The theme of this week’s assemblies has been global citizenship. The S6 Charities Group prepared and delivered a moving and informative presentation on the floods and the aftermath in Pakistan. Various events are planned to raise money for this urgent cause, starting with bucket collections of change, no matter how small.

Wednesday was World Literacy Day and to mark the occasion, all S1 pupils have been invited to enter a short story competition on the theme of ‘Change’. S6 pupils will judge the entries and the winners will be announced at the S1 Settling In Evening (23 September).

Also on Wednesday, there was a full day’s training and team building for the School Council. They spent all morning working on the St Mary’s Community Garden. Knox pupils have undertaken this on several occasions and were commended on their hard work and energy.

On Wednesday evening there was a well attended UCAS Information event. I am sure the parents found the evening helpful to them in supporting their youngsters through the intricacies of applying to university. My thanks to all staff and friends of the school involved and particular thanks to Ms Garwood, who organised the event.

The Parent School Partnership (Parent Council) held their first meeting of the session on Wednesday evening and various issues and areas, including the 2010 examination results, were discussed. Minutes will be available on the Parents’ website.

Undeterred by the heavy rain in the week, sporting fixtures have started. Details can be found on the website.

Finally, yesterday, we were delighted to host the first visit to the school of Dr Richard Jennings as the new Head of Education. Following a tour of the school, he enjoyed lunch in the Food Court and chatted to staff and pupils. It was good to hear the many positive comments he said about the school and he was very impressed with the Head Boy and Girl and their Deputies who had acted as ‘tour guides’.

Best wishes.

JB Craig