The senior pupils and staff, who visited New York City last week, had a tremendous trip. Feedback from staff and pupils has been positive (apart from mixed reviews for ‘Spiderman: the Musical’). The pupils explored the city, visiting famous landmarks, including the United Nations building. Staff reported that the pupils were a credit to the school and embraced the ‘Big Apple’ with enthusiasm.

During the February break, the 2 days of study support for S5/6 pupils were reasonably well attended. Pupils who did attend found the sessions very helpful. My thanks to all staff involved.

On Tuesday evening, a group of S6 pupils, accompanied by Mr Edwards and Ms Machen, travelled to Edinburgh to take part in a debating competition with Portobello High School. The Knox teams of F Bertram (6T1), G McMillan (6L2), C Laing (6T2) and J Ramage (6L1) had to debate two motions: "We should not expect our online activities to remain private"and "Genetic screening of embryos should be celebrated, not feared". Both teams displayed a great deal of confidence, determination and passion throughout the debates. The judges commented on their ability to work as a team and commended them for sticking to their guns - not backing down despite being given a 'grilling from the judges'. The team will now be preparing to take part in the Debating Matters Nationals against various schools in Scotland. Congratulations to them all and good luck for the national competition.

I would like to draw attention to the letter from Inspector Fraser Jervis, Road Policing Branch, Lothian and Borders Police that can be found on the website. I am very concerned about the movement of traffic in and around the school campus at the start and end of the school day. Hopefully, the police will be able to advise us and make recommendations on how to secure the safety of all members of the school community.

On Wednesday afternoon, the school hosted a visit from the Leader of the Council, Councillor P McLennan. The Councillor was shown round the school by the Head Boy and Girl and their Deputies, before joining the audience for the first ‘Knox Academy Business Question Time’. This proved to be a very successful event, with a panel of local business people answering questions from senior pupils and providing a great deal of information (full details will follow on the website). A big thank you to all the members of the panel and to the Business Education Department staff and pupils for organising the event. Also, thanks to Ms Hossack and her team for providing the splendid refreshments.

From now until the end of term, all S1 pupils are involved in the ‘Big Read’. The chosen book is ‘Kidnapped’ and various events are planned to coincide with the reading. Details can be found on the website.

For the diary: along with all East Lothian schools, Knox Academy will be closed on Friday 29th April (the day of the Royal Wedding).

Best wishes,

JB Craig