It’s been an interesting week given the weather – I hope that everyone managed to get through the wind, rain and, in some cases, snow unscathed. As ever the school remains open unless you hear otherwise via the website or local radio.

On Monday and Tuesday we welcomed Andy from “Tree of Knowledge” who came in to speak to S2 about resilience and to the S3 about “Growth Mindset”. The workshops were based on the work of Professor Steve Peters (This Chimp Paradox) and Professor Carol Dweck (Mindset). The pupils found the sessions entertaining and engaging and Andy has challenged them all in their thinking and actions. We will be revisiting these workshops with the pupils in three months’ time to see what impact they have had on their thinking and learning. We were also lucky enough to be offered a parents’ session on Monday night that was well attended.

Every morning this week we have been hearing about the school’s partnership with Ruhanga School in Rwanda. Over the years we have raised money and taken stationery and sports’ equipment out there to help staff and pupils get the most out of their education. Listening to the presentation really makes me think about how lucky we are here, that most of us think nothing about buying new pens and pencils, and take school equipment for granted. We are hoping to continue our support for the school by having a “Dress-Down Day” on Friday 13th February. We would ask all pupils who take part to donate a pound, which will go towards paying for some 13 year old pupils to carry on with their education. I hope that you feel able to support us in this.

Moira Young author of Dustlands Trilogy visited the school on Wednesday this week. The event was organised by Mr Plain, School Librarian, and the English Department with colleagues from Scottish Book Trust. Moira spoke to S2 pupils about how her family life stories inspired her writing and how everyone has a story inside them. As well as reading extracts of the first novel, Blood Red Road, and playing the book trailer; pupils heard how it is being developed for film by director Ridley Scott. A trained opera singer, Moira ended her visit with an aria from The Marriage of Figaro. Pupils had a chance to purchase books, collect an autograph and talk one to one with Moira about their writing. Moira was full of praise for our pupils and said what a great audience they were.

There are a couple of events coming up that we would love to see you at. The first is the Burns’ Supper on 29th January from 7pm. Tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for pupils. It is a great event with plenty of good food and entertainment. One of our Young Enterprise teams is putting on a talent show (they originally wanted to do it earlier in the year but it had to be postponed). It will take place on the 11th February at 7pm and tickets are on sale in school as I type.

Next week I look forward to meeting our S1 parents as they come in for their first Parents’ Night. It takes place on Thursday, 22nd January, between 5pm and 7pm. Pupils should have brought home a letter and should be signing their parents/carers up for appointments.

Have a good week.

S Ingham