49 Fifth and Sixth Year pupils studying Higher and Advanced Higher Maths set off to the Kilbowie Outdoor Centre in Oban on for the Annual Maths Camp Weekend. Students are given the opportunity to participate in an extensive study programme for the forthcoming examination. A great time was had by all with pupils also being given the chance to take part in an Outdoor activity as part of the school’s Health Promotion Programme. They took part in Coaststeering which involves rock climbing and sea swimming and the group finished off with a seven metre jump into the sea. Credit goes to the students involved as this is an activity where participants get extremely wet jumping in and out of the sea on what turned out to be a particularly cold and wintry day. All staff who participated in the weekend were impressed by the pupils’ effort and application. It is hoped that their efforts will be rewarded by excellent results in the final examination. The weekend is part funded by the Edinburgh University Mathematical Association and we thank them for their continued support. Thanks to Mr. Mark Dorris (Principal Teacher of Mathematics), Mrs. Liz Bergen and Mr. John Harty (Teachers of Mathematics) and Mrs Anna Robertson (Principal Teacher of Support for Learning).

Sixty Third Year students recently returned from the annual Joe Ferrie Leadership Academy. This course took place at Ardentinny Outdoor Centre Dunoon, with students having the opportunity to participate in a variety of outdoor activities promoting leadership in young people. The aim of the course is to develop self-confidence, problem solving and team building. Students were given the opportunity to reflect on their achievements in order to reflect upon valuable skills that will help them to succeed in what is a very challenging academic year ahead. Staff and students enjoyed some typical Scottish weather, but the students took this in their stride, and thoroughly enjoyed all the activities! The staff had nothing but praise for the manner in which students conducted themselves throughout the course.

They were a credit to themselves and the school. This setting for the academy is spectacular and we thank the centre and their team of staff for their hard work during our visit, making our pupils feel so welcome. Thanks go to Taylor staff members who attended the Academy with our students, Miss Suzanne Evans, Principal Teacher of Pupil Support, Mr. Andy McPake Miss. Anna Blyth, Mr. Ian Macfarlane and Mr. Alex Steele from Pentland School. The only complaint about this very successful event from students was that they wished they could have stayed longer!

Many S4 Social Subjects pupils will head to London with the Faculty on Monday 2nd June 2014. Check out the itinerary to see what we have planned, but please note that it is still subject to change.

All S4 pupils concerned should be at Taylor High School ready to leave by 6.30am on Monday 2nd June 2014 to get the bus to Glasgow Central station. Please call the school mobile phone on 07793599016 if there are any problems. They will return to the school by approximately 8.45pm on Wednesday 4th June 2014. Please note that these dates are within the school scheduled S4 study leave, but their exams will be over.

Please pack weather appropriate clothing, sunblock if necessary and footwear suitable for lots of walking! Ensure that staff are made aware of any medical or dietary requirements in advance by contacting the school on  01698 274976 and that you bring plenty of any required medications.

Miss Stoutjesdyk