The week started with my attending a concert for visitors from Aubigny at which our folk band, “The Goat’s Toes” were playing.  The group played a variety of Scottish and Irish tunes and were stunningly good.  No one could resist tapping their toes and being amazed at the dexterity and talent on show.  Ms Orr commented that it was wonderful that she and Mr Johnston were able to play along as part of the ensemble, rather than being concerned about having to lead them.  The pupils were a credit to themselves and the school.

Congratulations go to Clarissa Washington Mackay, Shereen Osman, Heather Macfarlane, Caitlin Baptie, and Owen McHugh on being picked to perform in the “Stage Experience” version of “Grease” at the Playhouse in July.  It will be a fabulous opportunity for all of them and, who knows, it might be the springboard into the professional performing arts for them.

On Wednesday the Amnesty International Group raised £110 through having an "Amnestea" in the school library.  The baking was delicious and it was all for a good cause.  Mrs Montgomery was very proud of the pupils' organisation and dedication.  Also, on Wednesday evening we had the penultimate Parent School Partnership meeting of the year.  Information about these meetings can be found on their website.  Thanks to everyone who attended.  If you have something that you’d like to suggest or discuss whether it be about your youngsters wellbeing or their curriculum, or the experiences we offer them, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

Yesterday saw the beginning of the S4 study leave.  I can’t believe it has come round so fast.  The pupils with whom I have spoken are subdued (it's always a bit daunting before you've sat your first exam) but are fairly confident and I just hope that they remember all the advice that they have been given and give it their best shot.  Positive mental attitude is really important and they should be comforted by the fact that they have all the information that they need to pass - they just have to make sure that they know their stuff.  Senior pupils are more than welcome to come into school during exam leave, even if they don’t have an exam.  Their teachers will be about to give them advice, encouragement and to do a bit of last minute revision.  Pupils should remember, though, that if they are coming into school for anything that they should remember to wear dress code.

Today we are getting a visit from Iain Gray (MSP) and Fiona O’Donnell (MP) -  nothing that I have organised, but rather at the prompting of Niall Robertson and Graham Crowson (both is S6) who are highlighting their work with OXFAM and looking at ways in which the school, the community and our elected representatives can support its work.

So this week we have gone from Aubigny, to acting and activism and all points in between.  Not bad, eh?

Have a good weekend.