In an effort to become more ‘economically aware’, youngsters at Kilmaurs Primary recently set up their own in-school Credit Union (CU) in partnership with East Ayrshire Credit Union.

Depute Headteacher . . . → Read More: All credit to young school savers]]> In these days of economic recession, it’s never too soon to learn about managing money – even if it is only your pocket money.

In an effort to become more ‘economically aware’, youngsters at Kilmaurs Primary recently set up their own in-school Credit Union (CU) in partnership with East Ayrshire Credit Union.

Depute Headteacher Marianne Bradley said: “Our Credit Union will allow pupils to save money in an ethical way through a financial co-operative, while developing an understanding of financial transactions”.

To launch the savings plan, the P6 class led a whole school get-together for pupils and staff. They performed a short play about the benefits of saving and then the children were challenged to create a name and logo for their Union, while younger classmates designed books containing ideas about things pupils could save for.

Winning name was Kilmaurs Cool Cash Club, chosen by Robyn Morton and Jade Gillingham.

Marianne Bradley said: “Last year, all pupils participated in a financial education week where they took part in money management activities. We wanted to build on what the children have been learning since then, to promote economic awareness”.

Collections take place in school on Friday mornings. P6 pupils, who have been trained in book keeping and record keeping, are responsible for the collection point each week, supervised by Principal Teacher Mary Cotton. There was keen competition for the jobs – youngsters completed application forms and were interviewed as part of the selection process for the important posts.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This innovative scheme will benefit pupils in more ways than just saving money.

“They are learning to work together as a team and to develop organisational skills, responsibility and involvement within the wider community. The Credit Union will help make them more aware of the importance of budgeting and having responsible attitudes to finance, as well as developing their numeracy skills in a real-life context”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

That’s the slogan on everyone’s lips at Grange Academy, Kilmarnock, as students and staff at the state-of-the-art school plan to make and sell products online, with the backing of top entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter.

As part of an ambitious business enterprise programme, the school plans to manufacture and market . . . → Read More: Nothing will stop press going global!]]> GGG – Grange Goes Global!

That’s the slogan on everyone’s lips at Grange Academy, Kilmarnock, as students and staff at the state-of-the-art school plan to make and sell products online, with the backing of top entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter.

As part of an ambitious business enterprise programme, the school plans to manufacture and market small scale models of the Burns First Edition Printing Press – the wooden press used by John Wilson to print the first edition of the poems of Robert Burns in July 1786. The blue-grey paperback – which shot the young poet to fame – was published in Kilmarnock in an edition of 612 copies.

Grange Academy Enterprise Group will replicate Wilson’s press in the hope of creating a niche market for this valuable piece of Ayrshire cultural heritage. Technical teacher Peter Smith created a template of the press, working from original plans held in the Dick Institute, where a full-sized working model is displayed.

Pupils will manufacture copies using new hi-tech machines purchased with the school’s share of the Council’s £1 million Business Enterprise Fund, set up to develop young people’s entrepreneurial skills and make them more ‘business ready’.

Only two replicas have been created so far. Model number one was taken by Head of Scottish Engineering Dr Peter Hughes to Cape Town, South Africa, last week, while model number two recently travelled to Madeira with local tenor John Goodwin – all part of GGG’s plans to take over the world!

The school is establishing a company run by senior pupils who will e-market and sell the product globally, with the support of The Hunter Foundation.

Other heritage products in the pipeline include beautiful collectable wooden Mauchline ware boxes. Burns lived for a while in Mauchline, where he met Jean Armour and wrote many of his best-known poems, such as To A Mouse and Holy Willie’s Prayer.

Work in the school’s Business Enterprise Skills Centre will link to a new Scottish Studies course commencing in the school.

Masterminding the enterprising initiative are Grange Headteacher Fred Wildridge, Enterprise Co-ordinator Tom Barclay and new Principal Teacher of Scottish Studies Jean Hillhouse.

Fred Wildridge, who is a geographer, said: “East Ayrshire’s rich cultural heritage is world famous. We are aiming high and we have plans to go global with our products, which will tap into the huge market for quality Burns memorabilia.

“We chose to make these unique items because they fit well into what we are doing in the school and into the national curriculum. Jean is the first PT of Scottish Studies in the whole of Scotland and we have a Gaelic Unit in the school.

“We were also advised by a former member of staff, technical teacher Jimmy Gibson, who is past president of the World Burns Federation.”

Jean Hillhouse added: “In Scottish Studies, we’ll look at Scots Language and Scottish culture across the curriculum.

“It’s also important that students learn more about the huge influence Scots people have had on the world – not just Burns, but also figures like mathematician John Napier, the discoverer of logarithms and 19th century doctor and suffragist Elsie Inglis, famed for her efforts in the First World War”.

Councillor Hugh Ross said: “I commend the staff and students at Grange for their very creative approach to global marketing. They have thought carefully about their product and linked it closely to education and the curriculum and have gained the support of the best in the business, including Dr Peter Hughes and Sir Tom Hunter.

“I look forward to seeing how their enterprise develops in the future and applaud their championing of our local and national heritage”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

And their skill was celebrated with the formal opening of the annual Schools Art and Design Exhibition in The Dick on Wednesday 1 . . . → Read More: Art’s the fashion for young designers]]> Live music, a stunning fashion show and an amazing array of art and design – the creative talent of local young people was there for all to see – and hear.

And their skill was celebrated with the formal opening of the annual Schools Art and Design Exhibition in The Dick on Wednesday 1 February.

The 2012 display featured creative artwork by pupils of Auchinleck, Cumnock, Doon, Grange, James Hamilton, Kilmarnock, Loudoun, Stewarton and St Joseph’s academies and Park School.

Guests were welcomed by music from Stewarton Academy guitar ensemble, before being treated to a stunning fashion extravaganza put on by students of Kilmarnock and Cumnock academies, modelling their fantastic creations.

Kilmarnock Academy art teacher Kirsty Lee said: “Our students used a variety of themes including the jungle, peacocks, skulls and bones. They also experimented with materials such as bottle tops, sweet wrappers, bin bags and eggshells. Using these kinds of materials allows maximum creativity – as well as helping the environment!”

Teraessa Lopez, Cumnock Academy Principal Teacher of art and design, said: “This has been a very technically challenging project for pupils. Some had never even threaded a needle before!

“Hundreds of beads have been patiently sewn on individually, slipped stitches have been laboriously picked up and there has been a constant battle with sewing machines that like to eat wool, silk and any other fabric we put in their paths.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, congratulated all the young artists and thanked teaching staff and the Creative Minds Team for supporting and encouraging pupils throughout the year.

He said: “The Creative Minds Team supports students and staff by organising workshops and artist residencies which link students directly to professional artists. This practical experience is highly rewarding and encourages learning of new skills, as well as presenting exciting opportunities for pupils.

“The results are here for all to see in this excellent exhibition of high quality work by our very talented young people”.

Thanks also went to the Eden Trust for generous financial support and to Cumnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) for supporting the Art of Regeneration project at Cumnock Academy.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

East Ayrshire Councillors agreed the proposal last week, following full public consultation during September and October 2011. Letters were issued to stakeholders, a public . . . → Read More: Muirkirk nursery class set for new start]]> Nursery education for Muirkirk tots will no longer take place off-campus, as the pre-school class is set to move from its present building to Muirkirk Primary School, from August 2012.

East Ayrshire Councillors agreed the proposal last week, following full public consultation during September and October 2011. Letters were issued to stakeholders, a public meeting was held in Muirkirk Primary – and even children in the school and nursery were asked for their opinions.

Most parents were positive about the proposed move. NHS Ayrshire & Arran responses indicated that it would ensure a greater integration between nursery and primary and therefore support smoother transition.

A mind map was used to gather comments from nursery children and they were introduced to Mr Crow, a puppet bird with a nest overlooking the new nursery class.

Some of the children wanted to see flowers and a tree planted. Another child liked to build houses and measure things – he hoped he could do that in the new nursery.

Muirkirk Primary Pupil Council members also gave their views. One young person originally thought the move was not a good idea because the nursery children would ‘miss out on feeling older, making new friends and having surprises’. She changed her mind to thinking it was ‘a brilliant idea’, after having a look at the plans.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The relocation of Muirkirk Primary School and Nursery Class into the main campus of the primary school will enhance the education, care and experience of our very youngest children.

“They will benefit from a building designed for the delivery of a 21st century curriculum.

“We will ensure that there is a smooth transition from the current site to the new site. Nursery children will be fully integrated into the school in playrooms with direct access to an outdoor play area. There will also be an outdoor classroom to the front of the school, designed to promote active learning.

“Staff will be able to work more regularly together to plan the curriculum and share expertise”.

Current arrangements, with the nursery located separately, mean a journey of one mile for the headteacher to visit her charges in the nursery class.

Cost to incorporate the nursery within the school, including alterations to the car park, is £175,000.

In an Education Scotland report, HM Inspectors noted that parents felt the Council had provided appropriate opportunities for them to express their views and were generally positive about the proposal.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

This is the seventh year in a row East Ayrshire has received a prestigious National Music Council (NMC) diploma, fighting off competition from local authorities all over the UK.

A National Music Council spokesperson . . . → Read More: Music on song in East Ayrshire schools]]> East Ayrshire Council has once again scooped a top award for its high-quality music provision to young people in schools.

This is the seventh year in a row East Ayrshire has received a prestigious National Music Council (NMC) diploma, fighting off competition from local authorities all over the UK.

A National Music Council spokesperson said: “For many years now, East Ayrshire has been operating at the top of its game, excelling in areas such as special educational needs provision, partnerships and continuing professional development (CPD).

“The range of programmes catches the eye – an opera for babies, a partnership with Music at The Brewhouse to bring the International ‘Love Music’ Festival to 1,500 children in Kilmarnock’s Grand Hall; a partnership with the Kilmarnock Town Centre Heritage Initiative, developing musical experiences for young people; whole primary classes learning to play strings, along with their teachers, parents and even grandparents; the Silk Road inter-disciplinary programme linking with the Confucius Institute, Tapestry Partnership, Harvard and Edinburgh University. And those are just the new initiatives for 2010/11.

“If you then add in some of the continuing programmes, such as choral development, masterclasses, music appreciation sessions in secondary schools, rock and pop songwriting tuition and samba workshops, it is easy to see why the panel wanted to recognise East Ayrshire again.

“But it is also worth mentioning one aspect that stood out for us – East Ayrshire’s CPD programme. Many staff hours are devoted to training and this is reflected in the incredible provision East Ayrshire makes on an ongoing basis”.

The Council’s music service also received a special mention in the Performing Right Society (PRS) for Music Foundation Awards.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Jim Roberts said: “This is a marvelous achievement for East Ayrshire to be selected from applicants from all over the UK.

“The success is richly deserved for the Education Department’s music team.

“The team led by John Wilson, Links Officer in Arts and Education, Paul Wood, Head of Instrumental Services and Julie Carrie, Youth Music Support Teacher, is once again in the national spotlight for contributing to our world-class music education”.

This year’s NMC Local Authority Music Education Awards attracted the largest number of submissions for many years. The standard was very high, with 10 authorities receiving diplomas in addition to Major Award winner Blackpool.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

At Loudoun Academy, Galston, senior pupils Scott Elder and Jennifer Paterson, both 17, spoke to all the young people in the school over . . . → Read More: Local youngsters remember children of holocaust]]> Schoolchildren across East Ayrshire stood silent for one minute on Holocaust Memorial Day last week, as they remembered the deaths of victims of Nazi Germany – including over one million children.

At Loudoun Academy, Galston, senior pupils Scott Elder and Jennifer Paterson, both 17, spoke to all the young people in the school over a week, in a series of morning assemblies.

The pair recently returned from a trip to Auschwitz organized by the Holocaust Educational Trust (HET) as part of the groundbreaking Lessons from Auschwitz (LFA) project.

Through the LFA Project, students and teachers take part in seminars and a one-day visit to the former Nazi extermination camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland, in order to then pass on the lessons in their schools and communities.

Scott and Jennifer travelled as part of a Scottish group which included young people from several East Ayrshire secondary schools.

Pupils were guided round the concentration camp Auschwitz 1, passing under the notorious entrance sign ‘Arbeit Macht Frei’ (‘Work sets you free’), to see where prisoners lived and worked.

They then visited Birkenau, the neighbouring death camp, with its huge gas chambers – where around 1.4 million people were tortured and gassed by Nazis during the Second World War. Victims were mainly Jews, but also included Poles, gypsies and Russian prisoners of war.

One room in the museum has a glass wall, behind which is a mountain of human hair, shaved from the bodies of victims. Around 700,000 people visit the Auschwitz death camp every year.

Before the trip, Scott and Jennifer met a holocaust survivor in Glasgow, who was imprisoned with her mother in Birkenau. Jennifer and Scott were impressed by how “tough and strong” she was and were particularly struck when she said she was “beyond tears”, describing how she and her mother stole from the dead to survive.

Since their return, the students have worked on promoting the importance of remembering the Holocaust throughout the school. They prepared a presentation for all year group assemblies and organised a minute’s silence on Friday 27 January, Holocaust Memorial Day.

Jennifer said: “The journey to Auschwitz was a life-changing and emotional experience, which made me realise what is significant and what is insignificant in life.”

Scott said: “It was staggering to be in the presence of such cruelty. If anyone has the chance to visit, they should”.

History teacher Sarah Purdie said: “Jennifer and Scott’s presentations emphasised the connections between the Holocaust and our everyday lives. They stressed everyone’s personal responsibility as good citizens to speak out against bullying and prejudice.

“Their work has been a very valuable part of the learning experience of the whole school, with pupils discovering more about the importance of compassion, tolerance and respect. This gave all Loudoun’s young people plenty to think about during the minute’s silence”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This important project isn’t just a day-visit to Auschwitz. The point is that the students come back into their local schools and communities and make sure everyone knows about their experience, what they’ve learned and, most importantly, how the Holocaust is still relevant to us today.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, welcomed guests to the turfcutting, a key stage in the history of Littlemill, performed by Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for . . . → Read More: Littlemill refurb off to a good start]]> Parents, teachers and children gathered recently to celebrate the start of work on the refurbishment of Littlemill Primary School and Nursery Class – despite the wintry weather!

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, welcomed guests to the turfcutting, a key stage in the history of Littlemill, performed by Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning.

Councillor Reid said: “The investment we are making in the facilities here is part of our continued commitment to education and lifelong learning.

“We want the education of all children to take place in surroundings fit for the 21st century. There is no doubt this building, despite its real charm, presented a number of challenges and we wanted to address these”.

The interior of the building is set to be fully refurbished. All classrooms will be modernised and toilets will be upgraded. The electrics and heating will be overhauled and new
carpets, blinds and fitted furniture will be installed.

A nursery room and external soft surface play area will be created and the school will also benefit from a modernised gym and dining building, with a new food server zone.

Outside, there will be an eco garden, along with upgraded car-parking and CCTV.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I am sure that the refurbishment, which is a considerable investment in this particular building, will secure a positive and modern educational environment for the young people of this area for a long time to come.

“I am very confident that under the leadership of Cindy O’Driscoll, new Headteacher of Littlemill and Dalrymple Primary Schools, we will see an exciting new phase of development that will meet the needs, interests and aspirations of Rankinston and the Doon catchment area”.

Alan Taylor, Regional Director of contractors Lovell, said: “We are pleased to be working with East Ayrshire Council on this exciting refurbishment of a well-loved local school, which will provide a modern learning environment for the children who will attend over the years.”

East Ayrshire Council is investing in Doon Valley with new schools on the Patna/St Xavier’s campus and a refurbished primary school and new nursery in New Cumnock.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Grange Campus played host to a large delegation from China which included Hongjie Liu, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute and Assistant . . . → Read More: Enter the Year of the Dragon…]]> Lucky youngsters brought in the Chinese New Year with a bang when an amazing array of visitors called in to wish them all the best for the auspicious Year of the Dragon.

Grange Campus played host to a large delegation from China which included Hongjie Liu, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute and Assistant President Li Wei of Shanghai University, famed for its ‘passion, charm and spirit’.

But all eyes were on the spectacular dancers, elegant musicians and martial arts specialists who entertained pupils of Annanhill, Gargieston, Park and Grange to an extravaganza of entertainment in the Grand Spring Festival Gala.

Youngsters were entranced by beautiful music played on Chinese instruments such as the two-stringed erhu, the pipa and the bamboo flute, accompanied by singers.

Those in the audience who study Chinese in the school’s Confucius classroom may have understood more than most, but everyone enjoyed the show, which was all in Mandarin.

A highlight was the Moving Cloud and Flowing Water tai chi exhibition, followed by a lightning-fast kung-fu routine which brought spontaneous applause and cheers from the youngsters. The audience were then invited on to their feet to join in martial arts exercises, lunging and shouting “Ha!” in unison.

Grange Academy Headteacher Fred Wildridge said: “We were absolutely delighted to welcome the visitors from Shanghai. This gala performance fitted well with our Chinese language programme in the school and had links to our Silk Road project. Global citizenship is high on our agenda – but most of all, this was an amazing and enjoyable event, in celebration of the Chinese New Year”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This spectacular show was a real treat for the young people, bringing to life the culture and language of China, which they may have only experienced previously in books or films. It provided a wonderful opportunity for pupils to meet the young Chinese performers face to face”.

The school’s Silk Road project involves all subject areas in studying the historical trade routes that criss-crossed Eurasia for 2,000 years. Silk travelled from China to Scotland, but so also did cultural, scientific, mathematical and religious ideas. By following the silk route, the school can touch on many areas of interest.

One thousand pupils from Grange and the two other schools in the project will perform in a mass concert in Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall in November 2012.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The town is set to host its first ever Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25 March and needs local people to come together and show their support . . . → Read More: Start limbering up for the Stewarton Mile!]]> Sport Relief is back and it’s coming to Stewarton. And the message from the Active Schools team is – it’s time to get your trainers on!

The town is set to host its first ever Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25 March and needs local people to come together and show their support by entering now at www.sportrelief.com.

Taking place at Stewarton Academy, the Active Schools Stewarton Mile is set to be an incredible event. Entrants don’t have to be sporty to take part and all local children are being encouraged to bring along friends, family and teachers to take part in the mile.

Those who want more of a challenge can do the course extra times in order to complete three or six miles, knowing that all the money raised will help to change the lives of people living tough lives right here on our doorstep, across the rest of the UK and in some the world’s poorest countries.

Laura Wallace, Active Schools Co-ordinator for the Stewarton Learning Community, said: “I decided to organise this Mile for the first time to allow local children and their families to take part in a big event without having to travel too far. The aim of the event is to bring children and their families from all four schools in the Learning Community together to raise money for a fantastic cause”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Active Schools do a great job in encouraging families to be more active, more often. From tots with their mums and dads, to super sprinters up against the clock, there’s something for everyone on the big day. This is the first Sport Relief Mile in Stewarton, so I hope the community will support it by taking part.”

As one of the UK’s biggest fundraising events, Sport Relief brings the entire nation together to get active, raise cash and change lives.

Sport Relief has a unique history of dedicated people doing extraordinary things to rise to the challenge. Last September, David Walliams started Sport Relief off with an epic splash when he completed The BT Sport Relief Challenge: Walliams vs The Thames. Despite battling a bacterial bug and bitingly cold water, David swam a staggering 140 miles and has so far raised over £1million for Sport Relief.

There will be even more amazing celebrity challenges to get the nation geared up for the Sport Relief weekend, which kicks off on Friday 23 March, when everyone gets active, has fun and raises cash at home, at work or at school.

To enter the Active Schools Stewarton mile, visit www.sportrelief.com . For more information contact Laura Wallace on 01560 483653 or laura.wallace@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Members of the Parent Council, Headteacher Christine MacLean, elected members and Council officers went on-site to inspect progress at the . . . → Read More: Good progress at Gargieston]]> Several hundred Kilmarnock children are looking forward to learning in a new school – and some lucky youngsters made a visit to see how the state-of-the-art building at the Dundonald Road site was progressing.

Members of the Parent Council, Headteacher Christine MacLean, elected members and Council officers went on-site to inspect progress at the new multi-million pound Gargieston Primary School and Nursery Class, which is on target to complete in summer 2012.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council and local elected member, cut the turf to mark the start of construction in May 2011.

The new-build is based on the design of the recently completed Galston Primary building, with external landscaping involving design features specifically for outdoor activities.

Local contractor Dawn Construction has achieved a wind and watertight shell at this stage, which is to programme. Workers are presently installing windows and external doors along with the first fix services installations and the sheeting of internal walls and partitions.

The construction phase of the school involved extensive grouting works to fill old mine workings, which led to the decant of pupils to Grange Campus, Shortlees, Bellfield and Crosshouse sites, from summer 2010.

Councillor Douglas Reid said: “The Gargieston project is proceeding according to programme and the contractors are working well with the Council and the community to deliver a successful outcome.

“This East Ayrshire project is jointly funded by the Scottish Government, with the Scottish Futures Trust as advisors and facilitators and this is the first such project in the life of the Council.

“We will see here a well planned and sustainable modern school, with facilities and space that address all the issues that were of concern to the Gargieston school community in the previous building”.

Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council, said: “I want to pay tribute to the Gargieston Parent Council and community for their support for this project, which will benefit children of the area for decades to come”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I wish to pay particular tribute to Gargieston staff, parents and children for their support during the decant phase. This would not have been possible without the very positive attitude that has prevailed throughout this project – and it won’t be long now till they are able to enjoy their new school!”

Alan Macdonald, group chairman of Dawn Group, said: “The construction of this multi-million pound state-of-the-art school is coming along well and the team is on budget and on schedule to complete this summer, as planned.

“With our reputation as one of Scotland’s leading independent construction specialists, we are proud to be involved in delivering this brand new facility alongside our partners, which will provide a fantastic learning hub for those who will attend over the years.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Six Grange Academy pupils from the school’s Mandarin class will take part in the grand final – . . . → Read More: Youngsters take on Chinese X-Factor challenge]]> Talented language students of a local secondary school fought off stiff competition at a recent heat to win through to the UK finals of a contest with an amazing prize – a trip to China in April.

Six Grange Academy pupils from the school’s Mandarin class will take part in the grand final – billed as the “Chinese X factor” – at the British Museum in London on 10 February.

Three S1 pupils (Matt Steel, Ross Bennett and Sean McCafferty), one S2 pupil (Olivia Crockett) and two S3 pupils (Susannah McWhirter and Rebekah Marshall) will compete.

Teacher of Mandarin Lynnette Martin said: “All the group study Chinese as a foreign language as part of their normal studies, but as an extra-curricular activity, they created and performed a short drama performance about festivals.

“They thought it was interesting that Christmas is not celebrated in China to the same extent as it is here, so they played the roles of a Scottish person and a Chinese person trying to decide which was better – Christmas or the Dragon Boat Festival – and acted out the story behind the Dragon Boat Festival.

“Although the young people have only been studying Chinese for a relatively short time, they still used Mandarin for most of the performance, with Susannah providing a simple explanation in English”.

“All the pupils have worked really hard and their performance in Newcastle was very enjoyable. The whole school is proud of them and everyone wishes them good luck”.

The talented youngsters previously competed in the regional heat in Newcastle in both the Individual and Group Performance sections.

Now in its ninth year, the competition is part of the British Council and the HSBC Global Education Programme’s work to prepare children in the UK for life in a society where links with China – the world’s second largest economy – will be important.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “There is a very dedicated group of pupils in the Confucius Hub at Grange Academy who have been working hard writing their play and preparing their talks.

“To have made it to the final is a major achievement, especially considering some of the young people have only studied Mandarin for a few months, while the third year pupils have been doing it since first year”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Ryan O’Leary and Alex Pursehouse dropped in at Grange’s on-campus SFA School of Football at the invitation of coach Alan Sloss. The talented two were happy to pose for pictures with the young players . . . → Read More: League Cup comes to Killie!]]> Grange Academy youngsters were over the moon yesterday when two Killie FC players turned up with the Scottish League Cup.

Ryan O’Leary and Alex Pursehouse dropped in at Grange’s on-campus SFA School of Football at the invitation of coach Alan Sloss. The talented two were happy to pose for pictures with the young players – and with keen Killie supporter Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council.

Said Councillor Reid: “I’m hoping for blue and white ribbons on the Cup, after the semi-final against Ayr United at Hampden. We’re just polishing it up for Manuel Pascali”.

But if the players thought it was all over after their photocall on the astroturf – well, it wasn’t.

Accompanied by Cup, the pair caused quite a stir on campus. They happily chatted and signed autographs for excited Annahill P5 pupils who were allowed out of class by Headteacher Jackie Hanlon. Some of the excited youngsters could not resist touching the shiny Cup – and one or two even kissed it!

Ryan and Alex were also happy to pose for photos with a Mandarin Chinese class from the school’s Confucius Hub, with Park School pupils in the community cafe – and even with a visiting group of Belgians from Kilmarnock’s twin town of Herstal, who just happened to be passing through!

Grange Academy Headteacher Fred Wildridge was delighted to welcome the friendly Killie players and indeed all the other visitors into the school – especially after Ryan O’Leary revealed he was quarter Chinese.

Mr Wildridge – who comes from Liverpool and is a lifelong fan of Liverpool FC – admitted he did not at first recognise the players, but judging by the attention they were getting, especially from teenage girls, he soon worked out who they were.

He said: “Since two Ayrshire teams are meeting in this important semi-final at Hampden, it means at least one Ayrshire team will be in the final, which is excellent, at the end of the day”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The challenge – issued to all East Ayrshire pupils by top entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter – was to come up with the best new idea for a product, innovation or business.

East Ayrshire Junior Golf Development Group (JGDG) was established with key local clubs, ClubGolf and East Ayrshire Council, to engage with children, clubs and coaches to develop a stronger junior golf . . . → Read More: Driving forward junior golf in schools]]> A newly-formed partnership to promote golf for youngsters in schools has got off to a great start, having already won £10,000 of funding.

East Ayrshire Junior Golf Development Group (JGDG) was established with key local clubs, ClubGolf and East Ayrshire Council, to engage with children, clubs and coaches to develop a stronger junior golf development programme.

Active Schools Manager Cheryl Brady said: “Our aim is to improve golf and make it more accessible and fun for young people”.

The JGDG includes Rowallan Golf Club, Loudoun Gowf Club, Annanhill Golf Club, Ballochmyle Golf Club, Caprington Golf Club, New Cumnock Golf Club, Loudoun Driving Range and Doon Valley Golf Club.

The partnership recently received £10,000 from Awards for All to encourage more young people to participate in the sport, to improve local club structures by providing training for coaches, to increase the number of volunteers at each club and to provide suitable age-related equipment to make the game more accessible to all.

Cheryl Brady added: “The establishment of this group has been an important step in developing golf at grass-roots level. With the grant, we want to engage young people in golf by taking the sport into the school setting and local communities.

“The Active Schools team looks forward to working in partnership with the development group to enhance and support golf provision throughout East Ayrshire”.

Gavin Scott, JGDG chairperson, said: “We will support the introduction of golf to local schools by offering coaching sessions from club members and PGA professionals, via festivals and competitions at the clubs.”

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is yet another example of good partnership working led by Active Schools. I’m delighted that local clubs are joining us in encouraging young people to be more active, more often, in taking up golf. I look forward to seeing how the sport develops with this strong backing”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Six young people from each secondary school joined 50 Kilmarnock College students in . . . → Read More: Young people get fit for business]]> Budding young entrepreneurs learned how to take the first steps into setting up their own businesses last week in an event organised by the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) in partnership with East Ayrshire Council in the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock.

Six young people from each secondary school joined 50 Kilmarnock College students in a day of motivational speakers and workshops on topics such as marketing and raising finance. They also had the opportunity to meet and chat with successful entrepreneurs, local and national.

And the event got off to a rousing start, when the opening speaker had them on their feet straight away!

Boxer and elite personal trainer Ricky Singh had everyone – including Council Leader Councillor Douglas Reid, Councillors Jim Roberts and Hugh Ross and Chief Executive Fiona Lees – running on the spot and doing squats and lunges as a warm-up to a day of challenges.

Ricky, 24, is a former James Hamilton Academy pupil. He gained a degree in Sports Science from the University of the West of Scotland and won the Asian Scottish Business Award in November 2011. He launched his successful company Team Singh a year ago, with help from the PSYBT.

Hosting the event – and a great hit with the audience – was amazing ‘accidental entrepreneur’ Iain Scott, who runs Cognitive Business Therapies.

Recognised as an expert in how people learn to become entrepreneurs, Iain studied at Glasgow University and taught history for five years, before ‘in a fit of madness’ leaving to start his first business. He employed over 25 people and sold food to Harrods, top delicatessens and major supermarkets, before going on to develop his Cognitive Business Therapy process.

Iain encouraged the young people to take a different slant on being an entrepreneur. He said: “Businesses don’t start with a plan, they start with a conversation. Most businesses start by accident, or when people get some kind of ‘shock’, such as being made redundant, or getting divorced, or some other major life change”.

And although times may be difficult economically for new businesses, Iain said: “It’s a great time to put a toe in the water, to have a play”.

