Area Committee Report February Attainment and Achievement 2010

Transcription

We at Oban High School believe that the school has a responsibility to ensure that all our
youngsters achieve the best possible qualifications.
We also believe that we need to nurture and develop their social, emotional and vocational
knowledge and skills to enable them to achieve their full potential throughout their lives.
Area Committee Report February
Attainment and Achievement
2010
1
In January Oban High School attained the Silver Award
for Investors In People
2
SQA Results 2009
School Roll
•
The school roll rose from 1090 (2008) to 1118 2009; an above average figure over the 5 year
trend.
•
There are roughly the same number of boys (129) as there are girls (142) staying on into
S5/S6.
•
The number of boys staying on into S6 was the highest figure (61) since 2005. This follows on
from last year’s very high S5 staying on rate (80).
Cumulative Whole School Attainment
By the end of S4
• The percentage of pupils attaining combined English and Maths at Level 3 or above has
continued to oscillate between 93% and 97% over the 5 year trend: 95%, 2009.
•
The percentage of pupils attaining 5 or more Level 3s, 4s and 5s by the end of S4 have all
risen. (93% - level 3; 81% - level 4 and 37% level 5). The 5+ level 5 is the highest figure (preappeal) since 2002.
•
The girls again out-performed the boys at all levels – significantly. (Level 3 - 97% / 89%; level
4 - 89% / 74%; and level 5 - 41% / 32%).
By the end of S5
• The percentage of pupils attaining 5+ at levels 3 to 6 fell this year. This is due to the ‘carry
forward’ from last year’s S4 cohorts, who were the poorest attaining cohort since 1999.
•
However, we have arrested the extent of the decline and it is noticeable that our 5+ at level
6 figures are comparable with our 2007 results.
•
Also the 1+ at level 7 rose albeit 1%. Otherwise, the 3+ at level 6 fell from 26% to 18% which
is disappointing.
•
It should be noted that many pupils have opted to sit a 2 year Higher or Int 2 this year, which
obviously affects percentages reporting in S5.
By end of S6
• Passes at 1+, 3 & 5+ at level 6 all increased this year; as did 1+ passes at level 7. All these
passes are above the average over the 5 year trend.
•
Girls out performed boys in attainment at 1+ & 3+ at level 6 but not in attaining 5+ at level 6
or 1+ at level 7.
3
The Cumulative Whole School Attainment by Cohort figures show average progression lines
though the designated levels 2006 – 2008 overall higher although the girls’ progression is more
noticeable at 3+ level C.
Use of Click and Go
Click and go is now fully operational and was used extensively to track our pupil’s attainment.
Tracking was updated monthly with the Guidance Teacher and Depute responsible for each year
group. This meant that the Year team could quickly highlight pupils who were not achieving their
potential and meet with them. The year team then would set targets for these pupils. We also issued
a number of interim reports to parents throughout the year thus improving links and keeping them
involved with their child’s progress.
CAT Scores
CAT scores were widely used in Oban High School during session 2008/2009. Every pupil was issued
with a CAT score for each subject. These CAT scores were used only as an indication and bench mark
for what the pupil should be achieving.
Highlighted below is an indication of the CAT score predictions for the last four years.
Year
2009
2008
2007
2006
Prediction 5+ credits
42.3%
32%
46%
39%
Prediction 5+ generals
84.6%
81%
85%
86%
Prediction 5+ foundation
96.2%
95%
96%
97%
Raising Attainment
A proactive programme was introduced to S4 to increase attainment. Pupils not achieving their
potential were allocated with school mentors. These mentors, who were normal classroom teachers,
met with these pupils every three weeks to discuss action points and targets with them. We also
created a number of study skills lessons which were taught in the PSEd programme. All pupils were
also asked to set weekly targets with the support of their tutors – see attached sheet
Hostel pupils
The S4 cohort had 16 pupils attending Glencruitten Hostel. We worked closely with the hostel staff
and the study teachers trying to encourage a better study and revision programme.
Highlighted below is a breakdown of level awards for the S4 pupils in last year’s examination diet.
Level of award
No. of awards
Percentage
Credit awards
64
53%
General awards
46
38%
Foundation awards
6
4%
INT 1 passes
5
100%
INT 2 passes
4
100%
4
No awards
5
Candidates meeting their CAT scores or target grades
Reached their potential
14
4%
Did not reach their potential
2
The 2 candidates who did not meet their potential missed 3 of their predicted grades.
The S5 cohort had 6 pupils taking their senior school examinations. These pupils in the main did not
meet their targets. This was due to a lack of motivation and little study.
Level of award
INT 1
INT 2
Higher
No awards
No. of awards
4
13
4
9
More Choices More Chances
A special programme was introduced last year for S4 pupils not engaging in school and who were in
danger of becoming NEET. 12 pupils were selected for the “EXite” (Exit into Employment) programme
which included pupils involved in work experience, gaining extra qualifications such as first aid at
work, health and safety and EDCL. The programme also looked at how to complete application forms
and interview skills. We also incorporated visits to colleges and team building exercises.
At the end of the programme 8 pupils returned to school, 3 are in employment and one student has
enrolled with Argyll training.
No. of credit
awards
gained
2
No. of
General
awards
gained
29
No. of
Foundation
awards gained
No. of Pupils who met their target
8
No awards
gained
21
3
No. of
access 3
passes
10
No. of INT
1 passes
10
No. of INT
2 passes
5
No. of pupils who missed their target
4
Looked after pupils
Our looked after pupils did not perform to their potential although a number of them gained
additional qualifications from being on the “preparing pupils for work” programme.
Two pupils in S5 were placed on work experience and were given core skills as they were not
engaging with school. Both these pupils have gone onto employment and training.
5
Every term Oban High School holds Achievement Assemblies where we recognise a variety of
achievements both in and out of school. Often this recognition involves certificates, the
opportunity to perform, or pictures of some activities. The following pupils were presented
with certificates for the achievement categories noted below; for the period October to
December 2009. These are not the only achievements that were recognised at these
assemblies and copies of the full lists can be requested from the Year Heads.
S1 Achievers
Attendance & Timekeeping
Stewart Mobey
Lauren Lawson
Mia Colquhoun
Ciaran Black
Ellie MacNiven
Lewis MacFarlane
Lauren Cameron
Effort in 14+ Subjects
David Lamont
Homework in 11+ Subjects
Linda Blair
Cameron Galbraith
Rachel MacKenzie
Daisy Williams
Behaviour in 14+ Subjects
Lauren Cameron
David Lamont
Progress in 11+ Subjects
Roanna Cameron
Scott MacRae
Carla Maciver
Zoe King
Charlotte Collins
Finlay Sinclair
Edward Childs
Robert Colthart
Laura MacCallum
Stuart Jordan
Kirsty Bryce
Chloe Macleod
Chris Burton
Lewis MacPhee
Taylor MacInnes
Rowan Cameron
Danielle Jeffery
Rhona McGlone
Edward Childs
David Lamont
Kirsty Rutherford
Hazel Cruickshanks
Tyrone MacDougall
Naomi Fox
Rowan Cameron
Chloe Currie
Achievement in all four categories in 9+ Subjects
Rowan Cameron
Anthony Capper
Zoe King
Eilidh MacLean
Confident Individuals
Cameron Bennett
Niamh Steel
Helen Stage
Charlotte Boyd
Caitlin Taylor
Chloe Currie
Finlay Sinclair
Isla Duncan
Laura Grout
Murren Smith
Isla Donald
Taylor MacInnes
Chelsea Higgins
Rhoanna Black
Alison Ferguson
Matthew Hall
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S2 Achievers
100% Attendance
Lyndsay Weetman
Jenny Tamplin
Megan McGuigan
Craig Livingstone
Alex Campbell
Gregor Brydon
Suzie Smith
Shaun Maciver
Thomas Cummins
Ben Watkins
Matthew Strachan
Kyle McKechnie
Luke Gordon
Murn Cameron
Stuart Alexander
Mallory Robertson
Ruby MacFadyen-Donald
Anna McDonald
Gordon Thmson
Philippa Robson
Morgan MacLennan
Heather Ferguson
Ruaridh Cain
Lorna Thompson
Ewan McGlynn
Rachel MacDougall
Effective Contributors
William Brett
Alister McKerracher
Ruaridh Cain
David beaton
Cameron Underwood
Stuart Alexander
Emma MacLachlan
Successful Learners
Davie Campbell
Rachel MacDougall
Emily Scott
Andrew MacDonald
Kirsty Sinclair
Tierney Carter
Hayley Scott
Emily Black
Stephen Skinn
Clare Davies
Lauren McCulloch
Jenny tamplin
Liam MacEachan
Shannon Addison
Matthew Strachan
Kyle MacKechnie
Matthew Anderson
Beth MacLellan
Responsible Citizens
Abigail Evans
Gordon Thompson
Jenna MacInnes
Briony Kincaid
Murn Cameron
Alex Galbraith
Calum McBurnie
Gregor Brydon
William Brett
Hazel Dunn
Hayley Higgins
Ruby MacFadyen-Donald
Alison MacVicar
Erin MacIntyre
Emma Storr
Heather Campbell
Abigail Evans
Sarah Hill
Corey MacDonald
Cara Mackinnon
Philippa Robson
Ciara Watling
Excellent Progress
Cameron Allward
Kirsty Campbell
Malte Glud
Anna McKinnon-Garvin
Emma MacLachlan
Connie McCreath
Rebekah Stephenson
Lorna Young
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S3 Achievers
100% Attendance & Perfect Timekeeping
Ian Abdelli-Deshayes
Lucy MacNiven
Craig Donald
Owen Thomas
Daniel Smith
Catriona MacInnnes
Fiona MacPherson
Patrick MacKinnon
Kieran MacInnes
Aaron Johnson
Shona Elliott
Dylan Cooke
Fiona Cameron
Murray Peden
Lauren tennant
Stacey MacLeod
Stephen McCracken
Kirsten MacMillan
Melaine MacKenzie
Niall MacFarlane
Eilidh Hunter
Colin Davren
Ryan Cook
David Cameron
100% Attendance
Niall Williams
Harry Stage
Ryan MacInnes
Jamie MacRae
Amanda MacLean
Michael MacIsaac
John Kennedy
Sarah Jane Ferguson
Megan Cruickshanks
Jodie Campbell
Anmol Arshad
Best Effort, Best Progress, Best Homework & Best Behaviour in all subjects
all Subjects
Mairi Beaton
Murray Peden
History Achievements – Excellent Classwork & Homework
Erin Kelly
Josh Tinline-Bartholomew
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S4 Achievers
Successful Learners - XL Bronze Awards
Sam Birkett
Daniel Hall
Louise Kynoch
Daniel Lamont
Calum MacGillivray
Matthew MacLean
Hannah Rokitta
Jordan Strang
Craig Handley
Eleanor Lopez
Kieran Martin
Stephanie Waiton
Amy King
Elizabeth Campbell
Angus John MacColl
Thomas Dalgaty
Angus Sinclair
Malcolm Clark
Alannah Higgins
Calum MacGillivray
Kirsty Thompson
Kenna Barrow
Amanda MacNeill
Geography Certificates
Ewan MacGregor
Leanne Barnes
Blair Menzies
Chelsea MacDonald
Scott MacAllister
Jamie Chapman
Ashley Lind
Claire MacCuish
Daniel Hall
Katherine Sutherland
Fraser McGlone
Laird Kennedy
History Certificates
Angus Sinclair
Elizabeth Campbell
Richard Thomson
Gerry Kilmurray
Leigh MacKenzie
Mairi Cameron
Laura Meek
Linzi MacVicar
