[1][2] Morrison first taught in Scottish institutions in Moray, Scotland, and later at the Elgin Academy, King's College, and the University of Aberdeen.
[3] He emigrated aboard the Essex with his wife, son, and younger brother Robert (who later became vice-principal at Scotch College from 1869 to 1904).
[1] He worked to obtain subscriptions when the college was instituted, was elected chairman of the trustees, and presided at the opening ceremony on 18 March 1881.
[1] In his earlier years at Scotch College, Morrison taught classes in several subjects, but as the school grew, his work became largely focused on administration.
[1][2] In this period, the number of enrolled students grew significantly,[2] and in 1870, a larger proportion passed university examinations than at any previous point in the college's history.