Wednesday 29 January - S2 pupils Erin Daly and Stephanie Morton enjoyed a 2 day non-residential Young Weir-Wise Girls into Engineering course held at the University of Strathclyde. They found out about the different types of engineering available and participated in activities. You can read an account of their experience in the February edition of the newsletter.
Brief Updates 2019/20
Friday 20 December - Senior Linguists and Musicians brought in festive cheer to Mosswood Care Home. It was a wonderful afternoon yesterday . Thank you for having us and a special thanks to M&C Coaches for very kindly donating the bus journey. #Working with the Community.
Thursday 19 December - Please find below our December end of term letter to parents/carers, as well as ................
| All I want for Christmas is........... |
| End of term letter, December 2019 |
Thursday 19 December - Have a look at the Christmas Concert video that has now been uploaded to the school Youtube Channel -
https://youtu.be/fALgBeWU-Es
Also enjoy our gallery of pictures here -
https://sway.office.com/wxLlNEkAb0WJ621i?ref=Link
https://youtu.be/fALgBeWU-Es
Also enjoy our gallery of pictures here -
https://sway.office.com/wxLlNEkAb0WJ621i?ref=Link
Wednesday 18 December - The audience were treated to a truly 'golden' performance at last night's Christmas Concert. In the first half there were musical delights from the Concert Band, Jazz Band, String Ensemble, Guitars and Vocal Groups with the audience also being inspired to join in some Christmas Carols. The second half was the very funny 'Jack in the Beanstalk' Pantomime created and directed by some very talented members of the Drama Group. A lot of hard work by a lot of pupils, including the Stage Crew - very well done!
Gallery and Video links to follow.
Gallery and Video links to follow.
Tuesday 17 December - Well done to the Musicians who helped out in the Community yesterday - From Houston and Killellan Kirk facebook page - 'What a fantastic afternoon at our Community lunch, very kindly hosted by The River Inn. Over 100 people from our local community attended, and enjoyed sharing company and first class food. They were also entertained by musicians from Gryffe High School, a great example of the community working together.' Rev. Gary Noonan.
Friday 13 December - The first of four family learning workshops on resilience was delivered last night. The project is organised and facilitated within school as part of Gryffe’s joint adventure with The West Partnership. Twelve parents from the Parents in Partnership are involved with twelve very excited children!
Friday 13 December - It’s the most wonderful time of the year..... to wear a Christmas Jumper. Donations were collected today for the national Save the Children appeal. Thanks to all who contributed and also to the S6 pupils who organised the collections.
| Do you know of a charity needing support |
Thursday 12 December - Are you aware of any local charity in need of some additional support/funding? If so please inform them of the detail on the attached file as there would be an opportunity for a higher profile within the local community, as well as the possibility of an additional £3000 funding!
Thursday 12 December - The Wee Sleep Out ..... incredible .... £7180.75 raised so far!!
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/fundraiserPage?pageId=1114641
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/fundraiserPage?pageId=1114641
Thursday 12 December - The sixth years had a great time at their 'Snowball' last night. The ladies looking lovely in their gowns and dresses, the gentlemen looking smart and sophisticated. A really enjoyable night of dance and karaoke was had by all.
Wednesday 11 December - Lovely afternoon making Christmas cards with residents of Mosswood Care Home. Well done to our lovely S6 Language Ambassadors for bringing festive cheer to the community. Caring =Learning =Achieving
Wednesday 11 December - Just a reminder that this Friday (13th December)........
It’s the most wonderful time of the year..... to wear a Christmas Jumper with uniform.
Donations will be collected and given to the national Save the Children appeal. Participation in this fundraiser is usually excellent with large number of staff and pupils digging out their faithful jumper for the day.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year..... to wear a Christmas Jumper with uniform.
Donations will be collected and given to the national Save the Children appeal. Participation in this fundraiser is usually excellent with large number of staff and pupils digging out their faithful jumper for the day.
Wednesday 11 December - Winter Charity Appeal - final call! Deadline extended!