Guest entrepreneur and PSYBT award winner Patrick McDonald, Superior Catering and Leisure, spoke about his wide experience in business. The following Question Time session saw the expert panel kept on their toes by the enthusiastic young audience.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “When we launched our £1million Business Enterprise Fund, its overall purpose was to make sure that our young people leaving school are business ready.

“East Ayrshire is already above the Scottish average in terms of positive outcomes for school leavers, but with this additional investment and assistance from our Business Leaders, partner organisations and schools, we want to raise the aspirations of our young people even higher”.

Geoff Leask, PSYBT Director of Operations, said: “PSYBT is delighted to be fully involved with the enterprise activities that East Ayrshire Council has given such prominence. This event is a great opportunity for senior school pupils and Kilmarnock College students to learn from young entrepreneurs supported by PSYBT and give them a real insight to the opportunities that exist for them to have their own business in the not too distant future”

ends

Youngsters in schools all over East Ayrshire even have the chance to learn the world’s most popular martial art – taught by the best in the business – thanks to . . . → Read More: Next lesson – taekwondo!]]> Local pupils have always enjoyed a wide range of traditional sports in school – but now activities on offer are becoming ever more adventurous.

Youngsters in schools all over East Ayrshire even have the chance to learn the world’s most popular martial art – taught by the best in the business – thanks to an Active Schools partnership with local club Phoenix Taekwondo.

Phoenix teaches taekwondo to children and adults alike. The club is used by mums, dads and young people to reinforce discipline, encourage positive self esteem and increase fitness levels. The environment of each club is very positive, thanks to skilled instructors, who normally have at least 12 years’ martial art experience.

Phoenix Taekwondo Senior Instructor and Scottish National Coach Scott McMillan said: “Everyone has the opportunity to learn to the best of their ability and clubs are attended by a variety of students who want to be more confident in life – or to become champions.

“Many young people want to attain the coveted black belt, but the most important thing is that everyone who takes part enjoys it. Those who become black belts have the desire, discipline and perseverance to succeed – all attributes encouraged and reinforced by our instructors”.

Cheryl Brady, Active Schools Manager, said: “Phoenix Club provides an excellent introduction to the sport of taekwondo in the school environment. Given these opportunities, children and young people are encouraged and supported to attend the range of classes on offer throughout the local area. We look forward to developing our partnership with Scott and the club in the future.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Learning, said: “Our Active Schools team does a great job in encouraging young people to be more active, more often. Bringing in different activities such as taekwondo to schools is a great way of keeping children interested and encouraging them to try new sports”.

For more information about taekwondo, contact Scott McMillan on 07702156700 or email: scottm1005@yahoo.co.uk. Also see www.phoenixtaekwondo.com .

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The three and four-year-olds of Hillbank Nursery walk all the way to Dean Park in the morning with their teachers, spend the day there doing a huge variety of . . . → Read More: If you go down to the woods today…]]> Rain, hail or shine, youngsters from a local nursery head for the great outdoors every Wednesday, for a whole day of fun – and education.

The three and four-year-olds of Hillbank Nursery walk all the way to Dean Park in the morning with their teachers, spend the day there doing a huge variety of exciting outdoor learning activities – and then walk all the way back to North West Kilmarnock Area Centre in Western Road for 3pm.

Said nursery headteacher Isabelle Campbell: “The children carry their lunches in their backpacks and we have base camps among the trees. They absolutely love learning and playing outdoors – although they do sometimes come back covered in mud from head to foot!

“Their learning is amazing. The children have named areas of the forest. They have their ‘beach’ down by the river and the ‘lumpy bumpy tree’.

“They write in the mud with sticks and have created community signage, to help with their literacy. They also cover aspects of numeracy and science and, of course, the fresh air environment is perfect for health and fitness. All that walking certainly builds up their stamina!

“Most of the tasks – such as den-building – are initiated by the children themselves. The kids have a fantastic time”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This outdoor learning is an excellent example of Curriculum for Excellence in action.

“The youngsters are enjoying learning to work as a team in an exciting, yet safe, natural environment. The activities are helping very young children to become successful learners, confident individuals and responsible citizens of the future, with respect for others and for their surroundings”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Roots of Empathy is being rolled out in six primary schools in the Cumnock area – Barshare, Greenmill, Logan, Muirkirk, Netherthird and St John’s. Babies and parents will come into . . . → Read More: ‘Tiny Teachers’ in the classroom]]> Babies are to be employed as ‘tiny teachers’ in classrooms as part of a pioneering programme to reduce levels of problem behaviour in schools.

Roots of Empathy is being rolled out in six primary schools in the Cumnock area – Barshare, Greenmill, Logan, Muirkirk, Netherthird and St John’s. Babies and parents will come into classrooms over the course of the school year to allow pupils to observe the caring relationship between them.

The programme aims to reduce aggressive behaviour by encouraging children to interact in a nurturing manner.

Six baby volunteers – each aged four months – have been recruited from local communities to take part in the programme. With their parents, the ‘tiny teachers’ will take part in nine visits to primary three classes. Sessions will be led by trained staff from East Ayrshire Council and Action for Children.

Independent evaluations of a similar programme in Canada revealed a significant increase in peer acceptance in 74% of children and a decrease in social aggression in 39% of children.

Kay Gilmour, Head of Community Support, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Action for Children to develop Roots of Empathy in East Ayrshire. The schools involved are looking forward to seeing the ‘tiny teachers’ grow and develop over the coming weeks and months. The programme sits very well with our approach to nurturing and we look forward to lasting benefits for the children involved.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is a new way of helping children to understand relationships with others, to learn to work together and look after each other. I look forward to seeing how the youngsters enjoy seeing babies in the classrooms and how positively it affects their behaviour”.

Louise Warde Hunter, strategic director of children’s services at Action for Children, said: “Roots of Empathy teaches schoolchildren to understand their own feelings and the feelings of others by using a baby as the ‘tiny teacher’. This raises levels of empathy amongst classmates, resulting in more respectful relationships.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Primary 5c children were fed up with cars speeding around the campus, on surrounding streets and near school entrances, as well as parking in parts of the playground . . . → Read More: ‘We want parents to slow down’]]> So concerned were youngsters at a local primary school about dangerous drivers, that they decided to take matters into their own hands to make culprits think.

Primary 5c children were fed up with cars speeding around the campus, on surrounding streets and near school entrances, as well as parking in parts of the playground where they shouldn’t. The Parents Council had also raised concerns about the antics of some drivers.

Pupils Luke Dickson and Sean Houston organised a campaign to make the campus a safer place. They persuaded the other schools sharing the campus – Grange Academy, Park School and Gargieston Primary – to join them in their mission.

With backing from campus cop PC Andy Murray, the youngsters made a poster for display in schools and local shops. They also wrote letters to parents and met with the Community Council – all of whom are supporting their cause.

The pupils are campaigning for measures such as bigger and better road signs and improved speed bumps, to encourage drivers to slow down and be more aware of children walking or cycling to and from school.

Luke Dickson said: “We just want parents to slow down”.

Primary 5 teacher Graeme Crossley said: “Some drivers are just not taking enough care. The speed limit within the campus is 5 mph and they are not sticking to it. There have been cases of parents double-parking, parking in disabled spaces, blocking roadways and even being abusive to staff who have asked them to move on”.

Annanhill Primary headteacher Jacqueline Hanlon added: “I’m delighted that our two junior road safety officers Luke and Sean are spearheading this campaign to make our school grounds safer. We’ve had tremendous support from the other schools, parents and indeed the whole community”.

Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council, said: “All we need now is for all drivers in and around the school campus to obey the rules and take more care. Fortunately, many parents and visitors already do, but absolutely everyone needs to buy into this.

“It is common sense – and everyone’s priority is to look after our young people and keep them safe from harm”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Grange Academy’s S3 Duke of Edinburgh (D of E) class decided to add their own special touch to the Blythswood Care Christmas shoebox appeal that the school was already involved in. Instead of . . . → Read More: Big-hearted youngsters sing out for Christmas cheer]]> Kids at a local secondary decided to put their vocal talents to good use to help others enjoy a better Christmas.

Grange Academy’s S3 Duke of Edinburgh (D of E) class decided to add their own special touch to the Blythswood Care Christmas shoebox appeal that the school was already involved in. Instead of contributing directly to the shoeboxes, the class decided to raise money that would help with costs of shipping the boxes, filled with small gifts, to children and adults in need in Eastern Europe.

Teacher Paul McGurn said: “It was evident through the skills and volunteering choices made by the pupils for their bronze award that there was a great collection of musical talent in the class. The young people decided to produce their own Band Aid style singles, complete with music video. They chose ‘Sing’ by My Chemical Romance and ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol”.

Local music production company 12inch Audio handled the recording of the songs and video.

The whole class was involved in the recording process and had a strong influence on the theme of the video. The artwork for the CD was selected by 12inch Audio, after a class competition, won by talented student Todd Barrie.

Grange Academy headteacher Fred Wildridge said: “Two hundred cds were pressed and subsequent sales have so far raised over £250, with less than 20 copies remaining. We asked for a donation of £2 per cd.

“This represents a fantastic achievement for a single class and highlights a fine example of our schoolchildren working together with the Council’s Community Learning and Development team, as well as local business partners”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This worthwhile initiative will not only bring Christmas cheer to needy people in the shape of the Shoebox Appeal, but has also benefited the young people involved.

“They have developed their creative skills through working with professionals and have learned to work together as a team, to help others in the global community”.

Danny Muschate, Blythswood Care’s Head of Fundraising, said: “It never fails to amaze me how much joy a simple shoebox can bring to children and adults alike. Everyday items that seem so small to us – a new hat and scarf, a toothbrush with some toothpaste, a small toy, some soap – bring great joy to thousands of people who live in desperate poverty”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

As official adopters of Yang Guang and Tian Tian, pupils from Loudoun Academy were given an exclusive preview of . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire kids greet their panda ‘children’]]> People from all over the UK are flocking to see the amazing Giant Pandas now in residence at Edinburgh Zoo – but a group of East Ayrshire youngsters has pipped them all at the post!

As official adopters of Yang Guang and Tian Tian, pupils from Loudoun Academy were given an exclusive preview of their panda ‘children’ last Thursday, before Scotland’s hottest new arrivals went on show to a frantic public on Friday, amidst scenes of panda-monium as hundreds queued.

The Galston school’s Fast Track 2010 class adopted the eight-year-old pandas on Chinese New Year in February 2011 as part of a modern studies project, while the exotic bears were still in China. The pandas will spend the next 10 years at the zoo, 5,000 miles from their previous home in Ya’an reserve, Chengdu.

The kids have been bamboozled by Yang Guang and Tian Tian’s sudden meteoric rise to international stardom – yet delighted by the opportunities their bear connection now offers.

Teacher Julia Preston, who accompanied the eight pupils on their 100 mile round-trip to Edinburgh, said: “We had an amazing time and were treated as honoured guests by the zoo.

“I initially received a letter inviting just two people to view the pandas before they went public. I wrote to ask if the organisers would consider nine tickets, as I hadn’t the heart to tell the kids that some would not be able to go. Luckily, the zoo agreed!”

The youngsters worked with the zoo’s education team to make sensory toys containing tasty snacks for some of the animals, including purple-faced leaf monkeys of Sri Lanka and Negros Island Warty Pigs.

But the highlight of the day was their first amazing sight of the dark-eyed, cuddly creatures. Male Yang Guang and female Tian Tian were bearing up in their new surroundings – but were viewed separately by the youngsters.

The pandas have to be kept apart till their brief breeding season – just two days of the year – in February. Until then, the pandas can only peek at each other through a hole in the wall which separates them in their new £300,000 enclosure.

So impressed were the youngsters with the pandas that they are now working to raise funds to help sun bears of Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos – so-called because of the yellow crescents on their chests – who are often ill-treated in their native lands. The kids hope to adopt the zoo’s sun bears, for whom they previously collected 30 jars of honey.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The young people’s close involvement with these famous pandas is continuing to provide them with excellent opportunities to put into practice much of what they have learned about animals and other cultures.

“This type of learning outside school, working with experts, is exactly what is recommended by Curriculum for Excellence, helping make young people more confident, successful learners, developing into responsible citizens with a knowledge of the wider world”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The cook-off was for S3 pupils studying Home Economics/Hospitality. In schools, budding chefs prepared a main course for two on a budget of no . . . → Read More: It’s a cook-off!]]> Eighteen youngsters from secondary schools across East Ayrshire recently competed in a hard-fought competition at The Cook School Scotland, in a bid to win a place in the all-Ayrshire final.

The cook-off was for S3 pupils studying Home Economics/Hospitality. In schools, budding chefs prepared a main course for two on a budget of no more than £5. Top two from each school were selected to compete in the East Ayrshire heat.

And the fab four who made it through against stiff culinary competition to represent East Ayrshire in the final were Emily Hood, 13 (Grange Academy), Shannon Gallacher, 14 (Loudoun Academy), Amy Gibson, 14 (Doon Academy) and Lauren McNaughton, 14 (Cumnock Academy).

The girls will return to Cook School in January to pick up tips and ideas from top chefs, before the final, when they will compete in the kitchen against six pupils from North and South Ayrshire for the master chef trophy.

Craig Stevenson, managing director of Braehead Foods, said: “This was an exciting opportunity for young people to work with and learn from experienced chefs”.

Craig is one of the business leaders backing the Council’s £1 million business enterprise programme in secondary schools, which aims to help make pupils ready for the world of work.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “It was a great pleasure to see the very high standard of results. I know the chefs were impressed by all the young people, who coped extremely well in new surroundings and prepared delicious dishes on limited budgets.

“This partnership between schools and mentor Craig Stevenson is an example of the type of initiative which will help make our pupils more business-ready – by working in real-life situations with the best in the business.

“Thanks also to Tesco for sponsoring our pupils in this exciting competition”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Carrie McLean, 13, travelled to Dunfermline’s Abbeyview Indoor Bowling Club to play in a trial match for the Scotland under-25 team. Carrie’s club – Auchinleck Indoor Bowling Club – had put . . . → Read More: Carrie’s just bowling along]]> Auchinleck Academy celebrated yet another sporting success recently, when a second year pupil was selected to play for the national indoor bowling team.

Carrie McLean, 13, travelled to Dunfermline’s Abbeyview Indoor Bowling Club to play in a trial match for the Scotland under-25 team. Carrie’s club – Auchinleck Indoor Bowling Club – had put her forward for consideration.

After four hours of play against stiff competition, Carrie learned she had made the Scotland squad – and that she will be travelling to Bristol in the New Year to play in the under-25 international series.

Auchinleck Academy headteacher Peter Gilchrist said: “We are all very proud of Carrie’s achievement. Being selected for a national squad at such a young age is excellent and bodes well for her future sporting career”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to Carrie on making the Scotland indoor bowling team. She is a credit to the whole school and the local community, who have supported her all the way and, I’m sure, will continue to do so”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The week was a big hit, with parties for children and parents in Rankinston, Drongan and . . . → Read More: Fun and games for national youth week]]> Youngsters in Cumnock and Doon Valley area had a busy – but fun – time recently, as East Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development (CLD) youth projects team put on lots of activities for National Youth Work Week.

The week was a big hit, with parties for children and parents in Rankinston, Drongan and Ochiltree. Everyone was dressed for the occasion and joined in the fun and party games.

Bellsbank youth project team enjoyed a traditional games night, while young people in Netherthird joined in energetic Ydance sessions.

East Ayrshire youth committee Inspired Youths led a fun teambuilding night – and are now planning a music festival for East Ayrshire.

The theme of ‘bringing the community together’ provided the perfect opportunity to illustrate the positive difference young people can make to their communities.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The CLD team always works hard to inspire everyone in the community to join in activities and to take up learning tailored to suit their individual circumstances and requirements.

“I’m delighted at the turnout for these recent events and I look forward to seeing more in the future”.

CLD offers a wide range of learning opportunities for adults and young people. For more information, please call 01290 428430.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Each school taking part represented an Olympic country and the festival, held in Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence, began with the playing of the various . . . → Read More: Youngsters on track for Olympic fun and games]]> One hundred and twenty primary school children were fired with enthusiasm at the recent ‘Flames’ festival organised by Active Schools in the lead-up to the 2012 Olympic Games.

Each school taking part represented an Olympic country and the festival, held in Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence, began with the playing of the various national anthems while youngsters, dressed in the colours of their adopted country, paraded waving flags and banners.

Kirkstyle primary school represented Japan, Mount Carmel – Chile, New Farm – Romania, Silverwood – Switzerland, St Andrew’s – Greece and Mauchline – Ethiopia.

College students manned seven fun-filled activity stations themed with Olympic values of respect, excellence, friendship, determination, courage, inspiration and equality.

As part of the ‘Flames’ programme, 21 Advanced NC sports coaching students previously visited the six schools and gave youngsters taster sessions in a wide range of sports, games and skills activities, such as throwing and catching.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “The festival was a great success. There were no winners or losers – this was purely a festival for fun, to encourage the youngsters’ participation in sports”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an excellent way for youngsters to enjoy themselves and get physically active, whilst trying out new sports that will be part of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“As a result of the festival and the coaching the children have received, it is hoped pupils will go on to take up the various sports experienced in taster sessions, either after school or in the community”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

And Onthank Primary – which goes under the banner of Brazil – emerged victorious, with Nether Robertland (Kazakhstan) second and Kirkstyle (Japan) in . . . → Read More: Basketball stars rock on to the final]]> Eight schools battled it out at a basketball festival last week at Kilmarnock College’s Centre for Sporting Excellence, the first ‘finals’ event following the launch of the East Ayrshire Olympics programme.

And Onthank Primary – which goes under the banner of Brazil – emerged victorious, with Nether Robertland (Kazakhstan) second and Kirkstyle (Japan) in third place.

Other primary schools which took part, having all qualified from regional events, were Annanhill, Auchinleck, Dalmellington, Hurlford and Netherthird.

Glasgow Rocks players Sterling Davis and EJ Harrison came to cheer on the young finalists and gave prizes to male and female most valuable players (MVPs) Euan Reid, Nether Robertland and Holly Hart, Netherthird.

Sportsmanship awards went to Daniel Wood, Kirkstyle and Jennifer White, Annanhill. The MVPs won match tickets and mascot packages, where they will be mascots leading the Rocks team out to a game. Sportsmanship winners also won match tickets.

Councillors Kathy Morrice and Maureen McKay came along to watch the final and to award medals.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Laura Wallace said: “The festival went very well, thanks to a very supportive group of students from Kilmarnock College, who refereed and helped the children. The youngsters really got into the spirit of the event by dressing in their countries’ colours and carrying flags”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This festival formed part of our run-up to the Olympics for schools. As well as gaining medals, the children who competed in the basketball festival have earned extra points for the overall medal table which is being kept throughout the year. I look forward to seeing how the different schools progress”.

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “It was great to see so many schoolchildren from across East Ayrshire taking part in sporting activity. This Active Schools initiative really is encouraging more young people to be more active, more often and the Olympics link fits perfectly with the aims of Curriculum for Excellence”.

Next event in the East Ayrshire Olympics calendar is badminton where, again, regional events will take place before another grand final at the end of January.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

English teacher Lesley Moore’s S4 class – average age 15 – at James Hamilton Academy worked together to win the recent nationwide Story Generator competition sponsored by the Edinburgh . . . → Read More: Young writing winners are a class act]]> A local secondary school is celebrating scooping top prize in a national writing competition – thanks to an amazing team effort by a whole class.

English teacher Lesley Moore’s S4 class – average age 15 – at James Hamilton Academy worked together to win the recent nationwide Story Generator competition sponsored by the Edinburgh International Book Festival and Scottish Power.

Each pupil contributed a sentence in the class’s winning tale. Using the first line of Julie Bertagna’s novel Zenith, pupils were asked to use their imagination by adding one sentence to take the story forward.

The opening line was: “Out on the world’s ocean, night is a black war-horse. The white ship bucks upon it like a ghost rider with no reins”.

Entries from all over Scotland were judged by the author Julie Bertagna herself, along with representatives from the Book Festival and Scottish Power. The finalists’ stories were read to the winners of the junior competition – Port Ellen primary school on Islay – who also judged the James Hamilton story to be best.

The school prize is a donation of books from the Edinburgh International Book Festival. As an added surprise, the pupil who wrote the best individual line of the class story wins a Kindle – and his/her name will be revealed at the very last minute during the prizegiving – planned for next week – on stage during school assembly.

Teacher Lesley Moore said: “We were all delighted with our win. The author Julie Bertagna was so impressed with the quality of the writing that she also selected other pupils to receive signed copies of her book as rewards”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an intriguing challenge, as the young people had to focus not only on themselves, but on working together as a team towards the best possible outcome.

“The story they produced was judged to be the best in Scotland and this is an achievement to be celebrated by the young writers, their teacher and indeed the whole school”.

The Scottish Power Story Generator competition is sponsored by Scottish Power and the Edinburgh International Book Festival

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Councillors, business leaders and members of the local community enjoyed a film presentation and whistle-stop tour round James Hamilton Academy’s new business and skills bases last week . . . → Read More: Pupils get ready for world of work]]> Students at a local secondary school delighted guests with their drive and enthusiasm for learning brand new skills to help prepare them for the world of work.

Councillors, business leaders and members of the local community enjoyed a film presentation and whistle-stop tour round James Hamilton Academy’s new business and skills bases last week – and the whole event was organised and led by the young people themselves.

Pupils were celebrating the formal launch of their new Business and Skills Enterprise Centre (BESC) complete with high-tech engineering and media equipment, funded by the Council’s £1 million Business Enterprise Fund.

Head Teacher Janis Teale said: “We have been fortunate to receive over £100,000 and without that, these new courses could not be delivered. They are not rehashed existing programmes, but brand new courses to address skills gaps, so that young people can leave school with qualifications they need to get jobs”.

Pupils showed off their work in painting and decorating, digital media and engineering. They also took visitors on a tour of the highly popular school shop, ‘Jimmy Express Supplies’, which they run, helping them understand finance and how to run a business.

Fourteen S3 and seven S6 pupils are taking part in this pilot year of the course, but in future years it will be open to all.

As well as six standard grades, the students will gain SQA qualifications in Construction Crafts, Digital Media, Engineering and Steps to Work, as well as Junior Sports Leader Awards.

As well as developing skills, the courses are having a very positive effect on young people’s attitudes and behaviour.

Gavin Mason, S3, said: “I’ve been learning new skills like working on the computer and how to lead a class. I’ve developed personal skills, such as how to behave and getting to class on time”.

Gemma McKinnon, S3, said: “My favourite course has been painting and decorating. I’m learning how to work with people and I’m building up my confidence”.

Arran Wilson, S3, said: “I work better with others now. This is something I struggled with last year. I’m enjoying all my courses and I have 100% attendance this year. I’d like a job when I leave school”.

Headteacher Janis Teale said: “Arran and some of the other pupils have found a purpose in education that maybe was not there for them before”.

Attending the event, Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I was extremely impressed not only by the skills displayed by pupils and by objects such as snow shovels which they had made for sale – but also by their knowledge and understanding of the courses and their relevance to their future employment”.

“This pupil-led, hands-on way of working is to be commended and even though it’s early days, the signs of success are already there for all to see”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Senior pupils organised a very successful ‘Wear It Pink’ day to raise money for Breast Cancer Research. Young people and staff took part in a sponsored dance, while some brave male . . . → Read More: Auchinleck youngsters in the pink]]> Pink was the colour of the day in school recently, as Auchinleck Academy pupils and teachers pulled out all the stops for charity.

Senior pupils organised a very successful ‘Wear It Pink’ day to raise money for Breast Cancer Research. Young people and staff took part in a sponsored dance, while some brave male teachers and seniors got their legs publicly waxed and senior pupils wore fancy dress.

To add to the fun, youngsters enjoyed face painting and bright pink cakes were on sale – making for a very colourful day.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Thanks to the efforts of all at Auchinleck Academy, a grand total of £971 was raised for this very worthwhile cause. Well done to the senior pupils for working as a team to organise this event and making such a valuable contribution”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The exotic bears were adopted in February this year by a group of Loudoun Academy schoolchildren as part of a modern . . . → Read More: Panda-monium at local school… from China with love]]> Panda fever has hit a bamboo-zled Scotland with the arrival of Sunshine and Sweetie in Edinburgh Zoo, but no one is more delighted than their proud ‘parents’ – who live in East Ayrshire.

The exotic bears were adopted in February this year by a group of Loudoun Academy schoolchildren as part of a modern studies project – and there’s a plaque on front of the new £300,000 state-of-the-art panda enclosure which says so, for all to see.

Julia Preston, support for learning teacher at the Galston school, said: “We were looking at imaginative ways for the children in the S2 Fast Track group to do outdoor education. At the same time, pupils were studying China in Modern Studies. I read about how animals can aid learning in children – so it all came together when I looked at the Edinburgh Zoo website and read about China’s favourite animals – the giant pandas”.

With the help of the zoo’s education department and the Scottish Chinese Education Network (SCEN), the Loudoun kids officially adopted the cuddly creatures – Chinese names Yang Guang and Tian Tian – on Chinese New Year 2011 and received a certificate from the zoo.

Julia said:” I arranged for the zoo to phone me when I had the class in front of me, to break the news that we had officially adopted the pandas.

“We made a big day of it at school on the Chinese New Year – the Year of the Rabbit – which began in mid-February, when the full moon appeared. Our pupils celebrated the event by learning how to use chopsticks, make lanterns and lucky money wallets, as well as studying Chinese calligraphy and tasting lucky candy and fortune cookies.

“Mrs Yang, Chinese language teacher from Grange Academy’s Confucius Hub, visited Loudoun and taught the children some Mandarin. As part of the cultural experience, we also learned about the moon festival and the Chinese horoscope”.

Barry Hutchinson, Sifu of Four Seasons Wing Chun Gung Fu gave pupils kung fu lessons and demonstrated the famous Lion Dance. Youngsters got in on the act, playing the drums and trying on the lion’s head.

The Fast Track group of nine pupils also visited Edinburgh Zoo in March and gave a talk to an audience of 250 people about endangered animals in China and Scotland.

But the best is yet to come – for the youngsters, who are now in S3 and known as the Top Gear group, plan to travel to Edinburgh to celebrate Chinese New Year on 23 January with their panda ‘children’, who have travelled 5,000 miles from Chengdu.

Said Julia: “2012 will be the Year of the Dragon, which is the most important year in the Chinese calendar, so we’re looking forward to a really fantastic day”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “All of these events and new experiences of learning outwith the school are exactly what is recommended in Curriculum for Excellence, to give young people opportunities to be more confident in the outside world, to show that they can be responsible citizens and to encourage a ‘can-do’ attitude”.

“The young people’s close involvement with these internationally famous pandas will continue to provide the pupils with the opportunity to put into practice much of what they have learned”.

The pandas will go on display on December 16, but will be kept apart till the breeding season in February – after which, with any luck, the Loudoun pupils could become adoptive ‘grandparents’ of the UK’s first panda cubs.

See www.rzsspanda.org.uk/ for further info.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

A group of third year pupils recently created a huge, colourful mural for the school dining hall as part of a health & wellbeing / art project.

Budding young artists Emily Robinson, Eve Parker, Gemma Smith, Claire . . . → Read More: Healthy showing for Auchinleck art]]> Pupils at Auchinleck Academy are getting arty… and their talent is on display for all to see.

A group of third year pupils recently created a huge, colourful mural for the school dining hall as part of a health & wellbeing / art project.

Budding young artists Emily Robinson, Eve Parker, Gemma Smith, Claire Corrigan, Lana Medhurst and Sophie Reid wanted to get across a healthy eating message. They came up with the slogan ‘A Healthy Lunch packs a Healthy Punch’ for the centre of their artwork.

The pupils sketched out ideas to show fruit and vegetables cascading from a basket, using a combination of realistic and cartoon styles to create interesting images and to balance the composition.

Measuring eight feet square and made up of acrylic paint on MDF panels, the mural took six weeks to complete, with pupils and teachers often working after school.

Headteacher Peter Gilchrist said: “The six artists had never worked on this kind of scale before and they responded very well to this big creative challenge.

“The mural has really helped to create a better environment for pupils who take packed lunches in Auchinleck Academy and has boosted the confidence of our art pupils who created the work”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This mural is a great piece of work that will enhance the dining room and at the same time put across a healthy eating message. The youngsters obviously bonded as a team on this project and evidence of their skill and talent is there for all to see”.

The young art team said they loved designing the mural and watching their ideas come to life as they painted and hoped it would inspire people to eat more healthily. They enjoyed being given the responsibility and being able to create something special for the school.

Supported by a thriving art department, other artistic pupils competed in a recent mask competition in the school and even gave up their lunchtimes to work on some amazing mask designs. Winners were Katie Allaun , Nikki Collins and Martin McLelland, who designed their own masks during lunch breaks.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Medal winners were: Rebecca Morrison: 12 & under 50m freestyle – gold & 12 & under 50m butterfly – gold Rosie Wynne: 15/16 yrs 100m breaststroke – gold & 15/16yrs 200m breaststroke – . . . → Read More: Young swimmers in championship splash]]> Fifteen young Auchinleck Academy swimmers competed in the recent hard-fought Ayrshire Schools Swimming Championships – resulting in some magnificent individual performances.

