Friday 30 October

1. It was fun today to see so many pupils and staff dressed up to mark Halloween. Thank you to everyone who had clearly put considerable thought and effort into making outfits and enhancing appearances.
2. Hoping that everyone managed to have some downtime during the October Holiday week.  It was lovely to see everyone back on Tuesday looking refreshed and raring to get stuck into schoolwork. In response to parents who have asked about vaccination arrangements I can confirm the dates are:
1. Teenage Booster (Tetanus, diphtheria and polio (Td/IPV),Meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y (MenACWY)) on Tuesday 02-Mar-21
2. HPV on Wednesday, 31-Mar-21 and Thursday, 01-Apr-21.
3. Well done and thanks to the Art department who have worked with S1 and S2 pupils to produce posters depicting inspiring and uplifting Unicorn Graphic illustrations.
4. S6 school photograph proofs are now available and can be collected from the Classroom Assistants’ office in Bruntsfield House. The photographs can be viewed online at www.tempest-orders.co.uk - enter your reference number and web access code which you will find on the photo proof. To limit the handling of papers just now, we would ask that orders are placed online.  However, you can return the completed order form to the school in the sealed Tempest Photography envelope. If returned by Friday 6th November, you will avoid extra p&p costs. The photos will be sent directly to the school for your child to bring home.
5. The University of Edinburgh’s next Virtual Maths Circle will take place on Saturday 14th November from 10:00 to 12:30. To facilitate interaction and better tailor the activities, this Maths Circle will be split into two slots: 11:30- 12:30- for age 11-14. The event is free to attend but booking is required. For further details about the event and to book a ticket (free of charge), please click on the links below: 11-14 years old (lower secondary school) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/virtual-maths-circle-november-2020-second-slot-age-11-14-tickets-127285029951 Please note that all minors will need to be supervised by a parent/guardian for all the duration of the online event.
6. I will email you next week with the details of parents’ evenings (online) and reporting dates. Apologies for the delay in getting these to you.

 

My quote for the week: “May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears’’ (Nelson Mandela)

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 16 October

1. Having now had clarity from the Scottish Government on arrangements for examinations in 2021, we will firm up dates for parents’ nights, prelims, reports etc. We would normally publish these key dates in June but, given current circumstances, have been unable to finalise the details. We will get these out to parents in the next week.
2. Thanks to all who contributed to Wednesday night’s Parent Council meeting and AGM. It was great that so many parents attended and keen to get involved in the Parent Council for the coming year. Thanks to the outgoing office bearers and especially so to Ailsa Macintosh who has been the Parent Council chair for the past 4 years. Ailsa has been a tremendous support to me and the wider school community. Best wishes to Sarah Scott who is our new Parent Council chair. Our next PC meeting will be on Tues 17th November.   
3. During recent weekends we have had pupils climbing over the boundary walls to access the school playing field at Thirlestane. Pupils should not be using this facility unless being supervised by a teacher.
4. As part of our ongoing support for pupils, and to ensure that we organise supports appropriately for future year groups, we need all pupils in S4, 5 and 6 to complete the following survey: https://tinyurl.com/y3c5x8qj. This short survey gathers information regarding when they plan to leave school, what route they plan to take and what their preferred future occupation might be.
5. In response to parents who have asked about vaccination arrangements I can confirm the dates are:
1. Teenage Booster (Tetanus, diphtheria and polio (Td/IPV),Meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y (MenACWY)) on Tuesday 02-Mar-21
2. HPV on Wednesday, 31-Mar-21 and Thursday, 01-Apr-21.
3. It should be noted that the school has no influence on the dates, they are chosen by the NHS. No information has been given to the school about how parents may, if they wish, make alternative arrangements.
6. Notice for Pipe Band Pupils. We are delighted that face to face lessons can resume on 29 Oct. Please check the music notice board for your lesson time. Also note that the rooms for these lessons have changed and are marked on the timetable. If you have any questions, please see Mr Duhig in Music (S1.08).
7. Although we are not able to attend any live events at the moment, you might be interested to see this concert which features some music composed by S6 pupil Alika Arnott. Skip to 8 minutes in the video to hear her piece being performed by a professional ensemble. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Miil7iDbZos Well done Alika!
8. Well done and thanks to Mrs Conroy’s S3 class who have developed a range of posters to remind and encourage everyone to wear face coverings whilst in corridors and communal spaces.
9. Congratulations to Sadie Drye (S5) whose story has won the September round of the  Scottish Book Trust 50 Word Fiction Competition in the Gaelic category.
10. I take this opportunity of informing/reminding all that teachers do not set homework for pupils in S1, 2 and 3 during holidays. Instead, it is expected that pupils take every opportunity to read for pleasure, engage in physical exercise and, subject to Government Guidelines, interact with others. It is left to the discretion of pupils in S4,5 and 6 if they wish to engage in their academic studies during designated holidays.
11. With current restrictions likely to limit how pupils can celebrate Halloween this year, we would like to invite all pupils and staff to dress up in an appropriate Halloween costume, should they wish to do so, on Friday 30th of October. There will be more information to follow next week, including rules relating to costumes [if there is fundraising] and fundraising activities.
12. We are on holiday from Monday 19 until Monday 26 October. Pupils return to school on Tuesday 27 October.

