Judith McKerrecher: A Lifelong Commitment to Language Education and Cultural Exchange
Language shapes our understanding of the world, builds bridges between communities, and enriches both personal and professional lives. Among those who have devoted their careers to nurturing young people through languages, Judith McKerrecher stands out as a passionate educator, leader, and innovator. With over three decades of experience in Scotland’s education system, her journey combines curriculum leadership, international collaboration, and a growing interest in community roles such as celebrancy.
This article explores the career, achievements, and contributions of Judith McKerrecher, examining her impact as Curriculum Leader for Modern Languages and International Education at Craigmount High School, her extensive teaching career, her role in promoting Mandarin and Chinese cultural learning, and her continuing personal development.
Early Career in Language Education
The Beginnings of a Teaching Career
After completing her Joint Honours in French and German at Newcastle University, Judith McKerrecher pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Edinburgh, where she gained a PGCE in Modern Languages Education. These academic foundations gave her both linguistic expertise and pedagogical skills, preparing her for a career that would soon span both teaching and leadership.
Her first major leadership role came at Liberton High School, where she spent 18 years shaping the languages curriculum and guiding pupils through French, German, Spanish, and eventually Mandarin. During this time, she became deeply involved in local initiatives, supporting transition work with primary schools and encouraging younger learners to explore languages through creative projects such as themed breakfasts and cultural tasters.
Commitment to Policy and National Initiatives
At Liberton, Judith engaged with national education policy, contributing to recommendations surrounding the Barcelona Agreement and the One Plus Two Languages Policy, which aimed to ensure Scottish pupils had the opportunity to study multiple foreign languages. Her influence reached beyond the classroom, positioning her as both a practitioner and a contributor to Scotland’s wider strategy for languages in education.
Leadership at Craigmount High School
Curriculum Development and Innovation
Since 2013, Judith has served as Curriculum Leader for Modern Languages and International Education at Craigmount High School, under the umbrella of The City of Edinburgh Council. In this role, she oversees the full running of the department, including curriculum design, leadership of staff, budget management, and student support.
Languages taught at Craigmount under her guidance include French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin. She has championed innovation, ensuring pupils are not only prepared for examinations but also develop intercultural understanding. Her leadership style emphasises collaboration, active learning, and restorative practice—methods which encourage inclusivity and positive relationships in the school environment.
Strengthening International Links
One of Judith’s most notable achievements has been her role in expanding opportunities for cultural immersion. She has successfully organised trips to China, giving Scottish students the chance to experience language learning within its cultural setting. Partnerships with universities in China have enabled pupils to take part in immersion courses, broadening their horizons and inspiring them to pursue languages beyond school.
In addition, Craigmount has regularly welcomed international teachers on placement through the University of Edinburgh, with Judith coordinating tailored programmes that allow visiting educators to observe Scottish teaching methods and share their own expertise. This cross-cultural exchange enriches both the host school and the visiting teachers.
Advocacy for Mandarin and Chinese Culture
Confucius Institute Contribution
Between 2014 and 2018, Judith worked on secondment as a Professional Development Officer with the Confucius Institute for Scotland’s Schools at the University of Strathclyde. In this role, she supported Mandarin teaching across Scotland, organised professional learning for teachers, and coordinated the national mentoring support network for Chinese Hanban teachers.
Her work was instrumental in strengthening the provision of Mandarin in Scottish schools, ensuring high-quality teaching resources, and building networks of support for both Scottish and Chinese educators.
Community Engagement
Beyond her formal roles, Judith has been active in supporting the Edinburgh Community Chinese School, where she volunteered as Acting Head Teacher from 2012 to 2014. During this time, she introduced Curriculum for Excellence profiling, oversaw examinations, supported teachers, and maintained communication with families.
This commitment reflects her belief that language learning extends far beyond the classroom and that community partnerships are vital in sustaining engagement with languages.
Skills, Expertise, and Recognition
Multilingual Abilities and Teaching Practice
Judith is fluent in French and German, has a working knowledge of Mandarin, and even some understanding of Dutch. Her multilingual skills allow her to connect with pupils across different language backgrounds and model the very learning she encourages.
She has also trained as a facilitator in restorative practice and delivered Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in active learning and co-operative learning, demonstrating her commitment to supporting both pupils and colleagues.
Awards and Recognition
Her work has not gone unnoticed. In 2012, she received the Convener’s Award for Outstanding Achievement from Edinburgh Council Children and Families Department for her role in pioneering the Careers Academy UK Programme. She also holds multiple GTCS Professional Recognitions, including awards in leadership, mentoring, practitioner enquiry, and sustainability.
Responding to Challenges: The Pandemic
During the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, Judith adapted her leadership to serve as a hub school teacher, supporting both vulnerable children and the children of key workers. Working across age ranges from primary to secondary, she demonstrated flexibility and resilience at a time when education was under immense pressure.
Her experience highlights a strong dedication not only to academic success but also to the wellbeing of children and young people.
Continuing Professional Growth
Academic Development
Never one to stand still, Judith completed her M.Ed in Leadership and Learning at the University of Edinburgh between 2016 and 2021. This advanced study reflects her ongoing interest in leadership theory, practitioner enquiry, and strategies for school improvement.
New Role as a Celebrant
In recent years, Judith has broadened her professional development beyond schools. In 2023, she undertook training with the Funeral Celebrant Training Academy, achieving a distinction. This new pathway enables her to support families during some of life’s most significant moments, including funerals, baby naming ceremonies, and marriage vow renewals. It illustrates her strong people-centred approach and ability to connect with communities in diverse ways.
Legacy and Future Directions
Championing Languages in Scotland
Throughout her career, Judith McKerrecher has played a central role in promoting modern languages in Scotland’s schools. Her leadership at Craigmount High School, combined with her national work through the Confucius Institute, has left a lasting impact on both students and fellow educators.
Inspiring the Next Generation
By facilitating international trips, supporting cultural exchanges, and mentoring teachers, she has inspired countless pupils to embrace language learning. Her emphasis on skills development, learner profiling, and inclusive pedagogy continues to shape the experiences of young people across Edinburgh and beyond.
Expanding Horizons
As she balances her continued role in education with her training as a celebrant, Judith embodies the idea of lifelong learning and service. Her career demonstrates that leadership is not only about managing systems but also about inspiring people, fostering connections, and creating opportunities for growth.
Conclusion
The story of Judith McKerrecher is one of dedication, leadership, and vision. From her early teaching years at Liberton High School to her current leadership at Craigmount High School, she has championed the value of languages and intercultural understanding. Her involvement in national initiatives, community schools, and international collaborations reflects a career that has influenced both local and global education.
At a time when language learning faces challenges, Judith’s work shows what is possible when passion meets leadership. Her commitment to developing young people as confident, curious, and globally minded citizens ensures her legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.
