Head Teacher's Update
The S3 pupils, who attended the National Science and Engineering Awards in Manchester, were, according to Ms Legatt who accompanied them, ‘fantastic and did the school proud’. They were awarded a "highly commended" in their category (there were 240 projects across 6 categories). Congratulations to Conor McHugh, Gareth Evans, Kelvin Craig, Fraser Thomson and Gabby Jackson. Also, many thanks to Ms Legatt for organising the team.
The S5 coursing interviews have been taking place this week. Many parents/carers have been able to attend the interviews with their youngsters and I look forward to reading all the course choice sheets (due in 26 March).
On Thursday 25 March we begin the course choice process for pupils in S2, with an Information Evening for parents and carers (6.30pm).
Today, the S6 pupils have received their last report from Knox Academy; I hope they find the reports helpful and informative (and a lasting memento of ‘high school’).
As we approach the end of term, the pressure is on the pupils in S4/5/6 to complete course work, NABs and to study even harder as the examinations approach. Revision clubs are available at lunchtimes and after school, I would encourage all the pupils to access these.
Best wishes,
JB Craig
The week got off to a good start; on Friday 5th March, at the new Informatics building at Edinburgh University, a Knox Team took part in the Scottish Schools’ Debate final. This involved six schools that had won regional heats. The Knox team of four - Alexandra Muir, Gregor McMillan, Emma Lynas and Tom Gates, ably supported by Mrs Fairbairn, had to prepare for 3 motions. In the morning, Knox won both heats outright and so the team was through to the final in the afternoon against Madras College. The motion was: ‘Attempts to radically extend the human lifespan should be welcomed’ (we opposed). The final was very close but we were pipped to the post. Congratulations to all involved. This was only our second attempt at this competition so next year, you never know...
On Monday afternoon, pupils planning to leave school in the summer were invited to the Opportunities 2010 event held in the library. Arranged by Guidance staff and supported by various outside agencies, this gave the youngsters information and advice on opportunities post-school.
Since Wednesday, a group of S3 pupils have been attending the National Science and Engineering Awards in Manchester. Ms Legatt is accompanying the 5 pupils and we should hear soon how they did in the final competition.
The S4 coursing interviews have been taking place this week. Many parents/carers have been able to attend the interviews with their youngsters and I look forward to reading all the course choice sheets (due in 19 March).
As we approach the last few weeks of March, the pressure is on the pupils in S4/5/6 to complete course work, NABs and to study even harder as the examinations approach. Revision clubs are available at lunchtimes and after school, I would encourage all the pupils to access these.
Best wishes,
JB Craig
Since Tuesday, the Assembly Hall has been alive with the sound of music, as S4-6 pupils completed their SQA Music Performing Examinations. From the lovely sounds coming from the hall, it should be another successful year for the Music Department.
Further talent was on display in the Library at lunchtimes, when the Charities Committee held the auditions for the end of term talent show. This should ensure an enjoyable finish for the Spring Term.
On Tuesday evening we held an information evening for the parents and carers of pupils moving from S4 to S5 and S5 to S6 in August. The coursing arrangements were outlined and details of the subjects on offer discussed. I hope all who attended, found the evening helpful and informative.
Today the Charities Committee organised a ‘Wear it Red’ day to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. Once again, pupils and staff have been very generous.
Best wishes,
JB Craig
On Monday, while the pupils were enjoying the last day of their holiday, the staff were in school for an in-service day. The theme of the day was ‘Curriculum for Excellence’ and each Faculty made a presentation on their plans for next session. Plans are well advanced and the pupils joining us in August as the ‘new’ S1 will have an enjoyable, but challenging, set of courses. Further information will be available at the various information evenings.
Congratulations to Ms Adam (RMPS) who was married during the February holiday. The wedding took place in Las Vegas and I understand Elvis was involved in the ceremony. Ms Adam is now Mrs Montgomery.
Also, congratulations to Ms MacLeod who had a baby boy on St Valentine’s Day. Mother and baby doing well.
All in all a very busy holiday week!
Best wishes,
JB Craig