 

My quote for the week: “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – (Franklin D. Roosevelt)

 

Best wishes to all for a restful and safe October holiday.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Message for all pupils

Dear JGHS Pupil,

Firstly, I’d like to thank you for helping us making JGHS a happy and safe place to be. In particular:

• Keeping to the one-way system at busy and class changeover times
• Wiping work surfaces between classes
• Cleaning of hands throughout the day (minimum of 5 times)
• Keeping 2 m from staff
• Wearing of face coverings whilst moving in corridors and in communal areas
• Being outside at breaks and lunchtime

All help in reducing the opportunity for and viruses to spread between us.

 

1. Wet weather arrangements

During really wet weather you may use the following areas:

S1           -              Spark Building

S2           -              Top Floor Malala

S3/4       -              Middle floor Malala and HUB

S5/6       -              Ground Floor Malala 

 

2. Whilst in communal areas, please:

• Wear face coverings unless you are eating or drinking
• Sit in groups  of no more than 6
• Keep at least 1 m apart

 

3. Outside the school grounds

When you are out of school please remember that you are representing our school community.

• Keep your distance from members of the public
• Wear face coverings in shops and on public transport
• Do not enter local stairwells, loiter in doorways or enter local carparks

 

My thanks to all.

 

Mr Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 9 October

1. I am pleased to share that there is a calm and purposeful atmosphere across the school. All the pupils I speak with are pleased to be back at school, working face to face with teachers and able to socialise with friends.
2. Having now had clarity from the Scottish Government on arrangements for examinations in 2021, we will firm up dates for parents’ nights, prelims, reports etc. We would normally publish these key dates in June but, given current circumstances, have been unable to finalise the details. We will get these out to parents in the next 2/3 weeks.
3. Thanks to our Modern Studies department for the increased focus on ant-racism teaching during  ‘Black History Month’.
4. The deadline for online Tempest S1 Photo orders with free delivery to the school is next Wednesday 14th October.  Orders can still be returned to the school reception until Friday 16th October. If your child has not received their S1 photo they can collect from the Classroom Assistants’ Office in Bruntsfield House.
5. Thanks to all of our pupils for being so supportive of the measures we introduced to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission This includes:
1. One way system at busy times
2. Disinfection of desks and work surfaces at class changeovers
3. Wearing of face coverings
6. The next Parent Council meeting will be held online using Teams on Wed 14th Oct at 7pm. We will send out the link on Tuesday via the school email.  It is the PC’s AGM so there will be some procedural business to complete, including election of post holders and forming a new PC Committee.  Given the interactive limitations of an online meeting please email us in advance @ jghscouncilcomms@gmail.com  if you are interested in taking on an official role, in joining the Committee, or in volunteering in any capacity.  Many thanks to those who have already got in touch and offered to help.  At the meeting we will also have updates from our Head Teacher, Donald Macdonald, and in response to feedback after our last PC meeting we will have an update for S1 parents and carers from Deputy Head Teacher, Ben Lewis.  There will be an opportunity to ask questions via the Q&A chat facility but if you have any questions ahead of the meeting please email us @ jghscouncilcomms@gmail.com by 2pm Tuesday 13th Oct and where possible these will be included in the updates.   Our next PC meeting after this one is on Tues 17th November.   
7. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Do continue to access the NHS (Scotland) Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid-19.
2. We will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid-19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school (please speak slowly and clearly if you are leaving a message) if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid-19 test and when your child is returning to school.
5. You must not send your child to school whilst any member of your household is waiting for Covid-19 test results.
8. We continue to encourage all to cycle or walk to school. Please remember to use good quality locks. ‘D’ locks are recommended.
9. When pupils are absent from school they should access learning materials vis their Microsoft TEAMs account. All pupils have their own login and are in a ‘team’ for each different subject they do.
