Children in Need – This year pupils had the chance to come to school in their pajamas.  Prefects also made and sold cakes on the day raising £250 for the charity.  Well done all!

Highland Music Festival – Three pupils had the great opportunity to perform at Eden Court as part of the 21^st Gala Celebration of the Highland Regional Youth Music groups.

It was wonderful to play in front of so many people and also hear the other group’s perform- Sophie Donald.

Click here to see and hear Conal and Alasdair performing!

It was great fun to play at my first ‘Snas concert, especially as it was in Eden Court – Alasdair Paul.

Performing with the full orchestra was a fantastic experience and there was a terrific atmosphere – Sophie Donald

I think we might have enjoyed it more than the audience… it was a brilliant atmosphere in the theatre - Conal McDonagh

Lots of photos here…

Interview Skills Day - This annual event took place on Tuesday 17^th November. All S6 pupils were asked to complete an application which was submitted to interviewers prior to the day. Each pupil received a half hour interview with 2 interviewers and they were marked on their application form and personal qualities, such as appearance, confidence and manner.  At the interview they were assessed on their eye contact, communication skills and the quality of their answers.

Our thanks go to the 5 gentlemen from Dingwall Rotary Club and to Pauline Butler, Marylynn Burbridge, Jennifer Teague, Sue Morrissey and Kirsty Adam for volunteering to be interviewers. S6 are to be congratulated and seem to have learned a lot from this experience.

Inter-House Orienteering – Well done to all S2 pupils who took part in the Orienteering competition on Friday 13^th November.  The S4 Skills for Work class organized the event in Flowerdale.  The S2’s were given a safety briefing before setting off in pairs or in trios at minute intervals.  Click here for photos.

The pupils had to find 12 controls within the Flowerdale area, each one attached to a marker that was identified on their maps. 6 S4 pupils acted as marshalls standing at the out of bound points so that the teams didn’t go off the map.  Overall, it went very well and there weren’t any problems or accidents. Congratulations to Luke Gorman and Caitlin Johnston of Tiollaidh who won the event with Chris Young and Kalvin Fraser (Maree) in 2nd place. Laura Ridehalgh, Eilidh MacLennan and Gemma McLean (Kerry) came third.

“The S2 thoroughly enjoyed themselves and we’d be happy to organise another event in the future. Special thanks to Gairloch Estate for letting us run it on their land.” Maddy and Patrick

Torridon Challenge - On Wednesday 18^th November five pupils went to The Torridon with Mr. Milner to take part in a challenge put on by the hotel.  The pupils involved were Rosie Smith, Ross Macdonald, Lucy Dee, Lewis Martin and Briony Young. Throughout the day the pupils participated in archery, lunch and a blogging competition.  The group competed against teams from Ullapool, Plockton and Dingwall. Although the Dingwall team carried the day it was an enjoyable day for the pupils.  Our thanks to The Torridon for organizing this event to stimulate interest in the Hospitality Industry and to Mr. Milner for taking the pupils along.  There are some photos of this event on the website.

Textile Day - On Thursday 12^th November, 30 pupils from S5 &S6 took part in a Textile Enterprise Day in the school.  See below or click here for more details and lots of photos.

RAF Self Defense Classes – On Wednesday 18th November, 3 members of the RAF Motivational Outreach Team visited the school. They taught S5/6 pupils how to defend themselves and also how to avoid getting into difficulties in the first place. The S3 Skills for Work class also had a session on team building activities. Through a number of interesting tasks they explored working together to increase effectiveness and efficiency.

Bùth-Obrach Sgrìobhaidh – Air an 16mh là den t-Sultain thàinig Aonghas Pàdraig Chaimbeul (sgrìobhadair ainmeil bàrdachd is nobhailean ann an Gaidhlig agus Beurla) a-steach dhan sgoil airson bùth-obrach sgrìobhaidh a dhèanamh le sgoilearan a tha fileanta ann an Gàidhlig. Thòisich  e le bhith a ag iarraidh oirnn stòraidh bheag a sgrìobhadh is, an uair sin, dà phìos bàrdachd mu dheidhinn diofar fhaireachdainnean. Thug e dhuinn tòrr fiosrachaidh feumail is chuidich e le bhith a’ dèanamh na stòraidhean is a’ bhàrdachd na b’ fheàrr. Bha an là uabhasach math is chòrd e ruinn gu mòr.  Tha Aonghas an dòchas gum bi e air ais airson tuilleadh obair a dhèanamh còmhla ruinn anns a’ Ghearain.  Le Ainslie NicCoinnich, an Dàrna Bliadhna

Writing Workshop – On the 16^th of November Angus Peter Campbell (a well known Gaelic and English novel and poetry writer) came into the school to do a writing workshop with the fluent Gaelic pupils. He started by getting us to write a short story and then two pieces of poetry about different emotions. He gave us lots of useful information and he helped us to make our stories and poems better. The day was really good and we all really enjoyed it. Angus hopes to come back to do some more work with us in February.  (Text by Ainslie MacKenzie, S2)

Fututechef – The area final of Futurechef 2010 took place at Inveness College on Thursday 19^th November.  Rosie Smith represented the school again this year after being coached by Ross, the Head Chef at the Loch Ness Lodge Hotel, near Inverness.  Rosie came second and, while disappointed, she should take credit for yet another success in this event.  Last year Rosie went on to achieve success at the Regional final.

