All second year pupils recently took part in a motivational workshop delivered by staff from the Tree of Knowledge organisation. Pupils learned about the different areas of the brain and how that knowledge can be used to learn more effectively.

Pupils then enjoyed taking part in a number of team-building tasks that ranged from paper-tower building to untangling tangled skipping ropes without letting go of the rope. The solution to each of the challenges set was to think creatively and work together in a more abstract way than normal.

All of those who took part thoroughly enjoyed the workshop activities. Tree of Knowledge will return after Easter to work with S4 pupils to help with their SQA examination preparation.

Congratulations to Taylor Walker of fourth year for raising a magnificent £147 for the ‘Cancer Genetics Education Fund’ at the Southern General Hospital in Glasgow. Taylor was inspired to raise the money through various sponsored activities after learning that members of her extended family were in danger of carrying the BRCA2 gene, a cause of certain cancers. Although she herself will not become a gene carrier, Taylor was determined to help others who may face health challenges in the future.

Among the activities Taylor completed was to avoid wearing make-up for an extended period. She was delighted to receive sponsorship from family, friends, fellow pupils and teachers, all of whom were pleased to support her heart-felt commitment to raising much-needed funds.

Taylor dropped into the West of Scotland Genetics Research Centre at the Southern General Hospital in Glasgow last week to make her unexpected donation to staff. Staff were pleased to take time of our their busy schedule to express their gratitude to Taylor and to explain her donation will help the centre hold education events for patients and families to share their experiences with each other and staff.

Taylor Walker (third left), with Gordon Lowther (Head of Service – Genetics), Ms Catherine Watt (Principal Genetic Counsellor) and Lesley Snadden (Principal Genetic Counsellor).

Students in the S4 SkillForce group have successfully completed their industry standard First Aid course. Over several weeks, pupils learned the key principles and life-saving skills from their instructors Paul Craig and Jim Carrick. As well as learning how to respond to sprains and fractures, the students learned how to recognize the symptoms of heart failure and how to respond accordingly.

Mr Ian Sommerville, Head Teacher, presented each of the students with their Health and Safety Executive First Aid Certificate at a special ceremony. Instructors Paul and Jim were delighted with the application and concentration the class demonstrated throughout the course and commended them for their commitment.

SkillForce instructors, Paul Craig (left), Jim Craig (right) and the fourth year SkillForce group proudly displaying their First Aid course.