Ashley Lind
Amy Underwood
Samantha MacIver
Malcolm Clark
Amy Hoey
Fraser McGlone
Caroline Smith
Alex Dunnings
Diarmid MacKinnon
Leigh Eisler
Daniel Parrot
Reannon Sinclair
Ewan MacGregor
Euan Livingstone
Robin Scott
Kirsty Thompson
Debbie McCreath
Angus Sinclair
Maggie Yau
Jonathan Gilchrist
David O’Neil
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S5 Achievers
Consistent Academic Effort
Rona Anderson
Andrew MacFarlane
Anna Smith
Jakki Watt
Anna Campbell
Sarah McInnes
Louisa Stage
DJ MacDougall
Kirsty Pallas
Helen Tinney
Highest Total Merits
Iain Livingstone
Anna Smith
Rotary Chef Award
Stef Anderson
100% Attendance/No Lates
Calum Galbraith
James McCullock
Representing the School
Fergus Matheson
National Scottish Rugby
Julie Campbell
Services to School Community
James Bastow
Guy Forteith
X Factor Award
Murray Willis
Raising Money for JIM
Hannah Poulton
Sarah McInnes
Katherine MacCuish
Radio Play Authors
Jonathan Gilchrist
David O’Neil
Bells Lawrie Scottish Schools Rugby Cup
Michael MacMillan
Fergus Matheson
Ryan Jackson
Jonathan Sayer
Clan Shinty
David Hill
Craig Wright
Sean Cook
Raising Money for Africa
Class 5.2
Leaders/Judges at Gymnastics Competition
Katie Sims
Rachel Broadfoot
Completed Swimming Teachers’ Course
Louisa Stage
Rona Anderson
Calum MacFarlane
Jonathan Sayer
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Cara Thompson
Eilidh Muir
S6 Achievers
Successful Learners
Allan Laycock
Jennifer McLuckie
Charlie Harris
Sally Anne Bramley
Lora MacLean
Niall Redshaw Sinclair
Ewan MacDonald
Caitlin Smith
Robert MacKinnon
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Allan Laycock
Jennifer McLuckie
The following achievements have been nominated by our departments. These
achievements have taken place since May, when I last presented on this subject to the
Area Committee. A full list of all Achievements is available on request or can be
found on the school website.
ART & DESIGN
The Art & Design department is currently a bit like a swan….being a very
visual department, things can look very accomplished and graceful on the
surface, as our current displays of photography, fashion and folios
demonstrates. Below the surface, however, there is a lot of hard work going
on both in the art room and elsewhere.
We have also seen a number of staffing changes which brings diversity and new ideas to our
department. We welcome Miss Chiappa, a Fine Art Photography graduate, to our teaching
team. She has already established a weekly Art Club which explores techniques in a relaxed,
friendly atmosphere. Mrs Taylor was last in our department a few years ago on placement
and we welcome her return which was brought about by Mrs Pupillo’s recent promotion to
Depute Head Teacher status.
Perhaps our most evident success was our participation in the Argyll
Rhapsody Homecoming Show.
The Fashion Show element of this Argyll project formed the basis of our
new S3‘s introductory Design folio. A very challenging design brief had
been set and our new specialists grew in confidence and ability as they
discussed, developed and presented their ideas. We were also pleased to
welcome back former pupil, Joan Beaton, recent costume design graduate, who
was an inspiration to our designers.
Photographers had also been selected from our current 4th year students and
their exceptional images formed a fitting backdrop to the whole show. Much of
the photography had been done independently by these students and they
should be complimented on their creativity and commitment.
Our Advanced Higher (A Team) were on hand to act as mentors, models and general
assistants and the whole project culminated in the marvellous performance before
appreciative audiences in Oban and Helensburgh. If you missed this event, you can enjoy it
on the website www.rhapsody09.com
The A Team is proving to be a very committed bunch of individuals. Some are supplementing
their class work as they prepare folios for art school applications. All are willing participants
in a flood of opportunities which come our way. One student aims to develop a career in
marketing and events management and has therefore been a key player in requests for
artworks for such diverse places as Glencruitten Hostel, Oban Youth Hostel and Trinity Hair
Salon!
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Oban High artworks are also enjoyed by recipients of our VIP gifts which take the form of a
framed selection of work by former pupils who have gone on to develop their creativity at
various art establishments.
The achievements of pupils past & present can
be enjoyed in our new range of Cards for all
Occasions which are currently for sale in school.
Under the auspices of the Curriculum for
Excellence initiative, we have joined ranks with the English department. S1 and S2 pupils are
involved in using their English texts as a source of inspiration for a piece of expressive art.
This will culminate in a refreshed display of framed artworks in the English corridor. It has
certainly given us all a fresh perspective on what it means to be ‘creative’ and recognises
achievements in many facets of creativity.
Recently we were pleased to add a selection of Homecoming artworks to the St Andrew’s
Day Celebration. Currently we are preparing a virtual display of S1 visual diaries and S3
fashions for the OHS website. We value such opportunities to recognize the broad spectrum
of achievement whether it is creating a skilful piece of design or just reliably handing in
sketchbook homework on time! This is now recognized at Achievement Assemblies in the
presentation of customized Art Department bookmarks.
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BUSINESS STUDIES
PUTTING THEORY INTO PRACTICE
Third year Business Management had the opportunity to put theory into practice by running
their own Christmas business activity.
The pupils were divided into groups and formed their own businesses deciding on their
name, the Christmas novelty products they would make and sell, how they would promote
them, where they would get their capital from and who would take responsibility for the
various activities. These activities culminated in the Christmas Bonanza they ran during the
last week of the term.
The businesses were delighted that overall they made a profit and were able to repay their
loans in full.
They all agreed it had been great fun and that they would be able to draw on their
experiences throughout the Business Management course.
MAKE YOUR MARK
Four members of the S3 Business Management class took part in the Make Your Mark
Business Enterprise competition which launched on 16 November as part of the Global
Entrepreneurship Week.
Their remit was to come up with a new and innovative business idea that took its inspiration
from something local. The aim was to invent a cool business which minimised the impact on
their environment, had a low carbon footprint and would make a profit.
The Group of Erin Kelly, Lauren Buchanan, James MacLeod and Lewis Payne came up with
the idea of a producing an audio tour of Oban which could be downloaded onto MP3
players. Customers could either hire an MP3 player or use their own. The tours would be
sold through the Tourist Information Centre, Hotels and other commercial premises. Links
with bus tour operators was also considered.
14
The group thoroughly enjoyed the experience and though they did not manage to reach the
final round all agreed it had been good fun and a worthwhile experience.
S3 Administration
Christmas Jingles Poster Design Competition
The S3 Administration classes were challenged to design a poster to advertise the Junior
Jingles to be held on 17 December. Pupils used all their word processing and display skills to
produce a wide variety of posters advertising the event. Mrs Binnie had a very difficult task
selecting the winner - Kirsten MacMillan 3G1. She liked the clarity and simplicity of the
design. There was a notable mention for Michael McIssac.
The winner received a certificate and a free Jingles ticket.
Higher Administration
TEAMBUILDING EXERCISE
High fashion came to the Business Education Department in the form of a teambuilding
challenge for the Higher Administration Classes.
Each group had to design, make and model an outfit made from
newspaper.
The groups thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and learned how much could be achieved in a
short time by co-operating with others.
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LINKS WITH INDUSTRY
VISIT TO CLUNIE GROUP LTD
The Higher Administration class enjoyed their visit to Clunie Group Ltd. They were divided
into small groups and were taken to visit the Design Studio, Production and Printing and the
Finance Departments.
The visit provided the students with an opportunity to see what it is like to work in a hightech environment.
Through the visit they realised how important it was to meet deadlines, work as a team and
to provide first class customer service.
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COMPUTING STUDIES
This session has seen big changes for the computing studies Department. With the arrival of
a new teacher, and much closer co-operation with the Business Studies department we
envisaged that in future we will be engaged in much more work which is more of a whole
school nature and not strictly subject-based.
For example, we have started a computing club to expand the general interest of all things
computing for the school population. When pupils attend this club they are encouraged to
pursue any direction that they feel they are interested in, and are given help and advice by
staff. Work undertaken is often of that nature which will be directly relevant to a curriculum
for excellence. In fact, in general, in non-timetable hours (for example lunchtime and at 4
PM) all pupils are encouraged to attend the computing suites, and staff will be on hand to
help.
Also, a project is underway in the local area about multi cultural aspects in Oban and the
surrounding district, stemming from the relatively recent flow of people from other parts of
the EU and the rest of the world. The end result will be a web site created by pupils of
several local primary schools with the co-operation of the Computing department and
Modern Languages departments of Oban High.
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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
Smokehouse challenge (all S2 classes)
The department designed and manufactured packaging for this inter disciplinary task to hold
the product that the pupils made in food technology. They had to learn about orthographic
drawing, surface developments, dimensions, geometric shapes, using instruments, line
types.
F24 challenge (mainly S3 boys, Mrs.
Durkin)
An extra-curricular club. The group has
to design and build an electric car which
they are to race in the regional finals in
June in Alford.