Christmas Decorations – Ms Gulliver has a great team of helpers again this year, staying after school on a regular basis to produce the Christmas posters for the Multi Purpose Hall.  The theme this year is ‘Robins’ and we seem to be well on track to have the decorations up for the last couple of weeks of term.  The annual Christmas Wreath competition will be introduced next week.  This is usually hotly contested for the desirable prize of a free ticket to the School Christmas Dance.

Important Dates – Click here.

 

On Thursday 12th November, 30 pupils from S5 & S6 took part in a Textile Enterprise Day in the school. The proceedings began with a talk by Cindie Reiter who has helped to establish a successful enterprise in Balmacara. Rag, Tag ‘n’ Textile is a ’social firm’, which works with disabled and disadvantaged people. They use recycled textiles and fabrics to make a range of clothes, bags, jewellery and gifts for sale in their shop.

After the talk, pupils spent the rest of the day attending two workshops each. They chose from a range of Spinning, Felt Making. Experimental Dyes, Knitting, Cross Stitch, Patchwork, Button Jewellery and Emergency Hand Sewing. Everyone seemed to enjoy experiencing these new activities and, in some cases, some important life skills were gained! Ms. Gulliver would like to thank all the ladies who came to run workshops and who gave so generously of their time to make the day such a success.

Click here for some photos.

Click here for the programme and details of the participants.

Project Trust – Two more of our S6 pupils, Roxanne Ramsay and Briony Young have been successful in gaining places abroad with Project Trust next year.

Calum Milner is currently in China working with the Trust.  Amy French was selected some time ago and is currently raising funds for next year.  Briony and Roxanne were away over the holidays taking part in separate selection courses on the Isle of Coll.  Briony now looks destined for China and Roxanne for Guyana.  Well done to both girls!

Focus Environment Photographic Competition – S5 pupil Katrina Port has been awarded 2^nd Prize this year in this national schools competition.  Last year she received a commendation for her entry in the My Environment section.  This year her success is in the category Nature’s Moods.  Katrina will receive her award at a ceremony held at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh, on the 16^th December.

National Gaelic Debate – Ghabh Anna Hulme agus Ciorstaidh NicAlasdair pàirt ann an Deasbad Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig ann an Steòrnabhagh Dimàirt 3mh agus Diciadaoin 4mh den t-Samhainn. Bha sia sgiobaidhean deug anns a’ cho-fharpais agus fhuair Anna agus Ciorstaidh a-steach dhan darna cuairt (na deich sgiobaidhean mu dheireadh). ‘S e cothrom fìor mhath a bha seo a bhith a’ cleachdadh an cuid Gàidhlig ann an suidheachadh foirmeil agus a bhith a’ coinneachadh ri Gàidheil òga às gach ceàrnaidh de dh’Alba. Airson tuilleadh fiosrachaidh mun Deasbad, faic www.deasbadbtalba.com

Anna Hulme and Kirsty Alexander took part in the National Gaelic Debate on the 3^rd and 4^th of November in Stornoway.  There were sixteen teams in the competition and Anna and Kirsty reached the second round (the last ten teams).  This was an excellent opportunity for them to use their Gaelic in a formal situation and to meet young Gaelic speakers from all over Scotland.  For further information about the Debate, click here:  www.deasbadbtalba.com

North of Scotland Debating Competition – Although they did not make it through to the final of this competition this year, Storm Lawson and Amy French did well at Inverness Royal Academy on 5^th November in proposing a difficult motion – This House would introduce compulsory retirement at 60.  A lot was learned by all in this well supported competition!

A’Chraobh – S1 have been busy investigating local stories for the A’ Chraobh Project.  You can follow their project as it unfolds on www.achraobh.com/archives/series/gairloch.  Helen Scott-Danter, drama worker, ran a workshop with S1 on the 4^th November, showing pupils how to bring alive an imaginative story created by the entire group, so they’re more than ready to recreate the stories they’ve gathered.

