A Word from Miss Cook, Head Teacher

It has been a week of glitz, glamour and success.

Last weekend some of our pipers and drummers showcased their talents at the East Lothian Solo Piping and Drumming Competition held at Preston Lodge High School. Worthy of a special mention is Josh Marsh who was awarded 3rd place in the Open Piping (18 years and under) class and was placed 1st in the Piobaireachd (18 years and under). If you want to see and hear some of our pipers and drummers in action, they will be playing at the Christmas Concert on the 16th December.

On Tuesday evening some of our S6 Sports Leaders organised a fashion show to raise money for the East Lothian Special Needs Playscheme. Clarissa Washington-Mackay and Rachel Dewar have been working since August to pull together this fabulous event. They worked with junior pupils to design and make garments that they then modelled on the catwalk. I know that this pushed everyone out of their comfort zones, be it through wondering if anyone would turn up, or for the junior pupils, having to walk the catwalk. Everyone carried it off superbly well. There was also entertainment from the school’s show choir, Venus, and a dance troupe. There was something for everyone. We are now thinking about how we can build on this event. Well done to all involved for a great evening’s entertainment. The Parent School Partnership met on Wednesday evening. As ever, the turnout was very healthy and discussions ranged far and wide. Our Head Boy and Girl (Calum Paul and Annabel Jackson) added their unique perspective to the evening, showcasing their vision for Knox Academy and passing on pupil concerns and ideas to the parent body.

Yesterday evening I had the pleasure of attending the East Lothian Star Awards with our “Employability Skills Team”. We had been nominated in the Community Partner category and were up against some stiff competition. I am delighted to announce that we won the category and have a lovely trophy and certificate to prove it! Massive congratulations go to Mr Flood and his team (Careers’ Advisors, Mr Plain, Mr Johnston) and to our partners Canon UK, Prentice Coaches and East Lothian Council. Without Mr Flood’s drive and passion for improving pupils’ employability skills we would not have been considered for the award. It is lovely to be recognised for doing well by our young people.

Next week sees things hotting-up: On Monday there is the S5/6 Parents’ Evening (5 to 7pm). There is a theatre visit (to see the BFG) on Tuesday, and on Thursday we have the “Christmas Sparkle Dance”. Can I ask parents to have a look at the document on this site that explains “The What? The How? And the Why?” of dances. Then, I guess, before we know it, we’ll be into the last week of term.

Have a very good weekend.

S Ingham

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