Friday 31 January

1. I had some interesting discussions with pupils this morning on how Brexit might affect us. Pleasingly and reassuringly, most are quite calm about the situation, content that life will continue as normal next week and beyond. Some pupils are understandably worried about the spread of the coronavirus. This is especially true of our more vulnerable pupils and those who have relatives in China. I would encourage teachers and parents to reassure our young people and discuss with them what preventative measures are being deployed around the world to manage this latest virus outbreak.
2. Very best wishes to all staff and pupils who set off to South Africa on Monday. Thanks to all who have contributed to this year’s appeal for either books or pencil cases.
3. A warm welcome to our Spanish guests from La Laguna in Tenerife who will arrive in Edinburgh this evening and will be spending the week with our Gillespie's pupils. They will be in classes with JGHS pupils next week. Thanks to all of our host families.
4. All parents and pupils are encouraged to download the school communications app at https://www.jamesgillespies.co.uk/school-mobile-app/  As a school we will be increasingly directing more of our communications via this App in the coming weeks.
5. S6 pictures are available for collection from reception.
6. We are very lucky to have a detailed guide to University applications on our website written by a Gillespie’s parent who has been through the process and is a font of knowledge. We encourage you to look at https://www.jamesgillespies.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2019/09/Gettting-in-to-uni-parents-guide-Sept-19.pdf for information about offers and accepting- page 13 onwards. Jacqui Stark also gives a lot of helpful information about funding for universities in Scotland and the rest of the UK.
7. On Monday 27 January, the S3 History students had the opportunity to hear from guest speaker Ailsa Clarke about the unique role Scottish women played during WW1. They heard examples of the peaceful and violent methods Scottish women used to fight for increased rights and the vote for women culminating in the Representation of the People Act 1918. They also learned about women’s contributions during the Great War through the founding of the Scottish Women’s Hospital and the incredible work they did in Europe between 1914-1918. The students learned the stories of local women and girls taking part in marches, protests and campaigns all while undergoing systemic discrimination and deplorable treatment in order to gain further equality in a changing society and have hopefully come away with a greater appreciation for the efforts of these people

Well done to:

8. Those S3 Gaelic pupils who participated in the skills exchange with National Portrait Gallery staff.  JGHS pupils gave the staff a beginners’ language session and were then supported to create their own tours around an exhibition in the gallery, which involved Taobh na Pàirce pupils, members of the community and Scottish Government representatives.
9. Liam McLaughlin (S6) who won a gold medal for the 400m freestyle and a silver medal for the 200m freestyle for JGHS at the  Scottish Schools Swimming Championships last week end in Glasgow.

Dates

10. Following prelim leave, Senior pupils returned to classes on Wednesday of this week. We will shortly invite feedback from staff, parents and pupils on how we can continue to improve the prelim experience for all.
11. We held a special assembly for S1 pupils today to share important information regarding this year's Residential. This will take place on Friday 31 January for the whole of Period 4. Parents are reminded to return necessary medical forms and to pay any outstanding balance.
12. Parents are launching a fundraising campaign to develop the school’s outdoor spaces and to support pupils’ wellbeing. Join us for a Fundraising Quiz Night hosted by Richard Melvin on Friday 28 February, 7pm in the school canteen. Bring your friends and come as a team of six or help make up a team on the night. BYOB and glasses, bottle bar and snacks available. Tickets £5 via ParentPay. Over 18s only.

My quote of the week:

‘’Do not ask your children to strive for extraordinary lives. Such striving may seem admirable, but it is the way of foolishness. Help them instead to find the wonder and the marvel of an ordinary life. Show them the joy of tasting tomatoes, apples and pears. Show them how to cry when pets and people die. Show them the infinite pleasure in the touch of a hand. And make the ordinary come alive for them. The extraordinary will take care of itself.’’ (William Martin)

Best wishes to all for a lovely weekend.

