Last Friday pupils dressed down in aid of UNICEF’s Day of change and managed to raise over £300 for this worthwhile organisation. I am constantly surprised and heartened by the generosity of our pupils and I would like to thank them for this. The school has consistently supported UNICEF and, next Tuesday, we are having a visit from an assessor to see how we’re getting on with our work as a Rights Respecting School. Ms Brannigan and the RRSA pupil group have been working really hard to develop this project – speaking to pupils, having assemblies and talking to parents, and fingers crossed that we are told we are going in the right direction.

This week, as part of the S1 Business Education course, pupils have been using their business skills and knowledge to set up their own Deli Cafe selling a variety of soups, sandwiches and smoothies. Throughout the week all the S1 pupils have been in the Food and Health Department making their products. The standard has been very high and the pupils have enjoyed presenting about their businesses. Thanks to all the parents and guests who have been in to hear the presentations and to taste the produce on offer. Huge thanks to Mrs Jackson for assisting with the organisation down in Food and Health and well done to all concerned.

S3 Business Management pupils have been pitching their products to judges as part of their Dragons' Den marketing project. The groups came up with some innovative products and each group also produced a 30-second advert for their product. I know the Dragons were very impressed by the quality of the products and had great difficulty in deciding which teams they would support. Again, thanks to everyone who gave up their time to support the pupils.

The exams continue on apace and pupils still remain pretty upbeat. I know that there was some consternation about the National 5 paper 1 in Mathematics; however it has been looked into by both East Lothian and the Scottish Mathematical Council. The statement on the SMC website says: “The Scottish Mathematical Council is aware that the 2016 National 5 Mathematics examination has caused some consternation. Having reviewed the papers, the Council believes that whilst a small number of the questions are relatively demanding, the applications are routine, so that it is never difficult to determine an appropriate method of solution. Moreover, the questions relating to the content previously assessed at Higher Grade are straightforward. Overall, the papers are closer in style and standard to Credit papers of the past, rather than Intermediate 2. The SMC concludes that the papers are demanding but fair, and suitable as a staging post on the road towards Higher Mathematics.”

We have been trialling an extra-curricular surfing club this session. Miss Kirkwood writes, “The seven pupils that have attended regularly have had a great time and been fantastic fun despite not always having perfect conditions - battling strong winds with a 7 foot piece of foam is challenging on the best of days! Unfortunately, we've been able to attract the numbers due to the financial commitments pupils have made elsewhere for trips during activities week so we have had to cancel the sessions leading up to the end of term.” Both Ms Kirkwood and Mr Easton are keen to find a more affordable way of running this club next session, so watch this space!

Next week staff have an in-service day on Monday – senior pupils are reminded that there will be limited space for study that day owing to the Library being used for presentations. It’s business as usual for everyone as of Tuesday morning.

Have a great week.

S Ingham