Primary Liaison project (P7 Mrs. Durkin)
Recycling project with P7 pupils from Dalmally,
Kilchrenan & Taynuilt. Pupils learned about the 3 R's.
They learned about the design process, and then
manufactured a clock from recycled material
Product Design Industrial Visit (S5/6, Mrs Durkin, Mr
McKenna)
Int 2 and Higher Product Design students went to the Product Design Faculty at Strathclyde
University where they learned about various aspects of rapid prototyping, 3D animation,
3D printing, 3D scanning, laser cutting and CNC routing and milling in a real life context. The
pupils (and staff) enjoyed the experience and some students have now been inspired to
study design at university.
S3 Enterprise through Craft
The students have been manufacturing garden benches. They have sold quite a number
now and there are many satisfied customers.
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DRAMA
‘Blackout’ – Standard Grade Performance Evening
On 10th December 2009 pupils from our S4 Standard Grade class worked incredibly hard to
put on a highly successful evening of performance for their first public audience. The
evening consisted of four short plays that were created entirely by the pupils themselves
and played to an audience containing friends and family. What was particularly impressive
was the level of support they showed one another, helping reset the stage during scene
changes and providing technical help for each other’s work. A big well done to all involved!
Pensioner’s Treat – December 2009
The drama department were invited by the music department to provide a short theatrical
interlude at their Pensioner’s Treat. Two S3 pupils did very well to overcome their nerves
and perform their short comedy extract as part of the day’s entertainment.
‘Blood Brothers’ by Willy Russell – A Trip to the Theatre
Pupils in the S3 Standard Grade Drama class will be visiting the King’s Theatre, Glasgow to
see Willy Russell’s musical ‘Blood Brothers’ at the start of February. The trip is vital as it
provides an opportunity to evaluate a professional performance but it also promises to be a
really fun and enjoyable day out.
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ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
H20 Solo Talks Visit
On Thursday the 3rd of December 2X6 visited H20’s base in Lochavullin in order to perform
solo talks before an audience of Oban’s senior citizens. The boys’ talks were based on a
selection of their heroes chosen from the worlds of cinema, music, literature and sport.
Despite having spent almost a week
preparing during class time, with the help
of Mrs Cameron, Denise Clancy and senior
student Vicky Cunliffe, the lads were
somewhat nervous once the big day
arrived. A few bars on the harmonica from
Donnie, however, and a quick dose of hot
chocolate and the boys were raring to go.
For many of the boys this was their first
time speaking in public and they
performed admirably, entertaining their
audience with interesting facts about
personalities and characters as diverse as
Muhammad Ali and Yoda from Star Wars. 2x6 were delighted with such an appreciative
audience and were excited at the success of their visit. Our sincere thanks to Denise, Vicky,
Mrs Cameron, the S5 Pathways crew and the ladies and gentlemen at the centre for such a
great experience.
Reading Certificates
Pupils in S1 and S2 have been busy working towards completing their Bronze, Silver and Gold
Reading Certificates. The purpose of the system is to provide a structure to each child’s
reading habits and to encourage our younger pupils to read a variety of quality fiction and
non-fiction texts.
Each certificate involves reading a specific number of books, drawn from different genres of
writing, and completing a Reading Record of tasks based on various aspects of these texts.
The Gold Record is particularly testing, requiring pupils to read and analyse ten novels drawn
from a list that includes many classics of English literature.
Although everyone begins this process in S1, relatively few go on to complete the Gold
Certificate by the end of S2, making it a very significant landmark in a pupil’s study of
English.
The Department is delighted to award Gold Certificates to Tierney Carter, Torquil
Fergusson, Gordon Thomson and Gene Palmer. Congratulations and very well done to you
all.
Well done also to Rachel McDougall, Lauren McCulloch, Leanne McMaster, Emily Scott and
Jenny Tamplin who have all been awarded Silver Certificates. The Department wishes you
all the very best in your pursuit of Gold over the comings months.
Finally, congratulations to the many pupils who have achieved Bronze Certificates this
session- don’t rest on your laurels! Keep up the good reading habits and gold and silver are
around the corner.
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ENTERPRISE
Make your Mark
Two groups of pupils entered the Make your Mark Challenge as part of Enterprise Month in
November. The competition is the largest one day event in Britain for secondary aged
pupils. The senior group of Ryan Jackson, Rachel MacMillan, Hannah Mather and Fergus
Matheson won through to the National Finals in Glasgow. Unfortunately the group did not
make it through to the Grand Final in London, but the judges were so impressed with the
responses to the questions that they gave them an award for 'Thinking on your feet'.
S3 Skills4Work
As part of their coursework the class have to set up and run an enterprise activity. One class
decided to take advantage of the Christmas Market and sell personalised Santa Hats. The
group sourced materials, advertised the product, collected and delivered orders and were
very successful. They have decided to donate £50 from their profits to Yorkhill Hospital.
21
GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT
§
§
§
§
§
§
S2 completed an interdisciplinary project on wind farms with the science department.
This project is now being expanded into a project with SDS (Careers Scotland).
Higher classes were spoken to by an SNH employee about the geography of Argyll and
careers within SNH.
Interdisciplinary project being planned with PE/Active Sports working on map work
and orienteering.
Transition project being expanded to include CFE outcomes and interdisciplinary
working.
After school study has been running for higher all year.
Many stunning AH results this year. A top band A was achieved which is a
phenomenal achievement for the pupil and department.
Fieldwork
§
Advanced Higher Geography met with a field work consultant and carried out three
days of fieldwork in Glen Strae near Dalmally. The local land owner asked them to
investigate the best location to plant a new forest; the results were fed back to the
owner directly by the pupils.
§
Higher class taken to Glasgow on an Urban field trip, where they had a speed boat
ride along the Clyde to study regeneration projects along the Clyde.
§
Plans to take S3 out to complete fieldwork in Glen Strae this Spring
§
S3/S4 pupils have been involved in collecting local fieldwork in and around Oban.
§
Travel and Tourism have been out investigating tourist attractions in local area.
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§
S4, 70 pupils and 5 teachers and 3 assistants completed a foreign fieldtrip to the
Netherlands.
§
Fieldwork,
increase
in
self
esteem/confidence - gain the ability to
talk to/interview/question people in
relation to the field work they carry
out. (Advanced Higher consult many
local people).
§
Confident individuals - able to plan,
carry out and process the information,
which they have collected, and come
to a reasoned conclusion.
§
Responsible citizens - Fieldwork requires self discipline - out on their own carrying out
fieldwork.
§
Successful Learners - Tools to allow them to become lifelong learners. Variety of
teaching and revision techniques used which gives them the confidence to learn new
skills throughout their lives.
§
Devised new achievement certificates to award at year group achievement
assemblies, this replaces merit postcards.
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HISTORY / MODERN STUDIES
Battlefields 2009
In June 2009, 40 History students took part in our seventh Battlefields experience. The
pupils visit the battlefields, graveyards and memorials of the First World War. This year was
especially memorable because, for the first time, we were able to visit the memorial to our
local regiment, The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, on the Somme. It was very emotional
to see the battle cry “Cruachan” carved on the monument.
Another highlight of the trip is always our own memorial
service to the fallen which we hold at the Menin Gate on our
last evening. Our pupils choose their own heartfelt inscription
for their wreath, the eulogy is read and a lament, “the Flowers
of the Forest” is played in remembrance. This service of our
own has a huge and long lasting emotional impact on our
pupils.
As a result of their visit, two of our History students, Amanda Noddings and Katherine
Jackson, participated in the senior RO conference on conflict and resolution. They gave a
24
presentation based on their experiences during the Battlefield visit the previous summer.
Their presentation linked past conflicts to conflicts in the present day with a particular focus
on remembrance. The pupils wanted to make a special mention of former OHS pupil Robert
Mclaren, a soldier in the Black Watch, who was killed in Afghanistan recently.
Recruiting is currently underway for the eighth Battlefields Visit in June 2010. The value of
this experience for pupils cannot be underestimated. It brings what they’ve learned into the
classroom to life in a way no method of teaching can. Many of the pupils say it is an
unforgettable experience which changes the way they think.
25
Visit to Auschwitz Extermination camp
September 2009
In September Asif Arshad and Craig Stoddart, two S6 students, accompanied by Ms Rae,
visited Auschwitz in Poland.
Both students have an undertaking to pass on the lessons they learned to others.
Craig delivered an impressive presentation to an S2 class on the visit and the lessons to be
learned from it.
Asif is scheduled to make a presentation to senior pupils on Holocaust Memorial Day.
26
In November Ms Karly Kehoe, a lecturer from the University of the Highlands and Islands,
and a colleague, visited the department to discuss her current research project with pupils.
Senior History pupils participated in a workshop which raised awareness of the courses
offered by UHI. The students were given opportunities to: identify individual preferred
learning styles, to evaluate primary sources and to analyse essay questions into component
parts of subject area and focus.
As part of their S1 course all modern studies pupils will have the opportunity to take part in
a mock election. Pupils may choose a current political party or found an original party of
their own. A suitable candidate for the party is chosen. In groups the pupils organise their
own election campaign; designing election posters, creating party leaflets explaining the
party manifesto which has to be agreed by the party.
Candidates then have to make an election speech and the class then votes. Pupils make
ballot papers and ballot box; returning officers count the votes and announce the winner.
Andrew MacCallum 1.3 was
the winning candidate in his
class’s election.
27
HOME ECONOMICS
Oban High School Meets ---Confident Learners/Responsible Citizens
When two members of staff from Butterworth High School in South Africa came on an
exchange visit to Oban High School the pupils of the Food Technology Department hosted a
dinner in their honour.
Members of the local community and the staff from the High School, came together to enjoy
an evening of good food and fellowship.
A traditional Scottish menu was prepared and served by S5 & 6 pupils, all of whom have
studied Home Economics or Hospitality for 4- 5 years.
Haggis Neeps and Tatties in Whisky Sauce
/Cock-a-leekie Soup
Steak Pie
/Oban Seafood Pie
Trifle
Crannachan
Coffee and Tablet
Pupils joined their guests for coffee and tablet providing a chance to discuss school life in
their respective countries and food and entertainment traditions. The standard of
hospitality was praised highly by all those present and pupils commended on the quality of
the food.
This was a wonderful chance for pupils to meet people from such a different cultural
background, while using skills developed in the Food Technology Department in a
meaningful and realistic situation.