10. Pupils who are interested in pursuing their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award this year are asked to join the Team group. Signs up will be running between now and the October holidays. After that the Team will be closed and no other additions will be made. For access to more information about the award as well as information on the next steps, students can head to their Teams account and join our DofE team using the code: p2xhx5r. If you need any further help with this please get in touch with Miss Ewing in the PE department MONDAY OR THURSDAY LUNCHTIME ONLY or via email Chelsea.ewing@jamesgillespies.edin.sch.uk
11. Congratulations to Alika Arnott who was selected to have her composition performed at Red Note Ensemble's upcoming concert ’Noisy Nights Hybrid’. The concert will be streamed for free on our YouTube channel this Friday 9th October at 6PM, encouraging donations to Help Musicians Coronavirus Financial Hardship Fund. (https://www.youtube.com/user/rednoteensemble)
12. A huge well done to the Kirsten Allan, Rachel Allan, Minnie Peacock, Catriona Forrest, Evie Tynan and Justine de Cremoux who took part in the UKMT Mathematical Olympiad for Girls this week online.
13. Please note that pupils are on holiday from Monday 19 until Monday 26 October. Pupils return to school on Tuesday 27 October.
14. I take this opportunity of informing/reminding all that teachers do not set homework for pupils in S1, 2 and 3 during holidays. Instead, it is expected that pupils take every opportunity to read for pleasure, engage in physical exercise and, subject to Government Guidelines, interact with others. It is left to the discretion of pupils in S4,5 and 6 if they wish to engage in their academic studies during designated holidays.

 My quote for the week: “You must never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right’’. (Rosa Parks)

 Best wishes to all for a restful and safe weekend.

 Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 2 October

1. On Tuesday morning of this week we learned that a pupil (unrelated to the two previous cases) had tested positive for Covid-19. Please be reassured that Council and National guidelines were followed in the school’s follow up actions.
2. We are delighted at how supportive pupils have been of the measures we introduced to reduce the risk of virus transmission. This includes:
1. One way system at busy times
2. Disinfection of desks and work surfaces at class changeovers
3. Wearing of face coverings
3. Our next PC meeting is our AGM on Wed 14th October. As we are unable to meet in person, please email us at jghscouncilcomms@gmail.com ahead of the AGM if you would like to join the PC Committee or if you are able to help in any way with future meetings, lobbying, communications, or other PC activities.  Please also email us with any questions you have for the meeting.  If you would like to catch up on what was covered at our last PC meeting on Tues 22nd Sept it's available to watch at: https://youtu.be/3zdKcGRFO2k and we will upload the Q&A to our PC website soon. Thanks
4. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Do continue to access the NHS (Scotland) Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid-19.
2. We will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid-19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school (please speak slowly and clearly if you are leaving a message) if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid-19 test and when your child is returning to school.
5. You must not send your child to school whilst any member of your household is waiting for Covid-19 test results.
5. Many thanks to all the parents and pupils who kindly donated old revision guides and textbooks.  They have been gratefully received by the Support for Learning Department and the Equity Hub. 
6. We continue to encourage all to cycle or walk to school. Please remember to use good quality locks. ‘D’ locks are recommended.
7. When pupils are absent from school they should access learning materials vis their Microsoft TEAMs account. All pupils have their own login and are in a ‘team’ for each different subject they do.
8. Pupils who are interested in pursuing their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award this year are asked to join the Team group. Signs up will be running between now and the October holidays. After that the Team will be closed and no other additions will be made. For access to more information about the award as well as information on the next steps, students can head to their Teams account and join our DofE team using the code: p2xhx5r. If you need any further help with this please get in touch with Miss Ewing in the PE department MONDAY OR THURSDAY LUNCHTIME ONLY or via email Chelsea.ewing@jamesgillespies.edin.sch.uk
9. Well done to three pupils who won prizes in the Scurry Yellowcraig 3 islands 10 km beach run on Sunday 27 September:
1. 1st Junior girl: Jessica Taylor (S2)
2. 1st Junior boy: Dylan Daunt (S2)
3. 2nd junior boy: Laurence Ward (S2) 

