Pupils from Braidhurst High School and nine other NLC secondary schools recently returned from an adventurous week at the Outward Bound Centre at Loch Eil, in the Highlands.   The pupils were able to take part in a number of outdoor pursuits during their week away including raft building, rock climbing and hill walking.   Each of the enjoyable activities allowed individual pupils to improve their self confidence and communication skills.   The pupils had a ‘wonderful time and were all able to successfully achieve the Outward Bound Trust’s Adventure and Challenge Award (SCQF level 5) in addition to the John Muir Discovery Award.

Charity Staff recently held a coffee morning with home baking provided by Mrs Elizabeth Neilson.   £150 was raised and this will be donated to Macmillan Nurses.

Braidhurst High was delighted to host the under 17 team from Northern Ireland last week when they played against the under 17 team from Motherwell FC.   In an exciting game watched by a good crowd the game ended up a 1-1 draw.   The Rector Mr Derrick Hannan said, “It was fantastic to host such a match and watch such great skill on display from both sides.   The officials from Northern Ireland were really impressed with the entire set-up.   The school is a Scottish FA School of Football and also a Performance School of Football with around 40 young players joining us each year for football education during the day.   Motherwell FC Youth Academy is based in the school and use the facilities in the evening and weekends.   The staff from Northern Ireland viewed the model as one they would dearly love to copy.   They were splendid ambassadors for their country as were the youth players from Motherwell FC”.

On Monday 4^th February Braidhurst High School’s S1 netball team played against Clyde Valley.   Clyde Valley took an early lead but Braidhurst were quick to equalise.   The game was very tight with both teams scoring goal for goal.   Excellent interceptions from Goal Defence Lucy Blackwood provided Braidhurst with more attacking opportunities, allowing Braidhurst a two goal lead.    The final score was 8-6 to Braidhurst.

On the 18^th February, Braidhurst High School’s S3 netball team secured a place in the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup with a win against Glennifer High School.

Both teams played extremely well and demonstrated excellent skills and sportsmanship.   In the first quarter Braidhurst took the lead after a strong start.   Great shooting was displayed by Goal Shooter Holly Worton and Goal Attack Gillian Scott.   Braidhurst continued to play well and held their lead and at half time the score was 18-8.   Vital interceptions were made by Wing Attack Caitlin Watson and Centre Rebecca Murray during the final two quarters.   Glennifer maintained their efforts but were not able to come back and Braidhurst ran out winners by 24-9.