Charities Update – Jeans for Genes Day took place on the 9^th October. Jeans for Genes is a charity that aims to improve the lives of children with genetic disorders, care for their families and invest in research.  Pupils (and staff) had the opportunity to wear their jeans to school in return for a contribution towards this worthwhile cause. A total of £200.15 was raised. The school once again supported The Blythswood Shoebox Appeal.  We prepared 37 boxes and these were collected last week.  Thanks to everyone who supported both these worthwhile causes.

Former Pupil Success – Steven MacIver won the prestigious Gold Medal at the Royal National Mod in Oban (October 2009).  Any individual can only win the medal once in a lifetime.

Steven, a production co-ordinator in the Gaelic department of STV, was quoted in the press as saying: “This is my fifth time in the Gold Medal competition. I have been in second place a couple of times.  I was determined to win it eventually – I am really happy to have won.”

Well done Steven – This kind of determination is admirable.  Steven has been added to the former pupil website.  If you have any infornmation about former pupils please contact the school.

Forensic PSHE – S5 and S6 had an eye-opening talk from Prof Barclay on 29^th October.  Prof. Barclay worked for many years as a forensic scientist and has dealt with many high profile cases.  Although the cases are by nature often very disturbing, he gave pupils a realistic glimpse into the area of forensics that is currently glamorised on TV.  Describing how different types of evidence are put together to draw conclusions, he showed how the police, with help from science, identify those responsible for a crime.  One pupil commented afterwards “It was a privilege for us to have someone with so much expertise to take the time to give us an insight into forensics.”  This aspect of PSHE supports our efforts to raise awareness of personal safety for young adults.

ThinkUKnow Training – On Thursday 5^th of November S2 pupils received the ThinkUKnow training on Internet safety. ThinkUKnow is an initiative that looks to promote responsible and safe use of the Internet for children between ages 3 and 16.

The pupils were asked to show their parents / carers the website and explain what they had learned from the training at home.  For more information on the initiative anyone can visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk, which has lots of useful information.

Scottish Opera – P7 and S1 pupils worked intensively, for a week, with professional staff from Scottish Opera culminating in a public performance the 6^th November.  “The Tale o’ Tam”, based on Robert Burns’ epic poem Tam o’ Shanter was performed with energy and style by all involved.  We are grateful to all involved from the opera and schools, particularly Beth Hunter and Trish McDonald, who helped prepare the pupils to put on a very professional performance.  Over £300 was collected on the door for the Earl Haig Poppy Fund.  See photos by clicking here…

Adverse Weather Guidelines – All pupils have been issued with guidelines for parents outlining school procedures during bad weather or problems with transport.  The details are also available by clicking here.  Disruption is normally a result of poor road conditions and we make use of local radio, Internet and a special 0870 telephone messaging service to provide up to date information.

Important Dates – Click here…

Old computers – Does anyone have any old computers they could donate?  We want to show Technology pupils how to take them apart and rebuild them!

All staff and pupils took part in our annual assembly to mark the national 2 minute silence today at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month. After listening to a recitation of the well-known poem ‘In Flanders Fields” Mr Port reminded those present of the need for remembrance. Head Boy, Derek Martin, read from Psalm 124 and Kirsty Alexander, S4, read “We shall keep the Faith” by Moina Michael. The Reverend Derek Morrison led the school in prayer.

Katrina Port, S5, ended the assembly with a verse from “For the Fallen” by Laurence Binyon.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

BBC News

Aspire Leadership Training Course – Two of our S5 pupils, Reece Linley and Ryan Moir attended a leadership activity course at Badaguish (near Aviemore) recently for a week long set of activities aimed at developing leadership skills.  Reece and Ryan were the youngest in the group who were made up of young adults from all over Scotland.  They returned full of confidence and very pleased with the busy and tiring schedule they endured.  As is the norm when our pupils go out into the world, Reece and Ryan impressed the organizers and we quote from the feedback received:  We worked them all really hard and both boys were enthusiastic and took part in everything, … they were definitely great Ambassadors for Gairloch High School and it was a pleasure to have them along with us – Liz Simpson, Careers Scotland.. Well done boys!

Proiseact an Darna Cogaidh / “Their Past … Your Future” Project - Bha sianar sgoilearan (Ceithidh Hulme, Yarima Conway, Ciaran MacAlasdair, Anna Nic Ghill’-Leathain, Calum Street agus Ainslie NicCoinnich) an sàs ann am pròiseact eachdraidh Dihaoine, an dàrna latha den Dàmhair. Tha am pròiseact “Their Past … Your Future” a’ gabhail àite ann an sgoiltean air feadh na h-Alba an-dràsta ’s sgoilearan a’ bruidhinn ri ginealach nas sine aig a bheil cuimhne air àm an Dàrna Cogaidh. Bha sinn fhèin air leth toilichte ùine a chur seachad ann an cuideachd Iseabail NicCoinnich agus Ceitidh NicCoinnich ’s iad a’ toirt dhuinn sealladh air mar a bha beatha aig an àm sin. Chaidh an còmhradh a chlàradh agus bidh DVD air a dhèanamh dheth.