My quote for the week: “Smart people learn from everything and everyone, average people from their experiences, stupid people already have all the answers.” – (Socrates)

Best wishes to all for a restful and safe weekend.

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 25 September

1. Many thanks to everyone who attended our Parent Council meeting on Tues 22nd Sept.  For those who couldn’t make the meeting but would like to catch up on what was covered, it’s available to watch at: https://youtu.be/3zdKcGRFO2k and we will upload the Q&A to our PC website soon.  Our next PC meeting is our AGM on Wed 14th October – because we are unable to meet in person, please email us at jghscouncilcomms@gmail.com ahead of the AGM if you would like to join the PC Committee or if you are able to help in any way with future meetings, lobbying, communications, or other PC activities.
2. Any pupil making an early UCAS application and who requires one of the following admissions tests, must make contact with Mr Warden by Tuesday morning (29 September) to ensure they are registered by the deadline of 1 October. Pupils requiring any other tests must arrange these independently of the school and should contact the relevant universities should they require more detail.
1. Bio-Medical Admissions Test (BMAT)
2. Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA)
3. Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA)
4. Cambridge Personal Styles Questionnaire® (CPSQ)
5. International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT)
6. University of Cambridge pre-interview assessments
7. Cambridge Test of Mathematics for University Admission (CTMUA)
8. Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP)
9. University of Oxford admissions tests
10. Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT)
3. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Do continue to access the NHS (Scotland) Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid-19.
2. We will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid-19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school (please speak slowly and clearly if you are leaving a message) if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid-19 test and when your child is returning to school.
5. Please do not send your child to school whilst any member of your household is waiting Covid-19 test results.
4. If you are clearing out old revision books, success guides, textbooks etc.  we would like you to donate these to the school. We have set up a tray in the entrance foyer where your child can drop them off. 
5. During the last week of September, we will be helping to promote ‘Bike to work’. We are hoping to have the Police help us in marking pupils’ cycles to deter thieves. In the interim, all are reminded to use good quality locks. ‘D’ locks are recommended.
6. Parents/carers are requested to not use the school carpark to drop off pupils. Exceptionally, pupils with mobility issues, may be dropped off in the school car park. For all others, please drop off in adjacent quieter streets.
7. When pupils are absent from school they should access learning materials vis their Microsoft TEAMs account. All pupils have their own login and are in a ‘team’ for each different subject they do.

My quote for the week: ‘Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today’.(Malcolm X)

 Best wishes to all for a restful and safe weekend.

 Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 18 September

1. We would like to invite you to the next Parent Council meeting which will take place online on Tues 22nd Sept at 7pm via this link Join Meeting.  If you join via the link on the web, and then select join anonymously the link will take you straight to the event without having to sign in to Microsoft or download the Teams App.  We will hear from: Donald Macdonald (HT) - Overview; Jeff Warden (DHT) - Digital Learning; Deirdre O'Brien (DHT) - Learning and Teaching; Ian Porter/Ben Lewis (DHTs) - Pupil Support; Ian Porter/Ben Lewis (DHTs) - PE update; Bob Shankland (DHT) - SQA update; followed by Questions & Answers via the Q&A typed chat facility.  Thanks  
2. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Do continue to access the NHS (Scotland) Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid-19.
2. We will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid-19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school (please speak slowly and clearly if you are leaving a message) if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid-19 test and when your child is returning to school.
3. If you are clearing out old revision books, success guides, textbooks etc.  we would like you to donate these to the school. We have set up a tray in the entrance foyer where your child can drop them off. 
4. Tempest photography will be in school on Wednesday 23 September.
1. S6 final school photos will be used for the yearbook and possible photo montage of full year group
2. S1 – mop-up session for those students who were not photographed in August  
5. Staffing news
1. Mr Lewis (Maths) takes over from Mr Porter as Depute Headteacher and Year Head for S1 and S6 from Monday 21 September
2. Mr Duhig takes over from Mrs Shearer (Music) from Monday 21 September.
3. Mrs Edwards (Languages) returns on Tuesday following maternity leave. Thanks to Ms Byrne who has been with us since October 2019.
4. Congratulations to Mr Alexander (Biology) and his wife Emily who became a  dad to Donaidh Cailean on Wednesday
5. Hannah Goodman (Classroom Assistant) who got married today.
6. During the last week of September, we will be helping to promote ‘Bike to work’. We are hoping to have the Police help us in marking pupils’ cycles to deter thieves. In the interim, all are reminded to use good quality locks. ‘D’ locks are recommended.
7. Parents/carers are requested to not use the school carpark to drop off pupils. Exceptionally, pupils with mobility issues, may be dropped off in the school car park. For all others, please drop off in adjacent quieter streets.

