Welcome to this weeks Rector’s log. I hope you and your family are doing well.

The week that’s been…

It has been a busy and unsettled week here at KHS but for the vast majority of the school, learning continues and young people continue to do us proud!

As you may be aware, our winter assessments are just around the corner for young people in S4-S6. Young people are working hard in class, continuing on with their work towards qualifications. Please remember that there is study support available for most subjects and young people are encouraged to take part, if possible – Study Support 2023-24. Assessments start on w/b 4th December. Information has been shared by Mrs Davidson. There is no study leave for these assessments and young people are expected to be in classes and school over the assessment window.

Moreover, young people in S2, S4 and S5 are being supported through the mock course choice process. This started over the past few days and will continue over the next couple of weeks.

On Wednesday, Mrs Gibb and I visited S1 classes to check-in with our young people. We continue to emphasise to the year group the importance of being in class, on time, working hard and striving for success. We would ask for your support in re-enforcing this message, particularly asking a small but significant group to stay out of the woods around the school as this is leading to lateness after break and lunch.

On Thursday this week, all learners in S2, S4 and S6 were given the opportunity to take part in the ‘Equally Safe at School’ survey run by Glasgow University. Students were asked questions about how they feel in general, how they feel about school, what they know about gender-based violence and sexual harassment, and if they are aware of any behaviours like this in the school community. Any learner in those year groups that missed this will be given the opportunity to complete it next Thursday. The school will then complete an all staff survey before undertaking the ‘Equally Safe at School’ program. This work will also build on the ‘Mentors in Violence Prevention’ program that is currently being deliver by senior pupils to all S1 and S2 PSE classes.

Lastly, a gentle reminder to parents/carers to let us know, as soon as possible, if your child has an appointment that means they will be out of school. This can be completed by either adding the appointment through Parents Portal (you can add a note to say what time/period they need to leave etc.) or by telephoning the office (no note required) of any future appointments for their child, days, weeks or even months in advance.

The week ahead…

Next week is an extremely busy week in school with a number of events taking place for young people and families. This includes the Careers Fair on Tuesday, STEM speed dating on Wednesday and S3 Parent / Carer evening on Thursday evening. We also have a group of young people representing the school at ASDA, taking part in a Christmas choir session.

I hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable weekend when it comes.

Best wishes,

Chris McKay

Rector

24 November 2023