                                                                                                                                 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 24 January

1. A very Happy Chinese New Year to all of our families. This coming year of the metal rat has special significance for those born in 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, …
2. All families are reminded to ensure that that we have up to date personal details (medical, contact numbers, emergency contacts etc. ). We acknowledge and understand that keeping us up to date may easily fall of the radar when families are changing domestic arrangements.
3. In recent months we have been talking about using ‘therapets’ in school so I’m delighted to share that we have a therapet (dog)  coming in to school on 29 January to work with pupils in Support for Learning.
4. On Wednesday an assembly was held for S2 pupils to explain the course request sheet and coursing procedures for moving into S3. Pupils have until the 28th of February to hand in their request sheet to their Pupil Support Leaders. A copy of this sheet along with last year’s course information booklet is currently available on the school website at https://www.jamesgillespies.co.uk/course-choices/
5. At this week’s Parent Council we discussed how the school should respond to requests from the armed forces to engage with pupils. A variety of views were expressed so I would encourage you to keep up to date with what was said on this and other topical issues by accessing minutes of meetings on the PC website. http://jghscouncil.btck.co.uk/
6. In order to support our South Africa project please donate either books or pencil cases. There are crates in the reception of James Gillespie’s’ High School.
7. All parents and pupils are encouraged to download the school communications app at https://www.jamesgillespies.co.uk/school-mobile-app/  As a school we will be increasingly directing more of our communications via this App in the coming weeks.
8. In response to demand, I’m delighted to share that we will shortly be launching ‘Show my homework’ – an App designed to allow parents to view homework that has been issued and to access learning materials to support their children’s learning. Details to follow.
9. At a very well attended meeting for all with an interest in Gaelic Medium Education on Wednesday night, the Council shared that the Liberton Campus will be its preferred location for the new Secondary Gaelic School which is scheduled to open in August 2024. As a school we will work hard to ensure that we are ready to embrace the opportunities tha this new facility will present.
10. S6 pictures are now available for collection from reception.

Dates

11. Following prelim leave, Senior pupils return to classes on Wednesday 29 January.
12. At break time today, Mrs Sturm, with the help of the ‘Wee Sleep Out’ pupils/elves, operated the third of 3 bake sales to raise money to assist the various charities that are helping in the wake of the catastrophic bush fires in Australia. Funds raised will be channelled to help out the wildlife and people affected. We raised a further £262.77 in last Friday’s bake sale.
13. S2 Parents' Evenings take place on 28 (Non practical) and 30 January (Practical) 2020. Appointments can be booked online now, an email was sent out to all S2 parents/carers on Tuesday.
14. We are calling a special assembly for S1 pupils to share important information regarding this year's Residential. This will take place on Friday 31 January for the whole of Period 4. Parents are reminded to return necessary medical forms and to pay any outstanding balance.
15. Parents are organising a fun packed fund raising quiz night for Friday 28 February. Keep a look out for further details.
16. Well done to our traditional musicians who performed so beautifully at JGPS earlier this week. Feedback included:
1. ‘I absolutely loved it, I’ve never seen bagpipes in real life and I want to see them again now!’
2. ‘I just loved it’
3. ‘I have a guitar and they had a guitar’
4. ‘It was too good I just thought all of it was brilliant’
5. ‘It was awesome’
6. ‘I liked the bagpipes because they were loud’
7. ‘It was great’
8. ‘The bagpipes were loud but I liked it’
17. Well done to the following S2 pupils who were declared as regional winners in a very competitive and well attended maths competition. Our pupils enjoyed meeting (and out performing!)  peers from many schools including  beating Merchiston, Fettes and Mary Erskine's.  We are now awaiting word on an invite to the national final in the Natural History Museum, London and should hear imminently.
1. Hanga Eory
2. Willow Yuan
3. Matthew Wright
4. Paul Marcos

And finally this week I leave you with some of Robert Burns best known words from Auld Lang Syne:

‘Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

and auld lang syne’.

Happy Burns day to all.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 17 January

1. The first week of the prelims for S4,5 and 6 is almost complete and I’m pleased to report that the operational arrangements are running smoothly. The increasing numbers in the senior school led to us relocating our main venue to the upstairs Sports hall. Thanks to all for your support in reassuring pupils and best preparing them. At the conclusion of the prelim exams we will seek feedback on the arrangements so that we can continue to improve our provision.
2. Thank you to all who donated supermarket vouchers for Children 1st.  We have received the following thank you message from Caroline Libberton, who is our link at Children 1^st in response to our total of £800 +

• “Thanks to the amazing generosity of James Gillespie's High School, children and parents in the local area will be able to experience the same joyful and happy Christmas as families less affected by adversity. Providing practical support through shopping vouchers gives families the flexibility to shop for the things that they want and need over the festive period. Thank you to every family that donated a voucher for their kindness and compassion this Christmas.  All the team at Children 1st are hugely grateful for your support.”