 

My quote for the week: ‘“Racism is like a car. As long as someone is giving it fuel it will not stop. Together we can slowly dismantle the car as mechanics of social justice and save the people who are getting run over. If you are part of the dominant culture you can slowly venture into the car and tear it to pieces. Everyone must be equal. And you can change that.”. (JGHS S1 Pupil)

 

Best wishes to all for a restful and safe (long) weekend. Please remember that Monday 21 September is a holiday. Staff and pupils all resume on Tuesday 22 September.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Email to all pupils

Dear JGHS Pupil,

 

I’d like to begin by thanking you all for the very positive attitude you have shown since school restarted in August. From speaking with many, I know you were happy to return to school to get back to learning in classrooms with your friends and teachers.  Unfortunately, the Covid-19 virus is still here so we will have to adapt if we are to avoid returning to lockdown. The virus is spread by people and can only spread if we don’t follow the rules.

 

In order for our school to remain open to everyone, we need every member of the school community to play their part.

 

You must:

1. Follow the one way system at busy times.
2. Avoid gathering in large groups in or out of school
3. Keep at least one metre away from other pupils at all times.
4. Wear a face covering at all times in school corridors and social spaces. (This does not apply when you are eating or drinking)
5. Keep at least two metres away from members of the public
6. Wash your hands regularly throughout the day
7. Wear a face covering in shops and on public transport

 

I’d like to make a special plea for you to be mindful of members of the public when you are out and about in the community. Keep your distance and be courteous and respectful at all times.

 

I take this opportunity of wishing Mr Porter well as he moves to Craigroyston High School as Headteacher whilst the current Headteacher is on maternity leave. Welcome also to Mr Lewis who takes over from Mr Porter and to Ms Dolan who steps up as head of Maths.

 

With best wishes to all pupils for a successful, enjoyable and safe term at JGHS.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Mr Macdonald

Friday 11 September

1. On Tuesday evening of this week we learned that a second case (unrelated to the first case) had tested positive for Covid-19. Please be reassured that Council and National guidelines were followed in the school’s follow up actions. (See attached letter from NHS Lothian)
2. NHS Scotland has now made a contact tracing app available.  This ‘Protect Scotland App’ from NHS Scotland’s Test and Protect team is a free, mobile phone App designed to help us protect each other, reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid further lockdowns. All members of the JGHS community are encouraged to download and contribute to stopping the spread of the virus.
3. In the coming weeks, when pupils are absent from school, teachers will be placing work covered on TEAMs. All pupils should have their own logins to enable them to access the relevant work.
4. Please encourage your son/daughter to dress appropriately for the unpredictable Scottish weather. Classroom windows will be opened to maximise air circulation and, other than in really wet weather, pupils should be outdoors at breaks and lunchtimes.  
5. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Do continue to access the NHS (Scotland) Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid-19.
2. We will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid-19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school (please speak slowly and clearly if you are leaving a message) if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid-19 test and when your child is returning to school.
6. If you are clearing out old revision books, success guides, textbooks etc.  we would like you to donate these to the school. We have set up a tray in the entrance foyer where your child can drop them off. 
7. Look out for emails from our Parent Council. We have a very strong and active Parent Council and I would encourage you to get involved and engaged. The next meeting will be online and is scheduled for the evening of Tuesday 22 September.  
8. Congratulations to Mr Lewis (Curriculum Leader for Mathematics) who will take over the DHT vacancy from Mr Porter. Ms Dolan will step up as Lead for maths whilst we advertise and appoint someone to replace Mr Lewis.
9. During the last week of September, we will be helping to promote ‘Bike to work’. We are hoping to have the Police help us in marking pupils’ cycles to deter thieves. In the interim, all are reminded to use good quality locks. ‘D’ locks are recommended.
10. Parents/carers are requested to not use the school carpark to drop off pupils. Exceptionally, pupils with mobility issues, may be dropped off in the school car park. For all others, please drop off in adjacent quieter streets.

