happy evening with great conversations around the tables.

The next similar event will be held in the Albert Halls on 29th January at 6:30pm to celebrate Burns Night. To reserve a ticket, please email: stirling.school@yaoo.co.uk