One of the best bits of my job is the fact that I get to be impressed so much of the time by the pupils, and this week has been no exception leaving me with something of a smug grin on my face.

On Tuesday we had our Christmas Concert.  We were treated to orchestral music, ensemble playing, Jazz, choral music, and Glee Club.  The way that the concert has come together over the months has been amazing and a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of all involved.  I would like to say “thank you” again to everyone involved and I really do wonder how we are going to top it next year.

Today has seen the S6 put on their, now traditional, Pantomime.  It’s wonderful to see pupils who are normally shy and retiring giving their all, and stepping out of their comfort zones, in the pursuit of putting on a good show.  The younger pupils loved it and I was to be found at the back of the Hall boo-ing and cheering with the best of them.  Again, thanks have to go to the all the staff and pupils who made it happen.

Whilst the Panto was going on, P.E. staff were calling Ceilidhs for House Groups.  The sight of up to two hundred youngsters dancing for all they are worth in the Large Gym is a thing to behold.  I particularly enjoyed the seasonal “Cha-Cha Slide”.

The Christmas Boxes were brilliant this year.  Forty-three Tutor Groups put together boxes to be distributed to the elderly.  This morning 4L3 received the following message: “I write to thank you for the Christmas Box, which Mrs Ball delivered to me.  There is so much to admire in the whole make-up of your gift, that a small ‘thank-you’ seems hardly adequate.  I shall certainly enjoy everything for many meals to come.  I wish you all a very Happy Holiday”.  Jennifer Macrae from St Mary’s Kirk came to give assemblies the other week and she read out a quote from a five year old who was asked what “Love” means and she replied “Love is what’s in the room if you stop opening presents and listen.”  I think our youngsters have a pretty good idea of this and have demonstrated it through their giving, not only with the boxes, but through their charitable events this term having raised over £2400.

On that high note I shall wish you all the best for the festive season and 2013.

The school re-opens for staff on the 7th January for staff and the 8th for pupils.