Medal winners were:
Rebecca Morrison: 12 & under 50m freestyle – gold & 12 & under 50m butterfly – gold
Rosie Wynne: 15/16 yrs 100m breaststroke – gold & 15/16yrs 200m breaststroke – gold
Rachael Howie: 15/16 yrs 100m backstroke – bronze
Cameron Maguire: 15/16 yrs 100m backstroke – gold
Alexander Leventakis: 17/19 yrs 100m breaststroke – silver

An amazing performance from Rosie Wynne also saw her achieving the qualifying time for consideration for the Scottish Schools Championships in both the 100m and 200m breaststroke.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to these talented young athletes for their outstanding success in the Ayrshire Schools Swimming Championships.

“Clearly the refurbished pool area in Auchinleck Academy is helping the pupils to realise their true sporting potential”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Young learners of Chinese from Grange Academy competed in the regional heat of the HSBC/British Council Mandarin Chinese Speaking Competition at Newcastle University . . . → Read More: Young Chinese-speakers in X Factor challenge]]> Students from a forward-thinking Kilmarnock school showed off their linguistic skills in an X Factor-style competition on Tuesday to be in with the chance of winning an amazing trip to China.

Young learners of Chinese from Grange Academy competed in the regional heat of the HSBC/British Council Mandarin Chinese Speaking Competition at Newcastle University against 10 other schools for a place in the final at the British Museum in February 2012.

Now in its ninth year, the competition has attracted a record number of learners eager to prove their Chinese skills.

The talented youngsters competed in either the Individual Language Ability or Group Performance section. In the Individual section, contestants Caitlin Goldie and Stuart Gilroy gave a short presentation in Mandarin, translated sentences from English into Mandarin and were tested on their knowledge of Chinese culture.

In the Group Performance section, six students – Olivia Crockett, Matt Steel, Sean McCafferty, Ross Bennett, Susannah McWhirter and Rebekah Marshall – performed a play in Chinese.

The competition was part of the British Council and the HSBC Global Education Programme’s work to prepare children in the UK for life in a global society. Young people entering employment will need to be able to compete in a world where links with China – the world’s second largest economy after Japan – will be important.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “There is a very dedicated group of pupils in the Confucius Hub at Grange Academy who have been working hard with their teacher Lynette Martin on writing and performing a play and preparing solo talks.

“To have made it as far as the regional heat is a major achievement in itself, considering some of the young people have only studied Mandarin for a few months, while the third year pupils have been doing it since first year”.

Martin Davidson, Chief Executive of the British Council and fluent Chinese speaker, said: “Having a good knowledge of Mandarin Chinese has never been so important. With China recently becoming the world’s second biggest economy, our children need to understand China in all its facets if we are to be successful in working together, whether in business or in other ways in the future.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The awards, which celebrate hard work and innovation in Scottish classrooms, are now open for nominations. Launching the awards, Dr Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning and . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire education stars sought for national acclaim]]> Local people across East Ayrshire are being called upon to help find the area’s brightest education stars who are worthy of recognition at the Scottish Education Awards 2012.

The awards, which celebrate hard work and innovation in Scottish classrooms, are now open for nominations. Launching the awards, Dr Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning and Skills, said: “The Scottish Education Awards are a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the hard work, innovation and excellence of standards of schools, teachers, headteachers and school communities across the country.

“I would encourage people across the country to take some time to nominate and reward the local schools and education professionals that make learning a rich experience, nurturing and motivating our children and young people to increase their understanding and realise their ambitions.”

People across East Ayrshire are being urged to nominate and reward local schools and education professionals at this year’s Scottish Education Awards.

The awards are open to all publicly funded schools, including secondary, primary, nursery and special schools.  There are also categories to recognise and reward the dedication of teachers, head-teachers and support staff across Scotland.

This year there are new categories, including the Active Nation Award, Parents are Partners in Learning Award and Gaelic Language and Culture in Learning.

Councillor Jim Roberts, East Ayrshire Council Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said:  “We have many examples of creativity, innovation and good practice in schools across East Ayrshire. I would like to encourage local people to put forward nominations for this year’s Scottish Education Awards. Parents, pupils, teachers or any member of the public can nominate an
educational establishment or staff member.

“In recent years, East Ayrshire schools have been very successful, reflecting the excellent practice in our classrooms and highlighting the achievements of our pupils. I look forward to similar success this year to recognise the hard work which takes place in our schools”.

Do you know a local school that shines within the community or an exemplary teacher who motivates and nurtures pupils to become confident learners?  If so, this is the opportunity to ensure that deserving schools and education stars from East Ayrshire are recognised.

For further information and to make a nomination, visit www.scottisheducationawards.co.uk or monitor the progress of the awards by visiting www.engageforeducation.org or following @engagefored on twitter.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The school is enthusiastic about the ambitious £1 million Business Enterprise Fund launched by East Ayrshire Council to develop enterprising skills and attitudes in . . . → Read More: New enterprise skills centre for Kilmarnock school]]> St Joseph’s Academy became the first Kilmarnock school to launch its new Business and Enterprise Skills Centre (BESC) in a bid to make its pupils more entrepreneurial and ‘business ready’.

The school is enthusiastic about the ambitious £1 million Business Enterprise Fund launched by East Ayrshire Council to develop enterprising skills and attitudes in pupils across nine East Ayrshire academies. St Joseph’s plans to build on its existing tradition of enterprise and innovation.

Guests invited to the launch event included elected members and Council officers, who were welcomed by Headteacher Alan Ward and entertained by Gabe Gunn’s singing and Ruaraidh Quinn on guitar. One of the school’s business mentors, Craig Stevenson, managing director of Braehead Foods, also enthused the young audience with his experience of setting up in business.

S1 – S3 pupils put on a marketplace event, with stalls around the assembly hall highlighting their range of business ideas.

One team had the excellent idea of setting up ‘rent-a-tie’ – so pupils in trouble from teachers for not wearing school uniform could rent one of their supply of ties for just 50p a day. It’s been so successful, the budding young entrepreneurs are now thinking of branching out pencils and rubbers.

Guests then visited the school’s new enterprise hub, which has been set up to look more like a business office than a classroom, with a reception desk, waiting area and huge Lord Sugar-type boardroom table for meetings.

S3 and S6 pupils from the new Enterprise and Employability class spoke about their proposal to set up a ‘massive’ conference event in 2013, inviting speakers and delegates from all over the world. ‘Re-Inventing the Town’ will focus on changing attitudes and perceptions about Kilmarnock and surrounding area.

David Ritson, Principal Teacher CfE and Enterprise, said: “We are aiming high. We’ll be inviting notable figures such as Alex Salmond and Prince Charles, as well as former pupils of the school who have gone out into the world and achieved success in different fields”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “East Ayrshire schools mean business. We’re investing £1 million in our young people’s future and have attracted backing from business leaders local and national to help make this training programme a success

“There is huge enthusiasm in St Joseph’s – and indeed all our academies – for this very ambitious programme and there is absolutely no reason why East Ayrshire should not produce more success stories like Sir Tom Hunter in years to come”.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross said: “I was very impressed by the innovative ideas the youngsters had come up with, for the four businesses in the school. I look forward with interest to seeing how these ambitious plans develop over the next year.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Youngsters from nearby Loanhead Primary School dug deep to plant 2,000 purple crocus bulbs in front of the Dick Institute, in support of Kilmarnock Rotary Club’s . . . → Read More: Blooming lovely show for The Dick]]> The grass area in front of a local landmark building is looking much better after its recent tidy-up – and will be bursting with beautiful blooms come spring!

Youngsters from nearby Loanhead Primary School dug deep to plant 2,000 purple crocus bulbs in front of the Dick Institute, in support of Kilmarnock Rotary Club’s ‘purple pinkie power’ campaign to free the world from polio.

When children are vaccinated against polio overseas, they have a purple stamp put on one of their little fingers, so that doctors know who has been vaccinated. Each ‘purple pinkie’ brings the world closer to making polio history.

Iain Shaw, Kilmarnock Rotary Club Primary and Special Schools Coordinator, said: “When we first started our campaign in 1985, polio was widespread throughout the world with around 350,000 new cases being reported each year.

“Now there are just four countries where it is still endemic – India, Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan – with130 reported new cases this year. However, there were a further 250 cases in surrounding countries. The disease is passed from person to person and until it is eradicated, it remains just a flight away”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “As it is mainly young people who are affected by polio, it is important to increase awareness of this crippling condition amongst our pupils.

“It’s great to see even very young children turn out to help others and to learn more about the lives of less fortunate children in the wider world”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

In front of a packed audience, the youngsters put on a polished performance showing stunning dresses, handbags, ties, . . . → Read More: Fashion rocks at KA’s ‘Ultimate’ show]]> Gorgeous clothes, strobe lighting and banging music… not a normal scene in a school assembly hall. But that was how it looked as 40 student models strutted their stuff in Kilmarnock Academy two evenings last week.

In front of a packed audience, the youngsters put on a polished performance showing stunning dresses, handbags, ties, and amazing body armour – all created by pupils in the school’s art and design department for the ‘Ultimate Fashion Show’.

Accompanied by very professional lighting effects and a superb soundtrack featuring Lady Gaga, Rihanna and even Madonna’s Vogue, the stylish pupils drew applause and whoops of appreciation as they strode the specially bought in catwalk. Films featuring the show’s theme – The Human Body – flashed on a large screen simultaneously.

Students had designed the clothes around the body theme, focussing on topics such as blood and guts, skulls and bones and the heart – and even the models’ t-shirts highlighted this, featuring skeleton bones and blood red spatters.

Invited guests who enjoyed the fashion event included East Ayrshire Council Chief Executive Fiona Lees, Council Leader Douglas Reid, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross, Councillor Maureen McKay, Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services and Marie Macklin of the Klin Group, who is a business mentor for the school.

Following the superb show, proud Headteacher Bryan Paterson invited the entire audience to view the school’s Creative Stars art exhibition in the old academy hall, where they could purchase artworks of their choice.

He said: “Year on year our art and design students produce work of the highest calibre and are recognised nationally.

“The young people created everything for this fabulous show, as well as modelling and helping organise and market the event. Our higher pupils even did the models’ hair and make-up. It’s been a terrific whole school team effort led by the art and design department to showcase the amazing, sophisticated work of our pupils”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This kind of event inspires and motivates students to design work worthy of exhibiting to the public, whilst helping to build the busy, creative, enthusiastic ethos in the art department and indeed throughout the wider community of the school”.

Former pupil Jonathan Lawson – who last year achieved the top mark for art in the whole of Scotland – returned to co-direct the show with teachers Kirsty Lee and Caroline Stewart. He said: “Kilmarnock Academy art department has taken me to London and Rome and broadened my knowledge of fashion and art. It is the reason I am currently at college, studying Fashion.

“Returning to the school to co-direct this show has been such an experience and I hope many of the kids consider fashion as a potential career path”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Highlighting many aspects of school life, the amazing 23 feet by eight feet artwork features the school badge, motto, a bit of Burns, the famous clock . . . → Read More: Wall of fame for academy artists]]> The writing – and the painting – was on the wall for Kilmarnock Academy headteacher Bryan Paterson as he proudly unveiled the school’s dazzling new ‘muriel’ this week.

Highlighting many aspects of school life, the amazing 23 feet by eight feet artwork features the school badge, motto, a bit of Burns, the famous clock – and the top of a large head, representing the ‘heidie’ himself.

Bryan Paterson said: “I think it is absolutely wonderful. The talent of the artists and the high standard of work are there for all to see”.

Attending the unveiling, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council – and no stranger to the school, as a former pupil – was suitably impressed, as were Councillors Hugh Ross and Jim Roberts, Spokespersons for Lifelong Learning.

The mural, which is situated on the wall of a corridor outside the headteacher’s room and opposite the assembly hall, was created by Advanced Higher art students Kirsty McLaughlan and Victoria Grigor. The project was originally designed just to add more colour and vibrancy into the area – but such is the quality of the work that it has also become part the Advanced Higher exam folio for both students.

Kirsty said: “We started by creating our own small designs and then brought them together to create the final piece. This is by far the biggest thing that I’ve done in my six years at the school and it will still be around long after I’ve left.”

Victoria added: “Projecting the finished design on to the wall was very difficult but all the hard work was worth it. It really does look great and is something I’ll always remember”.

Bryan Paterson commended the high standard of pupils’ work, consistently supported by dedicated staff. He said: “Kilmarnock Academy has a proud tradition of success in science, language and mathematics.

“This is also clearly a school which excels in the arts and design. Last year the top art student in the whole of Scotland, Jonathan Lawson, was a Kilmarnock Academy student and on the evidence of the mural, I am sure Kirsty and Victoria will soon be up there with the best.”

Councillor Jim Roberts said: “It was a pleasure to be able to congratulate Kirsty and Victoria personally on creating this amazing piece of public art.

“I’m sure it will be enjoyed by everyone who passes along this busy corridor and will be a focal point for the foreseeable future in the school”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The popular Ayrshire rock/new wave band played a lively set for youngsters – and P5-P7 pupils were thrilled to be asked to form the . . . → Read More: Onthank – School of Rock for two days!]]> The halls were alive with the sound of music when up and coming Scottish band Vukovi dropped into a local primary school to film a video for their new single.

The popular Ayrshire rock/new wave band played a lively set for youngsters – and P5-P7 pupils were thrilled to be asked to form the audience and act as classroom extras in the video.

The essence of the film’s story is the band looking back to their school days. Four P5 pupils – Holly Hartley, Kieran McVey, Lee Robertson and Ryan Tucker – were given parts starring as the young band members. Filming took place over two days.

The song is from Vukovi’s new EP “It Looked So Good On Me!” which is due for release in December 2011. The band is made up of Janine Shilstone on synth/vocals, Hamish Reilly on guitar, Jason Trotter on bass/vocals and Martyn Lynch on drums, all aged 23.

Janine said the band chose Onthank Primary for their film “to support the local community”. She added: “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with the kids. The youngsters far exceeded our expectations. This is a very warm and welcoming school”.

Headteacher Steve Banks said: “This was a very good opportunity for pupils to see the production techniques and all that goes into making a music video. They have enjoyed every minute of it and we look forward to seeing the end product”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Enterprise and creativity are key in our modern Curriculum for Excellence. The band’s visit provided an excellent opportunity for the pupils to work with professionals who are experts in their field. Such experiences are beneficial in helping children learn about teamwork and communication, as well as letting them see behind the scenes”.

Vukovi first burst on to the scene when their first recording “Get Hot and Feel the Butterflies” was aired on Radio 1. Their tunes have already received rave reviews and airplay on Radio 1. The band has been labelled “one of Scotland’s hottest young acts” by Jim Gellatly of the Sun. Ally McCrae, BBC Radio 1, said: “They are a phenomenal band live”.

ends

Crosshouse Hospital teacher Carole Kerr said: “Young people who are in hospital have a quicker recovery when they are actively and mentally engaged in fun activities”. A . . . → Read More: Clowning around helps hospital kids]]> Laughing with clowns, painting and playing music are all helping youngsters to feel better about being in hospital – thanks to a new arts and education drive.

Crosshouse Hospital teacher Carole Kerr said: “Young people who are in hospital have a quicker recovery when they are actively and mentally engaged in fun activities”. A recent NHS Ayrshire & Arran survey showed that 65% of children under 15 felt anxious and bored while in the wards.

As part of a Healthy Educational Arts Relaxation Therapy (HEART) project run by the Council’s Education Department and the NHS, artists have been coming into wards to work with young people. This has the full support of medical staff acknowledging the therapeutic effects of arts and cultural activity and the significant health and wellbeing benefits to children.

The artists attend hospital at times to fit around clinics, meals and visits. They lead a variety of activities such as music making, storytelling, mosaics and card making. The Teen Room has had a make-over, as a result of an interior design project led by children, supported by an artist.

Senior music students Cameron Robertson and Ross Murray of Stewarton Academy also got involved, spending time giving guitar lessons to John, one of the longer term patients. A pupil of St. Joseph’s Academy and a keen musician, John enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with boys his own age, developing his guitar skills.

Carole Kerr said: “Two of our other regular patients were engaged in the makeover of the teens’ sitting room. The transformation is fantastic and has had much positive feedback from patients, parents and the medical team. The youngsters’ confidence and self esteem have been boosted significantly.

“Young people who are returning in-patients often miss out on creative school experiences such as concerts, theatrical productions and other artistic opportunities. This initiative goes some way towards redressing the balance”.

Sessions planned for the future include animation, Christmas decoration, silk painting – and even visits from Clowndoctors.

Clowndoctors are colourful, professional performers specially trained to work with vulnerable people. They use improvisation, music, song, dance, magic, puppetry, games and take the lead from any enthusiasms that pop-up, such as a love of football, dancing or computer games.

HEART is a partnership project with East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team and Hospital Education Service, NHS Ayrshire & Arran and Hearts and Minds, funded by Awards for All.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is an extremely rewarding project for all involved.

“Working with visiting artists gives children an opportunity to communicate in a creative way, whilst inspiring them to learn and have fun. This will in turn boost their confidence and help recovery, following illness and surgery”.

Debbie Campbell, visual artist, said: “All the children at Crosshouse Hospital, particularly those who were in longer term, were delighted to have the opportunity to work on a creative collage and mosaic project and produce small pieces of artwork for their friends and family.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

As well as local children who joined in various events at the Burns Monument Centre (BMC), youngsters in schools from Stranraer to Orkney logged on to Glow, the world’s first . . . → Read More: Youngsters enjoy warm glow of reading pleasure]]> The recent East Ayrshire Imprint Book Festival schools programme was enjoyed by thousands of pupils all over Scotland – and not just in Kilmarnock.

As well as local children who joined in various events at the Burns Monument Centre (BMC), youngsters in schools from Stranraer to Orkney logged on to Glow, the world’s first national online community for education, to see and hear the authors. Many East Ayrshire schools also took part online.

At the Imprint festival finale, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, highlighted the input of Glow as one of the successes of the festival.

More than 800 children attended the schools programme at the BMC and 3500 watched online. Author Catherine MacPhail also spoke to a total of 110 youngsters in Cumnock Library.

Head of Schools Andrew Sutherland said he was delighted that the potential of Glow in education was now being realised.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an excellent example of partnership working with Education, Library Services and the national Glow team providing enjoyable events that promoted and encouraged literacy and reading to young people.

“The fact that so many viewers nationally logged in to see the talks and workshops highlights the excellence of East Ayrshire’s services and the festival itself”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Directors Ian and Anne Hope, in partnership with East Ayrshire Council, have set up an ambitious education programme involving . . . → Read More: Sky’s the limit for Knockroon kids’ enterprise]]> Local youngsters are seizing the chance to build a working future for themselves with the help of enterprising business Hope Homes, currently building the new sustainable community at Knockroon with the Prince’s Charities Foundation .

Directors Ian and Anne Hope, in partnership with East Ayrshire Council, have set up an ambitious education programme involving pupils from Auchinleck and Cumnock academies. In a series of training activities over the next year, young people will develop skills to prepare them for the world of work. They will train at Knockroon with skilled tradesmen in civil engineering, plumbing, joinery, planning, electrical work and marketing.

At the recent launch of the Knockroon Business Enterprise and Skills Centre (BESC), Ian Hope welcomed pupils, Council and education staff.

He said: “We would like to develop a strong bond between business and education and we see this enterprise at Knockroon as an additional bolt-on to support the excellent curriculum already being delivered in schools.

“In the immediate future, we need to get designing, manufacturing, marketing and selling Knockroon products – and the sky is the limit if we get it right. We need to build a student team to help deliver this.”

At the launch event, visitors saw six pupils from each school taking part in learning activities and toured the stunning showhomes – in a street named The Kirk’s Alarm – designed to reflect the rich architectural tradition of 17th century Ayrshire. Every detail is perfect, from the wrought iron railings to the sandstone garden walls.

Anne Hope said: “The young people will be working initially on constructing timber garage doors. Some will be based in their own on-site centre, selling products they have created, such as sustainable garden log stores, composters and garden gates. Youngsters will also be given a house of their own to work on, as they learn skills and trades throughout the year”.

Since the visitor centre opened in October, 3,300 visitors have viewed the new homes, with 1240 on the opening weekend alone. The whole development – in which Prince Charles is taking a keen personal interest – will feature 600-700 homes at Knockroon, on the edge of the historic town of Cumnock and Prince Charles’s Dumfries House Estate.

Anne Hope said: “Our aim is to develop a community in which families walk to local amenities such as the village shop. Adam Square will be at the centre of the new neighbourhood, with a public building as its focal point. The mix of homes and workplaces ensures Knockroon will be a vibrant place to work, live and visit.

“Many of the ideas have come from Prince Charles himself, such as the tree-lined streets and our ‘green’ emphasis on sustainability”.

Homes are fitted with woodburning stoves, gardens have invertebrate hotels and garages have eco pods for charging electric cars.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This joint education business initiative presents a wonderful opportunity for local young people to learn from experts in various trades and professions in a real working environment.

“The forward-thinking partnership between Cumnock Academy, Auchinleck Academy, the Council and Hope Homes is a strong one and it will be exciting to see how this develops in the future”.

This unique project – the only one of its kind in Scotland – is part of the Council’s £1million Business Enterprise Fund, which supports the formation of skills centres in East Ayrshire’s nine secondary schools.

The Prince’s Charities Foundation is taking forward Knockroon as a sustainable mixed-use development that will serve as a model community for Scotland. It is hoped that this development will create employment and help bring prosperity to the area and in the longer-term generate profits for donation to charitable causes.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

LGBT Youth Scotland’s Hugh Torrance made the presentation to Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, who received the LGBT Charter Mark Award (Excellence) on behalf . . . → Read More: Community learning team scoops equality award]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning & Development (CLD) team recently celebrated receiving an award for excellent work on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) young people.

LGBT Youth Scotland’s Hugh Torrance made the presentation to Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, who received the LGBT Charter Mark Award (Excellence) on behalf of the CLD service.

The Award is a renewal of the Council’s Charter Mark status, but this time with ‘excellence’, for the commitment shown to promoting equality and to raising awareness of LGBT issues.

The LGBT Charter of Rights is a process which helps everyone in an organisation to focus on the quality of services they provide for LGBT people.

Created by a group of LGBT young people, the charter is based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It describes basic rights such as the right to be yourself, the right to be kept safe from harm and the right to be healthy, which most people take for granted.

Councillor Hugh Ross said: “The award of the LGBT Charter of Rights is a recognition of the inclusive culture of services in East Ayrshire.

“The Charter plays a part in creating an environment where all LGBT people are valued, included and supported. We will continue to evaluate our services to ensure that we meet the needs of all service users in an equal and fair manner.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The school is opening a shop in Dalmellington in a side room of local youth project The Zone.

Pupils chose the name ‘The Miner’s Lamp’ for the new . . . → Read More: ‘Miner’s Lamp’ to light up town centre]]> As part of East Ayrshire Council’s ambitious £1million Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) programme in schools, Doon Academy pupils are going into business in a big way.

The school is opening a shop in Dalmellington in a side room of local youth project The Zone.

Pupils chose the name ‘The Miner’s Lamp’ for the new shop in the village, which will sell products made by the pupils and local artists. The school’s art department has now begun work with graphic designer Allan McKeown to produce a logo for the new business.

Principal Teacher of Enterprise Shonagh Borthwick said: “The pupils in the Enterprise Team range from S3 – S6 and will be involved in serving customers, merchandising, financial management of the shop and planning promotional events. Other groups of young people have been involved in producing stock for the shop”.

Teachers working on the project include Depute Headteacher Lyndsay McRoberts and the Enterprise working group, which consists of members of staff from across the school.

Shonagh Borthwick added: “We intend to sell gift products made in school. We have input from the photography course and master classes making jewellery, felt goods and silk painting. We are also looking to develop our product range by including other departments such as music and biology. Later in the project, we would like to stock goods made by members of the community”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It’s good to see that Doon Academy is forging ahead with plans to take forward this exciting new business idea, backed by the Council’s BEF.

“The young people will develop valuable skills in teamworking, communication and planning, which will build their confidence and help make them ready for the world of work in the future.

“Pupils will also participate in Skills for Work programmes leading to SQA-accredited qualifications in retail, leadership, enterprise and employability. In addition, the school is lucky to have Marie Macklin, Chief Executive of the Klin Group, working alongside children and staff”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Senior pupils enjoyed an opening ceremony with a motivational Olympic Games DVD and presentations from Platinum Young Ambassadors Jenna Holland and Robert Shaw of Auchinleck Academy.

World curling . . . → Read More: Adistars in their eyes!]]> Sporting youngsters from schools across East Ayrshire took time out of lessons to join the adiStars Conference at Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence last week.

Senior pupils enjoyed an opening ceremony with a motivational Olympic Games DVD and presentations from Platinum Young Ambassadors Jenna Holland and Robert Shaw of Auchinleck Academy.

World curling triple gold champion Ewan MacDonald dropped in to meet and chat to the youngsters, who also competed in a quiz organised by Gold Young Ambassadors JJ Hawkshaw and Hannah Wales of Grange Academy.

The budding young athletes also had the opportunity to put questions to a sports panel featuring Team GB Olympic hammer thrower Shirley Addison – also known as Battleaxe from TV’s Gladiators – and local sportsman Michael McRoberts, who regularly competes at major taekwondo championships home and abroad.

AdiStars is a programme led by Active Schools, sportscotland and the Youth Sport Trust, sponsored by Adidas. East Ayrshire is one of just 10 local authorities in Scotland selected to run this programme, based on last year’s success of the Young Ambassadors. All Young Ambassadors are now known as adiStars.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I’m delighted that we have such an enthusiastic group of ambassadors in all nine of our secondary schools, keen to promote sporting activities to other youngsters.

“The adiStars conference was excellent, inspiring the young people by giving them the opportunity to meet professional athletes at the top of their game”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

A group of Primary 7 pupils has been responsible for collecting information, which teacher Claire Findlay put together to create the new site.

Claire, who currently teaches a P3 class, said: . . . → Read More: Thumbs up for fab new Annanhill website]]> Youngsters at a local primary want to tell the world about their wonderful new website and get as many virtual visitors as possible.

A group of Primary 7 pupils has been responsible for collecting information, which teacher Claire Findlay put together to create the new site.

Claire, who currently teaches a P3 class, said: “We are delighted to launch the Annanhill website, which we hope will be useful and interesting. It contains information about what is going on in each individual class. There’s a news section too, featuring our newsletters for online reading, which I’ll update each Monday morning”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It’s great to see Annanhill making all this information – including the school handbook – readily available online for parents, staff and pupils.

“More and more schools are setting up their own websites and each gives a flavour of the school’s individual ethos, with information on its aims, parent and pupil councils, clubs and activities”.

To find out more, visit www.annanhillschool.btck.co.uk .

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Carol Nairn, 18, from Mauchline, received a cheque as part of the McIlwraith Award, a bequeathal to Auchinleck Academy from the will of the late Agnes . . . → Read More: Carol scores exams hat-trick]]> Celebrations were the order of the day recently when a former pupil of Auchinleck Academy won a prestigious award for her excellent performance in the Advanced Higher exams.

Carol Nairn, 18, from Mauchline, received a cheque as part of the McIlwraith Award, a bequeathal to Auchinleck Academy from the will of the late Agnes McIlwraith. Carol achieved an amazing hat-trick of grade A passes in Advanced Higher Maths, Chemistry and French.

The talented all-rounder is now in first year at Strathclyde University, studying Chemical Engineering.

Auchinleck Academy Headteacher Peter Gilchrist said: ““Congratulations to Carol on an outstanding performance – and best wishes for the future, which, I am sure, will be a very successful one”.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Jim Roberts said: “Carol’s exam achievement is an outstanding one, especially at Advanced Higher level. Her success is well-deserved and she is a credit to her former school, her teachers and her family”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Ninety senior pupils, 16 teachers, local business people and Council leaders attended an inspirational seminar in St Joseph’s Academy, Kilmarnock.

The . . . → Read More: Sir Tom backs £1million schools enterprise push]]> At the launch of an ambitious £1million education programme, young people from schools across East Ayrshire learned how to be entrepreneurs from one of the best in the world – Sir Tom Hunter.

Ninety senior pupils, 16 teachers, local business people and Council leaders attended an inspirational seminar in St Joseph’s Academy, Kilmarnock.

The youngsters heard first from local boy Sir Tom, who famously began his career selling trainers from the back of a van. He said: “You must enjoy what you do. When you get up in the morning, it’s your choice whether you have a good attitude or a bad attitude”. He also highlighted the importance of “great teachers” in young people’s lives – and warned, “You’ve got to have a bit of a brass neck to be an entrepreneur”.

The fascinated audience also enjoyed a high-octane performance (including mandolin playing) from Dr Peter Hughes, Chief Executive of Scottish Engineering, who began by telling them: “I am the jammiest person in the world. Sir Tom thinks he has the best job in the world? No, I have. I wake up in the morning and I’m buzzing. I love engineering!”

Dr Hughes was a great favourite with the young people, especially when he dished out fivers for correct answers. He emphasised the importance of determination, pointing out that he was “typical Scottish working class”, with dad a farm labourer and mum a village postie.

The budding young entrepreneurs also had the chance to show their skills in practical workshops. Each group pitched a product to business leaders and planned its launch, in a Dragons’ Den – type challenge.