“Bha e uabhasach inntinneach ’s chòrd e rium gu mòr. Fhuair mi a-mach mòran mun sgìre aig àm a’ chogaidh ’s mar a bha e a bhith a’ fàs suas aig an àm.” (Ainslie)

“Bha Ceitidh ’s Iseabail uabhasach còir ’s fhuair sinn a-mach tòrr mun àite.” (Yarima)

We reported previously that six pupils (Ceitidh Hulme, Yarima Conway, Ciaran Alexander, Ann MacLean, Callum Street and Ainslie Mackenzie) were involved in a history project on Friday the second of October.  The project “Their Past … Your Future” is taking place in schools throughout Scotland just now and involves pupils speaking to older generations who remember the Second World War. We were very happy to spend time in the company of Isabel MacKenzie and Ceitidh Mackenzie who gave us a great insight into life at the time. The conversation was recorded and a DVD will be made from it.

Earthquake recording – Following a recent training course attended by Mrs Macrae and Mr Hulme, the school has been given a seismometer from the British Geological Survey under its School Seismology Project.  The model is an MUTR horizontal seismometer that uses electromagnetic induction to detect ground motion. It is hoped to have it set up in the coming weeks so that seismic activity around the world can be monitored and recorded. The scope for projects involving Geography and Science, in particular, is great and it is hoped that pupils will benefit from an increased understanding of earthquakes with this new piece of equipment. For anyone interested in finding out more go to the following websites: www.bgs.ac.uk/education/school_seismology/ and www.earthquakes.bgs.ac.uk/

Inter-house rowing competition – On Monday 5^th October the annual indoor rowing competition took place.  After a range of competition races and a large number of personal challenges Maree came first, closely followed by Tollaidh with Kerry in third place.  Congratulations to the S4 Skills for Work pupils who organised and ran the event as part of their course. Click here for some photos of the event.

Am Mod Ionadail / The Local Mod –Some additional music results from the event in Poolewe last month. Click here for the full set.

U14 March Strathspey and Reel - 3^rd Jamie MacLean
Gaelic Air – 3rd Jamie MacLean
14-18 Puiobaireachd – 3rd Conal McDonagh
14-18  March, Strathspey and Reel – 2nd Conal McDonagh

Well done to all the pupils who represented Wester Ross in the recent Poolewe MOD.  The judges commented on the calibre of piping remaining strong in the area and were pleased to see so many taking their music seriously. Perhaps the closest competition was the 14-18 March, Strathspey and Reel with only 3 points difference in the top 3. –  Grant Milne

Debating – On Wednesday 7^th October Miss Mackison took Storm Lawson, S6 and Lyle Walker, S2 through to Inverness to take part in The North of Scotland Schools Debating Competition.  The motion was “this house would ban cosmetic surgery”.  Miss Mackison reported that the pupils performed admirably.  The 3^rd round is on 5^th November at Inverness Royal Academy – our team will sum up for the proposition that: This House believes in compulsory retirement at 60.

Jeans for Genes Day – On Friday 9^th October, the school raised over £200 for the Jeans for Genes charity.  Pupils donated £1 to wear their jeans.  For an extra 50p they could wear trainers.

Highland Homecoming A’Chraobh Project – “Gothic Gairloch” - First year English classes are embarking on an investigation of strange and supernatural tales that originate within the parish.  They will be interviewing family, friends and neighbours about local legends and researching them in the library and online.  Pupils will then record some interviews and present podcasts of some of the stories for the school and A’Chraobh websites.  Former pupil and Head Girl, Eilidh Smith (formerly Lawrie) is supporting the English Department in this project.  If you have any stories to contribute, please contact the school and we will try to arrange an interview.

Scottish Opera – P7 and S1 will be working with professional singers, production and technical staff from Scottish Opera next week, culminating in a public performance at 7pm on Friday 6^th November.  The opera is a specially commissioned work for the Scottish Homecoming Year called “The Tale o’ Tam”, based on Burns’ famous epic poem “Tam o’ Shanter”. Tickets for the show are free, but voluntary donations will be accepted.  Tickets are available from the High School Office and available to the public as well as parents.

Important Dates
After school study clubs will commence Tuesday 3rd November.  In the first instance this will be aimed at S4 who begin their prelim exams on November 25^th 2009.

