Welcome to the first Rector’s Log of session 2024/25.
The week that’s been…
This week, our learners and staff returned to KHS after a very long summer holiday.
On Monday and Tuesday, staff from across the school took part in a range of activities in preparation for our learners returning on Wednesday. We spent time reviewing the progress over last session, looking forward to our improvement priorities for this session and taking part in some discussion and training. On Monday, teaching staff worked collegiately to discuss learning, teaching and assessment here at KHS and how we can continue to support all learners achieve their best in the classroom and beyond. On Tuesday, staff took part in training around Neuro-divergence (Autism, ADHD etc.) and spent time readying for our learners returning. There is a flyer available for roadshows around family support around neurodivergence.
We had a very settled start to the pupil return on Wednesday, with our young people returning to school looking very smart and ready to learn. Our new S1 intake had their first day in KHS also, supported by our S6 buddies. As a year group, they have settled well into KHS and I have been amazed by the respect that they have shown, their enthusiasm and willingness to get involved in school life. I hope this continues in the weeks and months ahead.
On Thursday, all our young people took part in a Year group assembly, led by their respective Year Head. Learners were welcomed back to school, informed of some of the changes that have taken place and reminded of our community values. We also spoke of our hopes and aspirations for them over the session and ensured they were aware of what support is offered here.
As you will be aware, we have moved to our new school week and timings this session. We have had a couple of teething issues with the buses, which were late on Wednesday and Thursday morning. I contacted transportation who advised that this was due to roadworks around St Andrews High school and the knock-on effect on traffic on Dunnikier Way. All buses were in on time this morning and we will continue to monitor this and work with transport to resolve any issues.
Most of our young people who travel independently have arrived on time, and I thank you for your support with this. School begins at 8.40am with learning, and the warning bell rings at 8.37am. I would ask all families to strongly encourage their child(ren) to set off early enough to be in school on time. This has steadily improved over the last few days but there is still a few young people coming to school just on the bell that then subsequently means they are late arriving at class. Your support with this is greatly appreciated.
Over the course of the session, we will post lots of blogs, information, bulletins and this Rector’s log on our school website. Please continue to check this out, alongside our social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. An updated ‘Key Information Sheet’ is available on the school website.
The week ahead…
Next week will be our learners first full week back at school.
Our first Parent Council meeting will take place on Tuesday 27th August 2024 at 6pm on TEAMS. I will send an agenda and link to you on Monday, 26th August.
Lastly, last week I shared with you a letter with relevant information, updates and some important dates. There is an amendment to the date for the S3 Parent / Carer evening. This will take place on 18th March 2025 and not 28th March 2025 as published. Apologies for any issues that this has caused.
I hope you and your family have a pleasant weekend.
Best wishes,
Chris McKay
Rector
23 August 2024
