Monday January 12th 2026
Retiring Headteacher Malcom Changleng
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Tributes have been paid to the deputy head teacher of Galashiels Academy following his retirement last week.
Malcolm Changleng called time on his teaching career after having served in Scottish schools since 1992.
A former pupil of Galashiels Academy (1982–88), he trained in Edinburgh as a PE teacher and completed his probation at Cargilfield Preparatory School and Eyemouth High School.
In 1994, he returned to Galashiels Academy as a physical education teacher and spent a decade in the PE department.
After a five-year soiree travelling the world as Scotland’s first professional rugby referee, officiating in over 30 different countries and at test match level, he returned to education at the PE department at Madras College in St Andrews.
He was back in the Scottish Borders Council fold by 2011 at Earlston High School, going on to become deputy head teacher there.
Since 2017, he has been at Galashiels Academy, supporting pupils and families through challenging times such as Covid and the recent move to the new campus.
Leading the tributes was Borders MP John Lamont, who wished Mr Changleng a happy retirement, adding: “He has made a tremendous impact on education throughout his career in the Borders and across Scotland. I wish him all the very best for the future.”
A spokesperson for Galashiels Academy said Mr Changleng has made a huge difference to many individuals and families over the years and his impact will be “long remembered”, adding: “Since 2017, he has been deputy head teacher at Galashiels Academy, supporting our pupils and families through challenging times such as Covid and the move to our new campus.
“Over the last five years, Mr Changleng has taken a lead on the transition into our new school building and we would like to thank him sincerely for all he has done in this role and the strong legacy he leaves behind as we enter this next chapter.
“We wish him every happiness and good health for the future.”
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