Anniversary of the ‘new building’ – A special assembly marked the 30^th September 2009 for pupils and staff in the school.  We came together to celebrate the efforts put in by many to bring about the building of the new school.  Mr Hulme showed old film of mud and mouldy walls and generally highlighted the things that we now take for granted.  Click here to view the film. Pupils seemed genuinely surprised by the conditions experienced by their predecessors.  Those born around the time of the opening are now in S4.

Staffing – Congratulations to Mr and Mrs B Whall on the birth of their daughter, Sofia, on Tuesday 6^th October!  Meanwhile we are grateful to Mr L. Phin for coming through from Inverness to take Maths classes for two weeks in the absence of Mrs Whall.  Mr J. Brough has now taken up post to cover the absence for the foreseeable future.

Parent Council AGM – This was held in the school on the evening of Monday 5^th October.  Dr Caley presented an update on the Malawi project and Mr McSwan showed some films made by pupils.  Mr Port gave an update on the school generally, thanking everyone again for the sterling support given during this time of increasing financial crisis.  He also reminded everyone that we have a very good school with dedicated teachers who will continue to work for the benefit of the children throughout any difficulties that arise.  Click here for the minutes on the Parent Council part of the website.

Fèis Rois – A number of pupils in the school have recently been left feeling let down regarding classes and instrument hire.  Clarsachs hired by pupils have been recalled and accordion classes in Poolewe relocated to Ullapool.  A Fèis Rois spokesperson indicated that classes in Poolewe were financially unviable because of small numbers.  The clarsachs were needed for children working with Fèis Rois tutors.  As none of their tutors are currently available in the Gairloch area the harps were withdrawn at short notice.  Pupils taking accordion classes are now expected to attend Ullapool if they wish to continue.  It is sad to see the Fèis withdraw support from Wester Ross given their presence in Gairloch in the past.

Am Mod Ionadail / The Local Mod – Ghabh am Mod Ionadail àite ann am Poll Iù air an 25mh den t-Sultain. Bha latha math aig a h-uile duine a ghabh pàirt. Seo mar a fhuair sgoilearan Ardsgoil Gheàrrloch air adhart:

The Local Mod took place in Poolewe on the 25^th September. Everybody who took part had an enjoyable day.  The following are the results of Gairloch High School pupils who finished in the top three places in their competitions.  (We will print further music results in the next edition):

Bible Reading Secondary
1. Ceitidh Hulme (trophy for highest Bible reading marks)
2. Anna Hulme
3. Yarima Conway

Conversation 11/12 age group
1. Ceitidh Hulme
2. Yarima Conway
3. Ciaran Alexander

Conversation 13-15
1. Anna Hulme
2. Kirsty Alexander

Poetry (Fluent) 11/12
1. Ceitidh Hulme
2. Yarima Conway / Kenneth Mackenzie

Poetry (Fluent) 13-15
1. Anna Hulme
2. Kirsty Alexander

Solo (Fluent) 11/12
2. Kenneth Mackenzie
3. Ceitidh Hulme / Ann MacLean

Poetry (Learners) 13-15
1. Morven MacRae (trophy for highest Gaelic learner marks)
2. Ryan MacLean
3. Charmayne Fraser / Donnie MacLennan

Tin Whistle (Secondary)
2. Jamie MacLean

Accordion (Secondary Intermediate)
2. Jamie MacLean

Clàrsach (Secondary)
1. Sofie Banister (and trophy)

Fiddle (Secondary)
1. Oscar Howard (and trophy)
3.  Margaret Matheson

The Iain Dall Festival – Conal McDonagh received a third prize in the Under 15 Own Choice 4 Part Reel.  Well done Conal! The competitions took place in the school on Saturday 26^th September.

Inter-House Golf – Congratulations to Conal McDonagh again.  He won this competition with his best ever round. Well done to everyone who took part.  The school hopes to make this a regular event with the support of the Golf Club. Amy French, S6, did a fine job organizing the competition. The Golf Club is now running monthly competitions for juniors and we hope to record further success for those taking part.

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal – Pupils, parents and friends collected over 30 shoeboxes for the Blythswood Appeal this year.  Thanks to everyone involved particularly Dr Caley and the S6 pupils who advertised the event at Assembly.

Scottish Opera – Gairloch High School & associated primaries have been given the unique opportunity of collaborating with Scottish Opera during the week beginning the 2^nd November.  During that week, the children of P7 and S1 will work with professional singers, production and technical staff from Scottish Opera, culminating in a public performance at 7pm on Friday 6^th November.  The opera is a specially commissioned work for the Scottish Homecoming Year called “The Tale o’ Tam”, based on Burns’ famous epic poem “Tam o’ Shanter”.  The children have already been busy learning their songs, and all of them have to learn the songs off by heart during the holidays – a perfect “rainy day” activity!  Tickets for the show are free, but voluntary donations will be accepted.  Tickets will be available from the High School Office after the October break.