Any donations for Nightstop homeless charity, please get them in before the Christmas holidays. PJs, socks/underwear and toiletries will make a massive difference to young people experiencing homelessness. Hand in to Humanities Base.
Any donations for Nightstop homeless charity, please get them in before the Christmas holidays. PJs, socks/underwear and toiletries will make a massive difference to young people experiencing homelessness. Hand in to Humanities Base.
Wednesday 11 December - 'The Pupil Council meeting on Monday was very productive with everyone contributing their ideas and opinions. I look forward to taking action and delivering real change with a fantastic team of pupils.' Lewis da Silva - School Captain
Tuesday 10 December - The S1 pupils all had a fun and festive time at their annual Christmas party. The event was planned and run by the S6 House Captains - well done to all for providing such an enjoyable experience!
Tuesday 10 December - A date for your diary
One week today.......
Tuesday 17 December - 7:00pm Gryffe High School Christmas Concert.
One week today.......
Tuesday 17 December - 7:00pm Gryffe High School Christmas Concert.
Saturday 7 December - All pupils and staff registered, 1st bedtime story was in the theatre, and the band are now playing ...... Karaoke after that, then 2nd bedtime story, followed by 2nd band ..... then the sleep out.
£4378.25 raised so far!!
Fantastic.
£4378.25 raised so far!!
Fantastic.
Friday 6 December - The Wee Sleep Out is near ...... tomorrow night, and it looks like being a wet night!!. We are delighted to have raised £2800.75 so far. Should you wish to show support for this worthy cause, and the efforts of the pupils, staff and local community, then please feel free to donate via:
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/fundraiserPage?pageId=1114641
https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-portal/fundraiserPage?pageId=1114641
The Wee Sleep Out - Following staff from Gryffe High School and adults from Houston and Killellan Church completing the Big Sleep Out last year, there was significant interest from pupils and youth groups to host our own Wee Sleep Out. So pupils from a range of year groups along with Houston Scouts, 1st Houston Boys Brigade and Houston Kirk Youth Club along with staff, Gary Noonan the Minister and volunteers will be participating in the Wee Sleep Out at Gryffe High School on Saturday 7 December. We will be sleeping outside, braving the elements for a night, to help those who have to do it every night.
Friday 6 December - Gryffe High School hosted the Renfrewshire School Captains' Conference today, where the key young leaders of our schools shared effective practice with each other. Each pairing of Captains gave a presentation on key focus areas within their school and then there was discussion around their role as School Captains, the challenges they face and how they have led improvements within their own school. A very impressive grouping of young ladies and gentlemen
Friday 6 December - The Young Enterprise team took part in the Young Enterprise Scotland Christmas Trade Fair at intu Braehead this week. They have been working hard selling commemorative goods in preparation for Gryffe High School celebrating 40 years. Photo by Murdoch Ferguson - used with permission from YE Renfrewshire
Thursday 5 December - Another successful Gryffe Valley Young Rotary Chef Competition! Well done to contestants from Gryffe High, St Benedict’s and St Columbas, Kilmalcolm. Special congratulations to Ellie Shaw, overall winner and to Tylar Pollock for runner up!
Thursday 5 December - Tapas and celebrations for the fabulous Primary group that completed their 12 week second level Spanish course with Ms Naismith.
Thursday 5 December - Advanced Higher Spanish pupils attended a most informative and enjoyable workshop yesterday at SCILT (Scotland’s National Centre for Languages) at the University of Strathclyde.
Wednesday 4 December -The December NEWSLETTER, has been uploaded and can be found under the 'NEWS' tab, then 'Newsletters'.
Wednesday 4 December - This year was a very special year for Sikhs all around the world – 2019 marked the 550th anniversary of the Sikh faith. This was celebrated across the globe – celebrations included activities, social events, religious services and a general fun-day for everyone to get together and celebrate. Some of our pupils were involved in the Glasgow Sikh Gurdwara (place of worship) celebrations. They also launched a full-size tapestry following many months in the making. The launch ceremony was visited by many Scottish leaders. The tapestry art will later be hosted by one of Glasgow’s museums as a cultural art piece and available for the general public to view.