28
Master Classes – (successful learners/confident individuals)
For almost 10 years the Food Technology Department has enjoyed the support and help of
Robert MacPherson Head Chef at Isle of Eriska Hotel.
Robert has been willing to come into school to work with pupils of many ages and to help
develop a high standard of practical skill in our Hospitality courses.
As part of this support he comes into school twice a year to hold master classes for
Intermediate 2 pupils preparing for their prelims and final exams.
The exams which are wholly practical require a very high level of skill and style of
presentation.
The master classes focus on the dish requiring the highest level of presentation – usually a
starter or dessert which must be served in four identical portions. Pupils are expected to
develop their own style for presentation. By working for 2 hours with Chef the pupils see a
skilled professional at work. What seems to them a basic recipe can be transformed by
garnish, decoration and design. Robert demonstrates various ways he would consider
appropriate for the dish to be presented and then works with pupils to develop their own
ideas.
29
Pupils gain knowledge and confidence through
this activity and can achieve higher grades as a
result. The pride and sense of achievement is
clear and commented on by many of the pupils
who participate in the classes.
Pupil’s Final Exam Dishes May 2008
30
Rotary Young Chef Competition 2010
In May of 2009 The Rotary Club of Oban invited the Food Technology Department to enter
pupils in their annual competition. Interested pupils were invited to attend an introduction
and demonstration by Chef Robert MacPherson of ‘The Isle of Eriska Hotel’. Of the twelve
who attended the demonstration in June Five six pupils decided to compete in the school
heat to be held in September.
Competitors ranged in age from 13 – 16 years and had to devise their own menu of two
courses at a cost of no more than £8. Pupils developed their ideas independently over the
school holidays and prepared costings for their dishes in readiness for the competition held
in the Food Technology Department on 30th September 2009. All ingredient costs were
covered on the day by Rotary Oban.
The Judges - Head Teacher, Peter Bain;
Rotary Member, Ronnie Neil; and Chef
Robert MacPherson – considered the level
of skill shown by the pupils and the calibre
of the final dishes to be very high.
The worthy winner on the day was Stef
Anderson with her stunning menu of:
Medley of Sea Food in Saffron Sauce
in a puff pastry shell.
Strawberries in Vanilla Sauce in Tuille
Baskets
Stef won her own set of personalised
Chef’s Whites provided by Rotary
Oban. Her high standards and
obvious skill combined with delicious
dishes impressed all judges.
Stef went on to represent the Oban Rotary
Club and OHS in the Area heat in December
held in East Kilbride. Stef who works in the
Willowburn Hotel in Easdale developed her
menu with the support of owner and Chef
Chris Wolfe. Her new three course menu to
cost no more than £12 consisted of:
Clear Tomato Soup
Fillet of Beef with Goats Cheese & Creamed
Potatoes & Honey Glazed Swede and
Carrot.
Strawberries in Vanilla Sauce in Tuille
31
Baskets.
Stef had practice sessions with Chef Robert MacPherson to develop and fine tune her new
menu.
Stef did well on the day against 12 competitors from all over Scotland. Her experience was a
positive one and she was an excellent representative for Oban. The winner of the
competition will go to London for the final to be held in Jamie Oliver’s “Fifteen” restaurant.
32
Autumn/ Winter 2009
It was another busy term for H2O in the High School. In
November we welcomed a team from Scripture Union called
Check-It-Out. They were a band and a drama group and
stayed in the school for a week leading assemblies and
various different classes including RME and Music. It was
great having them around and they finished the week off with
a concert that was really well attended.
The Check-It-Out team were also around for the S3 Faith
Matters conference on ‘Conflict Resolution’. Additionally we
had speakers from Woman’s Aid, the Red Cross, Social Work
as well as several teachers from the High School. This year
we also had a couple of 5th years, Amanda Noddings and
Katherine Jackson running a workshop based on their
reflections of their trip to the Battlefields 2009 and they did a
fantastic job.
The S6 Faith Matters conference happened in December at
SAMS. The theme of this conference was ‘Faith Perspectives’,
and we had 7 different speakers from various faiths including
Judaism, Bahaism and Christianity. Pupils attended all 7
workshops and the feedback for this conference was positive.
Both the S3 and S6 conference were organised and
coordinated by H2O and the RMPE department.
Club H2O, our inter-generational initiative, has been very
much part of the Pathways programme this past term, with a
’Speaking and Listening’ project involving S6 and S2 pupils,
and the end-of-term providing opportunities for Christmas
celebrations, with preparations and party coordination by an
active group of S5 pupils.
The JiM (Jayne in Malawi) group, set up to support the work
in Malawi of former Oban High School librarian Jayne Powers
did some fantastic work last term. They organised a cake
bake and guess the birthday of the teddy, and along with the
retiring offering from the Christmas services, have so far
raised £286 for the school project in Dzure, Malawi. The
group also had a visit from Fletcher Matandike from Malawi.
Fletcher was able to carry some of the toys and pencils that
had been gathered for Jane to give to children so they
reached her before Christmas. The rest will wait and will go
in with another shipment of equipment being sent out later in
the year.
H2O were also involved in the Christmas services at the end of
term. Held in Glencruitten Church this year we ran 2 services
in order to fit everybody in. There was lovely music from the
choir and
orchestra and a clarsach solo from Jennifer
McLuckie. Rachel from H2O gave a short message and Ewen
and some 6th years led the prayers.
33
LANGUAGES
French
5 pupils have taken part in the first Exchange with a French lycée in Lons-le-Saunier, near to
Lyon in France. We look forward to receiving 20 French pupils and their teachers for the
return visit when we will be showing them our school and area.
The S1/2 trip to Paris is now a firm fixture and was extended to include a visit to Bruges. It
continues to be a very successful and popular trip.
The standard of work of one of our Advanced Higher pupils, Mark Welsh, deserves particular
mention, as he is reaching outstanding levels in the language.
Gaelic
Our S2 Gaelic fluent speakers are now linking with Wallace High School in Stirling to
exchange information about themselves in Gaelic.
Our S3 learners wrote and produced a play on the topic of music to perform to our Gaelic
fluent speakers.
Every year - trips to Sabhal Mòr Ostaig for senior pupils to learn about Gaelic learning
opportunities at the college.
34
LEARNING SUPPORT
A very busy Autumn term has ensured that our pupils’ social, emotional and vocational
needs are being nurtured.
The SD3 Autism specific class, have been going
swimming twice a week. They have all made excellent
progress.
Jack can swim full length of the pool using front crawl.
Geoffrey is learning to swim a width of the pool using
front crawl.
Niall is learning to swim a width of the pool using front
crawl.
And Jordan is learning to swim across the pool with
support.
The class went horse riding last term.
As part of our sea project we visited the Sealife Centre
in December.
In the lower school Stuart can now swim by himself!
35
Ryan is a strong swimmer. He has been coaching Laura in
the swimming pool. He is interested in becoming a junior
helper at Otters after school next term.
Shonnie completed the whole fun run in September.
Ryan now rides a bigger horse and is growing in confidence all
the time.
Laura has also gained more
confidence in the kitchen!
The senior class deserved and received high praise for their radio broadcast which involved
the pupils creating the script and recording their performance.
36
Report on Radio Play scripted and performed by Senior students in the Support Dept.
During the Summer term of last year, three students in the Support Dept, Gian Bove,
Johnathen Gilchrist and David O’Neill, put their creative powers to full use and produced a
script to be used as the basis of a radio play. As the work progressed to completion, one of
the students, David O’Neill, had a work experience placement at James Gray’s Musicworks
recording studio. On hearing about the radio play, now entitled ‘You’re a Dead Man’, James
immediately offered to record the work to a professional standard, adding necessary sound
effects to bring the piece to life.
With a change of, and increase in, class personnel in August, the group steadily worked
towards bringing the play up to a standard whereby it could be recorded. As well as three
scriptwriters, the characters were brought to life by Yasmin Murray, Lorraine Smith, Grant
Laird and Nick MacLean.
Finally, in early November, the recording took place – in fact the last to be done within the
Musicworks studio before it closed. James then spent far more time than we could have
hoped for adding sound effects and producing the final copy.
Everyone who heard the play was so impressed that it was suggested that it should be
submitted to Oban FM – which was duly done.
Stricken by the writing bug, the scriptwriters are currently working on a serialisation of their
own soap opera – look out for Episode 1 coming soon.
Many thanks go to James Gray for all his interest and efforts.
Our Youth Workers have also helped
pupils to improve their motivation and
performance
By completing challenges like climbing
Ben Lora (in high winds!).
37
MATHEMATICS
1. Advanced Higher Mathematics Weekend – Nine students studying Advanced
Higher Maths last session took part in the Annual Residential Weekend at
Ardentinny Outdoor Centre, 24th – 26th April, 2009. Oban High School
students were joined by students from all over Argyll & Bute and took part in
workshops to extend and enhance their mathematical skills. Outdoor
experiences, e.g. gorge walking, canoeing and a night-hike were included in
t
h
e
w
e
e
k
e
n
d
. programme. The weekend was an invaluable revision experience and was
thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. It is hoped to repeat this experience
in April 2010 for present students studying AH Maths.
2. Scottish Mathematical Challenge – The University of Strathclyde organises a
National Mathematical Challenge which attracts entries from schools across
Scotland. Last session two students were awarded prizes in the Junior
Division and one student in the Middle Division. The Junior Prize Winners
were: Andrew Strange (Gold) and Gordon Thomson (Silver). The Middle Prize
Winner was Richard Thomson (Bronze).
3. Helping Your Child Pass Higher Maths Evenings – The Maths Department
held an information evening for parents of students studying ‘Higher Maths’
this session on Tuesday 29th
September at 7pm in the School
Assembly Hall. This was the third
such evening to be held in the High
School and provided an excellent
opportunity for parents to learn
more about how they can help their
son/daughter progress in this subject
at ‘Higher’ level.
The meeting lasted for
approximately 1 hour and students
were encouraged to accompany their parents. Approximately 70 attended.
The varied programme for the evening included presentations on the format
of the Higher Exam and Course, National and OHS statistics and strategies for
learning. It was emphasised that mathematical ability is not an essential
38
requirement in order to assist your child – simply an interest in their
progress.
Three S6 students talked about strategies which helped them when they
were studying Higher Maths. In addition, useful websites were demonstrated
and all parents were presented with a “Parental Booklet” which summarized
the key facts and methods that students need to be familiar with if they have
to have a chance of passing Higher Mathematics. Ways of using this booklet
were also demonstrated.