This seminar formed part of the East Ayrshire Schools Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) programme – an ambitious push to encourage entrepreneurial qualities and prepare school leavers for the world of work. Business Enterprise and Skills Centres (BESCs) in all nine secondary schools will be backed by the expertise of supremos such as Sir Tom Hunter and local business leader Marie Macklin, amongst others.

Generous entrepreneur Sir Tom has also set up an annual £5000 prize for the youngster who comes up with the most innovative idea in the next year – to be decided by fellow pupils.

Innovative programmes aim to address identified skills gaps such as effective communication, planning and organising, problem solving, team working and leadership. BESCs will concentrate on growing Scottish industries such as tourism, food and drink, life sciences, finance, creative industries and renewables

A total of 11 business leaders have agreed to help schools achieve their aims. They include Norman Drummond, of Drummond International and Columba 1400 and Mark Strudwick, chief executive of the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust.

Executive Director of Educational and Social Services Graham Short stated that the fund was “specifically designed to make sure young people leaving school were ‘business-ready’”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “East Ayrshire schools mean business. We’re investing £1 million in our young people’s futures and have attracted backing from business leaders local and national to help make this a success.

“Willie Mackie is putting bank employees into schools to help manage project finances; Ian and Anne Hope are working with Auchinleck and Cumnock students at Knockroon and Keith Murray of Lochaven International and Marie Macklin of Klin Group are fully involved in helping our students become more entrepreneurial.

“There is great enthusiasm in schools for our very ambitious programme and there is absolutely no reason why East Ayrshire should not produce more success stories like Sir Tom Hunter in years to come”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This highly enjoyable seminar was an important opportunity for young people to meet and work with a range of business leaders who are supporting our enterprising programme.

“The pupils left motivated and inspired, with improved knowledge of the skills required to be successful in business and in a range of workplaces – and they learned from the best in the business”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Catching the eyes of shoppers are colourful graffiti boards brightening up shop windows at the Johnnie Walker Bond in Strand Street.

The boards were created by children who attended dance and graffiti art . . . → Read More: From street dance to high street art]]> Window-gazing just got a whole lot more interesting as some empty spaces have now been filled up with bright, modern artwork.

Catching the eyes of shoppers are colourful graffiti boards brightening up shop windows at the Johnnie Walker Bond in Strand Street.

The boards were created by children who attended dance and graffiti art sessions in James Hamilton Academy in summer. The P4-S6 boys and girls worked with artists Brian McFeely and Chris Young, from Edinburgh-based MS Creative.

Pupils attended two dance classes and one art workshop each day and designed t-shirts as well as a range of large mdf backboards featuring their graffiti art.

East Ayrshire Council Dance Motivator Zara Smith said: “The idea behind it was to create art which reflected the history and heritage of Kilmarnock in a modern and exciting way that the children would enjoy. As well as the artwork, the participants learned dances to go along with the hip hop and graffiti culture”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This very popular summer school’s aim was to reflect the rich heritage of the local community and to express this through art and dance.

“The graffiti artworks set in traditional shop windows highlight the connection between Kilmarnock’s past and the culture of today’s young people in the town, which is as rich and vibrant as ever.”

Councillor Bobby McDill, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration, said: “The young people’s work is fantastic and shows they are talented not only in dance, but also in art. The graffiti boards really brighten up the spaces and will look great in the run-up to Christmas. I’m delighted to see such an innovative idea in place”.

The project was co-ordinated by East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team and supported by Historic Scotland and Heritage Lottery Fund, through Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/Townscape Heritage Initiative.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Stewarton Academy’s senior wind band won a well-deserved Gold Award at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) at Strathclyde University, Jordanhill Campus.

The talented young musicians played superb renditions of Song and . . . → Read More: Wind band’s Song and Dance strikes gold]]> East Ayrshire schools’ music recently gained another jewel in its crown when a local academy band struck gold in a national competition.

Stewarton Academy’s senior wind band won a well-deserved Gold Award at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) at Strathclyde University, Jordanhill Campus.

The talented young musicians played superb renditions of Song and Dance by Richard Saucedo; To Realms of Endless Day by Johnnie Vinson and Dillon’s Flight by Ralph Ford

The band’s winning performance was the culmination of a musically productive weekend at Dounans Outdoor Education Centre, Aberfoyle, preparing for the Scottish regional round of the band festival. In total, there were 49 senior band pupils learning with seven instrumental teachers, supported by five parent volunteers.

In addition to working hard on the festival programme, band members also enjoyed an afternoon of team-building outdoor activities, bringing an extra motivational and bonding dimension to the weekend.

Said instrumental instructor Alan Friel: “The pupils really were a pleasure to be around and to work with over the course of the weekend.

“We are now looking forward to the possibility of representing Stewarton, East Ayrshire and Scotland at the national finals of the NCBF in London on Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April 2012.

“Special mention must go to members of Stewarton Bands Support Group for all their hard work, fundraising and logistical support – the weekend couldn’t have happened without them!”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Our music service in East Ayrshire is truly outstanding in its quality. Stewarton Academy’s competition success highlights this yet again. Thanks to the pupils and their teachers for all their enthusiasm and hard work and to the support group for their unstinting commitment to helping the young musicians”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

And youngsters at St Andrew’s Primary, Kilmarnock – the mobile gallery’s first port of call – made the most of the opportunity, picking out their favourite artworks and chatting to on-board guides about . . . → Read More: Where will art Van Go next?]]> Pupils enjoyed art on their doorsteps, when the Travelling Gallery took the Rodin to several East Ayrshire school playgrounds this week.

And youngsters at St Andrew’s Primary, Kilmarnock – the mobile gallery’s first port of call – made the most of the opportunity, picking out their favourite artworks and chatting to on-board guides about the exhibition. Different classes took turns to go out and climb aboard the artbus throughout the day.

The mobile gallery also parked in playgrounds of Hurlford, Newmilns, Patna and New Cumnock primary schools, giving youngsters the opportunity to see new art, without having to travel any distance – and it was all free, with no need to ‘show me the Monet’.

The autumn exhibition Waste Management is an exciting collaboration between two contemporary Scotland-based artists, Jonathan Owen and Charlie Hammond.

Both have been known to change the appearance of objects and often use humour in their work. The quirky element and hint of fun appeal to visitors of all ages.

A fascinating collection of exhibits, Waste Management explores the subject of transformation. It includes screen prints, drawings, paintings and sculptures made from found objects.

The Travelling Gallery previously visited Kilmarnock and Cumnock town centres during the October school break.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said:”I enjoyed this really interesting exhibition and it was great to see the children’s reaction to the artwork. They were full of questions and totally captivated by the whole idea of the art gallery in a bus.

“Many topics came up when exploring the exhibition that teachers could use to encourage creative thinking and deliver the experiences and outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence”.

ends

Grange Academy’s own budding rugby stars were joined for inaugural games by . . . → Read More: School of Rugby scores another success]]> A new sporting initiative was under the spotlight at a local secondary school recently, as visitors – including a TV film crew – arrived to celebrate the success of the School of Rugby and the official opening of its brand new pitch.

Grange Academy’s own budding rugby stars were joined for inaugural games by players from Cumnock Academy and Carrick Academy, which also run Schools of Rugby.

A film crew from popular STV Rugby arrived to film the youngsters training and to interview team coach – and maths teacher in his spare time – Jamie Houston.

The groundbreaking pilot, operated by East Ayrshire Council in partnership with Scottish Rugby, created Scotland’s first “School of Rugby”, which embedded daily rugby sessions into the school curriculum.

Jamie Houston said: “It’s great to have a real rugby pitch at the school for the first time in five years.

“Grange Academy is the first East Ayrshire school to win a gold award for rugby from the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU). We now have five teams and this was a pilot base for the School of Rugby programme, which has, as a result of our success, been rolled out in 19 schools across Scotland”.

Over 100 youngsters are involved in the School of Rugby at Grange, which includes a team of Primary 6/7 players from Annanhill, Gargieston and Park, as well as teams from S1, S2, S3/4 and S5/6.

The educational initiative, using Cashback for Communities funding through the Scottish Government, gives first year pupils – selected on their ability to perform in and out of the classroom – the opportunity to enjoy a rugby session every day.

It is designed as a social and academic programme that will not only help youngsters grow as players, but also aid them in their physical, emotional and academic growth.

The school’s ambitious development plan includes effective use of player profiles and video analysis, trips to Glasgow Warriors matches and to Murrayfield – and even an international tour. Teachers will track pupils’ achievements and behaviour across the school to help get the best from every child. It’s also planned to increase the number of girls taking part.

Fred Wildridge, Headteacher of Grange Academy, said: “This initiative provides a great opportunity for our teaching staff to work in close partnership with coaching staff from the SRU. The programme is excellent and is further promoting the positive attitude of our young people towards health and wellbeing. We are delighted to be involved in the programme and look forward to contributing to the future success of Scottish Rugby”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “As a keen rugby supporter, I am delighted to see the new pitch at Grange Academy being put to such excellent use. And I am pleased that East Ayrshire was the first Scottish local authority to deliver this exciting initiative, promoting the benefits of physical activity, teamworking and positive attitudes for young people.

“As a bonus, we are helping develop future rugby players to keep Scotland competing at the highest level.”

Councillor Kathy Morrice, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing, said: “Congratulations to Grange Academy on a well-rounded social and academic development programme. The young players are learning not only about practical skills such as catching and passing, but also about lifestyle management, good sporting habits and health and nutrition”.

Neil Carrie, Project Manager for Scottish Rugby, added: “Rugby can offer potentially life-changing opportunities to enhance education and skills, improve health and wellbeing and foster an ethos of teamwork, discipline and respect.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

In the ‘Flames’ programme set up by the Council’s Active Schools team , 21 Kilmarnock College Advanced NC sports coaching students will visit six schools – Kirkstyle, Mount Carmel, New Farm, Silverwood, . . . → Read More: Youngsters on track for Olympic fun and games]]> Local primary school children are all set to be fired with enthusiasm as the country counts down towards the London 2012 Olympics.

In the ‘Flames’ programme set up by the Council’s Active Schools team , 21 Kilmarnock College Advanced NC sports coaching students will visit six schools – Kirkstyle, Mount Carmel, New Farm, Silverwood, St Andrew’s and Mauchline – during November. They’ll give youngsters taster sessions of a range of sports and skills activities, such as throwing and catching, using the Active Club pack.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “The students will be working with P6/7 classes for five weeks, playing various fun games, leading up to a festival on 6 December at Kilmarnock College Centre of Sporting Excellence”.

“They will be promoting the three Olympic values of respect, excellence and friendship and the four paralympic values of determination, courage, inspiration and equality”.

At the sporting festival, each of the six schools competing will represent the country it has been allocated in the lead-up to the Olympics:
Kirkstyle – Japan
Mount Carmel – Chile
New Farm – Romania
Silverwood – Switzerland
St. Andrew’s – Greece
Mauchline – Ethiopia

The children will dress in the colours of their country and carry the appropriate national flag.

Attending the ‘Flames’ opening session at New Farm primary school, Ryan Rodger, James Hamilton cluster Active Schools Co-ordinator, said: “This is an excellent club for youngsters to enjoy themselves and get physically active, whilst trying out new sports that will be part of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“The partnership with Kilmarnock College students works well in East Ayrshire. The students were great in their delivery and had the youngsters excited about the upcoming games. They related each activity to an Olympic value – an important part of the Flames programme.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “As a result of the festival and the coaching the children have received, it is hoped pupils will go on to take up the various sports experienced in taster sessions, either after school or in the community”.

The ‘Flames’ programme and Active Club pack are resources from the British Heart Foundation and all students were trained by Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Theresa Breslin told first year youngsters at Grange Academy about her career and answered questions about her books and writing in general.

The celebrated writer worked as a librarian before taking up . . . → Read More: Popular author teaches youngsters the write stuff]]> Keen young readers were delighted to welcome an award-winning Scottish author into their classrooms as part of the Readathon charity national tour.

Theresa Breslin told first year youngsters at Grange Academy about her career and answered questions about her books and writing in general.

The celebrated writer worked as a librarian before taking up writing full-time and has published over 30 books for children and young adults. Her work has been filmed for TV, broadcast on radio and is read world-wide. The books have been praised for their strong setting and sense of place and Breslin acknowledges that she draws on the dramatic landscape of Scotland, its history and culture.

She won the Carnegie Medal, the UK’s most prestigious award in children’s literature, for Whispers in the Graveyard, the compelling story of a dyslexic boy.

Her books range from those for younger readers such as The Magic Factory series to middle readers like Bullies at School and the four Dream Master books. Divided City, exploring themes of prejudice, friendship and conflict resolution, has been shortlisted for ten book awards, winning the Catalyst and the RED book awards. Her latest novel, Prisoner of the Inquisition, is also nominated for a number of awards.

Breslin grew up in a large family – one of six children – in Lenzie, Dunbartonshire. She never planned to be a writer but, when a nearby steel mill was closed with devastating effects on the local community, she was inspired to write a story about it from a child’s point of view.

English teacher Lorraine Wilson said: “As part of our continuing efforts through Curriculum for Excellence, we provide a wide- ranging and varied educational experience for our pupils.

“Theresa spoke to all first years during their English lessons and encouraged them to think about their own creative potential. Her experiences and successes had a very positive impact on our students and this will transfer into their own work across the school”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It is excellent practice for young learners to work with experts in their field. In this case, the opportunity to meet a very successful and popular author was a great opportunity to encourage children not only in their reading, but also in writing”.

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Young people and teachers at an ambitious Kilmarnock secondary school are aiming high – and Prince Charles, David Cameron and Alex Salmond can expect to be hearing from them soon.

St Joseph’s Academy already has a history of enterprising learning with its Business Advocates Programme and partnerships. Innovative ideas and a . . . → Read More: Pupils rise to challenge of school events]]>

Team Peril

Young people and teachers at an ambitious Kilmarnock secondary school are aiming high – and Prince Charles, David Cameron and Alex Salmond can expect to be hearing from them soon.

St Joseph’s Academy already has a history of enterprising learning with its Business Advocates Programme and partnerships. Innovative ideas and a flashmob marketing method have previously proved pupils have promising futures in the business world.
The recent £125,000 the school received as its share of the Council’s £1million Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) has further boosted its push.

St Joseph’s Enterprise Academy plans to develop entrepreneurial skills in pupils and staff. Said David Ritson, Principal Teacher CfE and Enterprise: “The aim is not necessarily to make every young person an entrepreneur, but to equip them with a specific set of skills, attitudes and ways of thinking.

“Five businesses will be set up in the school over the next year, focussing on key growth sectors outlined by the Scottish Government”.

January saw the start up of Peril, St Joseph’s events management company. The hub of the Enterprise Academy will continue Peril’s success by putting on a series of events.

Main event planned is ‘Re-Inventing the Town’ – a ‘massive’ conference which will focus on changing attitudes and perceptions about Kilmarnock and surrounding area. A team of pupils will organise, plan and raise funds for the 2013 event, in a bid to showcase the excellent potential and skillbase of Kilmarnock.

David Ritson said: “This work will hopefully be supported by Sky News, following on their previous TV piece on the closure of Diageo. Our event will be an inspirational and motivational one, attended by globally renowned speakers and delegates.

“We’ll be inviting Prince Charles, David Cameron, Sir Tom Hunter and Alex Salmond, among others, as well as well as alumni of St Joseph’s. We are aiming for the stars”.

Impressing dragons

Peril hosted a Dragons’ Den event in March, impressing four highly successful ‘dragons’ with their innovative ideas – John Howie of Babcock Marine, local businesswoman Marie Macklin of the Klin Group, Peter Lederer of Gleneagles Hotel and Caledonian Paper’s Gordon Mitchell.

From the 12 teams that entered, the panel chose S2 pupil Danielle McCloskey, who pitched her idea of wipes impregnated with suntan lotion. These would be especially useful for families with small children and people who do not want to carry bottles of lotion around, she said.
Danielle received £300 in prize money and all pupils who pitched ideas won visits to each of the dragons’ companies for a day.

The successes of the Business Advocates Programme and Peril were highlighted at the Scottish Education Awards in Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel in June, where St Joseph’s pupils were finalists in the Enterprise and Employability category.

Youngsters also hosted a successful fashion extravaganza, led by the Art, Design and Technology faculty and supported by Business Advocates. The ‘Alice in Wonderland, Through the Looking Glass’ show saw each pupil make a contribution, from designing fashion or jewellery, to providing entertainment or modelling.

More than 100 ‘pieces of creativity’ were shown to 250 guests at the event, which took more than a year to prepare.

School of life

Last summer, the school introduced LifeSchool 360 (LS360) for its S1 year group – two double periods of inter-disciplinary learning embedded in the timetable. Over S1, S2 and S3, they will work on projects and complete tasks around eight broad topics.

The topics – Horizons, Discovery, Power, Thought, Identity, The Globe, Connections and Relationships – were agreed in a consultation process with staff and allow specialist teachers to contribute and pupils to pitch in with their own ideas.

Teams of teachers from a variety of subject areas have taken charge of each theme and bring their expertise to the tasks.
Headteacher Alan Ward’s vision is to bridge the gap between primary and secondary: “We are trying to educate our young people in the broadest possible sense.

“At the end of this, pupils will recognise they have a set of skills that they have developed. What we are doing here is making the connection between seemingly disparate parts of their education.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The BEF is designed to make sure young people leaving school are ‘business-ready’. All nine secondary schools have received funds to set up Business Enterprise and Skills Centres (BESC).

“There is huge enthusiasm for this very ambitious programme and I look forward to seeing how events at St Joseph’s – and indeed our other enterprising academies – progress”.

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

See St Joseph’s flashmob on www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rsOh5WG8xs

The Commissioner dropped in to St Andrew’s to meet the youngest pupils, see their work and talk about A Right Wee Blether (ARWB).

Involving parents, carers and . . . → Read More: Youngest children have their say]]> Very young children were given the chance to have their say when Scotland’s Commissioner for Children and Young People, Tam Baillie, visited a Kilmarnock nursery class recently.

The Commissioner dropped in to St Andrew’s to meet the youngest pupils, see their work and talk about A Right Wee Blether (ARWB).

Involving parents, carers and early years workers across Scotland, ARWB builds on the Commissioner’s 2010 national consultation which saw 74,000 school-age children and young people taking part in a national vote.

Now ARWB – which runs in local authorities across Scotland 12 September-31 October – encourages children aged 2-5 to express their thoughts and ideas.

Mr Baillie said: “The project involves an adult spending some dedicated time with a child to explore and answer five questions. This can be done in many creative and playful ways and children can respond in whatever way suits them.”

The five questions are:
• How are you feeling today?
• What makes you smile?
• Who is special to you?
• You are given a special star – where would you put it?
• What would you like to change?

Tom Reid, Acting Headteacher of St Andrew’s Primary and Nursery School, said: “We really enjoyed the Commissioner’s visit and showcasing the thoughts of the 77 children who took part.

“This project is about introducing the concept of children’s rights to very young children, helping to shape the ethos of the school and demonstrate our ‘connectedness’ with the community, which helps youngsters to begin to understand how we all live and work together. It’s a great foundation for the work they’ll go on to do in primary school.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The Commissioner’s remit includes raising awareness of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child – and this includes working with the very youngest children and their right to express their views.

“I’m sure the feedback he received from the St Andrew’s pupils will be extremely useful in informing the Commissioner’s work”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Senior officials from JobCentre Plus, Skills Development Scotland and Scottish Enterprise joined the Secretary of State, business . . . → Read More: Michael Moore visits Kilmarnock]]> Youth employment in East Ayrshire was top of the agenda last week as Secretary of State for Scotland, Rt. Hon Michael Moore MP visited Kilmarnock to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing employers in recruiting young people.

Senior officials from JobCentre Plus, Skills Development Scotland and Scottish Enterprise joined the Secretary of State, business representatives and officers and Councillor Robert McDill from East Ayrshire for a fruitful discussion which included testimonials from young people who had been assisted by various organisations in their search to secure employment.

The young people included Craig Kelly who commenced East Ayrshire Council’s Skills Development and Employability Service’s “Get Ready for Work” programme in March 2011. After completing a successful work placement with Killie Glass he was offered employment with a view to starting a Modern Apprenticeship as a glazier.

Sarah MacDonald attended East Ayrshire Council’s Work Club, progressing on to a “Targeted Pathways to Apprenticeship Scheme”. She hopes to move into a Business Management apprenticeship following a successful work placement.

Key issues for discussion included problems for businesses in accessing finance for expansion, superfast broadband, enterprise zones and Tax Incremental Financing projects.

Councillor Robert McDill Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration welcomed Michael Moore to the Council Headquarters saying ”We are very grateful to the Minister for taking the time to come to Kilmarnock to listen to representatives of our local business community, our college and other agencies to see how together we can secure positive employment destinations for our young people.”

And a bright, informative poster designed by Marissa Trimble and Linsey Sharp will do just that.

Young people from across East Ayrshire attended this year’s Community Learning and Development Youth Conference, which had the . . . → Read More: Better safe than sorry on the net]]> Keep safe when browsing the internet – that’s the message a local youth group wants to get across to youngsters.

And a bright, informative poster designed by Marissa Trimble and Linsey Sharp will do just that.

Young people from across East Ayrshire attended this year’s Community Learning and Development Youth Conference, which had the theme of staying safe online. Youngsters were given the opportunity to design a poster to promote internet safety, for display in communities across East Ayrshire.

Marissa and Linsey’s winning poster will be on show in schools, community venues, libraries, leisure facilities, police stations and NHS facilities.

Both girls – third year pupils at Auchinleck Academy and members of Mauchline Youth Group – won Odeon cinema vouchers for their poster design.

Kay Gilmour, Head of Community Support, said: “Congratulations to Marissa and Linsey for their excellent work on this poster, which clearly promotes our message and which will form part of our Anti-Bullying and Safe Internet Use campaign. This fits with the recently launched Respect and Protect Anti-Bullying Policy and the ongoing work of the Child Protection Committee”.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Community Safety, said: “The internet is a great educational resource for young people, as well as offering social networking and entertainment opportunities.

“It is extremely important that youngsters are able to use the internet safely – and this poster campaign is so valuable because it is by young people, for young people”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Pupils were invited to make suggestions as to how an award of £500 could be spent to support the work of their schools. Lucas Bunten’s winning entry, drawn from . . . → Read More: Enterprising pupils win garage grants]]> Enterprising Cumnock and Auchinleck Academy pupils recently succeeded in securing a grant of £500 for each of their schools from a well-known Auchinleck garage business.

Pupils were invited to make suggestions as to how an award of £500 could be spent to support the work of their schools.
Lucas Bunten’s winning entry, drawn from a total of 150, will now see the music department in Cumnock benefit from new bass guitars this session.

Auchinleck pupil Alan Haynes’s success has resulted in extra sports equipment being bought for his school’s PE department.

Both lucky lads also won themselves netbooks for their efforts.

The Bridgend Garage Secondary School Grant was devised to encourage pupils to take an active interest in their school by applying for a grant and deciding what it should be used for.

Owners Jean and Tom Allardyce said: “We were impressed by the many great ideas from the young people of Cumnock and Auchinleck Academies and we would like to thank every pupil who took the time and effort to submit an entry to the competition”.

Cumnock Academy’s headteacher Angus McVake said: “Congratulations to Lucas on his winning idea. This will benefit many of our budding young musicians in Cumnock Academy”

Peter Gilchrist, headteacher at Auchinleck Academy, said “Well done to Alan. The new equipment will be very useful in supporting our progress in fitness and health promotion”

Both headteachers also thanked Mr and Mrs Allardyce for their generosity.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was a great idea from Tom and Jean Allardyce to support the young people’s education and to encourage them to get involved in the decision-making process.

“This is indicative of the strong support schools across East Ayrshire receive from their local communities”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Grange Academy pupils and their PE Teacher Charles Adams enjoyed quality golf coaching from on-course professionals and met some of Europe’s biggest names in golf.

Active Schools . . . → Read More: Grange golfers in the swing at Gleneagles]]> Twenty young golfers with a driving ambition recently enjoyed a trip to remember to the championship courses of Gleneagles, host venue of the 2014 Ryder Cup.

The Grange Academy pupils and their PE Teacher Charles Adams enjoyed quality golf coaching from on-course professionals and met some of Europe’s biggest names in golf.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “It’s a fair way to go, but this was the first time an East Ayrshire School has been able to attend this highly popular, unique event, as places are in demand and go very quickly.

“Following on from this inspirational day, all 46 Community Sports Leaders Award (CSLA) pupils in S5/6 at Grange Academy have now been trained in tri-golf by Active Schools co-ordinators. These pupils will now deliver tri-golf at Annanhill and Gargieston primary schools to seven classes from P5 – P7 throughout November.

“This links to our plan to promote golf development to primary pupils, with all P5s targeted for this introductory fun way to play the sport”.

On-the-ball Grange CSLA pupils have had a string of recent successes in leading sports activities for younger children. They assisted at Annanhill’s Fun Run, delivered netball and basketball to campus primary classes and helped Park School pupils with swimming. The young sports leaders will complete the SFA Early Touches award in the October school holidays and a First Aid course before Christmas.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Young people following the CSLA course do great work in encouraging children to become more active, more often. It’s an excellent programme, on par with the best. Not only do the pupils help others, but they gain valuable skills which will help them in their future careers”.

ends

Last week’s Employer Recognition Event in Grange Academy highlighted the work that local business bosses do in classrooms across East Ayrshire and through the work experience programme, which gives . . . → Read More: Pupils’ ‘thanks’ to business leaders]]> Local organisations do a great job working with schools – and pupils recently organised an evening to say’ thank you’ to around 100 business leaders.

Last week’s Employer Recognition Event in Grange Academy highlighted the work that local business bosses do in classrooms across East Ayrshire and through the work experience programme, which gives youngsters a taste of working life.

The event was organised by Grange Academy first year pupils who designed and produced certificates for the employers. Ross Fitzpatrick, Gemma McCabe and Emma Laird were excellent young hosts, while other pupils also attended to greet guests and present certificates.

A string quartet played at the start of the evening as guests enjoyed refreshments made by pupils in the hospitality class. Talented third year musician Rebecca Herd also played guitar and sang.

Local business leader Marie Macklin gave a presentation on the employer’s perspective and pupils from different schools spoke about their involvement with organisations. Councillors Hugh Ross and Jim Roberts, Spokespersons for Lifelong Learning, attended along with Executive Director of Educational and Social Services Graham Short and Head of Schools Andrew Sutherland.

Councillor Hugh Ross said: “This was an excellent evening which was organised and run by the young people themselves. We clearly have many talented budding entrepreneurs in our schools – and I know the employers who attended were very impressed by their achievements”.

Councillor Jim Roberts said: “The commitment and enthusiasm demonstrated by so many local business leaders in continuing to work with pupils in schools and also in offering work experience opportunities is to be commended. This support plays a major role in helping young people prepare for the world of work”.

ends

Schools and companies involved in the presentations were:
• Silverwood Primary and East Ayrshire Credit Union (Silverwood Savers)
• Park School and ACT Business Services (Young Enterprise)
• Auchinleck Academy and Hope Homes (Pathways to Employment course)
• Dalrymple Primary and Proof is in the Pudding (Charlie & the Chocolate Factory)
• Cumnock Academy and SFA (Football Academy)
• Nether Robertland and Dean Park Ranger Service (John Muir Awards)
• St Andrew’s Primary and BTCV and J Wilson & Son (Outdoor Garden)
• Loudoun Academy and Beekeepers Association (Support for Learning project)
• Hillhead Primary and Taylor Wimpey (Housing Project)

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Pupils were invited to make suggestions as to how an award of £500 could be spent to support the work of the school. Lucas Bunten’s winning entry, drawn from a total of . . . → Read More: Musical youth’s £500 guitar gain for school]]> An enterprising Cumnock Academy pupil recently succeeded in securing a grant of £500 for his school from a well-known Auchinleck garage business.

Pupils were invited to make suggestions as to how an award of £500 could be spent to support the work of the school. Lucas Bunten’s winning entry, drawn from a total of 150, will now see the music department benefit from new bass guitars this session.

And lucky Lucas, who is in fourth year, also won a netbook for his efforts.

The Bridgend Garage Secondary School Grant was devised to encourage pupils to take an active interest in their school by applying for a grant and deciding what it should be used for.

Owners Jean and Tom Allardyce said: “We were impressed by the many great ideas from the young people of Cumnock Academy and we would like to thank every pupil who took the time and effort to submit an entry to the competition”.

Headteacher Angus McVake said: “Congratulations to Lucas on his winning idea. This will benefit many of our budding young musicians in Cumnock Academy.

“Thanks also to Mr and Mrs Allardyce for their generosity”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was a great idea from Tom and Jean Allardyce to support the young people’s education and to encourage them to get involved in the decision-making process.

“This is indicative of the strong support schools across East Ayrshire receive from their local communities”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Instrumental Music Service Manager Paul Wood said: “It is always a wonderful way to start the new Academic Year with a big event. It focuses the . . . → Read More: Baggy Trousers – but no madness at gala concert]]> A great night was had by all who attended this year’s annual musical treat – East Ayrshire Schools’ Gala Concert in Kilmarnock’s Grand Hall last Thursday (6 October).