3. S6 pupils currently taking part in the South Africa project 2020 would greatly appreciate donations of books suitable for both primary and secondary students and filled pencil cases for our partner schools over in South Africa, as they have done for the last few years. Additionally this year, they will also be collecting any unused sporting equipment i.e. boots, running shoes, clothing etc. There is a box at the main school reception where donations can be put. All donations gratefully received.

Dates

4. Over the next 2 Fridays at break times, Mrs Sturm, with the help of the ‘Wee Sleep Out’ pupils/elves, will be running bake sales to raise money to assist the various charities that are helping in the wake of the catastrophic bush fires in Australia. Funds raised will be channelled to help out the wildlife and people affected. We raised £262.77 in last Friday’s bake sale.
5. The JGHS Parent Council would like to invite everyone from our school community to our next PC meeting on Tues 21st Jan @ 7pm in the Library in the Malala building.  If you can't make the date our minutes are online at http://jghscouncil.btck.co.uk and if you have any topics you would like raised at future PC meetings please email us at jghscouncilcomms@gmail.com
6. Police Scotland will be doing bike marking on Wednesday the 22/01/20 from 7.30am to 8.30am. Aim to arrive early to avoid missing this round of marking.
7. This year’s Instrumental Instruction Parents’ Evenings will be across two nights – Wednesday 22 January & Thursday 23 January 2020. Parents have been sent the relevant details by email.
8. S2 Parents' Evenings take place on 28 (Non practical) and 30 January (Practical) 2020. Appointments can be booked online now, an email was sent out to all S2 parents/carers on Tuesday.
9. Well done to our winning S2 team who took part in the Construction and Built Environment Challenge, a competition run to encourage young people to consider careers in Engineering and Construction. A number of colleges and universities were involved in putting on challenges for our students, including well building, roof tiling and chimney building, surveying and designing future transportation. Our team performed admirably and were scored on team work, communication and how well they completed the challenges. Our winning team were awarded £300 for the department, a £20 amazon voucher and a trophy for our cabinet! Pupils involved were:
1. Nora Alcock 2S3
2. Luis Alexander 2T1
3. Ollie Baynes 2W1
4. Cami Dykstra 2S3
5. Tom David 2L1
6. Rona Fraser 2R2
7. Jackson Gerrard-Ross 2R2
8. Christopher Keerie 2S1
9. Mazen Nabawi 2S1
10. Lina Roy 2S3

10. Best wishes to some young trad musicians who will be performing at James Gillespie's Primary as part of their Scots’ Fortnight on the 21st January.  The pupils involved are:
1. Kaishin Yao 1W2
2. Veronika Finnick 1W2
3. Mia Tarsia 1R2
4. Tom Davis 2L1
5. Morwenna Williams 3L1
6. Pia Rogers 3L1
7. Kate Harrold 3L1
8. Emil Griffin 3L1
9. Eimear McShea 3S1
10. Vivianne Bachmann 3S2
11. Hannah Treagus 3S2
12. Matthew McKean 3T3
13. Stella Bond 3R3
14. Alaric Bromiley 3R3
15. Louise Macleod 3R3
16. Alasdair Scott 3R3
17. Chirag Shetty 3R3
18. Jasmine Tarsia 3R3

I take this opportunity of wishing all a lovely weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 10 January 2020

1. A very Happy New Year to all. Welcome to the 20s! It was lovely to welcome pupils back to School on Thursday.  I felt a smidgeon of sympathy for the eager pupils who turned up a day early for classes on Wednesday!
2. Thank you to all who attended our Christmas Concert at the Usher Hall on Tuesday 17 December 2019. We are always looking for ways to improve the event and to make it better each year. If you attended the concert as a parent, family member or pupil we would very much appreciate your feedback on your experience. We will look at all responses and use these to plan for next year’s concert. Feedback can be provided using the Microsoft Form accessible via the following link: https://www.jamesgillespies.co.uk/christmas-concert-2019-feedback/
3. A reminder to parents that when pupils are feeling unwell during lunchtime (or any time of the school day) they must report to Ms McVay in the Welfare Office situated on the ground floor of Bruntsfield House. The school will contact you if we feel that the pupil is unable to continue in school.  Parents are asked to contact the school immediately if your child does arrives home during the school day and you were not notified by us.
4. Huge thanks to everyone who contributed to raising the magnificent sum of over £16,000 with our Sleepout event. All proceeds go to addressing Homelessness in Scotland.
5. Please remind pupils to ensure that bikes are secured on the school campus with a high quality lock . This is particularly relevant to those that received new bikes as Christmas presents – they will be targeted by thieves. (*) See note below re marking of bikes.
6. S6 pupils currently taking part in the South Africa project 2020 would greatly appreciate donations of books suitable for both primary and secondary students and filled pencil cases for our partner schools over in South Africa, as they have done for the last few years. Additionally this year, they will also be collecting any unused sporting equipment i.e. boots, running shoes, clothing etc. There is a box at the main school reception where donations can be put. All donations gratefully received.
7. Prelims on S4, 5 and 6 pupils begin on Monday 13 January. Best wishes to all. We have prelims for several reasons, including:
1. To give pupils experience for the actual exams in May
2. To assist pupils in identifying their next steps for preparing for their final exams
3. As a guide to what courses pupils are best suited to progress to in their next year of study and
4. To provide evidence of a level of performance in the event that a pupil was unable (e.g. illness) to sit the final exam.
8. Music Practical Prelims - individual times for practical prelims have been posted to the relevant Microsoft Team and are displayed in the Music department. Pupils who wish to rehearse during study leave should make arrangements with the relevant member of staff. Pupils who receive instrumental lessons should still attend lessons wherever possible.