Once again, the feedback from the parents who attended was very positive
and encouraging.
4. Mathsfest – February 2010 will see Oban High School host its 11th Annual
Mathsfest, involving 48 S1 pupils and 48 P7 pupils from its feeder primaries.
Each team will consist of two pupils from P7 and two from S1. The teams will
spend one hour on practical problems and a further hour on written
problems.
Once again the Assembly Hall will be a hive of activity and the event will
hopefully be thoroughly enjoyed by both pupils and staff.
5. Mathematical Challenge: United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT) –
Each year Oban High School pupils are encouraged to participate in the UKMT
Challenges, organised by the School of Mathematics at Leeds University. The
results for 2008/2009 are listed below.
39
(a) Junior Mathematical Challenge, May 2009 (Open to S1/S2).
Certificates awarded:
Gold 5
Silver 15
Bronze 34
S1/S2 pupils will have the opportunity to participate in the Junior
Mathematical Challenge, May 2010.
(b) Intermediate Mathematical Challenge (Open to S3/S4)
Certificates awarded for February 2009:
Gold 2
Silver 6
Bronze 16
Present S3/S4 will be entered for this competition in February 2010.
(c) Senior Mathematical Challenge (S6)
Gold 0
Silver 1
Bronze 3
Certificates awarded for November 2009:
Gold 0
Silver 1
Bronze 1
Particular mention must be made of Andrew Strange who was invited
to participate in the European Kangaroo 2009 and who gained a
certificate of merit in this competition.
6. Maths Study Experience – January 2010 – Ten S1 - S3 pupils accompanied by
two members of the Maths Department will visit Disneyland Resort, Paris to
discover how Mathematics is put into practice at the Resort. During three
Study Experience education sessions the Maths Curriculum will be brought to
life and students will be encouraged to view their visit to the resort as a total
learning opportunity.
7. N.S.P.C.C. Number Day, 4 December 2009 – The Mathematics Department
celebrated ‘Number Day’ by holding a ‘number’ competition open to all
pupils. The event raised approximately £84.22 which was donated to
N.S.P.C.C.
8. Challenge of the Month – Each month a puzzle/problem is presented to
pupils, and pupils in all years and of all abilities are encouraged to enter.
Correct entries are placed in a bag and the winner drawn out at random. All
correct entries receive a merit point and the winner a prize.
9. Enterprising Mathematics Competition – Each year, Oban High School
Mathematics Department enters a team of 2 x S3 and 2 x S4 pupils in the
Annual Argyll & Bute Enterprising Mathematics Competition held at
Lochgilphead High School. This year the school was represented by Andreas
Day & Ryan Cook S3 and Angus Sinclair & Jack Jamieson S4. The event in
40
September involved a day of fun but very challenging mathematical games,
puzzles and activities. Although the team did not win they are to be
commended for their enthusiasm and sporting attitude.
10. Fantasy Football – Yet again the school is taking part in the Schools Fantasy
Football Tournament. This session around 40 Managers, made up of staff
and pupils are watching the Premier League each week with keen interest.
Managers of the Month are announced each month and overall winners are
presented with a Cup and Certificate at the end of the season.
11. Check out the new Chess Club - As the knights started drawing in, moves
were made in September to develop an opening for a chess club in the Oban
High School’s Maths department. Mr. Sinclair mentioned it en passant to Mr.
Bain, who saw it as a black and white issue, and offered funding. Since that
first opening move, the club has captured a mixture of both experienced and
rookie players. From S1 to S6 fifteen players have been regularly retreating
to Mr. Sinclair’s Maths room for a piece of the action on Tuesdays between
3.40 and 4.40pm. With tournaments, chess puzzles and challenges going on
every week, no-one has a chance to get board. Chess Supremos Duncan
Campbell and Peter Strange are on hand to give every member the chance to
develop their game and learn more about tactics and strategy. The club has
been entered into the British Land Chess Challenge, with successful players
playing out their endgames in Manchester next summer. So why not come
along and check us out? At only 50p per session, you won’t be pawning your
watch to pay for it!
Complete beginners very welcome, tutorials on offer.
41
MUSIC
Oban High School Pipe - Band Ben Lora Challenge – June 2009
On Sunday 7th June 2009 OHS Pipe Band held a sponsored event playing both pipes and
drums continuously from the car park at the foot of Ben Lora up to the Eagles Eyrie
viewpoint. They managed to raise the magnificent sum of over £5000 which has allowed the
pipe band to kit out a further 10 youngsters with full uniform.
42
Oban High School Pipe Band - Competing Season 2009
The pipe band has had a very busy and successful competing season which started in April
2009. Our drummers took part in the Inveraray Drumming Competition and the Kintyre Solo
Drumming Competition and the results were excellent. In May 2009 a number of our
chanter players and pipers were successful in the Argyll & Islands Music Festival.
The pipe band competed at a number of competitions over the summer months including
the Scottish Championships, Bearsden Games, Balloch Games, the European Championships,
Bridge of Allan Games, the World Pipe Band championships and ending their season with the
Cowal Games. They had some excellent results which can all be found on the pipe band’s
dedicated website www.ohspipeband.org.uk
43
This Is Your Life – September 2009
The Music Department organised a surprise “This is Your Life Dave Mason” for our brass and
woodwind instructor of 35 years, Mr Dave Mason. Dave has worked in the same 6 primary
schools and Oban High School and has been such an inspirational figure in so many
children’s lives. Dave was a very gifted teacher that children will always remember way
beyond their school years. He nurtured, inspired, guided, encouraged and most importantly
enjoyed teaching children. The event was held in the Argyllshire Gathering Halls and was
attended by quite a number of his former pupils and colleagues, pupils coming from as far
afield as London. The musical evening consisted of performances from the school choirs,
pipe band, his associated primaries and the wind band which included Dave’s current and
former pupils. A great night was had by all and the mood and atmosphere very much
reflected Dave’s contribution to the authority.
Rehearsals
Primary Pupils
Dave Mason – Instrumental Instructor 1974-2009
44
Oban High School Gaelic Choir – Royal National Mod – October 2009
The newly formed Oban High School Gaelic Choir gained a 1st and 2nd place at this year’s
Royal National Mod in Oban. They won two trophies, one being for the highest overall
marks in the choir competitions. The choir gained 1st place in the puirt-a-beul competition
and 2nd in the unison competition. There were also various soloists, instrumentalists, poets
and conversationalists who represented Oban High School very well.
45
Pensioner’s Treat – December 2009
The music department held their 6th annual Pensioner’s Treat on the 14th December with the
Home Economics department. Our local senior citizens are invited into the school for a
morning of carols, dancing, musical entertainment and lovely treats from the home
economics department.
Music in the Community
The department have played at various events in the school calendar and also for
community events. These have included the Parent Forum AGM, An Comunn Gaidhleach
Post Mod Ceilidh, Jim Mather MSP visit, the annual Pipe Band Ceilidh and the Northern
Lighthouse Board Christmas Event. We are extremely lucky to have such a variety of
talented musicians who represent the school very well within the local community.
46
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
ATHLETICS
At the Oban sports hall athletics heat, some of our pupils put on a good show and won their
age group. In the Under 13 boys Finlay Sinclair was the champion and Kelly Lamont was the
girls’ winner in the same age group.
It was good to see Kirsty Gillies and Kayleigh Tennant competing in the under 15s and under
17s respectively and winning all of their events. It will be
Kayleigh’s last year in Sports hall and she has been a great
competitor and an excellent role model for our younger girls.
Under 13 Boys Finlay Sinclair
Under 15 Girls Kirsty Gillies
Under 13 Girls Kelly Lamont
Under 17 Girls Kayleigh Tennant
BADMINTON
Senior Badminton is on every Wednesday after school with a regular number of participants.
The main competition season for Badminton is January – March and we are hoping to enter
a number of regional competitions this year.
The Badminton club has been going well with a
good attendance at the extracurricular clubs.
Some of the talented players competed at the
Scottish schools competitions and enjoyed playing
different pupils from other schools. Gregor Brydon
and Jamie Livingstone competed in the age group
level doubles and fared well against strong
opposition.
In the under 13s Stuart Mobey competed in the boys’ singles in Wishaw. The competitors
were placed in pools and played a round robin tournament. Stuart played well and came
second in his pool, beating a boy who is highly ranked in Scotland on the way.
Gregor, Jamie and Stuart are improving well and show great aptitude as well as attitude for
the sport.
BASKETBALL
Basketball in OHS is led by some of our senior students who have done an excellent job of
keeping a very enthusiastic group of students involved. This year the regular practices on a
Tuesday and Thursday have now been supplemented by more regular competition.
Teams have been entered into the Scottish Cup and the Highland League and this has
resulted in an increase in the number of games being played with some encouraging results.
Senior Boys 43-44 Dunoon
Senior Boys 28-78 Mearns Castle
Senior Boys 32 – 76 Lochaber
Senior Boys 36 – 35 Glasgow Academy
47
U 15 Boys 28 - 42 Bearsden Academy
U 14 Boys 33 – 34 St Andrew’s Secondary
Senior Girls 36 – 37 Hermitage Academy
DANCE
Many of our pupils are working very hard in preparation for our annual Dance Show, this
year to held over two nights, on Wednesday 13th Jan and Thursday 14th Jan 2010 in the
Corran Halls. Over 150 pupils will be taking part in the event which this year has a story
based around it entitled ‘Dance, Despair and All that Jazz’.
A fantastic array of talent will be on display with a wide
range of dance styles and Gymnastics to capture the
audiences’ imagination. Modern dance, Gymnastics to
music, Cheerleading Squads, traditional Highland dancing
and highland dancing to modern music, jazz, ballet and a
piece from our group of 6th year Sports Leaders boys and
girls will all feature with standards even higher than seen
in previous years.
Tickets last year were sold out on the afternoon of the
performance – so buy your ticket early. Tickets will be
available from the PE department and the school office
from January 7th 2010.
FOOTBALL
One of the very positive successes of our programme this year is the growth in activity
amongst our seniors. Mr McCue has put together a really enthusiastic group of boys who
performed very well in this year’s Scottish Cup.
This season the senior boys’ football squad (U18) had a very successful start to their Scottish
Shield campaign, winning 8-2 at home against St. Andrews.