Instrumental Music Service Manager Paul Wood said: “It is always a wonderful way to start the new Academic Year with a big event. It focuses the minds of everyone on working as a team and setting the stage for what will happen for the rest of the year”.

And there was something for all to enjoy in a varied programme which included everything from Baggy Trousers to Pachelbel’s Canon.

Disco, pop, hornpipes and boogie had the audience clapping, while more traditional airs also featured.

Groups performing included the wind band, brass band, bagpipes, string orchestra and the guitar group. The appreciative audience also enjoyed stunning solo performances, both vocal and instrumental, by talented youngsters from secondary schools across East Ayrshire.

Over 2000 students are tutored in brass, guitar, highland pipes, percussion, strings, woodwind and voice by Instrumental Music Service Staff in East Ayrshire schools.

As well as being involved in the Gala Concert and the Spring Spectacular, the instrumental staff play a vital role in the life of their schools. Last year, instrumental Instructors directed and rehearsed over 50 ensembles performing at more than 130 events. They also perform at school concerts, take groups out into the community and to local and national competitions, play at council ceremonies and take pupils on international concert tours.

Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services said: “I am deeply appreciative of the hard work and commitment of all pupils and staff involved in this concert.

“An event like this provides an excellent opportunity for young people to appreciate each other’s skills and talents, while performing in the Grand Hall gives them the very special experience of sharing their music-making with a wider audience.

“Taken together, the skills and experiences gained excellently reflect the four capacities of Curriculum for Excellence and give the young people a level of confidence hard to achieve in other ways”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed this excellent evening’s entertainment.

“This concert was a real showcase for the enthusiasm and talent of young people from across East Ayrshire performing in a range of musical ensembles. Such opportunities are key not only  in supporting their musical talents, but also in developing their life-skills”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Children from Annanhill, Galston, Hurlford, Silverwood, Barshare and Ochiltree enjoyed a fun Food and Farming Day at Auchincruive Estate last week, to find out about the food they eat . . . → Read More: Learning about food… down on the farm]]> One hundred and fifty Primary 6 pupils got their hands dirty down on the farm – but it was all in a good educational cause.

Children from Annanhill, Galston, Hurlford, Silverwood, Barshare and Ochiltree enjoyed a fun Food and Farming Day at Auchincruive Estate last week, to find out about the food they eat and where it comes from, courtesy of the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET).

Youngsters enjoyed a variety of activity sessions provided by local farmers and by lecturers from the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC). They made butter and ice cream, ground some grain and toured the farm to get a closer look at dairy cows and calves. The children also tried experimental ‘egg magic’ and had some tractor fun, which incorporated basic physics activities.

Susan MacDonald, RHET Project Co-ordinator for Ayrshire and Arran, said: “This event is part of a national initiative sponsored by the Scottish Government to help to inform young people about where their food comes from and how to eat in a healthy way.

“We have held similar days before at Auchincruive and they have always been well received by both pupils and teachers, with a lot of follow-up work in the classroom”.

East Ayrshire Council’s Outdoor Education Officer Willie White said: “This was a great day, demonstrating an excellent partnership approach among schools, landowners, the SAC and RHET. It will undoubtedly support schools in delivering Curriculum for Excellence outcomes in health and wellbeing and in their whole school journey to Eco school status”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Food and the Environment is one of the 10 Eco schools topics. Interestingly, many young people in Scotland are not aware of where food comes from, how it was grown or harvested and what resources were used in its production.

“The Food and Farming Day was a very practical, hands-on way of helping the children to understand these important issues, including potential impacts on the environment.”

The Auchincruive Food and Farming day was provided by RHET, Ayrshire and Arran Countryside Initiative and the SAC.

ends

And hundreds of other pupils in 21 primary schools across Kilmarnock and surrounding area will plant a total of 25,000 bulbs over the next few weeks, in support . . . → Read More: Kids dig deep for purple pinkie power]]> Youngsters – with a little help from their parents – dug deep to plant 2,000 purple crocus bulbs in a new garden at Onthank Primary School.

And hundreds of other pupils in 21 primary schools across Kilmarnock and surrounding area will plant a total of 25,000 bulbs over the next few weeks, in support of Kilmarnock Rotary Club’s campaign to free the world from polio.

During October, pupils will learn about the crippling disease – and then go outside to plant bulbs donated by the Rotary Club in the school grounds.

When children are vaccinated against polio overseas, they have a purple stamp put on one of their little fingers, so that the immunisation team knows who has been vaccinated. Each Purple Pinkie brings the world closer to making polio history.

Onthank Primary Head Teacher Steve Banks said: “The purple crocuses – symbolic of Purple Pinkie Power – will provide a wonderful display when they bloom in February 2012 and for many years into the future”.

Iain Shaw, Kilmarnock Rotary Club Primary and Special Schools Coordinator, said: “When we first started our campaign in 1985, polio was widespread throughout the world with around 350,000 new cases being reported each year.

“Now there are just four countries where it is still endemic – India, Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan – with130 reported new cases this year. However, there were a further 250 cases in surrounding countries. The disease is passed from person to person and until it is eradicated, it remains just a flight away”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Polio is most prevalent among the young, so increasing awareness of this crippling condition among children and their parents is extremely important.

“I’m happy to support this worthwhile campaign. It says a lot about our young people, that they are putting in such efforts to help others and to learn more about the lives of less fortunate children in the wider world”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

John MacKenzie has been nominated in the ‘Best Teacher’ category of West Sound’s Cream of Ayrshire awards for his sterling work and first-rate leadership of the Dalmellington school.

Lorna Dempsey, . . . → Read More: Academy Head in Best Teacher award bid]]> Although only a few months in post, the recently-appointed Headteacher of Doon Academy is already top of the pops with kids and teachers alike.

John MacKenzie has been nominated in the ‘Best Teacher’ category of West Sound’s Cream of Ayrshire awards for his sterling work and first-rate leadership of the Dalmellington school.

Lorna Dempsey, who nominated her former teacher, said: “Back in 1995, Mr MacKenzie was my art teacher when I was in sixth year. He was excellent and very influential to my studies back then.

“Sixteen years later, Mr MacKenzie has taught thousands of students and made a massive difference to their lives and recently had a well-deserved promotion to Head Teacher.

“Mr MacKenzie was a huge part of the management team taking Doon Academy through a recent very positive HMIE inspection. He has a strong vision for our wee school and plans to continue to build on its strengths, seeing the students as the most valued members of the school community.

“The appointment of Mr Mackenzie is a fabulous one, taking the school from strength to strength. I feel I can speak on behalf of everyone to say that Mr MacKenzie fully deserves to win the Best Teacher award”.

John MacKenzie said: “I see the award as recognition for all the excellent teachers at Doon – me least amongst them – and I would be really pleased if the award came to our school”.

He added: “At this time I am sure that I have two, possibly three votes – my wife, the ex-pupil who nominated me and a pupil that I threatened with detention”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It’s great news that John MacKenzie has been put forward for this prestigious award. It highlights the close links which the school maintains with the local community. I wish him every success”.

The West Sound Cream of Ayrshire awards recognise heroes in the community. Winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony at the Brig O’ Doon House Hotel, Alloway on Thursday 6 October.

ends

For further details, visit www.westfm.co.uk

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

There are places available on fiddle and chanter for P4-6 children from Cumnock and Auchinleck areas in this exciting project – and it’s free, thanks to continued . . . → Read More: Trad Scots music offer for kids]]> East Ayrshire’s Traditional Music Project recently opened its doors to budding musicians – and there are still opportunities for musical youths to learn to play Scots instruments.

There are places available on fiddle and chanter for P4-6 children from Cumnock and Auchinleck areas in this exciting project – and it’s free, thanks to continued funding from Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative Scheme.

Each participant receives:

• 1 x 30 minute lesson on their chosen Instrument
• 1 x 30 minute groupwork class (group performing and song skills)
• their own instruments to take home
• performance and touring opportunities

There is no charge for lessons, but a small payment for sheet music and accessories may be applicable. Instruments will be given on loan to all children attending the project, free of charge, for practice purposes.

There are no tests – if you want to play, you can! Classes will take place in Cumnock Academy on Saturdays during school term time.

If your child would like to attend, please contact Alexine Mitchell at the Musicworks office on 0141 270 8316 or email a.mitchell@rcs.ac.uk for an application form. Places are available on a first come, first served basis.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Gold Young Ambassadors JJ Hawkshaw and Hannah Wales of Grange Academy and Platinum Young Ambassadors Jenna Holland and Robert Shaw of Auchinleck Academy travelled with Active Schools co-ordinators Lynsey Hogg and . . . → Read More: Young ambassadors look towards Olympics]]> Four lucky local pupils selected as Young Ambassadors were delighted to meet Olympic athletes at the recent National Young Ambassadors Conference in Edinburgh.

Gold Young Ambassadors JJ Hawkshaw and Hannah Wales of Grange Academy and Platinum Young Ambassadors Jenna Holland and Robert Shaw of Auchinleck Academy travelled with Active Schools co-ordinators Lynsey Hogg and Gordon Cunningham to the International Climbing Centre, where they met Olympic rower Katherine Grainger, runner Liz McConnell and hammer thrower Shirley Addison.

The ‘gold’ ambassadors are new to the game, while ‘platinum’ ambassadors have been in position since last year.

The Young Ambassadors also had a closer look at the new London 2012 Olympic torch, which 8,000 bearers will carry in a 70-day relay beginning on 19 May 2012. Its arrival in London will signal the start of the Olympic Games.

The torch’s three sides symbolise the Olympic values of respect, excellence and friendship and its 8,000 holes represent the 8,000 bearers.

The Young Ambassador movement started in 2006 following London’s successful Olympic bid when Lord Coe promised the UK would use the power of the Games to inspire millions of young people to become involved in sport.

Active Schools co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “The conference empowered the youngsters with the skills and confidence to help organise festivals in their own schools and to encourage fellow pupils to get more active, more often by joining in sporting activities.

“East Ayrshire is one of only ten Scottish local authorities selected for the Young Ambassadors programme, with a total of 18 Ambassadors across our nine local secondary schools”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Young Ambassadors are selected due to their sporting talent and more importantly, due to their outstanding commitment and ability as young leaders or volunteers.

“The idea is that they will inspire and encourage youngsters aged 5-19 to participate more in school sport and PE – and I am very confident in the ability of our young East Ayrshire representatives to do so”.

ends
For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The 37 Kilmarnock Academy singers sang backing in pop-classical favourites Nessun Dorma, Hallelujah, Jerusalem and I Vow . . . → Read More: Academy kids on song with Brit boyband]]> A local school choir had the night of their young lives performing before a very appreciative audience in Kilmarnock’s Palace theatre last week – made even more thrilling by sharing the stage with Brit award-winning boyband Blake.

The 37 Kilmarnock Academy singers sang backing in pop-classical favourites Nessun Dorma, Hallelujah, Jerusalem and I Vow To Thee My Country, performed by Blake, who have sold over half a million albums.

The S3-S6 school choir members followed this with a superb solo number of their own– ‘May it Be’, from Lord of the Rings.

Blake singer Humphrey Berney said: “It was a pleasure to work with all the young people from Kilmarnock Academy. The choir made a great sound and were very professional”.

Darren Ramsay, principal teacher of music at the academy, said: “The kids were absolutely over the moon. The band members chatted to them, posed for photos with them and gave autographs. They also let the choir sit out front and watch the rest of the show. We all thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was a great opportunity for the Kilmarnock Academy senior choir to show what they could do. They took up the challenge and were not at all overwhelmed by the stars singing alongside them. Congratulations on such a stunning performance”.

Blake agent Liz Biddle said: “The group like to invite a local choir to sing with them at the end of their first half – it’s very uplifting. And of course it’s wonderful experience for an amateur choir to be on stage with Blake”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Academy is the only school in Scotland to have nurtured two Nobel Prize winners – Lord John Boyd Orr and Sir Alexander Fleming. The conference celebrated this unique achievement and . . . → Read More: From Kilmarnock Academy to Nobel Prizes]]> Kilmarnock Academy celebrated two of its most noted former pupils last
week at a one-day conference entitled “Global Citizens, Local Roots”.

The Academy is the only school in Scotland to have nurtured two Nobel
Prize winners – Lord John Boyd Orr and Sir Alexander Fleming. The conference
celebrated this unique achievement and re-assessed the lives of both men, as
well as looking at the role of the school itself in producing a steady stream
of notable scientists. Speakers included Professor Hugh Pennington, Emeritus
Professor of Bacteriology at the University of Aberdeen and Kevin Brown,
Curator of the Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum in London.

The event was part of Glasgow Caledonian’s outreach programme,
connecting the university with local communities. It was organised in
conjunction with the university, the Ayrshire Federation of Historical
Societies, and with the co-operation of East Ayrshire Council. It was
financially supported by the Wellcome Trust through the Centre for the Social
History of Health and Healthcare, Glasgow.

Provost Stephanie Young, who attended the conference, said: “The event was a
wonderful way to celebrate these two influential men who passed through
Kilmarnock Academy in their formative years. It was fascinating to hear the speakers
discuss topics such as Scottish education at the turn of the 19^thcentury as well as the lives of Boyd Orr and Fleming who went on from
Kilmarnock Academy to make such an impact across the world.”

Photo caption: Left to right – Robert Pyper, Bryan Paterson,
Professor John Stewart, Elaine McFarland, Kevin Brown, Provost Stephanie
Young,  Sir Hugh Pennington, Catriona  MacDonald, Dr Neil Dixon

Sixteen talented students from Stewarton, Kilmarnock, St Joseph’s and Cumnock Academies worked with composer Stephen Deazley and three SCO musicians over recent weeks.

Each student wrote a . . . → Read More: Premiere performances for young composers]]> In a first for East Ayrshire, young composers had their new music performed by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra (SCO) in Glasgow’s Family Music Fun Day last weekend.

Sixteen talented students from Stewarton, Kilmarnock, St Joseph’s and Cumnock Academies worked with composer Stephen Deazley and three SCO musicians over recent weeks.

Each student wrote a short composition inspired by space and the cosmos – and the tunes were performed by flautist Lis Dooner, bassoonist Alison Green and clarinettist Jean Johnson.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This has been an inspiring, creative project, culminating in public performances of the new music – an excellent example of Curriculum for Excellence in action”.

SCO Projects Manager Louise Martin said: “It’s been so exciting to watch East Ayrshire’s young composers develop and challenge their musical skills in these sessions”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

In an Active Schools project, each East Ayrshire primary school has been allocated its own Olympic country, which it will then represent in a series of competitions, climaxing in a full-day Olympic fun festival during National . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire Olympics run-up set to go]]> Children across East Ayrshire are getting into the Olympic spirit in the run-up to the 2012 London Games.

In an Active Schools project, each East Ayrshire primary school has been allocated its own Olympic country, which it will then represent in a series of competitions, climaxing in a full-day Olympic fun festival during National School Sports Week in June.

Six festivals for different Olympic events will be held throughout the school year and winners of each festival will progress to the grand final for that event. Youngsters will also gain points for participation, which will be added to a medal table.

First off the starting blocks is the cross-country festival held at Stewarton Academy on Thursday (29 September), in partnership with Kilmarnock Harriers. Next up will be a basketball festival in November

Other festivals set to take place will feature netball, football, badminton and sportshall athletics.

Active Schools Manager Cheryl Brady said: “We feel it is important to celebrate a major global sporting event taking place in our own country. We hope to do this by showcasing a range of sporting activities, whilst incorporating cross-curricular learning in East Ayrshire schools. This links in with core Olympic values of excellence, friendship, respect, inspiration, determination, courage and equality.

“We are offering six Olympic-themed festivals through the school year which will consist of two per term. At these festivals for P4/5 and P6/7 stages, schools will participate in an opening ceremony with flags and banners from their allocated country”.

She added: “Schools are hoping to run after-school clubs to help children practise and we would love to hear from any volunteers willing to help”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The Active Schools motto is ‘more people, more active, more often’ and the co-ordinators strive to provide opportunities for children to enjoy physical activities in their school and local area.

“I would recommend all our young people to take up the East Ayrshire Olympic challenge in the months leading up to the Games in 2012. This will not only help develop the children’s sporting skills, but will increase their cultural awareness”.

For further information about volunteering and the range of Active Schools programmes, visit www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/activeschools .

The Active Schools team are still looking for sponsors to help with funding for various events, to ensure all schools can participate fully. If you are interested in sponsoring any event, please contact Cheryl Brady, Active Schools Manager at cheryl.brady@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Sixteen students from Stewarton, Kilmarnock, St Joseph’s and Cumnock Academies have been working with composer Stephen Deazley and three SCO musicians in Music Factory workshops over recent weeks. . . . → Read More: Premiere performances for East Ayrshire young talent]]> Budding composers from across East Ayrshire will have their music performed by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra (SCO) as part of Glasgow’s Family Music Fun Day this Saturday.

Sixteen students from Stewarton, Kilmarnock, St Joseph’s and Cumnock Academies have been working with composer Stephen Deazley and three SCO musicians in Music Factory workshops over recent weeks. Run by the Orchestra’s education and outreach department, the workshops explored composition techniques and the capabilities of the flute, bassoon and clarinet.

This year, for the first time, the project made an exciting new partnership with Glasgow Science Centre. A visit to the Centre inspired the young people with ideas about science, space and the cosmos. Each student then wrote a short composition for the three instruments, which will be performed by flautist Lis Dooner, bassoonist Alison Green and clarinettist Jean Johnson, as part of the Glasgow Family Fun Day.

East Ayrshire has a longstanding relationship with the SCO and has run Music Factory workshops across the region for the past ten years. But this is the first time that students will have their work publicly performed by musicians from the orchestra.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Our young people have seized this opportunity and taken up the challenge of working with expert musicians and composing music of their own.

“This has been an inspiring, creative project, culminating in public performances of the new music – an excellent example of Curriculum for Excellence in action”.

Projects Manager Louise Martin said: “Over the years, the SCO has forged a particularly strong working relationship with the arts and education team at East Ayrshire Council. Their support has helped students to collaborate with world-class professional musicians of the SCO. It’s been so exciting to watch East Ayrshire’s young composers develop and challenge their musical skills in these sessions”.

If you want to be amongst the first to hear world premieres of Magnetar, Fields Aglow with Barb and other exciting fresh music – come to the City Halls on 24 September. The 16 world premieres will be performed live throughout the day. Sessions start every half hour between 10.30am-12pm and 2pm-3.30pm.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

By simply buying their lunch, pupils can earn points which ultimately convert into meals for chronically hungry youngsters in Malawi, in the Council’s new ethical incentive scheme.

Mary’s Meals got . . . → Read More: School meals help hungry kids in Malawi]]> Children enjoying healthy school meals in East Ayrshire are not only helping themselves – but also helping other less fortunate youngsters 5,000 miles away.

By simply buying their lunch, pupils can earn points which ultimately convert into meals for chronically hungry youngsters in Malawi, in the Council’s new ethical incentive scheme.

Mary’s Meals got off to a great start when Kirkstyle Primary youngsters took the chance to taste samples of Malawi food, including Likuni Phala, a porridge made up of maize, soya and milk powder – and to eat school dinner with visiting Councillors, education staff and Tony Begley of Mary’s Meals.

To feed a child for a full year in Malawi costs just £6.15. In partnership with Scottish-based charity Mary’s Meals, East Ayrshire Council will support two schools for three years by feeding 198 pupils in Mbinda Junior School in the Blantyre District and 208 pupils in Katunda School, Dowa District. It will cost less than £2,500 to feed over 400 children for one year.

Mary’s Meals not only addresses the immediate needs of hungry children by giving them daily meals in their local schools – it also allows those children to receive an education that can provide an escape from poverty.

Today more people die from hunger-related diseases than they do from HIV/AIDS, malaria, or tuberculosis combined. Hunger kills millions of children each year. Mary’s Meals provides daily meals in schools for over 557,000 children in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe.

The Mary’s Meals push replaces the Council’s previous award-winning Get Stuck In meals scheme, which operated between October 2008 and March 2010. It raised 174,000 points which were converted to gifts for Save the Children, including chickens, yaks, desks, bikes and medical kits.

Andrew Kennedy, the Council’s Acting Head of Facilities Management, said: “Having established the benefits of working with a charity and the positive outcomes from creating an ethical incentive scheme, we wanted to develop an alliance with a charity that focused on the pupils and educational benefits.

“We chose therefore to work with Mary’s Meals, which is an international movement to set up school feeding projects in communities where poverty and hunger prevent children from gaining an education.

“This scheme supports our aims to further increase the uptake of school meals, to benefit pupils with fresh, healthy, locally sourced food and to increase children’s knowledge of global issues, while offering even the youngest pupils the opportunity to help others”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The Mary’s Meals scheme is excellent in that it promotes citizenship, enterprise and community involvement, as well as helping pupils think more about health and wellbeing.

“By highlighting two individual Malawi schools, this scheme is more personal and in a way more ‘real’ for the children. It offers the potential to create meaningful, longer-lasting links with the communities and to develop existing links between East Ayrshire and Malawi”.

Tony Begley, Education Coordinator, Mary’s Meals, said: “We hope this exciting initiative will provide youngsters with an opportunity to compare their own life opportunities, such as access to food and education, with the lives of the poor children they will be helping.

“I am confident pupils in East Ayrshire schools will choose to take a school meal in the knowledge that they will be helping Mary’s Meals to feed and educate more than 400 children at Katunda & Mbinda primary schools”.

The scheme will operate in all schools. Points will be collated through the Onsite Services management system, using free and paid meal numbers.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

And Mijanur Chowdhury, Head of Jaintapur BIAM Dr. Kudrat School and College in Bangladesh, had the time of his life on his week-long visit to East Ayrshire.

New Cumnock . . . → Read More: From Bangladesh… to New Cumnock]]> Children in New Cumnock warmly welcomed a far-travelled visitor recently, when the Headteacher of their 5,000 miles distant partner school dropped in to meet them.

And Mijanur Chowdhury, Head of Jaintapur BIAM Dr. Kudrat School and College in Bangladesh, had the time of his life on his week-long visit to East Ayrshire.

New Cumnock Primary first formed a partnership with the Bangladeshi school in 2009. Headteacher Mary Smith then contacted Mijanur Chowdhury via text and email, sharing information about schools and local culture. Both Heads were keen to further develop their pupils’ education about global citizenship.

Mary Smith said: “It was important for me that we had an equal partnership and that this was not about raising money for a poorer school.

“Through Kiva (an organisation with a mission to connect people through lending, to alleviate poverty) we already lend small amounts to entrepreneurs across the globe. This allows the children to gain worthwhile knowledge about culture, poverty and living standards.”

New Cumnock youngsters began researching Bangladesh and the two schools exchanged class projects.

Mary Smith said: “Email was problematic, as our partner school has only five computers with internet access. We applied for funding for a school mobile phone and we envisage speaking to children in Bangladesh in this way”.

Funding for Mijanur’s visit was granted by the British Council and he made the16-hour journey from Bangladesh. He was so tired on arrival that he slept from 6pm until 7am next morning.

On arrival at the primary school, he was welcomed by a piper and led into the hall where the children assembled to greet him in true New Cumnock fashion, ending with a rendition of ‘Flower of Scotland’. Mijanur presented the school with a plaque of friendship and the youngsters gave him an engraved Scots quaich.

Mijanur observed learning and teaching in all classes and shared understanding of cultural similarities and differences with teachers. Off duty, he visited Culzean, Burns Cottage and the seaside and enjoyed bowling and laser quest. Mijanur also experienced different foods during his stay – porridge and fajitas now being firm favourites.

Mary Smith said: “We thoroughly enjoyed having a teacher from so far away, here in New Cumnock. Next steps are to progress our partnership through a waste management project until June 2012, when we will publish our findings, comparisons and improvements”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is what global citizenship is all about. The children in New Cumnock had established links with Jaintapur BIAM Dr. Kudrat School and College in Bangladesh, so this visit by Headteacher Mijanur Chowdhury was a natural progression of that partnership.

“I look forward to hearing how the school’s continuing international relations develop”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Kilmarnock Academy headteacher Bryan Paterson said: “We are really proud of the achievement – and absolutely delighted with this recognition of our hard work”.

Youngsters have got . . . → Read More: School scoops award for international learning]]> A Kilmarnock school recently celebrated winning a prestigious International Schools Award (ISA) from the British Council for encouraging pupils to become global citizens in the wider world.

Kilmarnock Academy headteacher Bryan Paterson said: “We are really proud of the achievement – and absolutely delighted with this recognition of our hard work”.

Youngsters have got involved in a wide range of international activities to win the award.

In the Rapid Response engineering project, S1 pupils looked at basic needs like shelter, safe drinking water, transport and communication – and how fragile society becomes when these are taken away. The project featured a fortnight of classroom activities centred on an emergency scenario, culminating in a day with Institute of Chartered Engineers volunteers helping pupils to build shelters, weather instruments, a water purification system and to make a presentation to the World Health Organisation,.

In a European Day of Languages celebration, pupils learned French songs and dances, cooked French recipes and watched French films. Pupils and staff dressed up and decorated the school with European flags, while a French cafe sold snacks with prices in Euros.

In the home economics Foods of the World project, all S2 pupils studied foods and customs from Italy, China, India, Mexico, America and France and then cooked meals from each country.

Bringing history to life, the Battlefields of France and Belgium trip helped young people to gain a better understanding of WW1and allowed them to practice French speaking skills. Youngsters visited Atomium (a display based on immigration in Europe), Bruges, the trenches, cemeteries and memorials, Hill 62 Museum, the European parliament and Ypres.
Social subjects teachers ensured pupils had a clear understanding of International Aid and global warming, bringing in speakers from aid organisations to talk about their work.
Students also learned about world religions such as Christianity and Judaism and the school worked hard to maintain its ECO code.

Bryan Paterson said: “It really has been a concerted effort, with every member of staff being involved. The impact of these activities on pupils and teachers is enormous.

“Young people get the opportunity to become better equipped for life and work in a global society. They are challenged to think about human rights, eco activities and environmental issues. Consequently, our pupils are more aware of other people and cultures, the protection of our environment and the need for sustainable development.

“They are kept up-to-date through work in classes about world events and international themes. They now have a better idea of Scotland’s place in the world and are more accepting of different cultures and traditions.

“Pupils now understand that they can make a difference and are actively involved in charitable activities”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Kilmarnock Academy’s focus on International Education across the curriculum encourages young people to engage in global, national and local issues. The academy has established relationships with partner schools in various parts of the world. Nearer to home, the young people are actively involved in carrying out voluntary work within the local community.

“The International School Award has had a very positive impact on developing pupils’ awareness of the cultures of other countries, while still promoting an understanding of their own”.
Rebecca Picton of the British Council ISA said: “I hope that the scope of the school’s excellent international activities will continue to develop and benefit the school community; the support, commitment, creativity and innovative international work is greatly appreciated”.

The British Council offers the ISA for schools to record and evaluate their international work and embed it into the curriculum and whole school ethos. Accreditation lasts for three years. Over 10,000 schools in the UK are involved in the ISA.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Council’s Onsite Services team won the coveted prize in the Best Healthy Living Initiative category for its Food for Life programme in schools, fighting off stiff competition from . . . → Read More: Food for Life team reaps national award]]> East Ayrshire Council recently celebrated winning an APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) award in a UK-wide competition which drew around 300 submissions in total.

The Council’s Onsite Services team won the coveted prize in the Best Healthy Living Initiative category for its Food for Life programme in schools, fighting off stiff competition from 40 other entrants.

The awards are unique in local government because they are dedicated to those who provide frontline public services to communities.

Over 450 guests came together last week at Brunel’s Old Station in Bristol for the ceremony. Awards were presented by broadcaster Alex Lovell of BBC Points West.

Andrew Kennedy, Acting Head of Facilities Management said: “East Ayrshire is regarded globally as a leader in the development of sustainable food strategies for schools.

“The use of organic, locally sourced fresh and unprocessed food has contributed to reducing the average distance food travels by a third, thus reducing CO2 and carbon emissions”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Most importantly, our Food for Life strategy has provided delicious, fresh meals for schoolchildren and has in this way assisted in reducing childhood obesity by a third, over two years.

“Congratulations to the Onsite Services team on this outstanding achievement”.

APSE chief executive Paul O’Brien said: “Our judging panels had a huge task in arriving at the winners, but they were overwhelmed by the dedication of frontline employees in continuing to deliver excellence in frontline services, despite the huge financial pressures which many councils face”.

ends

Best healthy living initiative
Winner: East Ayrshire Council
Finalists:
• East Ayrshire Council
• East Lothian Council
• East Riding of Yorkshire Council
• Gedling Borough Council
• Leicester City Council
• North Lanarkshire Council
• Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
• South Ayrshire Council

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The mobile gallery will park in school playgrounds across the area in November, giving youngsters the opportunity to see new art and enjoy talks, without having to travel any distance.

The Travelling . . . → Read More: Art on the move]]> Schoolchildren can look forward to art on their doorsteps, when the Travelling Gallery makes its annual visit to East Ayrshire this autumn.

The mobile gallery will park in school playgrounds across the area in November, giving youngsters the opportunity to see new art and enjoy talks, without having to travel any distance.

