On Tuesday, Provost Richardson and Knox welcomed a group of six teachers from the Czech Republic. Their visit is part of a Comenius project between the Gymnazium Karvina, the Seabird Centre in North Berwick and Knox Academy, on the theme of teaching environments and sustainability. As well as spending time in the school, the group enjoyed visits to Edinburgh and East Lothian landmarks in a hectic schedule organised by Mr Jappy. We look forward to further visits and co-operation between the three parties to the project. Many thanks to Mr Jappy and Mr Duddin for organising the visit.

One event our visitors enjoyed very much was the Spring Concert on Wednesday evening. This proved to be a magnificent evening of music and song ranging from bands to orchestras to choirs to Glee Club. All performances were first class, tackling traditional, classical, Michael Jackson or Beach Boys’ music. I am sure no-one will object if I make a special mention of the Senior Choir, which provided a grand finale (‘A Tribute to Queen’) that received a huge ovation and brought the evening to a rousing conclusion. Many thanks to all staff and pupils involved in making the evening such a success. A special thank you to the S6 pupils who have contributed so much to the music-making in the school during their years with us, I am sure they will continue to enjoy music, no matter what career path they take.

Last night, senior pupils completed their practical Higher Drama examination; this took the form of a performance before an appreciative audience.Supported by the Drama Department staff, the pupils pulled out all the stops and the acting examination went very well; the visiting marker said 'thank you for making this a sense of occasion... and I don't say that lightly'. Well done to all concerned and I look forward to seeing the results of this hard work in August.

Today, full reports for S3 pupils and progress reports for S1 pupils have been distributed and I hope parents and carers find them informative and helpful.

As we approach the summer examinations, the pressure is on the pupils in S4/5/6 to complete course work, NABs and to study even harder. There will be a full Easter Revision programme (each pupil has received a copy of the programme and full details are on the website) and, during term time, revision clubs are available at lunchtimes and after school, I would encourage all the pupils to access these.

This morning we have had Easter Assemblies, on the theme of  ‘We Believe in You’ and the S5/6 pupils had a special treat as 1G3 and 1L3 performed ‘Welcome to Africa’. This included some spirited singing and drumming and a presentation on all the nations of Africa. Congratulations to the S1 pupils who, encouraged by Ms Hay and Ms Brown, managed to overcome some serious nerves to perform for the seniors.

The Spring Term finishes today at 12.05 and the Summer Term begins on Tuesday 26 April at 8.44 am (please remember that Friday 29 April is an additional holiday for the Royal Wedding).

Best wishes for the spring break.

JB Craig