Dates

9. Over the next 3 Fridays at break times, Mrs Sturm, with the help of the ‘Wee Sleep Out’ pupils/elves, will be running bake sales to raise money to assist the various charities that are helping in the wake of the catastrophic bush fires in Australia. Funds raised will be channelled to help out the wildlife and people affected.
10. The JGHS Parent Council would like to invite everyone from our school community to our next PC meeting on Tues 21st Jan @ 7pm in the Library in the Malala building.  If you can't make the date our minutes are online at http://jghscouncil.btck.co.uk and if you have any topics you would like raised at future PC meetings please email us at jghscouncilcomms@gmail.com
11. (*) Police Scotland will be doing bike marking on Wednesday the 22/01/20 from 7.30am to 8.30am. Aim to arrive early to avoid missing this round of marking.
12. South Africa fund raising quiz night at Craigmillar Park Golf club next Friday 17 January from 7-9pm. Tickets are available from Ms Crosbie for £5.

I take this opportunity of wishing all a lovely weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

20 December

1.                Thanks to everyone who attended our wonderful Christmas concert at the Usher Hall on Tuesday evening. Thanks also to the teachers and the parents whose combined efforts ensured that our pupils’ talents go from strength to strength.

2.                   The money raised from the bucket shaking at the Christmas concert was £498.83. A huge thanks to all those who contributed. A gentle reminder we collect funds to:

1. Pay for our SA Educators and Learners to visit Edinburgh as part of the educational exchange
2. Raise funds for continuing projects such as creating libraries at our partner schools
3. Raise funds for musical and sporting equipment
4. Finally, we are gratefully accepting donations of books and pencil cases.

3.                   Congratulations to:  Evie Craig (S4) and Aaliyah El-Salahi (S5).  Both girls were part of a dance group (Oona Doherty: Hard to be Soft – A Belfast Prayer)  that was voted Number One show by the Guardian at the Edinburgh International festival in 2019. https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2019/dec/15/top-10-dance-shows-of-2019

4.                   Parents are requested to use Easyfundraising to help raise funds for JGHS. Those of you who run businesses can also use this system to raise precious school funds at no extra cost. https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/JGHSparentcouncil/

5.                   As a parent of 2 teenage daughters who are currently in the midst of their exams (one in S5 and the other in university) , I know all too well that this stage in the term can be very stressful for parents as we worry about our children’s study habits and apparent lack of application and preparedness for January prelims. Be reassured that It all comes good in the end and prelims do help! Please remind all S4,5 and 6 pupils to also have some days off during the holidays so that they can also recharge their batteries.

6.                   Please note that pupils in S1,2 and 3 are not set any homework during holidays. We much prefer that our younger pupils read for pleasure and spend time pursuing leisure pursuits with friends and family.  