The team produced a terrific performance, with Marc Beaton stealing the show by scoring 5
goals.
Aiden Harris, Sean Cooke and Craig
McDougall also got their names on the
score sheet.
Unfortunately, the cup run ended in
the next game, with the boys narrowly
losing out to John Paul’s Academy 2-1.
The boys put on another great display,
with Craig McDougall scoring the
equaliser in the second half in a game which could have gone either way.
As we move forward into 2010, we will be looking to organise some more fixtures.
GYMNASTICS
On Monday 14th December, the PE department organised the 3rd Gymnastics Festival inviting
feeder primaries to enter teams to compete in a competition.
There was an excellent response and 20 teams from Rockfield, Park, Dalmally, Lochnell,
Dunbeg and Easdale took part. Each pupil had to perform a mat sequence and a vault and
was marked on each section by a panel of senior pupils led by Sally-Anne Bramley.
48
The individual scores were added together to achieve a team score.
The judges were impressed with the standard of performance and
general conduct. Mrs Clunie would like to thank the senior pupils
for judging in such a professional manner.
The runners up were a team from Rockfield and the winners were
from Park primary.
The top scoring gymnast was Katie Trafford from Park and Rona
MacIntyre came a very close second. The team from Easdale
primary were awarded medals for best effort.
The girls from Oban High competed in the afternoon and performed some excellent flowing
sequences. The high standard was remarked upon by the PE teachers and judging was
difficult.
The winners of the Level 1 competition were Laura MacCallum, Laura Campbell, Eilidh
MacLean and Lauren Angus who are all in S1. Laura MacCallum won the top scoring gymnast
trophy.
In Level 2, the winning team were Isla Donald, Caitlyn Taylor in S1 and Christie MacKechnie
in S2. The highest individual at this level was Caitlin Taylor who performed a flawless floor
sequence.
HIGHLAND GAMES
Four of our sports leaders, Alannah Higgins, Jane Carson, Rosie Matheson and Jennifer
Killorn made a trip to Dunbeg primary school highland games this term. During this day they
helped the primary pupils with different events from tossing the caber and weight over the
bar to tug of war. The day was a great success and the girls were thanked greatly by Ms
MacVicar. We hope this kind of activity can be repeated next term.
SHINTY
Shinty has been one of our priority sports this session, particularly with the year of
Homecoming. We have been fortunate that the newly appointed Shinty Development
Officer for Argyll, Darren Reid, is based in Oban and we have linked with him for a number of
activities.
Our first tournament of the season was the Under 14 Cup played before the Camanachd Cup
Final at Mossfield where our U14 boys emerged victorious.
This was followed up by the Scottish Schools Homecoming Challenge Shield which we hosted
at Oban High School. This was a new initiative led by our school for senior students and the
final was contested by two sides from Oban High. Our B team won the final on penalties as
an exciting climax to a great day.
A number of our students were then selected for the South of Scotland Schools, with Garry
McKerracher making it through to the Scottish Squad.
49
RUGBY
S1 and S2 Rugby has been well attended this year. Training is on Tuesdays after school and
the team was narrowly defeated in their first tournament, losing in try difference to
Lochaber, after beating Mid Argyll and Mull.
The S3 to S6 boys have been training twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Under15
team have made it through to the ¼ finals of the Scottish Schools bowl competition, after
defeating Jordanhill School away from home last week. They now face Langholm in the ¼
final. Magnus Bradbury has been put on an Individual Player Development programme by
the SRU, This is to help him progress to national squad and professional standard. Nic
Humphries the SRU Performance Development manager for Glasgow North has asked to
coach the Tuesday training sessions on a fortnightly basis after Christmas, this is a great
opportunity for the S3-S6 players to get top professional coaching regularly. The U18 team
were narrowly defeated away to Craigmount/Forrester and now only have friendly fixtures
and SRU pathway to look forward too. The new players, Michael McMillan and Sean Cook
have made a good impression and look hopeful for the pathway selection in January along
with previous selections of Angus McCallum, Calum MacLachlan, Ryan Baxter, Fergus
Matheson and Magnus Bradbury.
The Pathway nominations and training will take place in January, along with the U15
Tobermory side to play Langholm date TBC.
Girls Rugby has been strong this year with a number of new players turning out. An under18
and under15 team travelled to Perth to play in a national 10-a-side tournament. The Girls
performed well making up numbers with players from Mull, forming an Argyll select. Their
next competition is the National Cup Qualifying tournament in Glasgow on the 21st of
February.
SWIMMING
Whilst we do not do swimming within the school programme we are delighted to
acknowledge the commitment and achievement of our young people who took part in the
Argyll Schools Championships in November. The event was held in Campbeltown and was
very well organised with so many people from Argyll’s clubs involved. Our students were
accompanied by Mrs Reynolds and Mrs Mackinnon who are both parents of young people at
our school and members of the Otters Club. Our students performed very well in winning 27
medals with a number of our students also qualifying for the Scottish Championships in
January.
GIFTED AND TALENTED
In September, Mr McCue working with the Support department started a programme for
pupils who are considered Gifted & Talented in their chosen sport, primarily pupils
competing at county level or above.
Pupils were referred to him by their Guidance teacher or a member of PE staff and were
interviewed before being formally inducted into the programme.
On a general level, the programme offers support to these pupils in terms of various aspects
of sports psychology, training and study schedules and appropriate nutrition and hydration
for sport.
In addition to this, the programme offers support to these pupils on an individual basis,
depending on their specific needs.
50
So far, the programme has proved to be successful, with many of the pupils involved in the
programme achieving good results in the various competitions they have been involved in
since September. Feedback has shown that some of the ideas/techniques that the pupils
have gained from the programme have had a positive influence on their performance.
The programme will continue to run until the end of the academic year as we are aiming to
further improve the performance of our elite student athletes.
51
RELIGIOUS and MORAL EDUCATION
and PHILOSOPHY
•
Claire Brady joined the department to cover for a long term illness and has been
making a huge impact on the department with her enthusiasm and creative ideas.
•
The department was delighted to ‘come into the fold’ and leave the old leaking huts
at the rear of the school to join the main building. With a large number of plastic
boxes and strong backs, departmental staff ably assisted by the head janitor,
ensured that everything arrived safely - whilst the rest of the school enjoyed Sports
Day!
Our anti-racism project in S3
Core RME as part of the Racial Discrimination course produced excellent posters,
•
52
some of which may be eligible for the annual anti-racism competition run by ‘Give
Racism the Red Card’.
•
Use of ICT continues to increase, use of Comic Life to help consolidate pupils’
learning…
•
Our
S2
project, partly funded by the School
53
Challenge Fund, continues to grow and we have been working with the Modern
Studies Department on bringing it into S1 to develop an interdisciplinary project
based upon it.
•
Use of our website www.teachingconcern.co.uk also continues to grow, as does
pupils’ use of our department blog http://religiousandmoral.edublogs.org/ .
54
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
The Departments have visited and had visits from a variety of scientific organisations:
Shore Thing Beach Survey
All S4 Biology pupils took part in a number of beach surveys to establish the variety and
distribution of marine life on the intertidal shore at Ganavan. The project is coordinated by
SAMS with the aim of discovering the animals and plants which already inhabit the area and
to find out if any new species have recently arrived. The Shore Thing Survey is part of a
scheme, where data is collected nationally, in order to establish whether the seas around
Britain are becoming warmer and to study and monitor the effect of global warming on our
marine habitat.
55
Edinburgh University’s Sci-Fun Travelling Road Show
Edinburgh University’s Sci-Fun travelling road show visited Oban High School in May. They
offered presentations on The Senses, Global Warming and Careers as well as a set of handson exhibits. The show was well received by S1 pupils and also by a number of non-scientist
members of staff.
Student volunteers from S3 and S6 acted as demonstrators for the S1 pupils. The Sci-Fun
staff said they were impressed the by the knowledge and helpfulness shown by the
volunteers.
The two day visit was part of the National Science and Engineering Week and funded by a
grant from the Scottish Government and the British Science Association.
56
Jeans For Genes Day
This fundraising day took place on Friday 2nd October 2009. The aim of the charity is to help
children who have disabilities arising from genetic disorders.
The event was organised by Mr Lightfoot, but undertaken by Advanced Higher Biology
students. This year (2009) the largest ever total was collected, £887.43. This came from the
sale of non-uniform stickers and other merchandise. There is an obvious link between this
charity and the teaching of biology.
Five students were involved constantly going around classes informing pupils of the charity’s
good work and selling stickers etc, a great effort was put in by the students.
Developing successful links with SAMS
The school is very keen to continue to seek ways to develop closer links between SAMS
(Scottish Association for Marine Science) and the school.
So last June a group of five Advanced Higher Biology students, accompanied by Mr
MacPherson, toured the laboratory facilities of the Scottish Association for Marine Science
(SAMS).
They were guided round the facility by Dr Anushka Miller who spoke about the important
work carried out there as well as giving our students an overview of scientific investigation
and report writing.
One key aim of the visit was to establish possible future collaborative work on student’s
Advanced Higher practical investigations and plans were put in place to give our students
the opportunity to present their work to students and scientists at SAMS.
Three students will present their investigations later on this term giving them the
opportunity to further develop their presentation skills as well as pick up advice and tips for
their future careers.
Following on from this visit the school became an associate member of SAMS and we are
now able to use the excellent conference facilities there. In December SAMS hosted our S6
Faith Matters conference led by our H2O partners and a Routes For All day conference led
by Glasgow Caledonian University for 58 S6 pupils.
Both events were hugely successful with staff from Dunstaffnage and GCU very impressed
with the behaviour and attitude of our senior students.
We look forward to further collaborative work with SAMS in the future and are now actively
involved in looking at involving senior pupils in the Arctic expeditions during the summer
months.
57
Physics Department Projects
1. ROV Competition - Ten S4
pupils, led by Mr. Morrison, are
designing and building a Remote
Operated Submergible Vehicle.
This national competition is
being run by Robert Gordon’s
University, Aberdeen, in
partnership with international oil
companies working in the North
Sea. Winners of the Scottish Heat
will then compete in the USA
against international opposition funded by the US government. We at Oban High will be drawing on some of the
local expertise at Dunstaffnage Marine Research Laboratory SAMS as the team
develop the project.
