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

Friday 22 November

1. UCAS - Please note that the deadline for pupils registering their intention to apply for university in 2020 is Wednesday 27 November.  If you have any queries please contact Ms Peters.  
2. 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.
3. 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
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. This year’s Sleepout takes place on Friday 29 November involving pupils in S1,2 and 3. If you would like to contribute please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jamesgillespies. All proceeds  go to Social Bite – a social enterprise that aims to eradicate homelessness in Scotland.
6. Hollywood comes to JGHS! A film company has approached us about having our school choir take part in the production of the sequel to successful Netflix film, The Princess Switch. The Performing Arts faculty are currently liaising with them about possibilities and more information will come out about this in due course. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/princess-switch-sequel-set-at-netflix-1250807
7. There will be fundraising activities next week at lunchtimes to raise money for our South Africa project.

Dates

8. S6 Photos will be taken on Tuesday 26 November
9. Our dining room will be offering traditional Christmas lunches on Wednesday 11 December.
10. Our Senior Drama production is on 6 December - matinee and evening performances
11. JGHS has been shortlisted for a national UK award in ‘Partnership Working’ as a result of our efforts with Boroughmuir HS and George Watson’s College in developing the teaching of Mandarin across schools in Edinburgh and the lothians..
12. The JGHS Parent Council would like to invite everyone from our school community to our next PC meeting on Tues 26th Nov.  We will be discussing JGHS policy and approach to addressing inappropriate behaviours, including sexual harassment of peers, online behaviours and how parents can support the school and pupils to build a respectful school community. Also on the agenda: pupil equity initiatives, rising rolls and capacity.  Everyone is very welcome on Tues 26th Nov @ 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
13. The S6 fundraising Ceilidh takes place this evening from 1830 – 2100
14. 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

Good luck to:

15. Our Volleyball boys who are competing in Dundee on Thursday the 28th of November
1. Joseph Pinsky
2. Pere Tenesa Navrarro
3. Sergi Mackinlay Vich
4. Cole Turnbull
5. William Petrie
6. Ali Jahanbakhsh
7. Gavin Hayes
16. All pupils who are sitting their Associated Board Graded Music (ABRSM) graded exams on Tuesday 26 November.
1. Viviane Bachmann           Violin    
2. Jack Oatman                      Violin    
3. Josh Tough                          Violin    
4. Simon Goerke                   Violin    
5. Chirag Shetty                     Violin    
6. Oliver Coombs                  Guitar  
7. Rosalind Orr                       Piano    
8. Nora Alcock-Garrido       Piano    

Congratulations to:

17. Danny Chisholm 4T1 who has been selected to trial for Aberdeen Football Club.
18. Lori Stott (Last year’s S6), who is currently starring in the CBBC production - The Demon Headmaster. It has been (incorrectly!) suggested by staff that she may have been inspired by her years at JGHS.

My quote for the week: "“The kids who need the most love will ask for it in the most unloving ways” (Source unknown)

Wishing all a fantastic weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 15 November

1. An email relating to arrangements for the (S1-3) Alternative Timetable on 20 and 21 May 2020 was posted to families last week. In response to parental feedback, we have changed to an online booking system – the deadline is this Sunday, 17th. Thanks to Miss McLennan and Ms Dickinson for their management of this programme. The online form can be accessed directly from here. https://www.jamesgillespies.co.uk/alternative-timetable-now-live/
2. Following the award winning success of last year’s ‘Wee Sleep Out’, when we raised over £11,000, arrangements are currently being finalised for this year’s Wee Sleep Out on Friday 29 November involving pupils in S1,2 and 3. If you would like to contribute please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jamesgillespies. All proceeds go to Social Bite – a social enterprise that aims to eradicate homelessness in Scotland.
3. A reminder that next week there will be in-school rehearsals for Senior Ensembles in preparation for the Christmas concert. Please check noticeboards in the Music department for specific information and arrive promptly to the theatre at your allocated time.
4. Annual Data Check forms -Data capture forms will be issued by Key Adults next week to any pupil that has not yet completed/returned one. It is essential for our records that these are returned with any changes to personal or contact details. Please also notify the school if your child has any medical condition/health issues that we are not aware of.  The signed form should be returned to Reception ASAP - if there are no changes please mark this also.
5. The JGHS Parent Council would like to invite everyone from our school community to our next PC meeting on Tues 26th Nov.  We will be discussing JGHS policy and approach to addressing inappropriate behaviours, including sexual harassment of peers, online behaviours and how parents can support the school and pupils to build a respectful school community. Also on the agenda: pupil equity initiatives, rising rolls and capacity.  Everyone is very welcome on Tues 26th Nov @ 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. A warm welcome to the following staff who started with us this week:
1. Angela White -  School Office
2. Vasilelios Tsakonitis -  Sciences Technician
3. Niall Evans - Sciences Teacher
7. Written reports for S5 and S6 were issued to pupils on Wednesday 13 November. We hope that these were relayed safely and promptly to parents/carers.

