Born in Edinburgh and educated at George Heriot’s School, Ian studied Engineering Science at Edinburgh University. Graduating in 1974 he took what is now known as a gap year during which time he taught skiing in Glenshee and worked as a driver and labourer for a builder. A year at Moray House Teacher Training College led to his first job as a maths teacher in Liberton High School Edinburgh. As well as studying maths at Moray House Ian undertook a course in outdoor education which resulted in him gaining qualifications in skiing and mountaineering, and as a result he also taught outdoor education 1 day per week.

By 1982 Ian had been promoted to Principal Teacher of Mathematics in Liberton High School, Edinburgh, a post he held for 8 years. This was a time of great change in Scottish education with the introduction of Standard Grade, the development of calculators and the use of ICT. At this time Ian actively promoted joint work with primary colleagues and introduced a maths scheme that began in primary school and continued into secondary.

His career is summarised as follows: 1976-1990 Teacher of Mathematics, APT and PT; 5-14 Development Officer Lothian Region 1990-1991; AHT and DHT Gracemount High School Edinburgh1991-1997; DHT Lasswade High School Centre Midlothian1997-2001; SQH 2000; Head Teacher Menzieshill High School Dundee 2001-2007, Rector of Madras College since May 2007.

As well as teaching mathematics Ian has been involved in all schools teaching outdoor education and holds qualifications in many outdoor sports. He worked as a volunteer ski patroller in Glenshee for 20 years and has 30 years experience of search and rescue, latterly as team leader of the Lothians Search and Rescue Team. Ian is co-author of Central Maths published by Heinemann and partner in the Scottish Secondary Mathematics Group. Now enjoying living in the St Andrews area, his hobbies include gardening (reluctantly), golfing badly, skiing, sailing, mountaineering, cycling and supporting Hearts.