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

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Mrs Elizabeth McLean, Head Cook at Gairloch High School was awarded the REHIS Certificate in Intermediate Food Hygiene at the Highland Council offices in Inverness on Wednesday 19th August.

Mrs McLean is the first Local Authority employee in Scotland to pass the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS) e-learning Intermediate Food Hygiene course and as a result the local authority has become the first public sector organisation to be approved by the Institute as a training centre to deliver the course.

Mrs McLean got a round of applause when staff and pupils gathered for assembly on their return to school after our summer break.

Read more here on the Highland Council press release.

Pupils in S1 to S4 were awarded certificates of personal achievement.  Senior Prefect and House Captains were presented with their badges of office.  Sports champions were awarded their medals and trophies.

A copy of the Headteachers report to parents and staff is available here on the Parent Council website.

Trophy & Prize list:

Dux of School – Lyndsey Croal

Junior Languages Prize – Anna Hulme
Senior Languages Prize – Sophie Donald
History Prize – Rebecca Beaton
June Davis Miller Award for Art – Josie Ogle
Gladwyn Memorial Prize for Fine Art – Abbie Spence
MacLean Trophy for Library Endeavour – Ryan MacLean
MacKenzie Targe for Creative Writing – Sophie Donald
(Click here for a sample of Sophie’s writing)

Maths Challenge Best in School (Intermediate) – Katrina Port
Maths Challenge Best in School (Junior) – Fraser Hinchliff

Doctor Hunter Cup for Piping – Anna Hulme
Lauder prize for Music – Alasdair Paul

Junior School Trophy for Service & Achievement – Anna Hulme
Elizabeth Matthew Memorial Prize – Amy MacLeod
Lauder Memorial Prize – Calum Milner
Neil Wilkie Memorial Trophy – Jennifer Port

House Shield – Maree

Photos of the event are available by clicking here.

Senior prefect team – This group is selected in order to provide focus and drive for the entire S6 in supporting staff and younger pupils throughout the year.

Captains Derek Martin & Amy French
Responsibilities: organising Prefects (including duties and Prefects’ Room); represent the school at events; charities
Deputies Liam Smith & Judith Matheson
Responsibilities: organising Prefects (including duties and Prefects’ Room); charities
Deputy Becca Spence
Responsibilities: to coordinate the pupils involved with paired reading; help organise scribing and reading for assessments; organise the Pupils’ Council and homework club.

House Prefects – These positions are offered to S5 and S6 pupils in order to create a working team that will support heads of House maintain and promote the values of the house system.

Kerry
House captains James Staddon & Natalie Stein
Deputies Gavin Gourley & Jodie Proudfoot

Maree
House captains Derek Martin & Amy French
Deputies Neil MacIver & Briony Young

Tollaidh
House captains Liam Smith & Storm Lawson
Deputies Roddy MacLennan & Katrina Port

Prefects – All other S6 are invited to apply for Prefect status and after interview may be appointed to support the senior team and work with staff and younger pupils. All those entering S6 have received training to assist them support younger pupils – specifically the new S1. All new pupils entering the school are allocated a buddy.

As well as continued academic challenge, sixth year provides, for all pupils, time for other efforts and focus. This is an opportunity for each senior pupil to take on new responsibilities. The school staff look for a variety of ways to help develop and encourage each pupil rise to new challenges that will help preparate them for leaving school.

Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Former Head Boy, Neil MacLeod received his Gold DofE award at Holyrood on Wednesday 1st July.  Neil’s name will now be added to the school roll of honour notice board.  See a photo here of Neil at Holyrood with his award.

Bronze & Silver DofE Award Expeditions – S3 pupils completed their Assessment Expedition on 23rd/24th June. The trip took place in excellent conditions in the area behind An Teallach near Dundonnel. See some photos by clicking here.

Meanwhile a group of Silver candidates headed off from Kinlochewe into Letterewe.  In very hot weather conditions they headed over towards Carnmore and through to Gruinard spending two nights under canvas.  Thanks to Miss Dean and Miss MacAllister for monitoring the group who proved themselves excellent candidates.  These pupils will take their assessment in the Cairngorms after the summer.  See the photos by clicking here.

Space Camp – Roxanne Ramsay has compiled a report of her trip to Space Camp, which we will publish after the summer.

Neil Gunn Writing Competition – Bella Claydon came third in this Highland Competition, which attracted international entrants.  Conal McDonagh received a commendation.  Both pieces of work are available online so why not visit the website and read their work?  Well done Bella and Conal.

S2 Malawi Backpack Appeal – Mr Sutherland and S2 pupils collected 28 backpacks for Malawi.  Thanks to all who supported this collection and well done S2!  Click here for a photo.

Outdoor equipment – The school has inherited some sea and river kayaks as a result of Highland Council cutbacks. With the closure of much of the outdoor education department the school made a successful bid.  Gairloch has the trained staff and willing pupils and plan to make full use of this equipment.

Gairloch Highland Gathering – Thanks to Sandi Urquhart-Sibbald and Yvonne Spence for running the burger stand at the Gathering.  Their hard work, helped by Abbie, Leanne, Jim and Charmayne, on a hot day raised £400 for funds.  Click here for a photo as well as access to other Parent Council news.

Sports Day – “One of the best Sports Day in years”.  In perfect conditions almost every pupil in school took part in up to 5 events throughout the day.  As a result we had to postpone the relay races until the following day with Maree 3 points in the lead.  Next day Tollaidh stormed through to win most of the relay events and took the event as winning House.  Photos on the website – click here.

Sports Champions
Individual champions received trophies and medals at Prizegiving and the results can be viewed by clicking here.

Upcoming Dates
5th August – SQA exam results arrive with pupils.
17th August – Staff return to prepare for the new session
18th August – Pupils return & classes resume.
The school news will resume at the end of August.