Term 2, Week 5

Dear Parents and Carers
 
The weather at the end of this week presented a few logistical challenges but, as always, pupils responded positively and responsibly to the situation – thank you for your continued support and understanding at this time too.
 
As a school community we are focusing on 3 key priorities this year, each priority being led by a Depute Head Teacher. 
 
 
Securing the Best Outcomes for all Pupils (Mr Ewing)
 
A big thank you to all the staff, pupils and parents who have been nominating pupils for the Above and Beyond awards. We have had a very positive response for parents who have received certificates for their children. Just a reminder that parents can contact Mrs Watson at nichola.watson@glow.orkneyschools.org.uk with details about pupils' achievements outwith school that we are unaware of.
 
Currently Prelims for senior pupils are planned to take place in January.  Pupils have received information about study support from their teachers but if you have any questions, please feel free to contact your child’s guidance teacher.  We look forward to seeing S4 parents for Parents’ evening on Thursday 2nd December.
 
 
Universal Support (Ms Devlin)
 
The Guidance Team continue to strengthen links with our local partners, who are really well placed to support our pupils as they make their plans for what they might move onto after leaving school. Working with Skills Development Scotland, Developing the Young Workforce, Voluntary Action Orkney and Community Learning and Development, pupils can have individual support, which makes such a difference! All these organisations are in KGS on a regular basis, working with pupils and the Guidance Team. The Guidance team also support pupils with the wide range of applications that need to be completed as part of the process. Moving on from school is both an exciting and important time, and we want to make sure that our pupils get the help that they need, at the time that they need it, from the people best placed to offer that support.
 
 
Positive Relationships and Behaviour (Mr Harvey)
 
A huge thank you to those who responded to our questionnaire. There was some really useful feedback that will help shape future developments. We have put together a Working Group that includes staff from across the curriculum as well as a member of the KGS Parent Council. The group will also be consulting with pupils through the KGS Pupil Council. If parents want to share their thoughts on Positive Relationships and Behaviour then please speak to members of the Parent Council or contact Mr Harvey directly.
 
 
Two quick general notices:

• Orkney Native Wildlife Project (ONWP) is doing a recruitment drive for volunteers for their youth initiative: https://www.orkneynativewildlife.org.uk/get-involved/learning and we would encourage pupils to consider taking part.
• There will be a Christmas Card sale on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd December which includes work by the Digital Design Wider Achievement group.  You can see their images here.

 
Thank you again for your continued support. We hope you all have a calm and relaxing weekend,
 
Miss Claire Meakin
Head Teacher