A DEVASTATED Scots community has paid tribute to a former Scouts leader and school teacher who passed away last month.
Andrew Sharkey was the headteacher of St Kertigan’s Academy in West Lothian, where he taught for over a decade.
The former vice president and chief commissioner of Scouts Scotland passed away in November following the discovery of a brain tumour.
Tributes have flooded in from the local community – with West Lothian Council members sending their thoughts and prayers to his family.
A statement from the Council said: “We would like to pay tribute to our colleague Andrew Sharkey, headteacher of St Kentigern’s Academy, who sadly passed away recently.
“Andrew was headteacher at St Kentigerns Academy from April 2014.
“Prior to his time at St Kentigern’s, Andrew previously taught at Whitburn Academy, Armadale Academy, Inveralmond Community High School and St Margaret’s Academy.
“He had a number of interests outside of education and was heavily involved in the Scouts Scotland, latterly holding the position of Vice President as well as being the former Chief Commissioner of Scotland.
“‘Sharkey’ as he was known throughout the Scouts movement, gave a lifetime of service to Scouting in Lanarkshire and Clyde where he championed amazing opportunities for young people through his inspirational leadership.
“He led the Venture Scout and Explorer Scout Section in Scotland as well as held numerous roles supporting International Expeditions including European and World Scout Jamborees.“
Head of education Siobhan McGarty said: “A dear colleague and friend over many years, Andrew will be dearly missed by all he worked alongside, not least everyone connected to St Kentigern’s Academy.
“Our thoughts remain with Andrew’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
Leader of West Lothian Council Lawrence Fitzpatrick added: “Andrew was a lovely man who cared deeply about St Kentigern’s and everyone at his school.
“He was passionate about education.
“His work in West Lothian and with the Scouts nationally demonstrated his love for teaching and helping young people.
“Andrew was always welcoming and generous and this is reflected in the outpouring of tributes that have been paid to him, both within and out with the school community.
“We are all extremely upset at Andrew’s passing and our thoughts and prayers are with his Andrew’s family and close friends at this sad time.”
The council added: “Andrew was always hugely supportive of our team and a really good person.
“From everyone at West Lothian Council – our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Siobhan, his sons Andrew and Benjamin and his sister Ann Marie at this sad time. Rest In Peace, Andrew.
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