On Friday 18 October 2025, we held a special unveiling of a mosaic artwork created by former student and professional ceramicist Matt Leak. The piece was created to commemorate Charlie MacGillivray, who sadly passed away earlier this year aged 87.
Charlie was a much-loved member of the local community and a familiar face at Wensleydale School for three decades. To honour his memory, staff, students, family, and friends gathered to celebrate his life and the lasting mark he left on those who knew him.
Claire Cullen, our Art and Design teacher who helped organise the event, reflected on the day:
Charlie was well known across the local community for his willingness to help others, his kindness and happy-go-lucky attitude. I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting him sadly, but I’ve heard lots of different accounts of his warm and cheery character. He was the epitome of a good neighbour – something that is often lacking in today’s society. From 1972 to 2002 he was the caretaker here, and then continued to drive the school bus until a couple of years ago.
Many students remember him as a bus driver for BAWB Primary School. They say he was always very friendly, often entertaining them with singalongs, jokes, and stories to brighten up their day.
The artist, Matt Leak, is an ex-student of Wensleydale School who now lives and works in Manchester. Using the ancient method of mosaic, he creates large-scale murals of portraits, usually famous faces such as footballers and rock stars. For this particular artwork, Matt broke away from his usual monochrome style to create something colourful, reflecting Charlie’s vibrant personality.
The unveiling was a moving and poignant moment, attended by Charlie’s family, some of his neighbours, and a group of Year 10 Art students who were thrilled to meet a practising artist. The artwork is now a permanent feature in the entrance of the school, allowing Wensleydale students, staff, and visitors to remember Charlie’s legacy for years to come.
While feeling a little trepidation in the lead up to the unveiling, which represented four months of his heartfelt commitment and effort, Matt said, “The event went brilliantly. I’m really proud to have done it and thought it went as well as it could have done.” He concluded, “I have made mosaics for over ten years and this particular piece is one of my proudest because of the personal connection to Charlie and the fact it sits in my ex-school and in my home town.”
Wensleydale School extends heartfelt thanks to Matt for his beautiful and generous tribute, ensuring that Charlie’s warmth and spirit will continue to welcome everyone who passes through our doors.