The Travelling Gallery will also visit Kilmarnock and Cumnock town centres during the October school break.  It will be open to the general public at Kilmarnock Cross from Monday 17-Wednesday 19 October and Cumnock Town Square Thursday 20 and Friday 21 October.

The gallery’s autumn exhibition Waste Management is an exciting collaboration between two contemporary Scotland-based artists, Jonathan Owen and Charlie Hammond.

 ends

Schools programme

• Monday 7 November – St. Andrew’s PS
  Tuesday 8 November – Hurlford PS
  Wednesday 9 November – Patna PS
• Thursday 10 November – New Cumnock PS
• Friday 11 November – Newmilns PS

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Peter Gilchrist , 55, said: “I’m proud to be Headteacher of a school with such an excellent reputation in terms of community, . . . → Read More: Steering towards the future at Auchinleck Academy]]> The new Headteacher who has taken the helm at Auchinleck Academy is well aware of the school’s successful past – but is keen to steer it towards an even more successful future.

Peter Gilchrist , 55, said: “I’m proud to be Headteacher of a school with such an excellent reputation in terms of community, pupil performance and progress in Curriculum for Excellence.

“My aim is to sustain and build on that excellence”.

The new Head is committed to success for every one of his 927 pupils. He believes in “attainment and achievement for all, irrespective of interests and ability”.

He said: “We promote both academic and vocational pathways and we aim to give each young person the best possible opportunities for progress.

“I see my role as leader of an excellent team in supporting young people at curricular and personal levels, to ensure any barriers to progress are removed.

“I believe in the development of the ‘whole’ young person. Achievement both within and outside school should be recognised. I’m particularly interested in developing personal learning plans, so that each child takes more responsibility for his or her own learning and future progress within and outwith the school”.

Peter aims also to continue the school’s strong links with the local community.

“I’m convinced that if young people are to achieve their full potential, strong partnerships between parents, pupils and staff are vital.

“I’m also convinced of the high quality of young people, teachers and support staff in Auchinleck Academy and I have high expectations of everyone in the school”.

Future plans include the launch of a new Business Enterprise Skills Centre at Knockroon, in partnership with Hope Homes. Twenty-five young people from Auchinleck Academy, along with 25 from Cumnock Academy, will be trained to help them find employment in the local jobs market. Courses were devised after asking local business people exactly what skills and knowledge they expected future employees to have.

An East Ayrshire boy, Peter grew up in New Cumnock and went to Cairnhill Primary School. His family then moved to Irvine, where Peter attended Irvine Royal. He studied geography and biology at Glasgow University.

Peter’s first teaching post was at Greenwood Academy, Dreghorn and he then became Principal Teacher of geography at Ardrossan Academy, before being promoted to Depute Head Teacher there.

Peter lives with wife Isobel in Irvine and has three daughters – Paula and Ashleigh, who are both primary school teachers and Debbie, who is an art student at Ayr College.

In his spare time, he enjoys playing football and squash – and a bit of guitar.

One of Peter’s hobbies is writing. He is the author of Scottish Studies, a best-selling geography text book for secondary schools. Said Peter:“If I had more time, I would definitely write more. But I think I’m going to be kept pretty busy!”

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Peter Gilchrist will be an excellent appointment for Auchinleck Academy and as such, I welcome Peter to his post as Headteacher of the academy.

“I’m sure he will sustain the school’s great reputation in Curriculum for Excellence and will continue to promote improvement in educational attainment, thereby ensuring the young people of Auchinleck Academy are able to adapt to a rapidly changing world”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

 Local business leader Sir Tom Hunter and the crew were filming for the STV Appeal, giving SKY the chance of winning a cash boost from the . . . → Read More: Shortlees kids reach for the SKY]]>  Youngsters at Shortlees SKY (Stuff for Kids and Young People) project were delighted when a famous entrepreneur dropped in for a visit, with a film crew in tow.

 Local business leader Sir Tom Hunter and the crew were filming for the STV Appeal, giving SKY the chance of winning a cash boost from the fund, which is backed to the tune of £100,000 by Sir Tom.

 STV is airing a week of programmes for the appeal, supporting children affected by poverty in Scotland. Programming started on 11 September and concludes with a live studio show on Friday 16 September.

 The kids from Shortlees Primary School enjoyed the SKY summer playscheme and many are members of various clubs run by the organisation.

 Sir Tom dropped in to hear from the youngsters themselves about what they had been doing and how the project helped them.

 Project Manager Sarah Hall said: “When Sir Tom arrived, the kids were all really good at chatting about their activities. He seemed very impressed and interested.

 “In summer, we took the children on trips to places like the Science Centre and the Comedy Club, where they took part in workshops on how to be comedians.

 “SKY is in danger of closing down if we don’t get funding, so we really need this money just to keep going.

 “We work with any Shortlees young people who want to come and we have a policy that we never exclude anyone”.

 New SKY projects include a programme with Kilmarnock Football Club, offering coaching to Grange Academy pupils from Shortlees and a befriending project in partnership with Shortlees Primary School.

 The SKY Project provides access to a grass-roots, cost-free service, offering youth work, life skills and opportunity for personal growth to young people in Shortlees. SKY aims to combat any restrictions placed upon the children by their circumstances.

 Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Shortlees school children enjoy a good range of varied after-school activities with the SKY project and I’m delighted that the initiative is in line for a cash boost from the STV appeal. I look forward to hearing more about the projects in Grange Academy and Shortlees Primary in the future”.

 ends 

 For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

S3 pupil Georgia Wake, 14, from Drongan, recently won the S1 community.com competition for her entry on ‘Why I Love Auchinleck’. Her poem describes her feelings . . . → Read More: ‘Never a dull moment in Auchinleck’]]> A budding young writer at Auchinleck Academy loves the town so much that she was inspired to put pen to paper – and won an online writing competition.

S3 pupil Georgia Wake, 14, from Drongan, recently won the S1 community.com competition for her entry on ‘Why I Love Auchinleck’. Her poem describes her feelings about some favourite things in the town – such as “House of Dumfries” and “Love the Academy”.

Georgia claimed hew win came as a complete surprise – as she had forgotten about the competition.

Head Teacher Peter Gilchrist said: “This is great news and I’m delighted at Georgia’s success in this competition.

“As part of her S2 homework, Georgia had to think of reasons why she loved Auchinleck and write about it creatively. She decided herself to use an acrostic poem, which did the trick”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Georgia’s poem captures many unique features of Auchinleck. She paints a vivid picture of the community in her poem and as such, is a worthy winner. Congratulations to Georgia – and well done to all the others who entered the competition”.

A uchinleck Talbot
U Always See Birds
C orner Shop That Is Handy
H ouse Of Dumfries
I Like Going Walks In Auchinleck
N ever A Dull Moment
L ove The Academy
E veryone’s Always Happy
C hinese That Is Tasty
K ids Always Kicking A Ball
by Georgia Wake

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Around 35 pupils performed at the concert which delighted guests including Provost Stephanie Young. While in the area, the group also visited the Dick and Dean Castle Country Park as well as . . . → Read More: TWIN TOWN GUESTS GIVE ROUSING PERFORMANCE AT ST JO’S]]> A youth orchestra from one of East Ayrshire’s twin towns, Kulmbach in Germany, raised the roof at St Joseph’s Academy last week.

Around 35 pupils performed at the concert which delighted guests including Provost Stephanie Young. While in the area, the group also visited the Dick and Dean Castle Country Park as well as indulging in some retail therapy in Kilmarnock Town Centre before the concert began.

Provost Young said: “It was a real pleasure to be able to welcome the guests from our twin town and for them to be able to experience just some of what Kilmarnock has to offer. The youth orchestra’s performance was excellent and I hope they all enjoyed their visit and will return to see us again one day soon.”

Photo Caption: Provost Young meets members of the Kulmbach Youth Orchestra

James Hamilton Academy, Kilmarnock, is the first of nine East Ayrshire academies to launch a new Business and Skills Enterprise Centre (BESC) on its premises, spearheading the Council’s push to encourage entrepreneurial qualities in pupils and . . . → Read More: These youngsters mean business]]> One forward-thinking local school is wasting no time in getting its pupils ready for the world of work.

James Hamilton Academy, Kilmarnock, is the first of nine East Ayrshire academies to launch a new Business and Skills Enterprise Centre (BESC) on its premises, spearheading the Council’s push to encourage entrepreneurial qualities in pupils and get more leavers into work, training or employment

The Council has invested £1 million in a Business Enterprise Fund and has enlisted some of Scotland’s best-known business leaders in its ambitious programme.

Entrepreneur Sir Tom Hunter is backing James Hamilton’s enterprising £110,000 initiative, by offering his foundation’s expertise in e-commerce to help the school sell goods online.

The school is introducing a range of vocational training and practical skills programmes to allow young people to develop key skills for life, learning and work in the local job market.

Fifteen third year pupils have just started a new Pathways to Employability course. These pupils are coming out of two traditional Standard Grade subjects to undertake work-related courses, which will also be available next session to S5 and S6 pupils.

New courses being delivered this year include digital media; design and make ; engineering, fabrication and welding ; construction crafts (painting, decorating, bricklaying, plumbing and electricals); Junior Sports Leader Award (JSLA); and leadership skills.

In addition, pupils will run a shop, learning about stock control, finance and marketing and selling items made in school.

All courses will run throughout S3 and S4 and pupils will receive SQA certificates on completion. Young people will leave school with six ‘traditional’ qualifications – as well as new qualifications in SQA Construction Crafts, SQA Creative Digital Media, SQA Engineering Skills, SQA Steps to Work and JSLA.

Head Teacher Janis Teale said: “The Business Enterprise Centre is a very exciting development which will allow James Hamilton Academy to better prepare young people for the local job market, through participation in a more extensive range of work-related and entrepreneurial experiences, supported by business leaders.

“We are confident that our new BESC will be further extended next year to include a range of pupils from S3-S6, who will also be able to enhance their skills profile through this new initiative”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “What is particularly important is that these new courses will be SQA-accredited, thereby giving pupils relevant passports to go out and find employment, or to start their own businesses.

“These qualifications, added to the confidence and skills they will acquire along the way, will go towards our aim of helping our young people become ‘business ready’.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

 Holding the trophy aloft, Scotland squad members Ryan Buckle and Meghan Plummer posed for photos with the kids, aiming to inspire new young . . . → Read More: Youngsters celebrate Scotland’s World Cup win]]> Local youngsters were over the moon when star players dropped in to their sports club with the World Cup won by Scotland, who beat off stiff competition at recent world championships.

 Holding the trophy aloft, Scotland squad members Ryan Buckle and Meghan Plummer posed for photos with the kids, aiming to inspire new young players in East Ayrshire.

 The sport in question was Rock-it ball – and Scotland beat England into second place and Denmark into third at the World Cup final on Sunday 21 August in Ripon.

 Rock-It-Ball – a cross between dodgeball and lacrosse – is the newest combat sport in the world. Played by both men and women, as well as children, it’s fast, furious and great fun. The main version has five balls in play and players score by hitting opponents with a low-impact ball thrown from a stick called a Rock-it. The target area is from the shoulders down to (and including) the feet.

 Scotland retained the World Cup in the second International Rock-It Ball Federation (IRIBF) World Championships for the second term running.

 Gordon Archibald, CEO of the Scottish Rock-it ball Association, said: “Since the Scottish team won the World Cup in 2007, the sport has been waiting in the background to take off.

 “With four years of leagues and national team development behind them and having beaten Scotland in Manchester in 2010, England must have been confident that they could win the World Cup this time. But the Scotland side sported some of the best players from the country’s two Rock-it-ball teams, Falkirk Cannons and Coatbridge Enigma.

“Scotland ran out undefeated in all games, including their exhibition game against the future of English Rock-it ball.

Gordon added: “The Stewarton club launched recently and with one other East Ayrshire team in the pipeline, Scottish Rock-it-ball is developing fast, which can only be good news for the national team”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said:”I’m delighted the Scotland squad members took the time to visit the budding players in Stewarton Rock-it Ball club. This will surely inspire the youngsters to train hard, knowing that Scotland has been so successful in the sport at international level.

“And it’s not often we can say Scotland brought the World Cup home – to Stewarton”.

 Rock-it ball for adults runs every Thursday, 6-7pm and for children, 5-6pm, in the Community Centre, Standalane, Stewarton. All equipment is provided and cost is £3 per session. For more information, contact Laura Wallace on 01560 483653 or laura.wallace@east-ayrshire.gov.uk. 

 ends 

 For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

And Connor Graham, in sixth year at Cumnock Academy, is over the moon after winning through against stiff competition from all over Scotland.

A total of ten Scottish pupils . . . → Read More: Talented Connor lands trip to NASA Space Center]]> An East Ayrshire pupil has secured a much-coveted place on a trip to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, with the Scottish Space School.

And Connor Graham, in sixth year at Cumnock Academy, is over the moon after winning through against stiff competition from all over Scotland.

A total of ten Scottish pupils will be given a rare opportunity to meet with many of the astronauts, engineers and scientists working on the space programme.

They were selected from 100 talented pupils from all over Scotland who attended the Scottish Space School at Strathclyde University in June this year, following a rigorous selection process over the summer.

The Scottish Space School is a five-day residential programme, coordinated by the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and supported by the University’s Faculty of Engineering at Strathclyde. Space School gives pupils a unique insight into career and educational opportunities available through studying science, engineering and technology.

This year’s Space School included a visit by Russian cosmonaut Anatoly Artsebarsky, NASA astronaut Alvin Drew and Spacecrafts Systems Engineer Amber Gell.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The Space School programme is a great way of educating young people about future career possibilities in areas they might not have previously considered.

“It provides a wonderful opportunity for one of our pupils to experience the trip of a lifetime. Congratulations to Connor for what I am sure is a unique opportunity for him.

“I hope many other East Ayrshire youngsters will follow in his footsteps in future years”.

Gordon McVie of Strathclyde University’s Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, said: “We were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and knowledge of this year’s Scottish Space School intake. Among them will be the engineers of the future, and each and every one has a very bright future ahead of them.

“The ten pupils selected to go to Houston will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to talk to the astronauts and engineers, and get a rare glimpse of the Johnson Space Centre, the Challenger Centre and George Observatory.

“This will provide them with a great example of just what can be achieved by engineers and scientists – and the vast array of careers available through technology-based subjects.”

Professor Scott MacGregor, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, added: “We are committed to encouraging young people to consider careers in Engineering and Science and the Scottish Space School programme allows them the opportunity to not only learn from the academics at Strathclyde but also to visit Houston and get a snapshot of the work undertaken by the some of world’s top engineers and scientists.”

Scotland’s space industry is growing rapidly, with the University playing a leading role in current research. Strathclyde is home to the Advanced Space Concepts Laboratory, a hub for research on visionary space systems, and has also launched the Centre for Future Air-Space Transportation Technology (FASTT) in a bid to revolutionise future air and space travel.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

John MacKenzie, who officially took the helm of Dalmellington’s Doon Academy in August, aims to maintain the recent good work done in the school– but also take it further.

Centre users, community members and councillors gathered to mark the first stage of the ambitious regeneration programme, . . . → Read More: £1m community centre refurb leads Valley regeneration]]> Work began this week on the £1 million refurbishment of Galston’s Community Education Centre – one of the first buildings to be developed as part of East Ayrshire Council’s £4.5 million commitment to regenerate the Irvine Valley.

Centre users, community members and councillors gathered to mark the first stage of the ambitious regeneration programme, which includes a makeover of Council offices in Galston town centre.

Builders Clark Contracts will strip out the existing building, install new mechanical and electrical services and a new passenger lift and replace the roof, windows, doors and internal fittings. Work is scheduled for completion in March 2012.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “This development emphasises our commitment to developments in the Irvine Valley. Galston will benefit from an investment of nearly £4.5 million and this is in addition to the project at Darvel Primary School which will see a further investment of £5 million”.

Performing the official part of the ceremony, Councillor Hugh Ross said: “In my time as Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, one of the things that has really impressed me is the work that goes on in our communities.

“Whether it is through youth work, adult education or community development, the commitment of participants, officers, and volunteers is one of the real success stories of East Ayrshire Council.

“It is important that the commitment of so many individuals is supported by the provision of the best possible facilities. This refurbishment will see a direct investment of £1 million in the building, which will provide a superb facility for this community in the future”.

Gordon Cunningham, Managing Director of Clark Contracts, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract which extends our relationship with East Ayrshire Council.”

The company has worked for the Council on similar contracts – Netherthird Community Centre, Ellisland Care Home, Netherthird Sports Pavilion and James Hamilton Academy.

ends

Business and Skills Enterprise Centres (BESC) in all nine secondary schools will be backed by . . . → Read More: Business chiefs back £1m schools enterprise push]]> It’s business – but not as usual – in East Ayrshire, where the Council is investing £1 million and enlisting some of Scotland’s best-known business leaders in an ambitious push to prepare school leavers for the world of work.

Business and Skills Enterprise Centres (BESC) in all nine secondary schools will be backed by the expertise of supremos such as Sir Tom Hunter and Marie Macklin.

The Business Enterprise Fund is designed to encourage entrepreneurial qualities and get more leavers into work, training or employment.

Generous entrepreneur Sir Tom has also set up an annual £ 5000 prize for the youngster who comes up with the most innovative idea – to be decided by fellow pupils. Cumnock Academy ‘old boy’ Sir Tom also offered access to his company’s expertise in e-commerce to support schools with their own online sales plans.

Headteachers met with Council leaders and business chiefs to discuss the opportunities the £1million cash boost could bring to their schools. Each Head prepared a programme, outlining key themes to pursue in their own schools.

The innovative programmes aim to address identified skills gaps such as effective communication, planning and organising, problem solving, team working and entrepreneurial leadership. The BESC will concentrate on growing Scottish industries such as tourism, food and drink, life sciences, finance, creative industries and renewables

A total of 11 business leaders have agreed to help schools achieve their aims. They include: Norman Drummond, of Drummond International and Columba 1400; Peter Hughes, chief executive of Scottish Engineering and Mark Strudwick, chief executive of the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust.

Business leaders will also join in two ‘good practice’ conferences to further motivate pupils and teachers involved in the programme. The first conference will be for senior pupils in November 2011 and the second for staff in February 2012.

The £1 million funding from East Ayrshire Council is a one-off cash boost, with schools expected to devise programmes that they can sustain in the future with their existing resources.

In a report to councillors, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services Graham Short stated that the fund was “specifically designed to make sure young people leaving school are ‘business-ready’”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “East Ayrshire schools mean business. We’re investing £1 million in our young people’s futures and have attracted backing from business leaders local and national to help make this training push a success.

“There is huge enthusiasm in schools for this very ambitious programme and there is absolutely no reason why East Ayrshire should not produce more success stories like Sir Tom Hunter in years to come”.

That’s the business
- Doon Academy will open a shop in Dalmellington town centre and start an online business selling products manufactured in school
- A school radio station will improve literacy at Kilmarnock Academy, while a school cafe will boost entrepreneurial and hospitality skills
- Auchinleck and Cumnock academies will open a ‘pre-apprenticeship centre’ at Hope Homes’ Knockroon development, with 60 pupils gaining skills in construction, architecture and engineering
- Stewarton Academy fourth-year leavers will be mentored by local businesses, while senior pupils will take part in leadership and skills development programmes
- The Co-operative Society will provide Loudoun Academy with expertise in marketing, retail and how to put together business models.
- Grange Academy plans to invest in state-of-the-art laser, plasma and computer equipment so students can manufacture items to a commercial standard. Selling is planned via e-commerce.
- James Hamilton Academy will set up and run a school shop, for which pupils will produce and sell items, including online sales
- St Joseph’s is to set up an ‘Enterprise Academy’, establish four businesses and use business advocates to mentor young people in the school and help them access internships.

In addition, the Council will explore the opportunity for an East Ayrshire online business website to maximise sales benefit from products produced in schools.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

These annual concerts are always extremely popular with parents and the local music-loving audience. They provide a performance opportunity for ensembles from . . . → Read More: Gala concert is just the ticket]]> Expectations are already high for this year’s schools’ Gala Concert, to be held on Thursday 6 October at 7pm in the Grand Hall, Kilmarnock – and tickets are on sale from Monday.

These annual concerts are always extremely popular with parents and the local music-loving audience. They provide a performance opportunity for ensembles from schools across East Ayrshire and showcase the high-quality music tuition provided by the Council’s Instrumental Music Service.

A wide variety of musical styles and instruments will be featured, including brass, wind, pipe and jazz bands; vocal groups; string orchestra; soloists; woodwind, guitar and percussion ensembles.

Paul Wood, Instrumental Music Service Manager, said: “The Gala Concert has now become an established event in the East Ayrshire calendar of arts and cultural activities”.

Tickets, costing £5.00 (£3.00 concession), will be on sale from Monday 5 September from the Palace Theatre Box Office, 9 Green Street, Kilmarnock (01563 554900). The box office will be closed on Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 September. Tickets can be reserved for collection by telephoning the box office, which will remain open until 6.45 pm on the evening of the concert.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

But now it’s time for the adults to show how it’s done!

Rock-it ball is a brand new sport incorporating elements of dodgeball and lacrosse. It’s great fun and suitable . . . → Read More: Roll up for rock-it ball!]]> Following successful clubs in Stewarton schools, the town is now set to host what will be only the third rock-it ball club in Scotland.

But now it’s time for the adults to show how it’s done!

Rock-it ball is a brand new sport incorporating elements of dodgeball and lacrosse. It’s great fun and suitable for all levels of fitness.

The new club runs every Thursday from 6-7pm in the Community Centre, Standalane. Interest in the children’s club, from 5-6pm, is already very high. The adults club has a recreational section for those who simply want to play for fun and also a team which will play in a league, once established.

All equipment is provided and the club costs only £3 per session.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Laura Wallace said: “Rock-it ball is an excellent way to keep fit while enjoying yourself. The club welcomes people of all levels of fitness – and don’t worry about having never played before, because no one has.

“Don’t be shy – you’ll be amazed at how quickly you pick it up!”

For more information or to book a place, please contact Laura Wallace on 01560 483653 or laura.wallace@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Active Schools team held their first ever Volunteer of the Year awards ceremony in Burns Monument Centre.

Each Active Schools co-ordinator nominated two . . . → Read More: Volunteers of the year keep youngsters fit]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Education Department recently rewarded the hard work and generosity of volunteers who willingly give up their free time to help young people get involved in sporting activities.

The Active Schools team held their first ever Volunteer of the Year awards ceremony in Burns Monument Centre.

Each Active Schools co-ordinator nominated two volunteers, one over the age of 18 and one under 18. Winners were selected by judges John Wilson, Links Officer in Education and Arts; Kenneth MacKinlay, Principal of the Quality Improvement Team; and Cheryl Brady, Active Schools Manager.

And there was such a strong field of talented entrants, that not one but two winners were named for each category.

Celebrating scooping the senior award were joint winners William Clark, 21, from Galston and Kilmarnock man Kyle Burns, also 21. Both were nominated by Active Schools Co-ordinator Lynsey Hogg. William and Kyle are former pupils of St Joseph’s Academy, where they had their first opportunities to volunteer through the Community Sports Leaders Award (CSLA) organised within the school.

Lynsey said: “William and Kyle are dedicated, hard-working and committed individuals who help us to provide a quality service. Both are willing to give up their time, even if that means taking time off college or work. No matter what challenges are put in front of them, they are always more than capable of delivering”.

“The rapport they have built with school pupils and school staff over the years is tremendous”.

Junior winners were former Stewarton Academy pupil Kiefer Sinclair, 18 and Lauren Sloan, also 18, formerly of James Hamilton Academy. The two were nominated by Active Schools co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham.

Gordon said: “Kiefer has been leading sessions with S1 boys through the Soccer One programme at Stewarton Academy. He plans and runs his sessions to a high standard, providing coaching at the start of each session and then allowing the pupils to play games. The PE Department and Kilmarnock Football Club have supported Kiefer with advice and kit. The school put Kiefer through his CSLA and identified Kiefer as a role model to attend the LEAD 2014 Conference at Strathclyde University.

“Lauren also completed her CSLA last year. She has delivered football sessions to P3 – P7 girls at an after school club in New Farm primary school. Lauren’s work was excellent, due to her knowledge and experience of playing football at club and international level. Lauren made each session fun and she is a fantastic role model for women’s football”.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross said: “The Volunteer of the Year award is for those who have shown first class commitment in encouraging young people to become more active, more often.

“Congratulations to William, Kyle, Kiefer and Lauren, who are excellent role models. I hope many more young people are inspired to follow their example”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

At a sodcutting ceremony on Tuesday, tots from New Cumnock Nursery attended with Headteacher Audrey Hill, along with children from New . . . → Read More: New Cumnock’s new school – top of the class!]]> New Cumnock children and families were delighted to see work begin this week on a stunning £9.6 million makeover of the village’s historic primary school, along with construction of a new linked nursery.

At a sodcutting ceremony on Tuesday, tots from New Cumnock Nursery attended with Headteacher Audrey Hill, along with children from New Cumnock Primary, accompanied by Headteacher Mary Smith. And a great time was had by all – especially when larger than life character Barney B Safe appeared on the scene!

This welcome school and nursery development forms part of East Ayrshire Council’s plans for the regeneration of the centre of New Cumnock.

The former Castle Primary building, which is an integral part of the area’s local heritage, will still exist – but it will be fully upgraded to ensure it is suitable for modern education in the 21st century.

Work on the school will include a new gym and renovation of all wall, floor, ceilings, doors and windows, along with the installation of solar panels. The layout of the building will be altered and an evacuation lift will be constructed.

The new-build, single storey nursery, which will link to the school via a covered walkway, will ensure the village benefits from a fully modern facility for its youngest learners. Provision will meanwhile continue at the former Cairnhill campus, until the move to the new premises.

Externally, there will be a new parking/drop off area and upgraded playground area, while flood defence walls will be constructed to protect the nursery and school

Barr Holdings Ltd will undertake the work, which should be completed by early 2013.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, who welcomed children, parents and Council guests to the sodcutting ceremony, said: “The ceremony marked an important new chapter not only in the life of the school and nursery, but also of New Cumnock itself.

“The school community chose the school name and new dress code and pupils Leiah Watson and April Steele designed the school badge. It reflects the local mining heritage and the clasping of hands in friendship to represent the old colours of both primaries. I know that everyone here is proud to be associated with it”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council – and no stranger to a spade – performed the sodcutting. He said: “I too am impressed by the history and traditions of New Cumnock Primary school and nursery.

“Time has moved on however and I am pleased that the building will now be completely renovated. We will even have solar panels to assist in heating water – here’s hoping for lots of sunshine in New Cumnock!

“The school and nursery will be fully fitted and equipped for learning in the 21st century and that is what all young people in New Cumnock deserve.

“I am very much looking forward to visiting in the future and seeing all the young people with their teachers, early years workers and families, enjoying what will be a great new school with nursery provision.

Barclay Chalmers, Managing Director at Barr Construction said: “This project seeks to seamlessly integrate the old with the new, which presents Barr with some interesting engineering challenges.

“We are looking forward to beginning work on the redevelopment of the school, which will become a first-class educational facility for East Ayrshire Council and will be warmly welcomed by both staff and pupils.

“We are confident the new school will be a highly-valued community resource as well as a state-of-the-art building with enviable environmental credentials.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

 For new Head Teacher Bryan Paterson – who celebrated his 51st birthday last Sunday – is determined to take the school to the top.

 Speaking in his new office last week, Bryan . . . → Read More: ‘Kilmarnock Academy is going places!’]]> The town’s historic Academy is set to be rocked – in a good way – by the self-proclaimed ‘oldest rocker in town’.

 For new Head Teacher Bryan Paterson – who celebrated his 51^st birthday last Sunday – is determined to take the school to the top.

 Speaking in his new office last week, Bryan said: “We are totally committed to raising standards and expectations for the whole school. This school is once more going to be the Academy in town. I’m quite up front about what I want to do – and indeed what I will do”.

 The dynamic Mr Paterson is determined to raise the profile of Kilmarnock Academy and to make sure every pupil achieves the best possible exam results, works to full potential and makes the right choices. And he is off to a very good start, with full backing from parents, pupils and teachers.

 Although his previous position was Depute Head Teacher at Deans Community High School in Livingston, West Lothian, Bryan is an East Ayrshire man through and through.  “Deans had its difficulties in the past, but we turned that school around and it is now one of the highest-attaining schools in West Lothian.

 “And then when I saw the post at Kilmarnock Academy was vacant, I applied with vigour”

 Born in Kilmarnock, Bryan grew up in Galston – oldest of nine children – and is a lifelong Killie fan, happy to display a photo of team emblem Nutz the squirrel on his office wall.

 Said Bryan: “My dad was on cloud nine when he heard I had got this job. He couldn’t believe – and I sometimes can’t believe – that an ordinary boy from a council house in Galston could be Head Teacher of Kilmarnock Academy. It’s great”.

 Dad Colin Paterson, 75, is well-known in the Valley, while mum Irene sadly died last year. “She would have loved this, too. I’m sure it would have been the talk of the bingo!”

 Bryan himself is married with three daughters – Laura, 21, Ruth, 19 and Sarah, 8, who are at college, university and school, respectively.