Well done to:

1. Daniel Hart S4  and Moray Bean S3  who have been selected to represent Edinburgh Schools in their next U15 National Trophy match.
2. The following pupils who represented JGHS a the Scottish China Education Network Youth Summit on Friday 8 November:

S2

3. Melissa McClellan

S3

4. Isobel Crawford
5. Louise Thomson
6. Louise Macleod
7. Kai Rogers
8. Arooj Sarwar
9. Anna Szendrei

S4

10. Lucy Robertson
11. Heidi Miller
12. Lola Bradbury
13. Susannah Kernohan

S5

14. Cameron Yung
15. Samuel Urqhart
16. Lucia Garland

S6

17. Alejandro Tamariz-Martel
18. Marley Adair
19. Aurora Branigan
7.  
8. Best wishes to the following pupils who, on Thursday, worked with serving professionals  to prepare for this session’s BBC Alba's Film G production.

S4s

1. Sorcha Thompson
2. Sadie Drye
3. Ellie Gallagher
4. Anna Halliday
5. Fraser Peel
6. Sandy MacGregor
7. Felix Walker
8. Maral Rahmani
9. Esther Silverton
10. Liza Gogoliuk

S1s

11. Casey Rennie
12. Manus McLeod
13. Flynn Conroy
9. Good luck to our Under 13’s (S1) football team who are playing against James Young High School on Friday in the 3rd Round of the Scottish Shield competition.
10. I was immensely proud of the 40+ S2 pupils who on Wednesday of this week took part in the Legal Experts in School initiative. The 6 practising lawyers were glowing in their praise of those who took part for their positive attitude and keen interest in legal work. Thanks to Ms Shearer for organising.
11. Tickets for our annual Christmas Concert at the Usher Hall are now on sale from their box office. Book early to avoid disappointment! http://www.usherhall.co.uk/whats-on/james-gillespies-high-school-christmas-concert-1
12. Well done to Darcey McConville who continues to develop as a great young talent in water polo. Most recently, Darcey has been selected to represent Scotland.

My quote of the week: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” (Plato)

Best wishes to all for a lovely weekend

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 8 November

1. Sincere thanks to the families who have hosted our students from Hong Kong this past week. Particular thanks also to staff, (Mr Warden in particular) for supporting our partnership with Law Ting Pong Secondary School.
2. On Thursday, members of our Princes Trust class went round the school to sell poppies. In our multi-cultural context we seek to emphasise that the poppies commemorate all those who have been affected by conflicts across the world.
3. A gentle reminder that the S6 Year Group Hoodies are now available to purchase via the following link http://wav.ee/jghsleavershoodies20.  Please note the online shop closes on Tuesday 12 November and it is recommended all orders are placed before midnight Friday 8 November.
4. An email relating to arrangements for the (S1-3) Alternative Timetable on 20 and 21 May 2020 was posted to families earlier this week. In response to parental feedback, we have changed to an online booking system. Thanks to Ms Miss McLennan and Ms Dickinson for their management of this programme.
5. Following the award winning success of last year’s ‘Wee Sleep Out’, when we raised over £11,000, arrangements are currently being finalised for this year’s Wee Sleep Out on Friday 29 November involving pupils in S1,2 and 3. If you would like to contribute please go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jamesgillespies. All proceeds  go to Social Bite – a social enterprise that aims to eradicate homelessness in Scotland.
6. Ms Byrne started in Modern Languages this week to replace Mrs Edwards who is on maternity leave.
7. Many thanks to the many who responded so positively to last week’s request for donations of good quality PE/Sports kit (tracksuit bottoms, shorts, t-shirts) and Winter Coats. We had such a strong response that we now have what we need so no more needed at this stage. We may return to this request in the new Year.
8. Written reports for S5 and S6 will be issued to pupils on Wednesday 13 November. We hope that these will be relayed safely and promptly to parents/carers.
9. Well done to:
1. Chirag Shetty 3R3, Rachel Allan 3R1, Fedya Cheltsov 4W2 and Ruaridh Usher 4R2. For the second year running, JGHS, against tremendous competition involving 60+ schools across the whole of Scotland, JHGS were crowned ‘National Enterprising Maths’ champions! Our team displayed excellent mathematical thinking, problems solving and team work throughout all the rounds. Fedya and Ruaridh were on the team last year who also came first. This is now the third consecutive year that JGHS has been in the top three schools in Scotland.
2. John Dabos-Doukas (S6),  Abi Hossell (S6), Minnie Peacock (S5) and Catriona Forrest (S5) who were placed 6^th in the regional United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT) senior team round.
3. Isabel Scott [S6] and Natalie Cameron [S6] who represented James Gillespie's High School at this year’s National Gaelic Debate in Stornoway. Ably supported by Ms MacIver, the girls made new friendships with other Gaelic speakers across Scotland and enjoyed meeting some interesting characters. Though we haven’t progressed to the final both girls were praised for highly creditable performances.  Nach math a rinn sibh!

And finally, I’d like to remind everyone of our school vision statement.

‘Our vision as a school is to create a nurturing environment in which all feel welcome and part of a larger family. All members of the school community will feel appreciated and enabled to forge friendships based on values they will embrace for life. We seek to ensure that James Gillespie’s High School provides a foundation for a lifetime of learning, embracing the diversity within our wider community, so that every individual can excel in their own unique way.’ Our Vision Statement outlines what we aim to achieve as a school community over the coming years.

Best wishes to all for a relaxing weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher