Athletic success

I am delighted to share that two of our pupils also enjoyed success yesterday in athletics

Tom Ireland won the U14,  1500m  in a time of  4.44.49  and  Paul Ireland won the U17,  800m  in a time of   2.04.

They are now looking forward to competing for the school in the Scottish Schools Championships at Grangemouth next weekend.

Malala open morning

All are welcome to visit the brand new Malala building on Saturady morning.

Paolozzi winners

We were very pleased and exceptionally proud last night when not one but 2 James Gillespie’s Art students won awards at the ‘Paolozzi Prize’ ceremony at the National Galleries.

Lucy Gogoliuk S6 – category Winner for ‘New Directions’

and
Zora Feesey S6 – Highly Commended for ‘Spirit of Paolozzi’ *New category for 2015*

We now have an outstanding record of 4 winners in 3 consecutive years (since the award started in 2013).

Well done to our amazing pupils and thanks to our staff who, each year, through their hard work and dedication, inspire our pupils to give off their best.

High Energy drinks

Parents beware - these energy drinks are hugely appealing to kids, especially ones who leave home in the morning with no breakfast.

Edinburgh Evening News

BAFTA award for former JGHS pupil

Warmest congratulations to Iain Henderson who moved on to Clyde Valley College to study film making when he left JGHS a few years ago. Iain always had a camera in hand as a child and developed his photography throughout his teenage years. His short film 'The Wee 'Hings', which was shown at the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014, deservedly won him the Scottish BAFTA for best New Talent 2015. Well done Iain!

Appointing Curriculum Leaders

Earlier today I was invited to contribute to a training session for Curriculum Leaders. Those in attendance came fro a variety of schools from around Europe.

After surveying fellow Headteachers in Edinburgh's secondary schools I shared with my audience the qualities/skills/attributes that are most sought after when Curriculum Posts are advertised.

• Experience of leading change and making a positive impact
• Experience of leading Learning and Teaching
• Proven track record as an excellent teacher
• Strong Interpersonal skills
• Clear vision
• Able to motivate people
• Credibility/Positive role model
• Commitment to reflection and professional development