 In his spare time, he is a big music fan, going to gigs whenever possible.  He enjoys mainly British rock – favourites are Ian Hunter and Mott the Hoople, as well as Cheap Trick, whom he saw in concert last year. He also has an American favourite – rock, blues and country singer Lucinda Williams.

 As a boy, Bryan attended Galston Primary – “a great wee school” – and then Loudoun Academy from 1972-78, where he starred in school shows and on the debating platform.

 Said Bryan: “I had some fabulous teachers there. The Head was Frank Jones. Most memorable was Principal Teacher of English David MacBean, whom many former pupils and teachers will remember fondly. That man was an absolute hero”.

 Bryan went on to study politics and history at Glasgow University, before training as a teacher at Northern College, Dundee. He taught Modern Studies in Perth Academy and in Kirkton High School, Dundee, before becoming a Quality Improvement Officer – but always had an ambition to be a Head Teacher.

 “It’s great to be back in the area”, said Bryan. “I’m amazed so many people know me or my family and have spoken to me. Everyone in the school community has been very supportive.

 “All the signs are good. Kilmarnock Academy is definitely going places!”

 Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Having met with Bryan Paterson recently, I am delighted to welcome him to his new post as Head Teacher of Kilmarnock Academy. His ideas on achievement, attainment and standards fit well with East Ayrshire Council’s educational aims and objectives. I am sure the academy will go from success to success under his leadership”.

 ends 

 For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Fifteen young people aged 12–16 from Netherthird and New Cumnock took part in the East Ayrshire Youth Awards summer programme at New Cumnock Games Hall. The exciting four-day project was led by staff from East Ayrshire Council’s . . . → Read More: New Cumnock youngsters going for gold]]> It’s been a busy summer for some local youngsters, even though the schools have been on holiday.

Fifteen young people aged 12–16 from Netherthird and New Cumnock took part in the East Ayrshire Youth Awards summer programme at New Cumnock Games Hall. The exciting four-day project was led by staff from East Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development Service and New Cumnock Games Hall.

To achieve their awards, young people undertook activities to build physical, leadership and teambuilding skills. They also participated in a ‘territorialism and values’ workshop, taking part in debates and quizzes to develop negotiating and decision-making abilities.

Highlight of the week was an expedition to Galloway Activity Centre, where the youngsters canoed, windsurfed and braved the climbing wall and zip line.

Nine young people completed Bronze and four young people completed Silver Youth Achievement Awards, with two progressing towards Gold level.

Community Worker Lynn Catto said: “All staff would like to thank the young people for a fantastic week. We look forward to working with them in future programmes”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It was great to see so many young people taking up these challenges during the summer. Their hard work has been rewarded by gaining Youth Awards – but, just as important, the young people have enjoyed a range of experiences which will help develop their skills, confidence and self-esteem”.

Community Learning and Development delivers East Ayrshire Youth Awards and other youth provision. For more information on youth provision in Cumnock & Doon Valley, please contact Lynn Catto, Jim Gribben or Margaret MacBain on 01290 428430.

New Cumnock Games Hall offers a wide variety of activities including a Youth Club on Wednesdays and Fridays, 8pm-10pm; the Bodystation gym, which can be accessed by youths 14yrs+; football, badminton, X-box, Playstation 3, majorettes, zumba and more.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The only school in Scotland to have nurtured two Nobel prizewinners is celebrating its unique achievement with a free one-day conference in September – and the programme has just been revealed.

But if you want to book a place at Kilmarnock Academy’s big day – which includes buffet . . . → Read More: Global citizens, local roots: Fleming, Boyd Orr and Kilmarnock Academy]]>

KA 'old boy' Alexander Fleming

The only school in Scotland to have nurtured two Nobel prizewinners is celebrating its unique achievement with a free one-day conference in September – and the programme has just been revealed.

But if you want to book a place at Kilmarnock Academy’s big day – which includes buffet lunch – you’ll need to be quick.

The conference, which is open to all, is to honour the achievements and increase local awareness of Sir Alexander Fleming and Lord John Boyd Orr – and to look at the role of the school itself in producing a steady stream of notable scientists.

Fleming won his Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1945 for discovering penicillin. His fellow Academy old boy, Boyd Orr, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949 for his work in human nutrition.

The two great men were born just a year apart and would have attended the school at the same time, but they never knew each other.

The conference will be led by renowned scientist Hugh Pennington, Professor of Bacteriology at the University of Aberdeen. Invited speakers will cover the lives and works of Fleming and Boyd Orr and the importance of their local upbringing to their later achievements.

Keynote speakers include Professor John Stewart on ‘Science and Medicine in Scotland in the First Half of the Twentieth Century’; Professor Catriona MacDonald on ‘Scottish Education at the Turn of the Twentieth Century’; and Professor Elaine McFarland on ‘John Boyd Orr: The Making of a Global Citizen’. All three are history professors at Glasgow Caledonian University.

Their colleague, Professor Robert Pyper, Head of the Social Sciences Department, will speak about ‘John Boyd Orr: Idealism, Pragmatism, and Social Justice’.

Putting Fleming in his historical context is Kevin Brown, Curator of the Alexander Fleming Laboratory Museum in London.

Dr Neil Dickson, Chairman of the Ayrshire Federation of Historical Societies (AFHS) – as well as being a former English teacher at the school – will speak about Kilmarnock Academy in the 19th century, “a most interesting stage in its development”.

Stuart Wilson, president of Kilmarnock and District History Group, said: “This is a unique opportunity to celebrate the lives of two of Ayrshire’s most distinguished sons and the fact Kilmarnock Academy is one of only two schools in Britain – and the only one in Scotland – to have generated more than one Nobel Laureate.”

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Kilmarnock Academy has produced many notable former pupils and Sir Alexander Fleming and Lord Boyd Orr are famous all over the world for their important discoveries.

“Only one other school in the UK has produced two Nobel prizewinners – and that is Eton College, the private school in Windsor, attended by Prime Minister David Cameron.

“I would recommend this conference to anyone who has an interest in local history or science. It promises to be a remarkable day”.

The conference will take place in the Assembly Hall of Kilmarnock Academy in Elmbank Drive, Kilmarnock, on Saturday, 24 September 2011. An accompanying exhibition will be displayed in the Memorial Hall, an attractive feature of the school’s late 19th century main building.

The event is part of Glasgow Caledonian’s outreach programme, connecting the university with local communities.

This joint venture between the University and the AFHS, with the active co-operation of East Ayrshire Council, is financially supported by the Wellcome Trust through the Centre for the Social History of Health and Healthcare, Glasgow.

If you’d like to attend, don’t just turn up on the day. Please register, preferably by email, to flemingboydorr@gmail.com , or by post, to Rhona Blincow, Centre for Social History of Health and Heathcare, Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow G4 0BA.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Active Schools co-ordinators held a series of Fun Freshers Days in secondary schools across East Ayrshire. These sports days were open to all new S1 pupils due to start at their local academies after the summer . . . → Read More: Fun days for freshers]]> New kids in school had the chance to settle in and make friends – before term even began.

Active Schools co-ordinators held a series of Fun Freshers Days in secondary schools across East Ayrshire. These sports days were open to all new S1 pupils due to start at their local academies after the summer holidays, when term began on August 17.

Active Schools co-ordinator Gordon Cunningham said: “The aim is to help young people make new friends, meet some of the coaches, get used to the school and, most importantly, to have lots of fun”.

Pupils in Grange, James Hamilton, St Joseph’s, Loudoun and Stewarton academies tried out a range of different sports, such as taekwondo with Scott McMillan from local club Phoenix Taekwondo.

Y Dance led dance sessions and the Council’s Community Learning and Development section delivered team-building games. Active Schools also organised basketball, football, table tennis, volleyball and badminton. Kilmarnock Volleyball Head Coach Stuart Edgar led the Grange Volleyball Sessions.

Gordon Cunningham led the Grange Academy freshers’ sessions. He said: “Fifty-four pupils attended on day one and 50 on day two and the pupils enjoyed taking part in all the activities. Both days were excellent, with all the young people now really looking forward to making the step up to secondary school, after having lots of fun and meeting new friends.

“The majority of the group also cannot wait to take part in the wide range of Active Schools breakfast, lunch and after school clubs that are on offer”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “These Freshers Days are excellent in that they ease the transition for young people from primary 7 to first year in secondary school. It is a big step up for pupils, moving to a larger building and mixing with new classmates and teachers. Fun days like these help the children to cope with change”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, also Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, added: “A great time was had by all at the Freshers Days. The youngsters enjoyed the different sports and games on offer, giving them very positive experiences in their new academies. Thanks to all those who helped with activities – and especially to the co-ordinators who organised these events”.

ends 

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The youngsters, aged 8-18, attended a week-long dance/art summer school and finished up with a sparkling performance for friends and family in James Hamilton Academy to celebrate the event.

As well as . . . → Read More: Art of dance on show]]> Kilmarnock kids showcased not only their dance talent but also their artistic skills on stage recently, to a packed and appreciative audience.

The youngsters, aged 8-18, attended a week-long dance/art summer school and finished up with a sparkling performance for friends and family in James Hamilton Academy to celebrate the event.

As well as energetic modern dance displays on the day, the talented youngsters offered an exhibition of graffiti art which they had created throughout the week.

Two hip-hop dance tutors and two artists provided workshops in the school for the P4 – S6 pupils. The youngsters attended two dance sessions and one art workshop each day and ended up with t-shirts they had designed for wearing during their final performance and a range of large mdf backboards featuring their graffiti art.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This very popular and successful summer school’s aim was to reflect the rich heritage of the local community and to express this through art and dance.

“The showcase was a highlight of the summer and much enjoyed by the audience of family and friends who attended. Congratulations to all the young people and their tutors for their hard work in producing this excellent event”.

The summer school was co-ordinated by East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team and supported by East Ayrshire Council, Historic Scotland and Heritage Lottery Fund, through Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/Townscape Heritage Initiative.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Now in its second year, the Baccalaureate aims to encourage high-achieving young people to take science and/or modern languages to a higher . . . → Read More: East Ayrshire Council celebrates exam success]]> East Ayrshire pupils once again performed well in the SQA exams and for the second year running the authority led the way in the new Scottish Baccalaureates in Science and Languages,

Now in its second year, the Baccalaureate aims to encourage high-achieving young people to take science and/or modern languages to a higher level and so bridge the gap between school and university. It combines the results of two advanced higher subjects with a project work in a third, multidisciplinary area administered through local colleges.

This session, ten East Ayrshire pupils were part of the 174 across the country who sat the internationally recognised Baccalaureate. Of those pupils, five passed the Languages Baccalaureate with one gaining a distinction, while five passed the Sciences Baccalaureate with three pupils gaining distinctions.

Graham Short Executive Director of Educational and Social Services said : “Throughout East Ayrshire this has been a good year for exam passes. The new Baccalaureate is a particularly exciting qualification and we’re proud that a good number of our top students did so well. Their success is remarkable given that so few pupils in Scotland currently participate in the Baccalaureate. We were one of the first Local Authorities to engage with the qualification when it began, and our pupils have proved that our efforts have been worthwhile.

“Our sixth years this year have all done well. In addition to the Baccalaureate success, 214 pupils sat 287 Advanced Highers with 65 gaining A passes. Two pupils achieved 3 As.

“At fifth year level 20 pupils achieved 5 A passes at Higher grade. They were from five different schools. Stewarton Academy topped the table with a phenomenal 8 pupils achieving maximum grades while Grange Academy had 7 pupils matching this success.”

The youngsters, aged 8-18, attended a week-long dance/art summer school and finished up with a sparkling performance for families and friends to celebrate the event.

As well as energetic modern dance . . . → Read More: The art of dance on show]]> Cumnock kids showcased not only their dance but also their artistic skills in the Town Hall recently, to a packed and appreciative audience.

The youngsters, aged 8-18, attended a week-long dance/art summer school and finished up with a sparkling performance for families and friends to celebrate the event.

As well as energetic modern dance displays on the day, the talented youngsters offered an exhibition of graffiti artwork which they had been working on.

Two hip-hop dance tutors and two graffiti artists provided workshops throughout the week for the P4 – S6 pupils.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This very popular and successful summer school’s aim was to reflect the rich heritage of the local community and to express this through art and dance.

“The showcase was a highlight of the summer and much enjoyed by the audience of family and friends who attended. Congratulations to all the young people and their tutors for their hard work in producing this excellent event”.

The summer school was funded by Cumnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) and co-ordinated by East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team.

ends

In a workshop called Ye Jacobites by Name, the kids travelled through time to meet Archie Campbell, who described what it was like to be a soldier in 1745 and showed . . . → Read More: Sunny day for Knight School at castle]]> Lucky youngsters had a ball last week on the hottest day of the summer so far, in Dean Castle and its sunny courtyard.

In a workshop called Ye Jacobites by Name, the kids travelled through time to meet Archie Campbell, who described what it was like to be a soldier in 1745 and showed them the right way to wear plaid.

The children then enjoyed a VIP guided tour of the stunning castle, exploring its centuries-old hidden secrets. They also made heraldic bunting for the Palace with the help of the ladies of Dean Castle Textile Team.

This workshop was part of Heritage summer school, a series of activity days run by the Council’s Creative Minds team. P4-7 youngsters across East Ayrshire have been delving into the rich history and heritage of their local area in the school holidays.

In other events, Kilmarnock kids enjoyed hands-on workshops in two of the town’s other historic locations –the Burns Monument Centre (BMC) and the Dick Institute.

They made mosaics in The Dick and learned about the Bard’s poetry at the BMC in Kay Park, joining in a Burns treasure hunt and Tam O’Shanter drama games – as well as meeting ‘Rabbie’ himself!

Youngsters in Cumnock enjoyed learning about local hero James Keir Hardie and explored Doon by the Watter with the Ayrshire Rivers Trust.

In Dalmellington, Doon Valley Museum was the venue for local children to explore the area’s past.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross said: “It is a credit to the children that they were happy to give up time in their summer holidays to devote to this summer school.

“They have learned a lot about our rich heritage and local heroes, as well as producing some outstanding work – and, most importantly, all the young people have thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience”.

These activities were made possible through support from Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/Townscape Heritage Initiative.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

In the topical Young Apprentice project, artist Jean Hutcheson inspired children at Hurlford and Newmilns primary schools not only to get creative and learn new skills – but also . . . → Read More: Young apprentices bag success]]> Budding young artists had the chance to try out a new way of working recently, with the help of a professional artist in the classroom.

In the topical Young Apprentice project, artist Jean Hutcheson inspired children at Hurlford and Newmilns primary schools not only to get creative and learn new skills – but also to develop their entrepreneurial sides.

P6 and P7 pupils in both schools learned the art of felt-making and went on to design and make their own bags using paints, fabric and appliqué. The artist worked with each class for three full days – and never once had to say, “You’re fired!”

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross said: “The children were very keen and produced really outstanding work. Most importantly, everyone involved thoroughly enjoyed the experience – and many discovered new talents.

“Giving young people the opportunity to work with experts in their field in this way is what Curriculum for Excellence is all about”.

The Young Apprentice project was funded by the Eden Trust, which finances arts in education projects in East Ayrshire. It was co-ordinated by East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds Team, championing arts and cultural learning opportunities for young people.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Primary school pupils from the Stewarton area were put through their paces by Laura Wallace, Active Schools Coordinator and her team of assistants and volunteers. . . . → Read More: Summer camp fun at Stewarton]]> The summer holidays got off to a very active start in Stewarton thanks to the Active Schools Summer Camp which ran from Monday 4 July to Friday 8 July.

Primary school pupils from the Stewarton area were put through their paces by Laura Wallace, Active Schools Coordinator and her team of assistants and volunteers. Each morning Primary 1 to Primary 3 children took part in a multi-sport camp and where tried three different activities. This means they got through a whopping 15 activities including athletics, badminton, basketball, football, rugby, rounders, taekwondo, judo, tug of war, Zumba, parachute games, boccia, hockey, golf and handball!

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Promoting Lifelong Learning said: “Active schools holidays camps are always incredibly popular with our young people. The only criticism we have had is that they aren’t long enough. In response Laura Wallace and her team developed a five day programme which allowed our youngsters to try lots more fun activities. Primary 4 to Primary 7 pupils were involved in the afternoon sessions each day and participated in a week long rock-it-ball camp. The young people of Stewarton have really taken to this sport and we hope to start a community club very soon to enable them to play the sport long term.

“I was also like to say a huge thank you to Cluarankwai Judo Club, Phoenix Taekwondo, Ayrshire Tug of War and Zumba with Maggie who all gave up their time free of charge to provide fantastic sessions which the youngsters thoroughly enjoyed.”

Ends

Barshare Primary became the 1,300th Scottish school to be awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for environmental excellence – and also opened its new sensory garden and outdoor classroom.

The outdoor area was developed – as a result of a . . . → Read More: Green-fingered kids in double celebration]]> A Cumnock primary school recently celebrated double success in its work for the environment.

Barshare Primary became the 1,300th Scottish school to be awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for environmental excellence – and also opened its new sensory garden and outdoor classroom.

The outdoor area was developed – as a result of a successful bid to Awards for All for funding – by The Garden Gang, made up of pupils from every stage of the school, led by Miss Borthwick and Mrs Blaney.

The Gang turned an unused area of school grounds into a space where children can explore sensory plants. The various smells and touch sensations help engage children with the plants and a range of equipment allows different senses to be heightened to enhance learning.

There is also a canopied area where, regardless of the weather, classes can gather and work under shelter.

Acting Head Teacher Angela Hastings said: “We have worked closely with local businesses and friends of Barshare Primary to bring this area together. All we need to do now is get outside, begin exploring and let our imaginations run wild!”

Children and staff also put in lots of hard work to attain Green Flag Award status – and eco-awareness is very much a whole-school initiative.

The Eco-Schools programme is an international initiative – funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership with Keep Scotland Beautiful – designed to encourage whole-school action for the environment. The scheme accredits schools which make a commitment to improve environmental performance. It also helps to raise awareness of environmental issues.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Not only have the children of Barshare created a wonderful new sensory garden, but they have also achieved Green Flag status for the school. These are both great achievements – and an excellent way to end another successful school session”.

Kate Campbell, Eco-Schools Manager in Scotland said: “Reaching the award of our 1,300th Green Flag is a fantastic achievement and shows just how determined Scotland’s young people are to look after and enhance their environment.

“With 98% of all local authority schools registered on the Eco-Schools Scotland programme, we’re sure it won’t be long before we’re celebrating our 1,400th Green Flag!”

Derek A. Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, which manages the Eco-Schools programme, said: “Scotland is one of the leading countries in the world when it comes to Eco-Schools awards and schools such as Barshare Primary are wonderful examples of just what can be achieved”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Loudoun Academy S1 pupil Nairn Murray, 13, from Darvel, won the International Women’s Day Essay Competition run by Cathy Jamieson MP. Pupils were asked to write about women who had made an impact on the world, . . . → Read More: Young writer celebrates inspiring woman]]> A young writer recently celebrated winning a prestigious competition with her touching essay about an inspiring female figure.

Loudoun Academy S1 pupil Nairn Murray, 13, from Darvel, won the International Women’s Day Essay Competition run by Cathy Jamieson MP. Pupils were asked to write about women who had made an impact on the world, or who were important to them personally.

Nairn wrote about the experience of acid attack victim Katie Piper, after seeing the TV documentary ‘Katie: My Beautiful Friends’. Nairn was inspired by Katie’s strength as she not only struggled to deal with her own facial disfigurement, but also tried to help others, by setting up The Katie Piper Foundation.

English teacher Lynette Johnston said: “We are all proud of Nairn’s achievement. Her essay was thoughtful and mature in its approach to the subject”.

In addition, two pupils were awarded highly commended certificates: Sharine Lindores, 12, from Galston and Carly Davidson, 12, Fenwick.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Hugh Ross said: “I understand Mrs Johnston’s whole class entered this competition and the essays were of a very high standard. Well done to all the young people for the effort they have put into this – and special congratulations to Nairn, Sharine and Carly on their awards”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

A Stewarton school recently became the first primary in East Ayrshire to gain Fairtrade status – and now the kids are aiming to make it a Fair Trade town.

Pupils and staff of Lainshaw Primary are celebrated their outstanding award – which is due to the hard work . . . → Read More: Young Fairtraders’ big plans for Stewarton]]> Young Fairtraders’ big plans for Stewarton

A Stewarton school recently became the first primary in East Ayrshire to gain Fairtrade status – and now the kids are aiming to make it a Fair Trade town.

Pupils and staff of Lainshaw Primary are celebrated their outstanding award – which is due to the hard work of Fairtrade Group children, Depute Head Teacher Muriel Bennett and classroom assistant Alison Williams.

The school’s first Fairtrade Group was formed in October 2007, when P7 pupils set up ‘Fairtrade Thursday’ and sold chocolate, fruit and geo bars.

To gain full Fairtrade status, the school had to have a policy for Fairtrade and evidence of their sales. Lainshaw now has an annual sales turnover of up to £1200.

The school also had to show lesson plans and evidence of pupils’ work covering at least three curricular areas.

Muriel Bennett said: “We are delighted to have been given the Fairtrade award for all our hard work.

“Last year, several teachers delivered Fairtrade lessons in environmental studies, geography, art, design, ICT, literacy and numeracy. The lessons included the meaning of Fairtrade, countries where Fairtrade products are grown and the impact Fairtrade has on communities in developing countries.

“We have also done whole-school events such as the ‘Snack Attack Challenge’. We designed bunting for a Fairtrade world record and organised a book sale which made £200. We bought chickens, goats and water wells through Oxfam with this money. The nursery and P1 had coffee mornings and P7 made games to help younger pupils understand what Fairtrade means”.

“Our school minister Rev George Lind said St Columba’s Church was a Fairtrade Church – so now we will work towards making Stewarton a Fairtrade town!”

Councillor Hugh Ross said: “Gaining Fairtrade status is an outstanding achievement for Lainshaw Primary. During the last four years, teachers and pupils in the school have learnt a lot about Fairtrade and Global Citizenship. I wish them all the best in their plans for the future”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Sorn is the third East Ayrshire primary school in recent weeks to have work started . . . → Read More: Sunshine on Sorn school refurb]]> “We had hail at Darvel and rain at Gargieston – but today we have sunshine at Sorn, for this ceremony to mark the start of refurbishment work at the school”, said Leader of the Council Councillor Douglas Reid onTuesday.

Sorn is the third East Ayrshire primary school in recent weeks to have work started on it.

Parents and friends gathered in the sunny playground alongside Provost Stephanie Young, elected members and Council officers to see Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, officially mark the start of the renovations – ably assisted by pupils Georgia Haddow, 11 and Logan Middleton,10.

Refurbishment of the building will include new access, internal alterations and demolition and reinstatement of the school’s historic clock tower. The existing tower only has a flat top – but it is planned to reinstate a spire termination detail, finished in lead work.

Internal alterations include a revised floor plan which reduces the classrooms from four to three to allow additional space for a library/resource room with toilet. The new layout will also include a general office to the front of the school with a separate head teacher’s office. On the opposite side of the school, a staff room will be formed.

Councillor Douglas Reid said: “It seems a long time now since the Education Cabinet took the decision to safeguard the future of Sorn Primary School at its meeting in March 2008. Since then, myself and Cabinet colleagues have kept a very close eye on the progress of this project. It would be fair to say that this has not been easy, since we have set ourselves high standards and it was really important that the refurbishment met the needs not only of the school, but of the community.

“The ceremony here today will mark an important new chapter not only in the life of the school, but also of Sorn village itself”.

Councillor Jim Roberts said: “From the outside, the school is a wonderful looking building. In the inside however, it was clear to me from the outset that it did not present the environment that we would want for a modern 21st century school. Accommodation was cramped and some very basic facilities were lacking.

“This refurbishment project will address all of the main issues that were identified early on. I am proud to be associated with this project that will deliver a facility that will be real asset to the Sorn community and surrounding area.

“I am really looking forward to the children and staff returning to a modernised facility, which also maintains the charm of the outside of the building”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Coffee Press in Bank Street is currently displaying a mini-exhibition of stunning stained glass work created by S3-S5 pupils of Grange Academy.

The youngsters attended Heritage Glass school in the October holidays, organised by the . . . → Read More: Have some art with your coffee]]> As well as enjoying a cappuccino, visitors to a local coffee shop can look at some lovely artwork.

The Coffee Press in Bank Street is currently displaying a mini-exhibition of stunning stained glass work created by S3-S5 pupils of Grange Academy.

The youngsters attended Heritage Glass school in the October holidays, organised by the Council’s Creative Minds Team supported by Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/ Townscape Heritage Initiative (CARS/THI.)

The budding artists were inspired by the rich local heritage and architecture of Kilmarnock, which they translated into beautiful pieces of glass art, with the guidance of artist Kate O’Hara.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, thanked Coffee Press owners Debbie and Alistair Hood for exhibiting the art, allowing town centre shoppers the opportunity to enjoy the students’ outstanding work.

He said: “This exhibition gives people who perhaps might not normally visit an art gallery the opportunity to enjoy this artwork in a different environment.

“It also highlights the excellent work being done in Kilmarnock to regenerate and preserve historic buildings and landmarks, which are part of our rich cultural heritage”.

Debbie Hood said: “Lots of people have mentioned the stained glass pictures very favourably and when we tell them the pieces were done by schoolchildren, they take a second look.

“We’re very happy to show the artwork. Sometimes passers-by just don’t notice the lovely architecture of town centre buildings and these pictures help bring it to their attention.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Historic Scotland’s stonemasons, carpenters, slaters, lead workers and brickworkers led activity days where youngsters got expert tuition in traditional building . . . → Read More: Crafty kids get their hands in]]> Two hundred and fifty pupils from schools across East Ayrshire recently had the chance to try their hands at traditional building skills at Dumfries House, one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes, near Auchinleck.

Historic Scotland’s stonemasons, carpenters, slaters, lead workers and brickworkers led activity days where youngsters got expert tuition in traditional building skills.

Primary 6 and 7 pupils from Hillhead, Newmilns and Barshare primary schools and S1 youngsters from Cumnock and Auchinleck Academies attended the hands-on sessions with the trained craftsmen. The young people were also taken on a tour of the 2,000-acre estate by Bill Russell of Dumfries House. Historic Scotland’s Innes Drummond then led groups on visits to the ‘bothy’ in the grounds of the 18th century stately home.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is a great way for our pupils to find out more about traditional building skills. It also gives them the opportunity to sample possible career paths they rnay like to pursue.

“Such vocational training fits perfectly with the Curriculurn for Excellence, giving pupils experience of practical work and skills-related training.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration, said: “This educational project has strong links with the physical regeneration projects currently being carried out in Kilmarnock and Cumnock. These activity sessions will help young people understand the craftsmanship involved in the work which is taking place on our historic buildings and landmarks”.

David Mitchell, Historic Scotland’s Conservation Group Director, said: “This is a really good way of giving young people hands-on tuition in a variety of traditional building skills.
‘What’s more, we hope that this might inspire some of the young people involved to take up a career in traditional building skills and preserve our magnificent Scottish building heritage for future generations to enjoy.’

The activities were organised as part of the educational outreach aims of the Kilmarnock Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme/ Townscape Heritage Initiative (CARS/THI) and the Cumnock CARS and supported by funders East Ayrshire Council, Historic Scotland and the Heritage Lottery Fund. The week-long series of events was organised with Historic Scotland’s Technical Outreach and Education team.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Andrew Barclay (S3) and Andrew McCluskie (S1) represented the school in the English Speaking Union’s National Junior Debating Final in the Scottish Parliament.

The boys reached the final four out of 128 schools from all over Scotland – and Grange . . . → Read More: Grange Academy good news]]> Grange Academy, Kilmarnock, has ended a busy session with yet more success to celebrate.

Andrew Barclay (S3) and Andrew McCluskie (S1) represented the school in the English Speaking Union’s National Junior Debating Final in the Scottish Parliament.

The boys reached the final four out of 128 schools from all over Scotland – and Grange Academy was the only state school left in the competition. They were accompanied to Holyrood by Principal Teacher of English Mary MacKinnon and debating coach Hayley Shaw.

The boys opposed the motion, “This House believes that Scotland should be independent from England” and performed exceptionally well, but eventually lost out to Robert Gordon’s College.

Hayley Shaw said: “I am immensely proud of the boys’ accomplishments. Neither has debated previously and to achieve such a high standard after only one year is incredible!”

In other good news, caring youngsters worked hard to help the hospice. Third and fourth year pupils raised money for the Ayrshire Hospice by providing teas and coffees for school staff and parents at various open evenings throughout the school year.

Lorraine Wilson of the English Department and pupils Heather Strawhorn, Jennifer Galt and Ami Chojnowski collected a grand total of £212.50, which was donated to hospice charity representative Lynne Bateman.

Teacher Lorraine Wilson said: “This is a wonderful achievement for our responsible citizens in Grange Academy”.

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Hugh Ross said: “These good news stories are representative of the hard work and effective contributions of our young people in Grange Academy and indeed in schools all over East Ayrshire.

“Participating in competitions like this builds confidence – and working to help others makes young people develop into responsible citizens, which is what Curriculum for Excellence is all about”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Prince’s Trust xl club made the film Beat the Bully to help fellow pupils to recognise different kinds of bullying – and to help them to . . . → Read More: Oscar winners aim to Beat the Bully]]> Young filmmakers at Kilmarnock Academy were rewarded for their efforts recently, when they attended the premiere of their first-ever film – and received Oscars into the bargain.

