On Monday 23 February 2026 we held our first term 3 assembly during which we shared:
- Our School Values
Our school values were created in 2020 by pupils, staff, parents and members of our community. They are important because they explain what we want our school to look and feel like. The whole school discussed what these values mean in practice — they are not just words on posters!
Learning at the Heart of our ISLAND
I – Inclusive
Everyone is made to feel welcome and included in everything we do.
S – Supported
Everyone feels there is someone to support them — friends, teachers, support staff, parents or the community.
L – Learning
We are all learning everywhere — in classrooms, at breaktimes, on trips, in the playground and in our community.
A – Aspirational
We aim high and always try to do our best.
N – Nurturing
Everyone feels safe, cared for, comfortable and looked after.
D – Developing
Both pupils and staff are developing their knowledge, skills and experiences.
Soon, the Pupil Council will be discussing our vision and values to decide if they are still right for us or if they need refreshed. For now, these values guide our policies, curriculum and expectations.
- Celebrating Success
Learning does not only take place in classrooms. Many of our pupils show excellent skills in sports and represent:
- our school
- Yell
- Shetland.
We have pupils in lots of sport, including many who are involved in Shetland development squads for:
- U13, U15 and U18 Badminton
- U13 Netball
- U13 and U15 Rugby
- Gymnastics
- U16 Football
Well done to everyone involved — we are very proud of you!
- Skills for Work
Skills for Work courses are an important part of our curriculum. They provide vocational (work-based) learning and help pupils develop knowledge and skills for the workplace.
To join a Skills for Work course, pupils must apply to Shetland College and attend an interview. We are delighted that several pupils have successfully gained places and are being supported to learn and develop in a different setting.
Courses include:
- Construction Crafts
- Engineering
- Maritime Studies
- Aquaculture
- Rural Skills
- Computing
- Hairdressing
Well done to those who secured places! Make sure you work hard and represent our school appropriately.
- Reading Success
Kaitlyn has shown herself to be a very keen reader. This year she has read over 20 Tom Gates books by Liz Pichon.
She says she enjoys the diary-style writing and the author’s sense of humour. Fantastic effort, Kaitlyn!
- Pupil Council
The Pupil Council will meet this week. Please share any thoughts, ideas or concerns with your class representatives so they can raise them at the meeting.
- S4 Trip – Careers Event & Transition
On Tuesday, S4 pupils will attend the Local Opportunities Careers Event at the Clickimin Centre in Lerwick.
This event helps pupils learn about:
- Career opportunities with local employers
- How to apply for jobs
- What different jobs involve
- College and university options across Scotland
After the event, pupils who are transitioning to Anderson High School will visit the school for a tour. They will also visit the Halls of Residence, see their flats and stay overnight.
Exciting times ahead!
7. Mental Health – “See Me, See Change”
S3 pupils have been learning about mental health, stigma and how to seek help.
Everyone will experience challenges with their mental health at some point. If you ever feel you are struggling, it is very important to speak to someone you trust.
This could include:
- Parents or carers
- Friends or family
- Teachers or support staff
There are also online support services available, including:
- Breathing Space
- NHS 24
- Samaritans
- 7 Cups
S3 pupils are currently finishing their posters, which will be displayed around the school.
Remember — you are never alone, and there is always someone ready to listen.
8. Relationships Policy
Mr Lawson shared our new Relationships Policy. This policy has been developed over the past two years and is now being finalised and put into practice this term.
The key message of the policy is that we are all responsible for building positive relationships in our school.
This means:
- Supporting each other to behave well
- Being kind and respectful
- Working together to keep our classrooms calm and focused on learning
The policy recognises that mistakes will happen. When they do, staff will give clear warnings and guidance so pupils have the chance to improve their behaviour.
Sometimes, a restorative conversation may be needed. This helps repair relationships if they have been upset or strained. The aim is always to move forward positively and keep our school a safe, supportive place for everyone.