 

My quote for the week: ‘Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today’. (Malcolm X)

 

Best wishes to all for a restful and safe weekend.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 4 September

1. On Wednesday morning of this week we learned that an S3 pupil had tested positive for Covid-19. School staff, strongly supported by a NHS ‘Trace and Protect’ Team and Council Officers, acted to quickly identify those who had been in close contact. Resultingly, 18 pupils and 1 member of staff are now self-isolating. All staff and pupils are reminded of the need to remain vigilant and to follow school and national guidelines at all times.
2. In the coming weeks, when pupils are absent from school, teachers will be placing work covered on TEAMs. All pupils should have their own logins to enable them to access the relevant work. Bear with us as this may take a couple more weeks to become fully operational and embedded in our practice.
3. Please encourage your son/daughter to dress appropriately for the unpredictable Scottish weather. Classroom windows will be opened to maximise air circulation and, other than in really wet weather, pupils should be outdoors at breaks and lunchtimes.  
4. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Do continue to access the NHS (Scotland) Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid-19.
2. We will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid-19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school (please speak slowly and clearly if you are leaving a message) if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid-19 test and when your child is returning to school.
5. If you are clearing out old revision books, success guides, textbooks etc.  we would like you to donate these to the school. We have set up a tray in the entrance foyer where your child can drop them off. 
6. Look out for emails from our Parent Council. We have a very strong and active Parent Council and I would encourage you to get involved and engaged. The next meeting will be online and is scheduled for the evening of Tuesday 22 September.  
7. Ms Garrett (Modern Studies Teacher) has decided to run a marathon to raise funds for ‘Canongate Youth’ a local charitable organisation with which we have very strong links as a school. E.g. Many of our pupils have received additional support there over the years. If you would like to contribute, then please go to the following website: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=CaitlinGarrett&pageUrl=2 My sincere thanks to Ms Garrett and to all who choose to support this worthy cause.

 

My quote for the week: ‘None of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful’. (Mother Teresa)

 

Best wishes to all for a restful and safe weekend.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Add caption

Covid-19 Update

We are aware of a pupil in the school who has tested positive for COVID-19. We are working closely with NHS Lothian Health Protection Team and following all national guidance.

 

A number of people are currently being contacted because they may have been in close and sustained contact with the case and will need to self-isolate. They will be given appropriate guidance and advice.

 

A further update via email will be sent to you as soon as the tracking and tracing process is complete.

 

If you are not contacted, your child should attend school tomorrow as normal.

 

If you have any concerns in the meantime, or if you need to book a COVID-19 test because your child has developed symptoms (high temperature, a new continuous cough and/or a loss or change in sense of smell or taste) please visit the NHS Inform website or for non-clinical advice call 0800 028 2816. Remember to stay at home if anyone in the household has symptoms of COVID-19.

 

Please do not contact the school in the meantime; we will contact you with more information by e-mail.

 

 

Thank you.

 

Donald j Macdonald

 

Headteacher

Covod-19 Update (Tuesday 1 September)

Dear Parent/carer,

 

Face coverings

My thanks for your continuing support in ensuring that your child brings their own face covering to school. Note that face covering are only required to be worn for the short time pupils are moving between classrooms or in indoor communal areas during adverse weather.  Wearing a face covering is not obligatory in classrooms.

 

I’d recommend that all pupils carry a spare face covering in their schoolbag and a small bottle of hand sanitiser to avoid queuing at our wall mounted dispensers.

 

If you consider that your child cannot wear a face covering, please:

• Email the school office Admin@jamesgillespies.edin.sch.uk or your child's Pupil Support Leader
• Include your child's name and reason for exemption.