7.                   School resumes for pupils at 0830 on Thursday 9 January 2020.

My quote for the week:  "To be kind is more important than to be right. Many times, what people need is not a brilliant mind that speaks but a special heart that listens." - F. Scott Fitzgerald

And finally, may I wish all a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 13 December

1. Thanks to the 500 + families who attended our coursing evenings on Tuesday of this week. I was pleased to have the opportunity to demonstrate that school exam performance continues to improve despite recent press coverage to the contrary.
2. As a result of unforeseen circumstances, the S4 practical cookery prelims will be postponed until January 2020
3. We look forward to a packed house at the annual Christmas Concert at the Usher Hall on 17th December.
4. This year, as in previous years, the art department have chosen six S1 pupils Christmas designs, and created packs of Christmas cards. These are currently on sale on parent pay to all parents of S1 and S6 parents, priced at £4.50 a pack, with all profits going to help with the South Africa fundraising. There is only 50 packs of cards available, so get in quick before they sell out!
5. Huge thanks to all who supported this year’s Wee Sleep Out on Friday 29 November. I’m delighted to share that the total raised currently stands at £14,984.33.  If you would like to contribute further please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jamesgillespies. All proceeds  go to Social Bite – a social enterprise that aims to eradicate homelessness in Scotland. This link will be active until Friday 20 December.
6. Earlier this week we launched a new school app that makes accessing key information and communicating with the school more straightforward. We will also be using this App to target communications to parents/carers of specific year groups. School App for Parents – although this is directed at parents, anyone can download this app. It provides the user with easy access to the school website, ParentPay, school bulletin, calendar and much more. Parents and carers, grandparents, aunts & uncles, brothers & sisters, everybody… please download School App for Parents!

1. Apple link - https://apps.apple.com/…/school-app-for-parents/id1309721219
2. Android link - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details…
3. You then find James Gillespie's in the drop down menus and use this App to more easily communicate with us.
6. A reminder to all that we don’t issue homework to pupils in S1,2 and 3 during holidays. Teachers also avoid carrying out assessments requiring revision preparation in the first week back. We believe it is much more productive and better for younger pupils to use holiday time to:
1. Read for pleasure and
2. Spend time with family/friends pursuing leisure interests
7. We are collecting supermarket vouchers on behalf of Children First. All such vouchers to Mrs Fallon or to the school office.
8. Chess Club will once more be up and running up in the new year.  Anyone wishing to join should make their interest known to Mr MacLaughland in room 2.29.   This session the Chess Club will be running an in school competition with prizes being awarded to the three highest ranked players! We are also looking to enter a school chess team into Lothians Allegro on Sunday 12 January.  Pupils wishing to represent the school team in this prestigious tournament then please do get in touch with Mr MacLaughland.

Dates

10. Bakes sales took place in school today to raise funds for Amnesty International and our South Africa project.
11. Recently taken S6 photograph proofs will be issued to pupils in their PSE classes next week.
12. The next Edinburgh Maths Circle will take place on Saturday 14th December, from 13:00 until 16:00, in the James Clerk Maxwell Building (room 3217 and the Level 3 Café Area).  The building is located in the University of Edinburgh King's Building campus. As you may know, the Edinburgh Maths Circle, organised by the Maths Outreach Team, is a free drop-in session where children aged 5 to 16 and their families can join in with exciting mathematical activities, games and puzzles. Further details and travel information can be found at: https://www.maths.ed.ac.uk/school-of-mathematics/outreach/maths-circle
13. Over 200 pupils from JGHS will take part in the filming of a Netflix Blockbuster movie (Princess Switch – the sequel) on Saturday 21 December. Those involved in filming for the Princess Switch movie will be required to arrive at a central Edinburgh location at 8:45am on Saturday 21st December and should be finished by about 1:00pm. Exact details about the arrangements will be emailed directly to parents before the end of term.
14. Final rehearsals for the Usher Hall concert take place on Monday in the Performing Arts Theatre and Tuesday at the Usher Hall. Pupils are reminded to check the boards in the music department times for each ensemble. Pupils are asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to their rehearsal time to ensure that each rehearsal beings promptly.
15. Term ends next week at midday on Friday 20 December.
16. Pupils resume on Thursday 9 January.

Congratulations to

17. All pupils who represented JGHS at the Lord Provost’s Fanfare concert on the evening of Friday 29 November
18. All pupils who took part in last Friday’s marvellous senior Drama production.
19. Lucia Garland, S5, who sat her Grade 8 Scottish Traditional Fiddle exam last week and passed with merit.
20. Caleb McWalter, S3, who achieved a merit in his Grade 3 Trinity (Piano) exam last week
21. Kirsty Johnson, 4S1, who (and her team mate from Airdrie) won the Scottish National Madison Championship, U16 girls, in Glasgow, last weekend going one better than the silver they got this time last year.
22. Dylan Daunt (S1) came third in the East District Cross Country League U13 race in Dundee last Saturday, and so he qualifies for the Inter-District Cross-Country Final for U13s on 11th Jan in Stirling.

