It’s good to be back and straight into the swing of things. I hope everyone enjoyed their February Break (if they were lucky enough to have time off). For me, the first Saturday saw me running a gamut of emotions from anxiety that the New York group would, in fact, not make it to their destination given the snow, to being inspired and elated thanks to attending the Scotland versus Italy match at Murrayfield. Thanks must go to the SRU for inviting myself, Mr MacDonald and Mr Greenaway to attend a presentation on, and discussion of, the School of Rugby initiative that they support at Knox and for hosting us at the match. I had never been to a match at Murrayfield before and thoroughly enjoyed myself – especially given the result.
The New York trip went off without a hitch and I am looking forward to catching up with staff and pupils to hear about their highlights. Suffice it to say that the young people behaved impeccably and were a credit to themselves and the school.
I am delighted to announce that for the third year running, Knox is entering a film in the Kids Witness News Competition. This year the group have chosen to look at the issue of teenage cancer. The film is on the website and can be found here. Some of the feedback that they have had from staff already makes me think that they have judged their topic well and, I believe, have treated it in a mature and profound fashion.
There has been some active learning going on near the school grounds this week. Mr Blair’s S3 Maths class were out in force on Pencaitland Road using a Laser Speed Gun provided by the local police. It was all part of their work on measurement. So, not only did they get to scare local drivers, but they also had interesting conversations about local speed limits with the Community Police. Thanks to all involved.
It’s good to know that it hasn’t all been “work, work, work” as Mr Dempster informed me: "On Wednesday evening, the Advanced Higher Business Management class accompanied by Mr Dempster and Mr McFarlane, headed towards Ocean Terminal for a meal at Frankie and Benny's. All had a great time with good company, conversation and a fabulous meal. They hope to be able to have another similar team-building excursion before the Final Exams." It’s good to take time to relax in the run-up to exams, getting the work-life balance is all important in ensuring that pupils peak at the right time and don’t succumb to the stresses that exams inevitably bring.
Just a reminder that there is the S3 Parents’ Consultation Evening on the 27th February from 5pm-7pm. Youngsters should have been getting their appointments sorted, so please check in school bags if you haven’t seen the sheets yet.
Have a very good week.