2. Wind Turbine Project - The Physics Department have been working in partnership
with the Geography and Enterprise Departments in Oban High plus Skills
Development Scotland and Ali Energy to develop a set of lessons on alternative
energy sources, particularly wind power. These will be piloted this year with S2.
3. Trans Atlantic Cable - Some S1 pupils have been investigating some local Science
History. In partnership with BT, Fishburn-Hedges (PR company) and the Scottish
National Museum in Edinburgh the Physics Department and pupils in class 1.1 have
been commemorating 50 years since the opening of the 1st Trans Atlantic
Telephone Communications Cable. The cable left from Gallanach Bay, Oban, and
resurfaced in Newfoundland, Canada. This was the ' hot line' between the USA and
Europe during the Cold War years. It is hoped to set up a web-cam conference
between Scottish and Canadian Engineers who worked on the original project with
questions from OHS pupils.
58
XL GROUP
S3 XL Group Achievement
Our XL groups have had a busy few months. After spending some time in June team building
and getting to know one another, we felt that we wanted to start off our XL experiences
with something big! The decision was made by the group that we would do a sponsored
walk with all proceeds going towards an end of term outing as a reward. Together, we were
sponsored to walk from Dunbeg to Ganavan. Beautiful sunshine made the day perfect and
after our walk we enjoyed a picnic on the beach followed by a bit of competition –
ROUNDERS!
The money raised by the two groups enabled us to enjoy a ferry trip to Mull, some enjoyable
time relaxing on the beach, a ride on the miniature railway and a nice big ice cream to finish
the day off. It was all the more enjoyable knowing that we had all worked hard, together as
a team, to earn our reward.
As part of our Citizenship and Community Awareness project we
organised and carried out a litter collection around the school
grounds. There was torrential rain but we still soldiered on.
As part of the same project we also visited Oban Fire Station on
the run up to Bonfire Night. Each member of our group got to
experience how the fire fighters are trained and how they practice – in the dark room. We
also had a tour around the station and had a look at all the equipment a fire fighter may
require and we had the opportunity to sit inside the fire engine.
59
This year, due to Homecoming Scotland, Oban High
School’s St Andrew’s Day celebrations were even
bigger than usual. We played a massive part in the
Ceilidh preparations and were entirely in charge of
the decorating of the hall. We also ran a juice bar and
a face painting stall, with all the money that we raised
going towards our next big outdoor activity.
We’ve also had fun in our own classroom. We’ve
played a lot of teambuilding and icebreaking games and we’ve had two very successful end
of term parties, where we’ve danced and eaten lots of delicious food. We’ve also enjoyed
some competition with games of football, rounders, tower building and hat making.
It is now the start of a new year and we’ve got a lot more challenges and fun experiences
lined up for 2010. We’re currently doing a project on ‘Crime in the Community’ and are
awaiting a visit to the police station and the cells, as well as a visit from a local drug
awareness charity, and also exploring the possibility of a skiing trip to Glencoe.
60
4th Year XL achievement
The S4 XL group have had a busy year organising events and taking part in a variety of
activities.
Three pupils arranged a school golf tournament at Glencruitten Golf Club. 16 pupils took
part along with Mr Irvine, Mr Robertson and Mr Mitchell. It was a resounding success and it
is planned to hold another competition in June 2010.
A School Shinty Tournament was also organised last term. 6 teams took part.
The 4th year group also arranged some fun activities for sports day. These included sponge
the teacher, beat the goalie and face painting.
61
All the money raised from the activities organised by the group went to help pay for a
residential trip on an Ocean Youth Trust yacht for a week. This trip was extremely beneficial
to the youngsters and helped them gain in confidence, improve their team work improve
their communication skills. The group were accompanied by Mr Waltho and Mrs O’Doherty.
62
ETHCO Success
After the Skills for Work pupils’ success in the national Ethco song competition the pupils
were invited to attend the official Ethco Launch in Perth. The pupils performed at the start
of the event then participated in a variety of activities including interviewing other guests
and planning how the Ethco project
could fit into the curriculum. The girls
then sang again to close the event. The
girls did Oban High School proud and a
number of staff from other local
authorities
commented
on
the
exemplary behaviour of the girls over
such a long day and the excellence of
the song and their singing.
63
PATHWAYS
This year saw the introduction of an exciting new
initiative called Pathways. This programme has
given our senior pupils the opportunity to
experience some life skills relating to a selected
career pathway. This year has seen our pupils
involved in many projects such as, primary
teaching, building a buoy for the Northern
Lighthouse Association, gaining a pool lifeguard
qualification, driving lessons, youth work and
many other great opportunities. These courses
have been a resounding success for the pupils.
The feedback we have received from the
Pathway providers has been very positive.
64
SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS
Butterworth High School, South Africa
This year saw the introduction of an exciting partnership between Oban High School and
Butterworth High School in South Africa. Oban High School was one of 6 Scottish
Schools selected to be involved in a sporting and cultural partnership between Scotland and
South Africa.
The first stage of the partnership saw David Mitchell, Depute Head Teacher and Jim Lay,
Principal Teacher of Physical Education visit South Africa for a week in April making initial
contact. The Principal and Sports co-ordinator then visited Oban for a week in September.
The partnership offers a number of opportunities with a trip planned during the
football World Cup.
A welcoming event was held which was attended by local councillors, Dick Walsh and Alan
Reid MP. The picture shows the partnership agreement being signed by Peter Bain and Kris
Mdingi the principal of Butterworth High School.
65
Laurinburg Exchange 2009
This year’s visit to Scotland County in North Carolina USA was again a fantastic experience
for all the
participants.
An innovative and varied set of selection challenges was introduced that stretched and
helped develop our young hopefuls, for example, they were asked to organise a Valentines
dance, a raffle and write a letter to Barrack Obama
Eleven students – Robert Pawson, Caitlin
Smith, Mark Welsh, Lynsey Burger,
Jennifer McPhee, Fraser Brydon, Laura
Underwood, Robert McKinnon, Rowen
Paterson, Catriona Mackie and Angus
Scott accompanied by Murray Hamilton
(PE), Anne Stewart (PT Business Studies)
and John MacPherson (Senior Depute)
had a wonderful time exploring the
sights and tastes of America with their
host families.
Their packed programme of activities included
a two day trip to the Appalachian mountains
where the Scots and Americans enjoyed
ziplining, visits to Football Games, a Canoe trip
in on the Lumbee River, a Pow Wow dance
and song evening, a two day trip to Ocean Isle
beach and a day at the North Carolina State
Fair in Raleigh.
Towards the end of their adventure in America
the group attended the Rotary Lunch in Laurinburg and everyone spoke about the highlights
of their trip.
66
It was evident to all of us that the
kindness and willingness to share of the
host families and the new friendships
that are made are truly special and
unique parts of this exchange
programme.
Our students were excellent
ambassadors and representatives of
our school and community. They came
through tough selection procedures to
be given the opportunity to take part in
a brilliant trip, an experience they will remember always and one that they would
recommend to all. The group gave interesting and entertaining presentations to the Rotary
Club in Oban and to our new S5 students to encourage them to follow their footsteps.
The selection process for next year’s USA exchange began in mid November when 5 teams
of 4 S5 students took part in their first challenge which was to research the American pledge
of allegiance to the Stars and Stripes and to write a Scottish Pledge to the Saltire.
Each team presented their work to a panel of judges and a selection of S1 and S2 pupils in
the assembly hall. The presentations were excellent and included the story of St Andrew one pledge was selected to be performed for the first time at the St Andrews Day concert
attended by OHS S1 pupils, pupils from Rockfield and Lochnell primary schools, local
councillors, parents and Jim Mather MSP. Students Louisa Stage, Ruaridh Dunlop, Danielle
Thomson and Andrew MacFarlane were joined by the eleven strong S1 pupil Council and
two S4 drama students Amy King and Jane Carson on stage in the games hall.
Linking hands in cross over 'Auld Lang Syne' style they delivered this powerful and moving
pledge:
'We the people of Scotland promise to honour those who fought for our freedom and
independance, and to guard the name of St Andrew, our patron and protector. Let our
customs and traditions live forever, let us never forget our motto: in my defens, God me
defend.'
The exchange hopefuls then completed a detailed application form ahead of their selection
interviews that were held the week beginning 7th December Following the interviews for
the 18th Laurinburg exchange the following students were selected:
Jessica Bichard, Nicola Burgar, Breagh Cameron, Katherine Jackson, Ross Jespersen,
Rowen MacAskill, Kirsty MacLean, Amanda Noddings, Anna Smith, Louisa Stage and
Kerry Yadav
Reserve - Iona Underwood
The judging panel Anne Stewart, Graham Innes (Rotary), John MacPherson, Caitlin Smith (S6
08/09 exchange) and Robert MacKinnon (S6 08/09 exchange) were very impressed by the
67
high quality of application forms and interviews of the candidates. . They found it so difficult
to pick ten that we asked the American selection committee if they had another good
candidate that they were happy to exchange and they said yes - eleven students are now
involved.
The students all know that they must maintain very good tracking and participate fully in the
fund raising activities if they are to retain their place.
Activities will include:
January - Burns Supper participation
February - Valentines Dance
March - Spring Auction
April - sponsored Cruachan Climb jointly with Oban Rotary
68
IMPROVEMENT PLAN 2009-2010
THEME
Raising Attainment
1. Identifying & sharing
good practice
•
•
•
•
•
2.
Monitor attainment of
all pupils, especially
identified groups,
LAC,LAAC, girls, hostel
etc.
•
•
ACTION POINT
Whole school
Management
observations
Peer observation
Pupil involvement
in the learning
process
Involving parents
in the learning
process
Create
opportunities for
staff to share good
practice across
dept and nationally
All staff to
complete tracking
monthly
Action plans to be
set up for
identified groups
and
underachievers
IMPACT ON PUPIL LEARNING EXPERIENCE
TIME-SCALE
EVIDENCE
•
Improved L&T
•
Observation Sheets
•
A rise in attainment and
achievement levels
•
Pupil Surveys
•
Parental Survey
•
In-service/CPD documentation
•
Tracking returns and creation of Action Plans
•
•
•
More enjoyable experience for
youngster
Ongoing
More consolidated learning as a
result of parental involvement
Clearer understanding of pupils
need leading to improved L&T
69
Ongoing
`
THEME
Raising Attainment
3. Recognising &
Celebrating all
achievement
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
4.