 My quote for the week:

"When you get, give. When you learn, teach’’. (Dr Maya Angelou)

Wishing all a great weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 6 December

1. Recent newspaper reports suggest that our Examination Performance at JGHS has declined in the past 12 months. Please be reassured that this is not the case. In fact, our attainment continues to rise. What has changed Is how the data is aggregated and presented. I will be sharing more about this at next week’s coursing evenings for S2 and S4/5. I will also be saying more on this topic at the next Parent Council meeting on the evening of Tuesday 21 January 2020 for other parents who wish to find our more.
2. Due to high demand we have been able to release additional tickets for the annual Christmas Concert at the Usher Hall on 17th December. The final remaining tickets will be available from 10am on Saturday 7th December. http://www.usherhall.co.uk/whats-on/james-gillespies-high-school-christmas-concert-1
3. This year, as in previous years, the art department have chosen six S1 pupils Christmas designs, and created packs of Christmas cards. These are currently on sale on parent pay to all parents of S1 and S6 parents, priced at £4.50 a pack, with all profits going to help with the South Africa fundraising. There is only 50 packs of cards available, so get in quick before they sell out!
4. Huge thanks to all who supported this year’s Wee Sleep Out on Friday 29 November. I’m delighted to share that the total raised currently stands at £14, 486.63.  If you would like to contribute further please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jamesgillespies. All proceeds  go to Social Bite – a social enterprise that aims to eradicate homelessness in Scotland. This link will be active until Friday 20 December.
5. Thanks to the following local businesses for supporting our Sleep Out.
1. CAS Ltd.
2. Be Inspired Fibres
3. The Zoom Club
4. Sheila’s Fish Shop
5. Marchmont Dental Care
6. New Leaf Co-Op
7. Doodles
8. Nordic Living
9. Waitrose
10. Marchmont Gallery
11. Meadowlark Yoga
12. The Edinburgh Bookshop
6. Earlier this week we launched a new school app that makes accessing key information and communicating with the school more straightforward. We will also be using this App to target communications to parents/carers of specific yeargroups. School App for Parents – although this is directed at parents, anyone can download this app. It provides the user with easy access to the school website, ParentPay, school bulletin, calendar and much more. Parents and carers, grandparents, aunts & uncles, brothers & sisters, everybody… please download School App for Parents!
1. Apple link - https://apps.apple.com/…/school-app-for-parents/id1309721219
2. Android link - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details…
3. You then find James Gillespie's in the drop down menus and use this App to more easily communicate with us.

 Dates

7. Our Senior Drama production is on 6 December - matinee and evening performances. Tickets at the door
1. Matinee Performance 1:45pm all tickets £1
2. Evening Performance 7pm Adults £6, Concessions £4
3. Tickets sold on the door at the Muriel Spark Building.
4. Synopsis: This comedy farce is set in London 1927.  Things are not going well for Sir Hector Benbow.  His secret liaison with a shop girl is scuppered by his wife’s early arrival home.  What’s more, there are reports that Thark, the old family home, is haunted.  Sir Hector and the rest of the family set out to the house to prove the rumours wrong.
5. This year’s production involves students from S3-S6.
8. Princess Switch Rehearsal Times - Monday 9th December
1. P1 & P2 - All choirs.
2. P3 - Wind band only.
3. P4 - Strings only.
4. P5 - All choirs, wind band and strings
5. P6 - All pupils performing in the orchestra for Loch Lomond (including Pipers/Snare drums/Clarsach)
9. Coursing information meetings will take place on the evening of Tuesday 10 December.
10. Our dining room will be offering traditional Christmas lunches on Wednesday 11 December.
11. The next Edinburgh Maths Circle will take place on Saturday 14th December, from 13:00 until 16:00, in the James Clerk Maxwell Building (room 3217 and the Level 3 Café Area).  The building is located in the University of Edinburgh King's Building campus. As you may know, the Edinburgh Maths Circle, organised by the Maths Outreach Team, is a free drop-in session where children aged 5 to 16 and their families can join in with exciting mathematical activities, games and puzzles. Further details and travel information can be found at: https://www.maths.ed.ac.uk/school-of-mathematics/outreach/maths-circle

 Congratulations to:

