Addressing the audience at the annual prizegiving, Richard Anderson said it would be the last such ceremony in the old building with the next to take place in September 2009 after the move.

Acknowledging the array of prizewinners, he said it was a "humbling experience" to stand before such an array of talent and paid tribute to the pupils, as well as the staff who had helped them achieve such high standards.

The rector said: "Outside we have the shell of a new £30 million school. We are excited at the prospect of the move. The increased and improved resources will help us achieve more. But we will carry with us many of the old traditions of Falkirk High School.

"We shall continue to strive to provide opportunities for all pupils to achieve at the highest level, whether it is academic or sporting or cultural or environmental or in the community. Everyone at Falkirk High is valued for their own individual contribution."

Praising those achievers, he added: "One of the saddest things as head teacher is to see poverty of ambition in young people. Clearly that does not apply to anyone here.

''Fortunately, the vast majority of our pupils set ambitious targets and aspire to achieve at the highest level, with the full support of parents and family. However, for the small minority who do not, we have an even greater responsibility.

"If we do not excite them with education, what happens after school? If they are disengaged as 15 year olds what happens in later life? Do we just continue the cycle of deprivation and dislocation?"

Laying down a challenge to the prizewinners, he said: "In front of me are the great successes of Falkirk High and it is right that we celebrate their achievements. But we must remember that we all have a commitment to make a difference for all young people.

"We must ignite the spark for everyone. All of you prizewinners have special talents.

''As you go through life you have a greater responsibility to use that talent to help ignite that spark in everyone."

Welcoming special visitors, Mr Anderson introduced author Alan Bissett, who was the guest speaker, Lorraine McFarlane of Falkirk Council's education services, and the parents of pupil Andrew Scott who died earlier this year after a long illness.

Thanking the couple for presenting a trophy in memory of their son, the rector said: "At his funeral there was a celebration of his life and between then and Easter there was a series of fundraising activities. Andrew would probably be surprised to learn of just how many lives he has touched and the impact he has had."