Dear colleagues,

If you subscribe to the belief as I do, that a key part of our job is to help young people find their thing, then last week was a week to be proud of.  It certainly made me smile...many times over!  Here is a summary of just one week at Balfron High...

The week began with the news that Hollybeth Brooks and Daisy Sweeney had been selected for the Scotland U15 netball squad. I am pretty confident that their journey has been significantly influenced by the time, effort, inspiration and motivation of Sarah McLay and Rachel Vickers.  The netball club at Balfron High has gone from strength to strength over the years, seeing many young people thrive and enjoy the sport.  Thanks to Sarah and Rachel for   their commitment.

On Tuesday, on behalf of Fiona Fisher, I had the pleasure of taking Mia Douglas, Tessa Knowles and Robyn Youens to the Albert Halls in Stirling to showcase the work of our Social Justice Ambassadors. Armed with a presentation board filled with photographs and information, our ambassadors spoke with confidence and passion about the work done to tackle period poverty in our school. They shared information about the Balfron Larder and clothes swaps (uniform and PE kit).  I was most struck by their keenness to learn from other schools and look for ideas that can take our work from strength to strength. They did Fiona Fisher proud!

Meanwhile at the National Galleries in Edinburgh on Wednesday, I saw the same thing, just a very different context.  Harry Braid and Jasper Burnside performed eloquently in the final of the prestigious Donald Dewar Debating Competition. I was struck by their incredible knowledge, persuasive ability, relaxed confidence and humorous charm. Also enjoyng Jasper & Harry's input were Kate Reid and Emma Slavin who have coached them and many others at Balfron High over the years. I have no doubt that Kate and Emma have been significant in helping many young people find that debating is their thing and have inspired and motivated them to significant success.   

Nicola Douglas' passion for improving literacy coupled with Fiona Fisher's unwavering drive for equity saw our 3rd Reading Cafe take place on Wednesday afternoon.  Nicola secured author Theresa Breslin for the visit who captivated young people and staff alike. It is fantastic to consider that many of the young people from Balfron High and Drymen Primary who were ejoying the visit have developed their reading skills and love of reading through our PEF programme. 

It is worth noting that also through our Equity work, working with Scott Kennedy from FEL, five young people have achieved introductory cycling awards and will soon be starting the Level 4 Cycle Maintenance Award. Seven young people completed Early Years Delivery for Dynamic Youth Awards. Many thanks to Fiona Fisher for her drive and commitment to this important work. (photos below) 

And then there was the school show... 🤩  It was fantastic to see so many of staff in the audience and supporting the show over the three evening performances.  The cast were without exception, outstanding.  I have had so many positive comments and lovely feedback. The impact on the school and wider community has been highly positive.   Special thank you to Grace, Ansley, Anna, Cairi and Steven for the night after night of planning and rehearsals.  Thank you to all of the band, support staff, technicians and colleagues who rallied round to contribute to the smooth running of the show.  I haven't smiled so much in a long time!  There are some videos below. 

On Friday, Phil and I were joined by Penny Bath, Jasper Burnside and Euan Cooper to interview twelve head prefect candidates who made it through following the school vote. All of the candidates were worthy had had much to say about the positive impact that Balfron has had on their lives to date.  It was lovely to hear how these young people have valued the work of staff and opportunities that they have been given, so much that they are keen to give something back and make a contribution.  It was a long and tricky decision making process but in the end the final six selected were: Patrick Gallagher, Grace Johnstone, Tessa Knowles, Adam MacKay,  Hannah Smith and Robyn Youens. I know they are going to be an excellent team.

On Sunday, 44 students left for a social subjects trip to Barcelona.  As with the many other trips, small and large, I am grateful to staff for giving their time and energy.  I know that beyond a shadow of a doubt, these young people will have a positive experience and make fabulous memories.

Thanks to everyone for your hard work and professionalism. Have a great week.

Elaine