12. Mrs Edwards (Languages faculty) on the safe arrival of baby Ivy Sinclair Edwards. All are reported to be doing well!
13. Dr Wallace (Sciences) on the birth of baby Nola. All doing well!
14. James Plant who is one of the runners up in the Sunday Times Short Story competition for his entry ‘My sister’.
15. Lennox Walker for amassing the most points in the Gaelnovember competition.
16. The following boys who have been selected to represent Edinburgh Schools in the U15 National Trophy football game against Dundee.
1. Daniel Hart S4
2. Moray Bean S3
17. All who took part in the Edinburgh & Midlothian Schools Swimming Championships! In particular, it was excellent to see the Boys open freestyle team coming second in a very tight race with Stewart's Melville and George Watson's College! The boys in this team were Liam McLaughlin, Ross Kerr, Robert Wright and Lorne Wight.
18. Liam McLaughlin, Anna Green and Finlay Penman have been nominated to compete at the Scottish School's Championships in January, we will find out later in the month whether their entry has been successful.
19. Boys 11/under 50 Free
1. 9th Kevin Chen 36.75
20. Boys 11/under 50 Breast
1. 4th Kevin Chen 47.93
21. Girls 12/13 100 Freestyle
1. 17th Emily Buchanan 1:13.98
2. 18th Eilidh C Stewart 1:14.15
22. Girls 16-18 100 Freestyle
1. 4th Susannah Kernohan 1:10.01
23. Boys 12/13 100 Freestyle
1. 4th Finlay Penman 1:07.03
2. 9th Eric Balic 1:15.73
24. Boys 14/15 100 Freestyle
1. 9th Felix Walker 1:03.53
2. 10th Josh Tough 1:07.93
3. 11th Cai McEwan 1:15.69
4. 12th Andrew Wright 1:16.06
5. Boys 16/18 100 Freestyle
25. 11th Daniel Keerie 1:13.34
26. Girls 16/18 200 Butterfly
1. 5th Susannah Kernohan 2:49.07
27. Girls 12/13 100 Backstroke
1. 3rd Anna Green 1:05.76
28. Boys Open 400 Freestyle
1. 1st Liam McLaughlin 4:08.78
2. 2nd Lorne Wight 4:44.45
29. Boys 12/13 200 Individual Medley
1. 6th Finlay Penman 3:00.28
30. Boys 14/15 200 Individual Medley
1. 6th Felix Walker 2:39.36
31. Boys Open 4x50 Freestyle Relay
1. 2nd Liam McLaughlin, Lorne Wight, Ross Kerr, Robert Wright 1:42.08
32. Boys 14/15 200 Freestyle
1. 7th Josh Tough 2:31.57
33. Boys 16/18 200 Freestyle
1. 1st Liam McLaughlin 1:59.08
34. Girls 16/18 100 Breaststroke
1. 2nd Evie Tynan 1:26.34
35. Boys 16/18 100 Breaststroke
1. 4th Lorne Wight 1:15.19
36. Girls 12/13 200 Backstroke
1. 9th Eilidh C Stewart 3:06.96

My quote for the week: " Education is about inviting every single person who enters a school to realise his or her relatively boundless potential in all areas of worthwhile human endeavour. It is concerned with more than grades, attendance, and academic achievement. It is concerned with the process of becoming a decent and productive human being’’. (William Watson Purkey)

Wishing all a fantastic weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Fundraising to support the homeless 2019

Sincere thanks to everyone who supported the JGHS 2019  ‘Sleep Out’ in aid of Social Bite.

To all who donated money, dropped off non-perishables for Edinburgh’s homeless,  gave up your Friday Night/Saturday morning to ensure that so many youngsters were able to take part, and contributed in myriad ways, Thank You.

In total, 225 (S1,2 and 3) pupils slept over and another 25 seniors helped out with the various activities and games on Friday night. 30+ resilient staff were at the school overnight to provide encouragement and to ensure all of our young people had fun and were safe. Local businesses also came on board this year; some donated online whilst others donated prizes for various competitions.  Thanks for the many online messages of support which added to the camaraderie in the lead up and on the night of the event.

Finally and especially, huge thanks to Emma Sturm (Teacher of English) who, with her characteristic warmth of personality and impressive attention to detail, ably supported by her enthusiastic band of ‘elves’, coordinated and planned last night’s event and all the associated fundraising.

We have, as at 1120 on Saturday 30 November, raised the magnificent sum of £12,003.29.  All of the money raised goes towards supporting those unfortunates who are homeless in Scotland.

