Dear colleagues,

Thanks again to everyone for your hard work, enthusiasm and professionalism last week. It was so evident in a range of contexts that I had the pleasure to be part of - walkarounds with DHT candidates, interviews, S1 Family Learning event, parent council and general day-to-day activities.

As mentioned, I am pleased to confirm that David Braid, currently of Kings Park Secondary in Glasgow, will join us as DHT Lomond House. I hope that David will be released from his current role for a few days to allow for some transition time with Amanda and the Lomond team.

Enormous to Lizzie for putting together the fantastic STEM Newsletter for parents. It is an excellent overview and celebration of the work done with S1 and S2 in the additional STEM lessons this year. The photos really capture the joy and enthusiasm that the learners have experienced.

Massive thanks to Michelle for continuing to offer CLPL online and in person. The double approach (supporting staff & pupils) to up-skill young people in study skills should have a really positive impact.

The Advanced Higher History pupils, led by Gordon, did an excellent job of planning and delivering a sombre, thought provoking and insightful Remembrance Service for S5 and S6 pupils. Thanks also to Anna for providing accompanying piano to John McCrae's 'In Flanders Field' read beautifully by Katie McDonald.

This is national anti bullying week. Claire has been working closely with Head Prefects to plan and deliver assemblies every morning this week. Jenny has prepared some great resources for use in Form Class time. We have been working hard as a school to emphasis the importance of kindness and not being a by-stander through buddying, MVP, and out day to day interactions. This is a fantastic opportunity to reinforce and emphasise our values.

On Tuesday the Head Prefects will be running year group Pupil Council meetings focusing on the rescheduled Stirling wide Pupil Voices for All Event (21 November), anti-bullying week, national discussion in education, dyslexia awareness and safe use of technology.

National Discussion in Education closes on 5th December. Look out for opportunities to contribute individually, in school meetings and professional discussion groups. The questions are in a padlet link below. I will make a return from the school as well as an individual one. I would urge you to do the same. It is so important that those of us in schools day to day have a voice in the discussion.

Finally, it is Children in Need Day on Friday. S6 pupils will resume their annual PJ day to raise money for the charity. Thanks for your patience in advance for inevitable disruption.

Have a great week.

Elaine