I am delighted to see that the pupils have returned to school safe and sound after what, I hope was a relaxing, and, what I know was a damp, summer break.

We have welcomed some new staff members this session:

Mr Donaldson and Ms Thomson in Mathematics; Ms Blackhall and Mr Mackinnon in P.E.; Mr Forbes in Biology; Mr McSwan in Computing; Mrs Stuart in Art, Ms Mackinnon in Drama and Ms Stobie in Geography.  We wish them all the best and hope that they enjoy their time here at Knox Academy.

It has been wonderful talking to pupils who have taken part in many and varied activities over the holiday – from travelling in Europe, to attending the Olympics, to taking part in local clubs and activities.  The pupils who went on the Honduras trip seemed to have had a “life-changing” experience and have come back with increased confidence and focus.  Thanks to everyone who helped make that happen – parents, staff, and sponsors alike.

The KWN group had an exciting summer culminating in their attending the final awards’ ceremony in London where they were awarded the prize for “Best Documentary”.  This is a huge achievement and the pupils have made us very proud.  (There is a fuller account of their trip in the News section of the website).  Again, thanks go to staff and parents for their support in this venture.

The exam results were very gratifying and a number of pupils exceeded their own, and our, expectations.  We have almost completed the re-coursing of senior pupils who needed to rethink their plans, and the timetable should settle down over the next week.

I made a plea in the Knox News at the end of last session for any parent who would like to come in and give an hour a week for ten weeks to help pupils improve their literacy skills (reading, writing, listening and talking).  Please contact me if you are interested.

When I received the telephone call asking me if I would like to take up the post of Head Teacher I replied, “I would be honoured”.  I am very honoured and proud to be Head Teacher of Knox Academy and am committed to continuing, and improving, the opportunities that all pupils have to achieve and attain to the best of their ability.  In assemblies this week I have told pupils that this is a team effort and that I need them to be on my team.  A lot of what we do here could not happen without parental support, and I look forward to working alongside parents and carers to ensure that our youngsters get the best out of their time at school.