Work Experience for S4 – Good luck to our S4 pupils as they spread out across the UK for their week of work experience beginning Monday 26^th October.

Important Dates
29^th October – S1,2,3,5,6 pupils return to school.
2^nd November – S4 return from work experience.
6^th November – S1/P7 Opera in the evening!

After the holidays after-school study clubs will commence.  In the first instance this will be aimed at S4 who begin their prelim exams on November 25^th 2009

New menus have been issued for the canteen.  Click here to see the menus.

On the 30th September we celebrated the 15th anniversary of the opening of the new building.  Here’s why!

Re-dedication of the War Memorial – Head Girl, Amy French and Head Boy, Derek Martin, represented the school at the re-dedication of the Gairloch War Memorial on Saturday 19th September.  This short but moving ceremony took place in windy, dry conditions.  Several other pupils were present as members of the ATC.  They did a grand job as a parade of honour.  See photographs by clicking here.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Every year, we are grateful to many community organisations and individual members of the community who act as volunteer supervisors to help our young people complete the various sections of their award.  In the past year, there have been some changes to the requirements of the award, particularly in the Volunteering section, formerly called the Service section.  The most significant of these is that young people can no longer complete a training course to fulfill this section; now, training can be a maximum of a quarter of the time completed and the other three-quarters must be practical service to others (e.g. individuals in need, a charity, or a voluntary community organisation). Should anyone require further information about being a supervisor for a DofE award, whether experienced or new to it, please contact Dr Caley at the school.

Gaelic singing workshops – Gairloch High School pupils studying Gaelic or Music had the privilege of attending singing workshops led by the renowned Iseabail MacAskill.  With her good humour and wonderful talent, she made all pupils – fluent or learners – feel that they could make a good sound, especially when singing favourites such as “Brochan Lom” or “Far am bi mi fhìn”  Iseabail also stressed how important it was to know the story behind the songs, and also that not all Gaelic songs are about “death, drowning or getting dumped” !

We thank the Iain Dall Piping Festival for making these workshops possible.

Poolewe Provincial Mod – This event seems to be gaining in popularity and prominence given its proximity on the calendar to the National Mod in October.  With more and more visitors coming from further afield to participate, the competition maintains the previous high standards and is judged at national standards.  Gairloch High pupils take part annually in a range of competitions such as clarsach, bible reading and speaking.  We expect that several of our pupils will achieve success in the competition and the details will be reported in the next edition.

Their Past… Your Future Project – S1 and S2 pupils will be taking part in a Gàidhlig speaking project at the beginning of October.  Katey and Isobel Mackenzie will talk with the pupils about their experiences during the Second World War.  We are grateful to both ladies for working with the children in this way and to Bob Pegg who will be recording the conversations that take place.

S4 Prelims – Pupils in S4 have been working with their teachers preparing and planning for their exams, which start at the end of November. Parents should be aware that these pupils should now be focused on these exams. They have been given appropriate materials for their subjects and advised about the steps they need to take to achieve their best grades. We would ask that parents support pupils in preparation for these important exams.

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal – A reminder that next week is the last week for bringing shoeboxes into school as we have been asked to have them ready before the October holiday this year.

The Iain Dall Festival – Last weekend the school hosted the Young Pipers Competition as part of the festival.  Thanks to Mr. Andrew Bowker, our janitor for his support throughout the day.

S4 Work Experience begins 26th October – Most pupils now have work placements sorted.  Mrs. Flora Mackenzie is working furiously behind the scenes to make sure all the paperwork is in place.  This year we have pupils involved in a wide range of work between London to Stornoway.  Radio and TV, music industry, fishing and estate and stable work, hospitality and retail, nursing and building as well as shadowing  MPs. For many pupils it is a key event that provides additional focus for exam preparation and direction for future ambitions.

Dates of importance click here…

Invigilators – The school is starting the process of nominating invigilators for the next diet of exams in May and June 2010. If anyone in the community would like to consider this task, which will involve a number of sessions overseeing the running of SQA exams, and requires more information, this can be obtained from Nevis Hulme, 01445 712275.  This is an important and necessary role that is of great assitance to the school and pupils.  We appreciate offers of help which are renumerated at a set SQA hourly rate of pay.

Vacancy - Temporary Clerical Assistant 1 – Ref: D/202/09
Temporary for 12 months when it will be reviewed – 7 hours per week.  Find out more from John Port, 01445 712275 Applications forms from the Staffing Unit, Dingwall, Tel: 01349 868640 (24 hour answer machine)
Closing date is 5pm 25th September 2009.