Continue to support
Dept with curricular
development
•
•
ACTION POINT
Whole school
Assemblies
Website promotion
Communication home
Monitor tracking
CV Writing
Tutors to promote and
collect achievements
Recognise achievement of
staff regularly
Extending CPD programme
with emphasis on ACE
Further development of
PT/SLT one to ones
IMPACT ON PUPIL LEARNING
EXPERIENCE
Implementation of
authority;
expectations and
aspirations policy
•
•
•
•
•
6. Development of
literacy, numeracy,
health and wellbeing
As per authority policy
EVIDENCE
•
•
•
5.
TIME-SCALE
•
Except CV writing pilot which is specically
2009/10
Assessment records/summary to staff
Improved Website content
Parental letters/email/text/1-1 with parents
Click & Go tracking returns
Completed CV’s
Achievements recognised in Assemblies
Achievement boards in the press and
thorough 1-1 discussions with pupils/staff
Improved Ethos
Further communication
and clarity leading to
improved pupil
understanding
Ongoing
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Enhanced CPD provision
will lead to improved
teaching
experience/methodology
Improved L&T
A rise in attainment and
achievement levels
2009/10
•
CPD programme and 1-1 record sheets
All four capacities
delivered to all pupils
The seven design
principles of ACE used to
ensure improved L&T
2009/10
•
Policies Implemented
70
THEME
Framework for Learning
1) Continue to use CfE
outcomes as part of
planning process
•
•
2) Development of
curriculum architecture
P5-S3
S4-S6
•
•
•
•
3) Continued Professional
Development
•
•
•
4) Continued
development of
promoting positive
behaviour
•
•
•
ACTION POINT
Whole school
In-service days to provide
opportunity to plan using
the outcomes.
Planning with Primary
Colleagues
Develop further
primary/secondary links
Continue to develop and
implement personal
learning plans
Run pilot Pathways
Programme
Interdisciplinary working
Develop in-house CPD
opportunities
Facilitate cross sector
sharing of good practice
(top tip session)
Develop opportunity for
shadowing
Revisit assertive discipline
Restorative practice
Peer mediation
EXPERIENCE
• Closer cooperation and
planning will lead to
further progress
opportunities between
the High School and our
partner Primaries leading
to more effective L&T
• Closer cooperation and
planning will lead to
further progress
opportunities between
the High School and our
partner Primaries leading
to more effective L&T
• Senior school vocational
programme will lead to
pupils to be more ready
for life after school
• Enhanced CPD provision
will lead to improved
teaching
experience/methodology
• Improved L&T
• A rise in attainment and
achievement levels
• Improved ethos
• Improved L&T
opportunities and a rise in
attainment and
achievement levels
71
TIME-SCALE
EVIDENCE
•
Documentation from In-service planning and
evaluation at work done on the days
themselves
•
Secondary and Primary staff working
together
PLP’s in use
Pathways programme up and running
Inter disciplinary plan working across the
curriculum areas and sectors, established
and evaluated through discussions and
documentation
2009/10
Ongoing
(except
Pathways
Programme
which is
2009/10)
•
•
•
•
2009/10
•
•
2009/10
Increase CPD calendar with more staff taking
up the opportunity including top tip
selections
Staff will have undertaken the opportunity
for shadowing and written a
summary/learning log
Assertive discipline, restorative practice and
peer mediation all re-promoted across the
school with consolidation at departmental
level
THEME
Framework for Learning
5) Leadership
Development
•
•
•
6) School Environment
Accommodation
•
7) Resources
•
•
•
•
8) Improvement
planning
•
•
ACTION POINT
Whole school
Encourage a culture of
leadership across all staff
Provide opportunities for
structured leadership
development e.g. SQH,
shadowing, leading working
groups
Development of self evaluation
policy and practice through
using HGIOS 3
Replace 4 modular buildings
Upgrade ICT
Develop awareness of GLOW
Library to become information
centre with class set of
computers
Investigate possibility of
classroom in a box
Input from staff, pupils and
parents to better reflect their
views on school improvement.
More consultation resulting in
better understanding of the
improvement plan
EXPERIENCE
TIMESCALE
EVIDENCE
•
•
Staff will have undertaken SQH programme
All staff will be fully conversant and actually
use HGIOS QI’s when development teaching
methodology and practice
Individual staff will be given more
responsibility for leading a variety of aspect
across school e.g. study support, creative
writing
Improved emphasis on
leadership will ensure
quality and up to date
practises and
methodology is used to
ensure improved L&T and
a rise in methodology and
achievement levels
2009/10
•
•
Improved ethos
More modern facilities to
engage in learning
experiences
2009/11
•
Modular buildings in place – learning taking
place
•
•
Improved ethos
More modern facilities to
engage in learning
experiences
2009/10
•
•
ICT including GLOW being used by staff
Pupils in library and across the departments
benefiting from additional hardware
•
Improved planning
involving all stakeholders
will result in clarity of
planning and curricular
development leading to
improved L&T
opportunities and a rise in
attainment and
achievement levels
2009/10
•
Improvement Plans take account of all
stakeholders views
•
72
•
THEME
Inclusion and Equality
1) Integration of
Learning Support
Services
•
2) Partnership working
•
•
•
•
3) Parental Involvement
•
4) Promote Principles of
Getting it Right for
Every Child (GIRFEC)
•
5) Gaelic Development
•
ACTION POINT
Whole school
Support dept, learning centre,
TNO to become one facility
Policies and admin to reflect
integration set up
Continued closer
communication and working
with outside agencies
Development of ISPs with
1) Partners
2) PTs
Implementation of hostel
review plan
Develop further working
relationships with parents
through improved
communication
Working with our partner
agencies and joint procedures +
protocols to provide a better
service for all pupils
Introduce Gaelic into the junior
school for all pupils
EXPERIENCE
•
•
More effective inclusion
and individual support to
pupils individual needs
TIMESCALE
EVIDENCE
•
Guidance core Learning Support, Tir Na Og
and the Learning Centre all incorporated into
a single department which is fully inclusive
•
•
Closer working with Social Work
Evidence that individual needs are being met
more fully e.g. JST’s, MAP’s and CR referrals
Both school and hostel meeting teams/staff
working together to meet individual needs of
pupils through discussion, tracking and joint
protocols
2009/10
2009/10
•
•
•
Improved ethos
2009/10
•
•
The provision of a whole school programme
and closer relations with parents
Improved homework liaison
Increased communication through 1-1
meetings, parent council, discussions, ICT
communication for example
•
2009/10
•
Community Services policy is adopted
Pupils will be able to
consolidate their Gaelic
learning from Primary
school
2009/10
•
Gaelic education is delivered to all S1 pupils
•
•
73
THEME
Values and Citizenship
1) Sharing of school
values and aims
•
•
•
2) Promoting pupil voice
and involving pupils in
the life of the school
•
•
•
•
3) Developing Citizenship
ACTION POINT
Whole school
On website and on all
communications
Share with all staff, young
people and parents
Use of co-operative learning to
teach social skills
Pupils to be involved in working
groups
Use pupil councils to contribute
to school development
Be proactive in taking issues
raised by pupil councils
Prefects to be used as role
models and established buddy
system
Promote Democracy and
citizenship “in action” through
(i) Pupil membership of
Community council
(ii) Links between community
council and local
councilors/MSPs
• Plan for all depts. to integrate
Health and Wellbeing Outcomes
EXPERIENCE
•
•
Improved ethos
Greater understanding of
the theme of community
•
Improved sense of
involvement and
responsibility leading to a
greater desire to achieve
ambition and attain
qualifications
TIMESCALE
EVIDENCE
•
All school literature and media contact used
to communicate school values and aims as
agreed by all stake holders
•
•
•
Senior Pupil Leadership Team established
New Pupil Councils established
Active involvement by both of these groups
in school decision making process
New Prefect system established
2009/10
2009/10
•
•
•
•
•
Improved ethos
the theme of community
74
2009/10
•
Pupils actively involved in school and
community democracy
All departments investigating and planning
for integration of Health and Wellbeing
Outcomes
4)
•
Continue to aim for
Green Flag recognition
THEME
Learning for Life
1) Pathways programme
•
•
Continue developing ECO
around the school community
ACTION POINT
Whole school
Introduction of new vocational
opportunities for S6 pupils
Building community links
• Improved ethos
Greater understanding of the
theme of community and ecology
EXPERIENCE
• Improved experience and
skills necessary to life
after school
2009/10
•
TIMESCALE
EVIDENCE
•
Ongoing
•
2) Interdisciplinary tasks
3) More Choices More
Chances
•
•
•
•
4) Skills for work
•
•
5) Determined to
Succeed and
Enterprise Education
•
6)
•
•
•
All Depts to plan for
Interdisciplinary working to be
implemented in 2010/2011
Continuation of EXite
Programme
Xmas leavers programme to be
introduced
Further development in junior
school – early identification
Further development of skills
for work courses – two new
courses to be offered
Continue to develop links with
College
Staff to be more informed of
enterprising activities
Depts to investigate ways of
introducing enterprising
Laurinburg exchange
developments
Introduction Dreams and Teams
South Africa project
•
•
individual subjects
through such content
being taught in context
Improved experience and
after school
2009/11
Improved experience and
after school
Authority expectations and aspirations
document will be implemented
•
Excite programme will continue with
expansion into S2 where appropriate
Christmas leavers programme implemented
2009/10
•
2009/10
•
•
•
individual subjects
through such content
being taught in context
Improved ethos and
75
2009/10
S6 pupils benefit from enhanced vocational
programmes
New community partnerships established
•
•
•
Green Flag attained
Option choices have been expanded for S3
pupils to include more skills for work
courses i.e. Emergency Services
Doubled the intake of pupils for skills for
work
•
All staff kept up to date with any planned
trips/visits or special days
•
Laurinberg Exchange continues
•
Promote wider
cultural experience
•
•
Continued support of curriculum
trips e.g. Paris, Netherlands,
Battlefields etc.
Take forward Language of the
month
Depts to investigate an
opportunity of promoting
“Home coming” in the
curriculum
greater understanding
and experience of our
worlds community and its
relationship with our
youngsters and their
community
76
•
2009/10
•
•
•
Links with Butterworth High School in
South Africa established
Curricular trips to Barcelona, Belgium
Battlefields, Paris and The Netherlands all
run
Language of the month continues
Links to Homecoming theme/projects
established across all curricular areas

Area Committee Report February Attainment and Achievement 2010

Transcription

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