The opportunity to donate will remain open till Christmas so we expect this sum to rise further. https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=jamesgillespies&pageUrl=2

I’d like to wish all a lovely and restful St Andrew’s day.

Yours, in appreciation,

Donald

PS  “The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others.” —Mahatma Gandhi

Donald j Macdonald (Headteacher)

Friday 29 November

1. Thanks to all parents/carers for your continuing efforts in ensuring that pupils are on the school campus for 830. Classes are scheduled to start promptly at 840.
2. Thanks to all who are supporting pupils in getting ready for our annual Christmas Concert at the Usher Hall. Book now to avoid disappointment! http://www.usherhall.co.uk/whats-on/james-gillespies-high-school-christmas-concert-1 (Post script - Now Sold out)
3. This year, as in previous years, the art department have chosen six S1 pupils Christmas designs, and created packs of Christmas cards. These are currently on sale on parent pay to all parents of S1 and S6 parents, priced at £4.50 a pack, with all profits going to help with the South Africa fundraising. There is only 50 packs of cards available, so get in quick before they sell out!
4. Thanks to all who attended our Parent Council meeting on Tuesday evening. A main topic on our agenda was a presentation by Craig Watt (English Faculty) and discussion on how we can best support our young people on dealing with bullying in its various forms.  Minutes of meetings and future dates can be found at: http://jghscouncil.btck.co.uk
5. On behalf of the school, the JGHS PC would like to say a big thank you for helping us to raise £8000 in 2018-19.  The money you have kindly donated or helped to raise is directly benefitting pupils across the school, in a wide range of activities including: the Nurture Group; play therapy; word games; books; subscription to online newspaper; the STEM club; the computer club and the netball club amongst others.  See the attached pdf or go to our PC website for more info.  Please help us to provide the same support, or even better, next year! Our Festive Fundraiser is now live: you can donate through ParentPay. Your money will enhance our students' experience at school.  Every pound helps.  Thank you!  JGHS Parent Council
6. This year’s Wee Sleep Out takes place tonight (Friday 29 November) involving pupils in S1,2 and 3. Total raised is currently at £8,400 and climbing. If you would like to contribute further please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jamesgillespies. All proceeds  go to Social Bite – a social enterprise that aims to eradicate homelessness in Scotland.
7. Well done to  all the S2 pupils who were involved in the Legal Experts in School initiative on Thursday morning.

Dates

8. Annual reports will be issued to S2 pupils on Wednesday 4 December.
9. Our Senior Drama production is on 6 December - matinee and evening performances. Tickets at the door.
10. Our dining room will be offering traditional Christmas lunches on Wednesday 11 December.
11. The next Edinburgh Maths Circle will take place on Saturday 14th December, from 13:00 until 16:00, in the James Clerk Maxwell Building (room 3217 and the Level 3 Café Area).  The building is located in the University of Edinburgh King's Building campus. As you may know, the Edinburgh Maths Circle, organised by the Maths Outreach Team, is a free drop-in session where children aged 5 to 16 and their families can join in with exciting mathematical activities, games and puzzles. Further details and travel information can be found at: https://www.maths.ed.ac.uk/school-of-mathematics/outreach/maths-circle

Congratulations to:

12. Jack Craig (5T2) who spoke ‘confidently and eloquently’ at a National Creative Learning Event on Wednesday 27th November at Dynamic Earth to share about his experience so far in the Foundation Apprenticeship programme in Creative & Digital Media.
13. The following pupils who attended a ‘Beats and Bass’ workshop in the Theatre on Monday. We were joined by pupils from other schools around Edinburgh and the Lothians. The workshop was a demo and Q&A with drummer Steve White and bassist Lorna Thomas.
1. Caspar Ward - 2W1
2. Fraser McCluskey - 2W1
3. Ewan Briggs - 3L1
4. Josh Barnes - 3R3
5. Luke Baird - 3T2
6. Cameron Marshall  - 3L1
7. Reuben Stiven - 3L2
8. Stuart Brockbank - 4T1
14. Toby Mackintosh (S5) who won the senior men’s foil (Scottish Schools) at last week’s championships.
15. Mrs Edwards (Languages faculty) on the safe arrival of baby Ivy Sinclair Edwards. All are reported to be doing well!

My quote for the week: "Never regret a day in your life:  good days give happiness, bad days give experience,  worst days give lessons, and best days give memories."  (Source unknown)

Wishing all a lovely weekend as we welcome December and the lead in to Christmas.

Donald j Macdonald