Parent Council – Details of the meeting held by the Parent Council on Monday 7^th September has been widely reported on the radio and in the wider press. The support to maintain the high standards of the school resulted in around a hundred people attending. Charles Kennedy chaired a wide ranging discussion focussed on the threat to the school community posed by increasing cuts within the Council.  Minutes of the meeting and all associated information is posted on the school website.  Many parents have also taken the time to write to Councillors, MPs and MSPs to express their concerns.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – S3 pupils had an introduction to the DofE on Thursday 10^th September. We were pleased to welcome back former pupil Liam Ross who spoke about his DofE experiences at bronze, silver and gold level and answered questions from pupils. Those who are interested in enrolling for the bronze award should have taken home a letter for parents/carers, an introductory leaflet and an enrolment form. The enrolment form and fee (£11.50) should be returned to Dr Caley by Wednesday 7^th October. Any further questions about the award should be directed to Dr Caley.  Click here to see lots of photos from our recent trips.

A group of senior pupils (Katrina Port, Ella McDonagh, Amy French, Lyndsey Croal, Roxanne Ramsey, James Staddon & Alasdair Paul) attempting  their 3-day Silver Assessement expedition in the Cairngorms were forced to turn back due to dreadful weather conditions.  They will be given an opportunity to complete another assessment in the spring.

A national report produced recently by HMIe commended work being done in schools across Scotland by staff working to support DofE for young people.  Gairloch High and Dornoch Academy have been mentioned in various reports due to our participation in a national project involving 6 Scottish schools looking at the ways we support the Award Scheme.

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal - Once again, we will be participating in the annual Blythswood shoebox appeal. As the collection date this year is only just after the end of the October holiday, we have been asked if we can collect up the shoeboxes before the holiday, that is by Friday 9^th October. The appeal has been launched at assembly this week and pupils have received leaflets. We encourage everyone to contribute either individually, or by getting together with some friends to make a box together, to give someone less fortunate a better Christmas this year.

Hame – Sofie Banister (S1) was invited down to Glasgow recently by Learning and Teaching Scotland to receive a copy of ‘an anthology of poems by Scotland’s young people’.  Selected from almost 6000 entries Sofie was one of a few Highland children whose poem was selected for publication.  Sofie wrote her poem while she was in Primary 7 at Kinlochewe Primary however a copy of the Anthology has been graciously donated to the High school.  Well done Sofie!

Details of the poetry competition are available here along with a list of all the winners.  You can also download a copy of the book!

The Road To The World Cup – On Saturday, 5^th September pupils from Gairloch High School went to the Scotland versus Macedonia match at Hampden Park in Glasgow. ‘We left school at 8am and arrived at Hampden at 2:45pm just before kick off at 3:00pm. It wasn’t the best of starts for Scotland as, although we were constantly on the attack, we kept leaving our goal wide open for the opposing team to score. The first half passed though with no goals scored.  In the second half Scotland managed to score two goals before the whistle. The goals were scored by Scott Brown and James McFadden. Overall the game was a success for Scotland and everyone was pleased with the result.  Our journey back was long because of all of the cars and buses leaving Glasgow but no one bothered because everyone was so tired after the long day and our 2-0 victory over Macedonia.

The pupils taken to the game would like to thank Mrs Whall, Mr McSwan, Dr Shearer and Mrs Maclean for arranging and taking us down to the game’ - Ryan Moir.

Skills for Work – Sport and Recreation – This course known by the pupils as ‘Outdoor Ed’ involves some work in understanding how emergency services operate.  Last Friday afternoon they were fortunate enough to have members of the Torridon Mountain Rescue show them how search and rescue operated.  After finding a ‘missing’ pupil the group were shown how to secure the casualty in a stretcher.  Much to their surprise a coastguard helicopter turned up at that point to ‘assist in the rescue’.  The class were then treated to a demonstration of a helicopter evacuation before the helicopter landed on the playing field.  The crew then gave the pupils a guided tour of the machine.  Staff at the school are very grateful for the support of our local rescue volunteers and the coastguard team for giving up time and energy assisting the children.  Click here for some photos.

Important Dates - click here for details

28^th September – S3 monitoring reports issued.
2^nd October – S4 monitoring reports issued.
9^th October – School closes for October break.
26^th October – S4 Work Experience begins.

Work Experience is a valuable activity that gains the S4 pupils another qualification on their SQA certificate next summer.  Parents assist in helping place their children in job locations all over the UK for a week in October.  For many pupils it is a key event that provides additional focus for exam preparation and future ambitions.

Exam results – Pupils in Gairloch High maintained a high standard of results this year in SQA exams.  In Sixth year a third of the pupils achieved at least one Advanced Higher in a large range of subjects including Maths, Physics, Art, French, Biology, English, Computing and Gaelic.  Many of these awards were at Grade A and show that pupils are already achieving academically at University level.  This success rate continues to be one of the highest in Highland.