 We will update the school medical records accordingly and further consider what we can do to protect your child in areas of the school where social distancing is most difficult to achieve. (E.g. busy corridors and communal areas during adverse weather). To help protect pupils who are unable to wear face coverings it may be that a transparent visor can be used.

 

We have some spare visors and face coverings at school reception for those who forget or lose theirs.  

 

Please remind your child that they should not use public transport or enter local shops if they are not wearing a face covering.

 

Updated NHS guidance on when your child should stay away from school

 

1.      Do not come to school if you have any of the following Covid-19 symptoms. We will telephone you and ask you to collect your child if they have any of these symptoms whilst in school.  

• A new, continuous cough (3 or more episodes of coughing within 24 hours) (This is how ‘continuous’ is defined on the NHS Website)
• A fever/ high temperature  
• A change or loss in taste and/or smell.

2.      It is essential that pupils do not attend school if they have any one or more of these symptoms. In such cases, the entire household should self-isolate and book a Covid test.  

3.      Parents/carers should let school know if their children are not attending and why. Use our absence line 0131 447 1900 or email Admin@jamesgillespies.edin.sch.uk to report an absence and give the reason.  

4.      Confidentiality is essential: no names of anyone who is ill, or being Covid tested, will be shared with anyone who does not need to know.  

5.      Until the test results are obtained, anyone experiencing any of those three symptoms should self-isolate for at least 10 days (and 14 days for their household). They can only come out of isolation once the 10 days have passed, and then only if their symptoms have improved and they have been without a fever for at least 48 hours. Acting early and getting tested means that, should they test negative, they can come out of isolation once their symptoms improve, they have not had a fever for 48 hours, and they feel well enough to do so.  

6.      If a child or young person tests negative and is well enough to return to school and has not had a fever for 48 hours, their parent/carer should contact the school to let us know the child is returning and (preferably) show evidence of the test result to the school. This helps us monitor cases and keeps the school community safe and reassured.   

7.      Cold-like symptoms If your child does not have symptoms of COVID-19 but has other cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, they do not need to be tested and they and you do not need to self-isolate. Your child can go to school if fit to do so.

 

The most up to date guidance can be found at the relevant section of the NHS Scotland Website.

 

To finish on a more positive note, I am delighted to share that the school is gradually getting back to being fully operational in all areas. In the coming days we will, for example, be able to offer more activities in PE and resume some extra-curricular activities.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 28 August

1. Thanks to everyone in the JGHS community for your understanding and support as we settle back into the routine of school. The biggest change we made in our working practices during this past week was the expectation that all would wear face coverings whilst in busy areas of the school. I’m pleased to see that this been strongly supported by all in our community and has been extended across all of Scotland’s secondary schools.
2. In relation to pupils seeking exemptions from wearing a face covering,  the following procedure will apply:
3. If you would like your child to be exempt from this expectation, please email the school office Admin@jamesgillespies.edin.sch.uk or your child's Pupil Support Leader stating your child's name and reason for exemption.
1. The Pupil Support Leader will then email school reception where a personalised exemption card will be prepared. (Cards will be ready from 0830 on Tuesday 1 September)
2. This card will only have your child's name and class on it and will support your child demonstrate their exemption without having to go into any details.
4. Earlier this week I met with our Pupil Voice leaders to reflect on progress and explore how we might further develop what we are doing to keep everyone safe.  We talked about the challenges around social distancing in communal spaces around the school and also whilst queuing at local shops. There isn’t an easy or obvious answer to this so we agreed to reflect and discuss at our next meeting. In the interim, all agreed that pupils would be encouraged to wear face coverings where social distancing was more difficult to achieve.
5. Please encourage your son/daughter to dress appropriately for the unpredictable Scottish weather. Classroom windows will be opened to allow air circulation and, other than in really wet weather, pupils should be outdoors at breaks and lunchtimes.  
6. I’m pleased that our S1 photographs went ahead on Wednesday morning as planned. In order to comply with Council Guidelines, these were taken in an outdoor space. The resulting photographs look terrific. After the draft ‘Proofs’ are delivered to school we will distribute these to you and share how you can order (online) copies as suits.
7. All refunds from cancelled Spring/Summer excursions have now been processed on ParentPay. Thank you all for your patience.
8. At this time of year we would expect common colds to become more widespread.  
1. Please continue to access the NHS Guidance so that you will know when you should get tested for Covid19.
2. As a school we will err on the side of caution if/when any pupil displays one or more of the three recognised Covid 19 symptoms.
3. As always, email or phone the school if your child Is absent and do tell us if your family is waiting to be tested for Covid19. This is recorded differently in the school’s attendance register.
4. Remember to tell us the results of the Covid19 test and when your child is returning to school.
9. As we settle into a new school year we are aware you may be clearing out old revision books, success guides, textbooks etc.  If you would like to donate any of these items then we have set up a tray in the entrance foyer where your child could drop them off.  Due to our current situation, these resources cannot be shared as easily between students.  Therefore, any donations would be much appreciated by our Support for Learning Department and Equity and Attainment Hub.
10. Look out for emails from our Parent Council. We have a very strong and active Parent Council and I would encourage you to get involved and engaged. The next meeting will be online and is scheduled for the evening of Tuesday 22 September.  

