Teachers across Scotland are being offered a free cider on the last day of term in a twist on an old tradition.
Photographs: Alan Richardson
The unusual offer comes from Lost Orchards, a Scottish cider maker and large-scale orchard planter. It is inviting teachers and school staff to swap the traditional end-of-term apple for a well-earned drink as they toast the arrival of the summer holidays.
Staff can claim their complimentary cider at participating pubs by showing school ID, a staff lanyard, a Lost Orchards social media post — or simply turning up with an apple in their hand.
The idea is a tongue-in-cheek take on a centuries-old tradition of giving teachers apples as a thank you for their hard work. Historically, when rural communities had little money to pay teachers, families would often gift food, crops, or firewood in recognition of their efforts. Over time, the humble apple became one of the most enduring symbols of the profession.
Now, the team behind Lost Orchards think it’s time Scotland’s hard-working teachers enjoyed something a little stronger. “Scotland’s teachers deserve a round on us,” said Lost Orchards co-founder Angus Morrison.
“The end of term is a huge milestone for teachers and school staff, and after a year of lesson plans, parents’ evenings, report cards, and classroom chaos, we thought they had earned something more refreshing than another apple.
“We know teachers appreciate every end-of-term gift they get, but for those who have enough apples, or just don’t really like them, we wanted to offer a well-deserved pint of cider instead.
“It still starts with an apple, but this time it’s one grown here in Scotland and turned into something teachers can enjoy properly as they clock off for summer.”
The offer will be available at participating pubs on the last day of term in each local authority area, while stocks last. That’s 25th June in Glasgow, 26th June in Edinburgh and Stirling, and 3rd July in Fife.
