Week Seven

Dear Parents and Carers, 

​We’ve been asked to share with you details about how 12 – 15 year olds can access a covid vaccination this weekend: https://www.orcadian.co.uk/orkney-youngsters-to-receive-covid-vaccine/  Whilst the number of cases across Orkney has reduced over the last few weeks, we are mindful that there could be incidences where pupils may have to isolate in the future.  Therefore, we’ve added simple information on the homepage of our website.  If you have any questions though, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s Guidance Teacher. 
 
Developing the Young Workforce has recently employed 3 new school coordinators, Leah Rendall, will be the coordinator linked to KGS.  Developing the Young Workforce is a Scottish Government initiative which aims to improve links between education and the world of work, to increase opportunities for our young people.  DYW Orkney will work closely with the school, Skills Development Scotland, employers, and other partners, which will enable us to create a common sense of purpose when supporting young people’s personal and also career development.  You can find more information about the work that DYW Orkney do on their website https://www.dyworkney.co.uk/ or see regular updates on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, just search for DYW Orkney. 
 
Young WEIR-WISE:  Discovering Engineering with S2 Girls. Virtual Programme through University of Strathclyde. 24 January 2022 
 The University of Strathclyde are delighted to be offering an  on line programme in 2022 for female  pupils in S2. It will take place Monday 24 January 2022 from 9.00am – 3.00pm.Participants will hear from staff who will provide an insight into studying and working in the field of engineering. They will also be issued in advance with a Young WEIR-WISE ‘Lab Kit’ to take part remotely in practical activities which staff will guide them through during the online sessions.  
Further information is available on the Young WEIR-WISE website (https://www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/outreach/weir-wise/) and a link to the online application form will also be available here from Friday 1 October 2021 when applications open. 
 
Message from Brian Cromarty and Kirsty Rochford of Voluntary Action Orkney: 
We will be in KGS over lunchtime on Wednesday 6th October, outside the theatre doors. No appointment necessary for pupils but they can talk to them if: 

• They would like to start volunteering 

• They are already involved with the Saltire Award or want to find out more. 

• They're volunteering at something they’ve organised themselves. They could be due an award. 

• They did YPI last year and would like to help a charity that they’ve learnt about. 

  
National Qualifications: 
SQA have shared a message for parents and carers about how National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher courses will be assessed in 2021-22.  A link to their information can be found here: Parent guide to NQ assessments 2021-22 - SQA 
 
Finally, as we approach the end of term, I wanted to ask if there’s a member of staff who you think has gone above and beyond this term to support your child. Please consider taking 1 minute to send a free, anonymous thank you to them through the national ‘Thank a Teacher’ programme: https://thankateacher.co.uk/thank-a-teacher/thank-a-teacher-form/  
 
We intend to share another update on Wednesday next week with you.  Until then, we hope you have a relaxing weekend. 

​Miss Claire Meakin 
Head Teacher ​