 

My quote for the week: ‘There is no education like adversity’. (Disraeli)

 

Best wishes to all for a restful and safe weekend.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher

Friday 21 August

Firstly, my sincere thanks to all members of the JGHS community for your ongoing support as we re-form as a school community after a 5 month break. This past week has gone mainly to plan but there have been a few challenges. Pupils and staff are adjusting to new routines and, as circumstances and guidelines from the Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council evolve, we will continue to adapt how we operate as a school. Please be reassured that our overriding priority is to keep everyone safe. All of our procedures and protocols will be kept under continuous review.

 

What’s working well?

 

1. The positivity of pupils and their willingness to follow Health and Safety procedures
2. Our attendance has been very high throughout the week. (95%)
3. Our new S1s are settling in well and are enjoying High School. Our S6 befrienders/buddies have been stars!
4. A one-way system operates effectively at ‘rush hour’
5. All are regularly washing and sanitising hands.
6. Desks and chairs are disinfected for each class changeover.
7. Classrooms have been reorganised to ensure pupils are all facing in the same direction and to maintain a 2m distance between teachers and pupils.
8. All pupils are outside in the fresh air at breaks and lunchtimes. During inclement weather, indoor spaces, by year groups, may be accessed.
9. All pupils have worn face coverings whilst visiting local shops. (We phoned the shops at midday today to find out!)
10. Parents are following the guidelines in keeping children off school when any of the Covid symptoms are being displayed. NHS Guidance
11. Litter, across the school campus, is down by 99%.

 

What’s been challenging?

1. Moving safely around crowded corridors with too few pupils wearing face coverings
2. Pupils gathering in large groups outside of school at break and lunchtimes is unsettling for members of the wider community.
3. Reassuring pupils, parents and staff who are anxious about being in a very large and busy school.
4. Making alternative arrangements for some senior pupils who are (currently) not allowed to take classes in neighbouring schools.
5. Offering the full range of activities in practical subjects such are Sciences and PE are limited at present
6. Not being able to hold assemblies for large groups of pupils.

What will we do next week that’s different?

1. From 0800 on Monday 24 August all adults and pupils must wear face coverings indoors whilst moving around between classes. Masks, face coverings and visors are available free of charge to anyone who has lost or forgotten their face covering. (This decision applies to JGHS and is based on feedback from pupils, parents and staff. Pupil Voice leaders, teaching unions and the school’s Health and Safety committee were all consulted and have unanimously endorsed this approach)
2. We will review expectations of pupils in regards to distancing when they are out and about in the community during breaks and lunchtimes.

 

Miscellaneous

 

1. S1 Photographs will be taken on the morning of Wednesday 26 August.
2. School Trips (March to July 2020) refunds are now being processed. (Apologies for the delay)
3. The dining room is up and running, A full range of snacks at reasonable prices is available at both break and lunchtimes.
4. Teachers are currently being consulted on what changes could be made to courses and ongoing assessments so that exams can go ahead in May/June of 2021.
5. I will email all pupils directly over the weekend.

 

And finally,

 

My quote for the week: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain.

 

Best wishes to all for a lovely and safe weekend.

 

Donald j Macdonald

Headteacher