The Prince’s Trust xl club made the film Beat the Bully to help fellow pupils to recognise different kinds of bullying – and to help them to deal with it.

The film is aimed at educating and informing other young people and will be shown in schools and youth clubs across East Ayrshire.

Third year pupils at Kilmarnock Academy can opt to join the Prince’s Trust group and follow the course, which focuses on personal development, citizenship and enterprise, for two years. Community Link worker Pauline Donnelly works with the young people in the school.

Attending the premiere, Councillor Iain Linton, Depute Leader of the Council, said: “I was delighted to meet the young people who created this film and I thoroughly enjoyed watching it.

“Bullying has to be brought out into the open and it has to be dealt with. This film will help young people and those who work with them to do just that.”

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to the young people on their outstanding achievement. This excellent film gets a strong message across very clearly. We can – and we must – Beat the Bully”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Y Dance, in partnership with the Council’s Active Schools and Creative Minds teams, organised the show starring budding dancers from schools and community groups across East Ayrshire. The youngsters dazzled the . . . → Read More: Y Dance? It’s fun!]]> Young dancers put on a great performance for 200 family and friends at the East Ayrshire Dance Festival in Kilmarnock Academy last week.

Y Dance, in partnership with the Council’s Active Schools and Creative Minds teams, organised the show starring budding dancers from schools and community groups across East Ayrshire. The youngsters dazzled the audience with lively hip hop, jazz and contemporary dance routines.

The Council’s Dance Motivator Zara Smith said: “The idea of the festival is to showcase the dance talent of young people in East Ayrshire. The show went really well and the children were excellent. It has been a pleasure working with all of them”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to all the young people and staff involved in putting on this very successful and enjoyable dance festival.

“It is important for the children’s talent and hard work to be recognised and displayed in this way – and I’m sure their families and schools are very proud of them”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Darvel Nursery School held a ‘clinic’ – supported by Strathclyde Fire and Rescue – to raise the number of donors on the Anthony Nolan stem cell register.

 The challenging quiz – designed to test young readers’ knowledge of books and writers – involved teams of four pupils from five East Ayrshire secondary schools: Kilmarnock, Grange, . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock quiz kids scoop Readers’ Cup]]>  The East Ayrshire Readers’ Cup – now in its seventh year – recently drew entrants from across the area to a hard-fought final in Auchinleck Academy. 

 The challenging quiz – designed to test young readers’ knowledge of books and writers – involved teams of four pupils from five East Ayrshire secondary schools: Kilmarnock, Grange, St Joseph’s, Auchinleck and Doon Academies.

 Supporters accompanying the teams also had the opportunity to show their knowledge by taking part in questions between rounds, as well as cheering on their friends.

 St Joseph’s Academy quiz kids were the winners, beating Auchinleck and Grange Academies into second and third place respectively. 

 The winning team scooped the Readers’ Cup – donated by the East Ayrshire Library Service – in addition to book tokens and goodie bags contributed by East Ayrshire School Libraries. 

 Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This quiz is an excellent annual event to get young readers thinking about what they have read. Thanks to the school librarians for organising this very spirited competition – and congratulations to our worthy winners, St Joseph’s Academy, who demonstrated an outstanding knowledge of authors and books”.

 Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services, added: “It is wonderful to see so many knowledgeable young people enjoying and benefiting from reading. It is such an important skill – and the enjoyment of books is clearly alive and well in our schools today”.

 ends 

 For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

At the end of her Headteacher’s report, James Hamilton Academy Headteacher Janis Teale introduced the short film “Our Hidden Landscape”, which was scripted by two pupils in response to recent portrayals of Kilmarnock in BBC’s The Scheme.

Third . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock on screen – and not The Scheme]]> Parents and guests at a school prizegiving last week were treated to a surprise film premiere.

At the end of her Headteacher’s report, James Hamilton Academy Headteacher Janis Teale introduced the short film “Our Hidden Landscape”, which was scripted by two pupils in response to recent portrayals of Kilmarnock in BBC’s The Scheme.

Third years Molly Gladman and Scott Robertson were keen to celebrate the town on film – and the enterprising youngsters even enlisted the support of a BBC film crew to do it.

The school had to seek the BBC’s permission for this first public showing of the five-minute film. James Hamilton Academy includes Onthank Primary School in its catchment area and many pupils in the school were angered and embarrassed by what they considered an inaccurate portrayal of life in the area.

Scott and Molly won the chance to work with a BBC film crew to make their own programme on an issue which was important to them. In this case – it was their hard-hitting response to the controversial TV documentary.

Pupils were asked to storyboard entries to help the BBC judging panel choose winners. James Hamilton Academy was one of only six Scottish schools to have their ideas professionally filmed.

The BBC team took the lead from the budding filmmakers about where to film in the area. The youngsters suggested locations at Burns Monument Centre, Kay Park and historic Dean Castle. The final result was a five-minute film for the BBC Learning Zone website.

Head Teacher Janis Teale said: “I am delighted that the pupils not only had the chance to develop skills for learning, life and work, but that they did so through working with such a prestigious organisation as the BBC”.

Councillor Hugh Ross, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This was an excellent film, showing the real landscape and folk of Kilmarnock, through the eyes of our young people.

“They deserve great credit for their work and I am delighted to thank them for their very innovative and creative response. All credit to Molly, Scott and friends for their brilliant idea of showing Kilmarnock as it is – a great place to live and work”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Following their successful bid, the Parents and Friends of Onthank Nursery School were granted £7610 from Children in Need to buy fantastic new play equipment.

Parents Committee Chairperson Karen Paterson and nursery Headteacher . . . → Read More: New Pudsey playground for Onthank tots]]> Children at a north-west area nursery are jumping for joy – and they have a brand new playground to do it in!

Following their successful bid, the Parents and Friends of Onthank Nursery School were granted £7610 from Children in Need to buy fantastic new play equipment.

Parents Committee Chairperson Karen Paterson and nursery Headteacher Fiona Kellett attended an awards ceremony in March, where Bryan Burnett of Radio Scotland presented the award.

The money was used to fund play equipment for the playground – and it was the children who decided just what they would like to have. Even the rain could not deter the youngsters as their new play area was formally opened last week in a ceremony attended by local Councillors Willie Coffey, Helen Coffey and Maureen McKay.

Head Teacher Fiona Kellett said: “We now have a play train with carriage, an adventure trail, a multiple play unit, a treehouse with a slide, rock wall and mini sand box, as well as benches and picnic tables.

“It has totally transformed our play area and has provided the children with challenge in their physical play outdoors. This new equipment is a very welcome addition to our Green Flag Garden”

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Onthank is an amazing and very popular nursery – and this new equipment can only enhance it even more. The whole garden area is lovely, with all the flowers now in bloom and I hope the youngsters enjoy many happy days playing and learning outside.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Active Schools Co-ordinator Laura Wallace has been running the cycling club on Wednesday afternoons in the primary school playground, with support from Walker’s Cycles, who have done safety checks and coached the children for free.

Laura . . . → Read More: Kilmaurs kids get on their bikes]]> Youngsters are picking up skills to keep them safe while cycling, thanks to an after-school scheme in Kilmaurs.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Laura Wallace has been running the cycling club on Wednesday afternoons in the primary school playground, with support from Walker’s Cycles, who have done safety checks and coached the children for free.

Laura said: “We decided to offer Primaries 3 and 4 a five-week block each, as these stages tend to have fewer opportunities than older children for extra-curricular clubs.

“The first block, for P3s, has just finished and there were 12 children who attended weekly. The new block, for P4s, involves 14 children.

“Dan Howes, qualified Bikeability coach, leads the club, with support from teacher Karen Robb. Walker’s Cycles have been very generous – not only offering Dan’s services, but also offering free bike checks”.

Laura added: “All equipment has to be checked before the children can participate. Susan Walker invited the children to take their bikes and helmets to the shop prior to the first session to have them checked free – a service which normally costs £15.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning said: “The P3 children thoroughly enjoyed the club and the P4s are now having a great time too.

“Not only that, but they are learning valuable skills which will help keep them safe in the future”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The river, from its Dalmellington source all the way to the sea, provides pleasure and employment for many – and its future had . . . → Read More: Youngsters celebrate bright future for River Doon]]> Young people from different ends of Ayrshire joined in a riverbank tea party at the Brig O’ Doon Hotel, Alloway, to celebrate the saving of the River Doon for future generations.

The river, from its Dalmellington source all the way to the sea, provides pleasure and employment for many – and its future had been threatened.

One thing the eight children from Dalmellington Primary School in East Ayrshire and eight from Doonfoot Primary, South Ayrshire, had in common was their delight that the river will still be there to enjoy – or even provide employment for them – when they grow up.

The tea party by the “bonnie Doon” – attended also by representatives of East and South Ayrshire Councils, Ayrshire Rivers Trust and Save the Doon campaign group – followed on Scottish Power’s announcement of its decision to stop plans to reduce water flow in the River Doon from the Galloway Hydro Scheme.

A reduction in the river flow would have badly affected fish and wildlife and would have had a damaging effect on angling, canoeing and walking – all of which are enjoyed by local people and tourists.

The Dalmellington pupils began the day with an early morning expedition to Ness Glen on the Craigengillan Estate. The river there is teeming with healthy fish life and the children netted young salmon, trout and eels within minutes.

Welcoming the children, teachers and local Councillors Elaine Dinwoodie, Drew Filson and Moira Pirie, landowner Mark Gibson said: “The white water rapids here are perfect for canoeists who want to train at the highest level – and it’s free. I love having people here, using the river and the land”.

But the youngsters – who have studied topics such as Salmon in the Classroom with Ayrshire Rivers Trust biologist Brian Shaw – were clear where their priorities lay.

Jade Nelson, P7, Dalmellington Primary School, said: “It helps the environment and the wild life that the river has been saved.”

Classmate Mhairi Stewart said: “I think it is good for the fishes swimming there and it will keep them healthy.”

And fellow Dalmellington pupil Tommy Smith added: “The scenery is good when the water is there. If there was less water, it would not look so scenic.”

The children from the other end of the Doon were also delighted that the river’s flow would remain unaffected. Amy Topping, P7, Doonfoot Primary School, said: “It is good because more people can go canoeing. It wouldn’t be any fun if it narrowed.”

And Catriona Atkinson, P7, added: “It is really good, as the river is at the bottom of my garden and I can watch the wildlife and the salmon.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “The impact of the diversion would have been terrible for the local community and businesses that rely on visitors – it’s fantastic news that the future of this iconic river is secured for the children here today and for tomorrow’s children.

“Scottish Power has shown just how responsive a multi-national company can be by responding so positively. It is a real act of good faith which will be welcomed across Ayrshire and the Doon Valley – we can now look forward to a very bright future for our area.”

Councillor Peter Convery, South Ayrshire Council’s Environment and Sustainability Portfolio Holder, said: “It’s great to see the kids relaxing and having fun by the Doon – something which would have been at risk, had Scottish Power progressed its plans. Thankfully, common sense has prevailed and we’re delighted with the outcome”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Woodstock School, Kilmarnock, has just been awarded its third Green Flag – the first school in the whole of East Ayrshire to reach this level of Eco success. The special school was also the first-ever in East Ayrshire to get a green . . . → Read More: Green flag is go for eco kids]]> Local youngsters are celebrating winning a top environmental award against the odds.

Woodstock School, Kilmarnock, has just been awarded its third Green Flag – the first school in the whole of East Ayrshire to reach this level of Eco success. The special school was also the first-ever in East Ayrshire to get a green flag, back in April 2009.

And the good news is – they will be able to take their new flag with them when they move into their new-build Willowbank school in Grassyards Road, rather than having to start from scratch again.

The Green Flag award is the top level in the Eco-Schools programme and is rigorously assessed by inspectors.

All Woodstock pupils are involved in the Garden Force Project and senior pupils have shared their successful recycling projects with 12 European schools – for which they won a second Quality E-twinning Award.

The hard-working youngsters also run a very successful Fair Trade Cafe, while partnerships with local businesses and charities have grown from strength to strength.

The school’s new Eco Code – “Work local, help global” – also allows pupils to make a difference on a wider scale.

Headteacher Linda Macphee said: “As we are judged under the same criteria as mainstream schools, this is an exceptional achievement. The pupils have overcome barriers ‘to be the best they can be’.

“Eco schools ideals are embedded into everyday life at Woodstock. Classes have studied all nine Eco topics and we have also involved Witchhill School in our recycling and gardening initiatives.

“Following the introduction of the new Eco guidelines, the school is excited about maintaining its third Green Flag status. In the coming year, we will be working with Witchhill to take this status into our joint new school, Willowbank”.

Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services, said: “Earning a third Green Flag is a superb achievement and one of which the Head Teacher, staff and the young people can be justifiably proud. It was really good also to hear that the flag will be taken to Willowbank, when they move. What a terrific start to the new school”.

Willowbank is the new, state-of-the-art Special School being built on the former Park School site on Grassyards Road, Kilmarnock. The school, due to open in 2012, will be formed by the merging of Woodstock and Witchhill Special Schools. It will provide education for up to 50 primary and secondary pupils with complex additional support needs. There will be ten classrooms, plus special activity rooms for art, music and life skills, as well as a therapy pool and medical suite

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Good progress is being made with the building of Willowbank. Parents, carers and staff had the opportunity recently to see a computerised ‘fly through’ of what the school will look like.

“At the same meeting, the Interim Parent Council gave an early alert to parents and carers of the arrangements for the consultation which is going to be carried out in relation to Willowbank’s new school uniform and school logo”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds team is offering free, week-long dance summer schools to interested youngsters in Kilmarnock and Cumnock.

Cumnock sessions take place 25 – 29 July, at Cumnock Academy, with a final show in the . . . → Read More: Just dance this summer]]> There’s plenty to keep kids active this summer – even if the weather is not so great.

East Ayrshire Council’s Creative Minds team is offering free, week-long dance summer schools to interested youngsters in Kilmarnock and Cumnock.

Cumnock sessions take place 25 – 29 July, at Cumnock Academy, with a final show in the town hall for friends and family. Two hip-hop dance tutors and two graffiti artists will provide workshops for up to 90 children from P4-S6, from 10am-3pm.

The same workshops are on offer at Kilmarnock Academy, 1 – 5 August, with the final show taking place in the school.

For more information or an application form, parents should contact Dance Motivator Zara Smith on 01563 555634, email zara.smith@east-ayrshire.gov.uk or ask in their child’s school for an application form.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

“The children acquitted themselves well and had a great time travelling to Edinburgh and being in Holyrood”, said Headteacher Diane Wright. “They thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience”.

Thirty teams of . . . → Read More: Silverwood pupils create Euroquiz buzz at Holyrood]]> They may not have won… but pupils from Silverwood Primary School had a ball at the Euroquiz finals in the Scottish Parliament on Monday.

“The children acquitted themselves well and had a great time travelling to Edinburgh and being in Holyrood”, said Headteacher Diane Wright. “They thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience”.

Thirty teams of primary six pupils from schools all over Scotland arrived at the Parliament’s debating chamber with high hopes of being crowned Euroquiz 2011 winners.

The quiz is run by the Scottish European Educational Trust (SEET) with over 1500 pupils from 370 schools competing in the heats held across 30 of the 32 local authorities throughout the school year.

The quiz aims to help pupils develop their knowledge of Europe and the European Union, as well as getting them to use core skills such as teamwork and communication.

This year’s winning team was The Edinburgh Academy, Midlothian.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Euroquiz is a fantastic event to be involved with. The Silverwood team demonstrated an incredible knowledge and understanding of Europe. I’m sure all of those who participated in the heats will have gained skills and knowledge that will benefit them in the future”.

Gerald Wilson, Chairman of the Scottish European Educational Trust, said: “Euroquiz ticks so many educational and other boxes, not least the opportunity for primary school children to experience the excitement of competing in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The concert, organised by Stewarton Bands Support Group (SBSG), played to a packed audience. It featured all four Stewarton area school bands– the new Primary 6 Band, Primary 7 Band and the Junior and Senior Wind Ensembles . . . → Read More: Stewarton young musicians on song]]> Stewarton youngsters’ concert of music and song was a roaring success in Kilmarnock’s Grand Hall last Wednesday.

The concert, organised by Stewarton Bands Support Group (SBSG), played to a packed audience. It featured all four Stewarton area school bands– the new Primary 6 Band, Primary 7 Band and the Junior and Senior Wind Ensembles – and Stewarton Academy students singing songs from their forthcoming production of smash-hit musical ‘Hairspray’.

East Ayrshire Council Instrumental Music Services Manager Paul Wood said: “There’s an amazing amount of high quality music-making taking place in Stewarton Academy and its associated primary schools. For the area to have four wind ensembles of this standard is testimony to the hard work that is put in by everyone involved.”

Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning Councillor Jim Roberts said: “This was an excellent evening of high quality musical entertainment, with something for everyone.

“Congratulations to the young people – and thanks to their tutors and the support group for making this concert possible”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

P4 pupils from Hillhead Primary were working on the Salmon in the Classroom project with Ayrshire Rivers Trust biologists Brian Shaw and Gillian Murray. The children incubated and hatched salmon eggs from a . . . → Read More: Salmon in the Classroom]]> Youngsters from a local primary school took learning out of the classroom recently, as they explored fish life in Kilmarnock Water.

P4 pupils from Hillhead Primary were working on the Salmon in the Classroom project with Ayrshire Rivers Trust biologists Brian Shaw and Gillian Murray. The children incubated and hatched salmon eggs from a local river in an aquarium in the classroom, before releasing the alevins into an artificial nest in the Kilmarnock Water, downstream of Dean Castle Park.

The highlight was when the children found a salmon fry during an electrofishing field trip on the last day of the project. Other discoveries included brown trout, stone loach, minnows and a huge eel. The pupils also identified mayflies, stoneflies and caddis flies – all signs of a healthy river.

In a letter to the Trust, the pupils said: “Our absolute favourite part was coming to the Kilmarnock Water and taking part in electrofishing. We found five types of fish, we didn’t harm the fish and we saw things we would never otherwise see. Without the Rivers Trust coming to our school, we would never have hatched salmon eggs. We are very proud of ourselves”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is an excellent initiative that brings experts into schools to work with children. It’s great to see the youngsters clearly enjoying learning outwith the classroom environment, which makes it all the more memorable for them”.

Biologist Gillian Murray said: “The pupils were enthusiastic and quick learners and were good at remembering the names of each stage of the salmon lifecycle”.

Brian Shaw added: “It is usually impossible to know whether salmon fry found during electrofishing trips were from those reared in the classroom, or naturally spawned. In this case we can be certain it was one of the salmon hatched by the class, as salmon cannot currently reach this part of the river, due to the man-made modifications at Black Rocks waterfall”.

This will soon be resolved as Ayrshire Rivers Trust, with funding provided by SEPA, Barr Environmental and East Ayrshire Council, is building a fish pass at Black Rocks Waterfall this summer, to allow migratory fish upstream to spawn.

Five other East Ayrshire schools participated in Salmon in the Classroom – Hurlford, Newmilns, Galston Barshare and Patna.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Active Schools is looking for volunteers with all levels of experience to help with school-based sports and activity clubs. These are extra-curricular clubs which run at lunchtime or . . . → Read More: HELP YOUNG PEOPLE GET MORE ACTIVE]]> If you like sport, or if you have children or grandchildren – why not think about volunteering to help young people be more active, more often?

Active Schools is looking for volunteers with all levels of experience to help with school-based sports and activity clubs. These are extra-curricular clubs which run at lunchtime or after school in primary, secondary and special schools throughout East Ayrshire.

You don’t need any previous experience of doing this – and you don’t need to be an expert. All you need is one or two spare hours a week. Volunteers will be given full training and support, as well as the opportunity to shadow one of the Active School Co-ordinators, to gain insight and further experience.

Volunteers have to be over 16 and will be subject to Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme vetting, in order to work with young people.

There’s a range of activities on offer – walking, skating, judo, athletics, cricket, golf, dancing, playground games, trampolining… and much more.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Andy Black said: “We are keen to recruit volunteers and I’d be happy to speak with anyone who wants to take that first step and find out more. We’re looking for adults to provide support at activity sessions, as we have plenty of young people who want to take part.

“We’re also looking for people who would like to receive training, in order to lead sessions in the sport or activity of their choice, be it football, badminton, basketball, or other sports.

“These volunteers will benefit from the training we provide and will be able to gain national governing body awards from the Scottish Football Association (SFA), basketballscotland and the like. It’s great experience for the volunteers – as well as helping them keep active!

“We’d really like more parents and grandparents to get involved, but we’re also looking to create more links between local clubs and schools”.

Such links already exist. Gargieston Primary is linked with Portland Bowling Club. Primary 7 children walk there once a week and do bowling, learning new skills from the members. It also helps the clubs develop potential future members. Some football clubs and cycling clubs also link with schools.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Active Schools is all about providing opportunities for the whole school community, including parents, teachers and pupils. In being more active, there will be positive health benefits in the long term.

“I would encourage any parent, grandparent or interested person to volunteer and support our Active Schools co-ordinators in running these very worthwhile clubs for our youngsters”.

If you are a member of a local sports club, a parent or grandparent – or just someone who has one or two hours a week to spare – and you’d like to help, please contact Andy Black on 01563 524784 or email andrew.black@east-ayrshire.gov.uk for more information.

See also http://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/activeschools/ and www.sportscotland.org.uk .

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Regardless of the weather, the local 16 and 17-year-olds dug deep at Mount Carmel and Onthank Primary Schools and Onthank Nursery School. They spent weeks putting in flower beds, creating a . . . → Read More: Onthank teens rise to the challenge]]> Ten young people from the Onthank area have rolled up their sleeves and spent two months making a real difference for local children.

Regardless of the weather, the local 16 and 17-year-olds dug deep at Mount Carmel and Onthank Primary Schools and Onthank Nursery School. They spent weeks putting in flower beds, creating a new fenced area, paving and a planting garden for the children to enjoy. At the same time they learned to work as a team and picked up valuable construction skills.

This project is part of the Action for Children Challenge Project, which supports young people to get them involved in community-based challenges to enhance their opportunities to access construction training and to give back to their community.

Willie Coffey MSP presented certificates to the project workers at a celebration event in Onthank Primary School.

Jordan Clarke,16, said: “It gives me a buzz when I see the gardens and what we’ve done. The look on the little kids’ faces when they saw their new garden was special. It was hard work. I’d never done any gardening before, but it was worth it – even shifting paving stones!”

Steven Banks, Onthank Primary School Headteacher, said: “Jordan and the rest of the young people really do deserve a celebration of their hard work. They put their backs into making a difference for the school and the nursery and formed a really strong bond with each other and the staff. It’s been a pleasure to work with them”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “These young people are a credit to their families, their schools and indeed to the whole area.

“They have really enhanced the appearance of the schools, with support from Inspiring Scotland and Onthank Community Centre. I am delighted to congratulate and thank them on behalf of everyone who will enjoy these beautiful gardens”.

Paul Carberry, Operational Director of Children’s Services for Action for Children Scotland, said: “This is a positive partnership between East Ayrshire Council and Action for Children and shows that giving young people opportunities results in them making a really positive contribution. We are very proud of what the young people have achieved”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The Council’s Creative Minds team is running a series of hands-on activity days for primary school children in Kilmarnock, Cumnock and Dalmelllington – and all activities and materials are provided free.

Twenty P4-7 pupils from Dunlop, Kilmaurs, Lainshaw and Nether Robertland primary schools played in the rock-it ball tournament and enjoyed a range of fun activities at Stewarton Academy last week – and . . . → Read More: Young players rock the festival]]> Youngsters really had a ball when they took part in a festival featuring a new sport which was only ‘invented’ in 2005.

Twenty P4-7 pupils from Dunlop, Kilmaurs, Lainshaw and Nether Robertland primary schools played in the rock-it ball tournament and enjoyed a range of fun activities at Stewarton Academy last week – and a great time was had by all. The event was open to all children who had attended the rock-it-ball after school club, a new project which introduced young players to the sport for the first time.

Active Schools Co-ordinator Laura Wallace, who organised the event, said: “This is a new sport that we are keen to promote. These children are among the first in the authority to try rock-it-ball and so far the response has been terrific”.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “It’s so important for young people to be active and events like this festival really encourage that. Rock-it ball is something new for youngsters to try – and they certainly seemed to enjoy the challenge!”

Local Councillors Rose-Ann Cuninghame, John McGhee and John MacKay also attended the rock-it ball festival.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Euroquiz is a competition for Primary 6 pupils which helps them develop their knowledge of Europe and the European Union, as well as . . . → Read More: Silverwood Primary School in Scottish Parliament Euroquiz final]]> Silverwood Primary has won a coveted place in the grand final of the Scottish European Trust’s Euroquiz, to be held on the Monday 6 June in the Scottish Parliament Debating Chamber.

Euroquiz is a competition for Primary 6 pupils which helps them develop their knowledge of Europe and the European Union, as well as core skills in communication and teamwork. Over 1500 pupils from over 370 schools competed in heats in 30 of the 32 Scottish local authorities, with the winning teams from each going forward to the final.

To secure their place in the final, the Silverwood team of Fraser Larmour, Connie McCrone, Christopher Weir and Euan MacDonald fought off competition from seven other primary schools in East Ayrshire – Nether Robertland, Barshare, Hillhead, Hurlford , Lainshaw, Mauchline and Saint Andrew’s.

The 30 finalist teams will face Quizmaster and Deputy Presiding Officer Elaine Smith MSP in the Debating Chamber within the Scottish Parliament. The event will be broadcast live on http://vr-bng.lbwa.verio.net/main_chamber and will then be available on http://www.holyrood.tv/index.asp .

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “All the pupils, parents and staff at Silverwood are very proud of the team’s achievement. I hope the young people enjoy the challenge of taking part in Euroquiz and hope that all their hard work pays off. I’m sure everyone in East Ayrshire will join me in supporting our team”.

Gerald Wilson, Chairman of the Scottish European Educational Trust, said: “The Euroquiz ticks so many educational and other boxes, not least the opportunity for primary school children to experience the excitement of competing in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament”.

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

The competition challenged young writers to become journalists and write a story about what makes living in their local area so great. It . . . → Read More: JUNIOR JOURNALISTS IN THE MAKING]]> Budding young reporters from local schools made headline news recently when they picked up writing awards in a super Junior Journalist competition run by the Kilmarnock Standard and builders Taylor Wimpey.

The competition challenged young writers to become journalists and write a story about what makes living in their local area so great. It was a fun task that offered real insight into the best of local life in East Ayrshire, through children’s eyes. Judges were bowled over by the quality of the entries sent in by hundreds of children from schools across East Ayrshire.

Prizes were divided into gold, silver and bronze awards. For going gold, each individual pupil scooped a £25 book token and £100 for their school that could be used towards books, computers or sports equipment. For silver, pupils got £15 book tokens and £50 for their schools and bronze winners received £10 tokens and £25 school prizes.

Winning entries will also be published in the local newspaper, so children will have the thrill of seeing their work in print.

Gold award winners were Charlotte Reeves, P1/2 , Loanhead PS; Lewis Donnelly, P2B, Mauchline PS; Ava Cook, P3A, Mauchline PS; Katie Nicol, P4/5, Mauchline PS; Lewis Poag, P6, St Andrew’s PS; Ruby Pring, P6, New Cumnock PS; Paige Collins, P7, Gargieston PS.

Silver winners were Calum Boyle, P7, Gargieston PS; India Tracy Anderson, P6, St Andrew’s PS; Chloe Gault, P6, New Cummnock PS; Ashley McCutcheon, P4, Kilmaurs PS; Lucia Liberato, P3, Mauchline PS; Lauryn Hanlon, P2, Mauchline PS; Lily Rosa, P1, St Andrew’s PS.

Bronze winners were Ross Holland, P7, Mauchline PS; Aidan Brown, P6, New Cummnock PS; Owen Conlan, P6, St Andrew’s PS; Karen Shepherd, P4, Kilmaurs PS; Carlo Sinforiani, P3, St Andrew’s PS; Jamie McFadzean, P2, Mauchline PS; Kirstie Watson, P1, Mauchline PS.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations not only to all of our winners but also to every single child who took part in this worthwhile competition. The entries clearly demonstrated the imagination and creativity of our talented young people”.

Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services, said: “This performance demonstrates the high calibre of our pupils and is testimony to the first rate literacy teaching in all of our schools.

“The young people will benefit greatly from this experience and it may be that we have some budding journalists and television reporters emerging in the future, inspired by their success in the competition”.

Peter McClurg, marketing and newspaper sales manager of S&UN said: “I’m confident our Junior Journalist challenge encourages young people to develop their writing skills and improve their knowledge of the communities in which they live and I’m delighted to see so many children taking part.”

Audrey Ross, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey added: “This year the standard and level of entries from schools, pupils and individual entries has been staggering. The judges have been particularly impressed by the overall quality of written work the children have shown.”

ends

For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council and local elected member, cut the turf to mark the start of construction on the . . . → Read More: NEW DAWN AT GARGIESTON PRIMARY]]>