In S5 Lyndsey Croal achieved A passes in 5 Highers.  Roxanne Ramsey also gained 5 Highers.  This is a difficult and commendable achievement.

S4 pupils achieved very good results.  All pupils achieved Maths and a third of them achieved Credit level in ALL of their exams.  In the majority of cases by far, these were gained at grade 1.  These results are a springboard for future success and as such the children have got off to an excellent start.

These results are of a high standard when compared to other schools and we are pleased again with the efforts of pupils and staff – not forgetting parents.  It is worth remembering that the important factor in this process is the individual progress of every pupil.  Each year we strive to get the best out of each child in order that they are ready to move on at a level appropriate to their ability and ambition.  We are discussing with each pupil what their next step should be in achieving that progress no matter what grades they achieved.

Staffing – Mrs Johnston has taken up her PE post on a permanent basis this month.   Ms Velt and Mrs Somers are now teaching History in addition to their own subjects.  The Parent Council is still working hard to gather support for the continuation of a wide range of academic provision thus maintaining opportunities for children living in Gairloch.

Dr Caley has returned from Malawi after a second visit to Mlozi.  Click on the photo to see more.  We hope to provide a report shortly.

First Aid – S3 pupils were presented with their emergency first aid certificates.  Their course took place in May prior to Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions.  We use this event to train and update staff first aid qualifications as well.  This year Mrs Bulmer and Miss Colquhoun also received certificates.

Project Trust – Calum Milner left for China on Thursday 27^th August.  We hope to be able to give updates over the year on the school website.

Amy French (Head Girl) has now applied and has been offered a place next August.  Amy will be fund raising over the next year with the hope of going to Thailand with Project Trust.

Gaelic Writing Competition – S1/2 pupils who took part in a national competition received certificates at assembly.  Mairi Wyatt came first across Scotland and was presented with her certificate and a significant cash prize at Prize-giving.

Bible Project – Several pupils entered work that they completed in their Religious and Moral Education classes.  They had to imagine themselves present at a major event in the life of Christ.  This UK wide competition resulted in certificates of merit for Katie Allan and Mairi Wyatt while Ian Paul won a copy of the New Testament for his work which was of a ‘particularly high standard’.

Scottish Space Camp – Roxanne Ramsay attended Strathclyde University between the 15^th and 19^th of June, along with 118 other pupils from all over Scotland.  ‘The school aims to encourage more people to study engineering and space exploration.  It was a busy week with breakfast starting at 7.30am and finishing at 11.00pm. The activities included lectures from astronauts like Dominic Antonelli, building a pulse monitor and even a talent show.  A great week!’

Living Lochs – S2 pupils went on an outdoor lesson to Loch Linne a’Mhuilinn, Mihol.  They went out to collect animals and insects from the burn, bog and the loch.  They studied and identified them using microscopes. The pupils were under the guidance of Lorna Brown (Wester Ross Fisheries Trust) and accompanied by Lindsey Duncan (Highland Council Countryside Ranger), David Mullaney, Robin Reid and Norman Thomas, who we would like to thank for sharing their expertise and enthusiasm.  Thanks also to the Royal Society, Scottish Natural Heritage and RAFTS, who provided the funding to allow this project to take place.  Click here to see some photographs of the work done.

Ten more in Moray – Congratulations to Alasdair MacLennan, James Staddon, David Gorman, Mr Johnston and Mr Gorman for completing the “Ten More in Moray” endurance mountain bike race at Fochabers on Saturday 22^nd August.  Training over the summer paid off; the three boys were able to compete with a very fit and strong field and finished well up the rankings. They finished ten 10-mile laps in the 11 hours allowed for the event. The last lap was a nail biting affair, with Alasdair starting with no guarantee he would finish before the end of the event at 8:30PM. Fortunately, he flew round and the extra lap pushed the boys up into 13^th place out of 34 male senior trios.  Mr Johnston and Mr Gorman raced as a pair and did nine laps between them. To get a flavour of the event, see the video on the “No Fuss” events website.  Thanks also to Mrs Gorman for catering – at 900 calories a lap, this was no mean feat!

Great Wilderness Challenge – Pupils involved with the ATC helped out and took part in the event (photo).  Mrs Bulmer was fastest lady over 13 miles, 11th overall and only 17mins behind the leader (photo) while Miss MacAllister walked the route.

Graduation of former pupils – Congratulations! Click here for information on the former pupils area of the school website

]]> http://gairlochhigh.wordpress.com/2009/09/05/school-news-4th-september-2009/feed/ 0 Gairloch High