Saturday 30 November - Thank you to everyone, including the many pupils involved, who added to the success of the PTA Christmas Fayre on Thursday evening. There was a fantastic range of lovely crafts and gifts on offer and the time spent in preparation to make it special is really appreciated. Thanks to Steven Thompson for doing the raffle.
View our full gallery here
https://www.facebook.com/1809604165941150/posts/2528196717415221/?sfnsn=scwspmo
View our full gallery here
https://www.facebook.com/1809604165941150/posts/2528196717415221/?sfnsn=scwspmo
Tuesday 26 November - Last week, we celebrated Book Week Scotland with a range of activities. Rossie Stone from Dekko Comics spoke to S1 pupils. S1 –S3 pupils who wrote the best book reviews for the library website were also invited to attend a ‘Have Your Cake and Eat It’ session with Miss Schafheutle in the library. The week finished on Friday with our annual book quiz and dress up day. Well done to the Dewey Decimators (also known as the Book Club) who scored an amazing 13 out of 15 on the quiz and many thanks to Sarah Feechan and friends in S5 for creating and running the quiz. Well done also to S1 pupils for the amazing costume efforts.
Monday 25 November - Look at these amazing Baubles that will be on sale at the PTA Christmas Fayre this Thursday (28th November - 6:30pm to 8:30pm). There is an option to create your own bespoke Bauble .......all for £2.50.
Please come along and support the Christmas Fayre.
Donations of chocolates and Bottles will also be greatly appreciated (for the tombola) - please hand in to the School Office FAO Mr. K. Christie (Staff Representative on the PTA)
Please come along and support the Christmas Fayre.
Donations of chocolates and Bottles will also be greatly appreciated (for the tombola) - please hand in to the School Office FAO Mr. K. Christie (Staff Representative on the PTA)
Monday 25 November - Young Musician Competition
Our Annual Young Musician Competition will take place on Tuesday 21 January in the school theatre. All instrumentalists or singers, S1 - S6 are welcome to enter and should collect an entry form from the music department this week.
We have three categories: Junior (S1-S2), Intermediate (S3-S4) and Senior (S5-S6). Our first round will take place week beginning 11 December where you will be asked to perform one piece on your chosen instrument or voice. Four performers from each category will then be chosen to perform in the final on 21 January.
Our Annual Young Musician Competition will take place on Tuesday 21 January in the school theatre. All instrumentalists or singers, S1 - S6 are welcome to enter and should collect an entry form from the music department this week.
We have three categories: Junior (S1-S2), Intermediate (S3-S4) and Senior (S5-S6). Our first round will take place week beginning 11 December where you will be asked to perform one piece on your chosen instrument or voice. Four performers from each category will then be chosen to perform in the final on 21 January.
Sunday 24 November - The Sunday Times School League Tables were published today, with Gryffe High School placed 8th within their Top 50 State Schools.(The Scotsman had Gryffe as 7th!) Our S4 pupil attainment at National 5 Level placed us 2nd in Scotland. Our Advanced Highers are less than most of the 'top' schools as unfortunately we can not offer as many as them. As a school we are proud of the attainment of our pupils, and equally of their many significant achievements. The attainment tables are only one reflection on the success of our school, as we are very proud of the significant achievements of all our pupils. We aim to enhance the Attainment and Achievements of each and every pupil and hold true to our focus on:
CARING - LEARNING - ACHIEVING
CARING - LEARNING - ACHIEVING
Thursday 21 November - As part of our winter charity appeal 2019, we are focusing on Article 27: Children and young people have the right to food, clothing and a safe place to live. Our chosen charity is 'Nightstop' - based in Glasgow.
| Winter Charity Appeal 2019 |
Tuesday 19 November - Our Parent Council play a significant role in supporting the school through positive discussions across key focus areas. We all work together to strive for improvement and to create an overall ethos in which our children can flourish. We talk about all aspects of school life, and appreciate that knowledge and clear communication links are vital. Please consider joining our Gryffe High Parent Council Facebook, by searching on Facebook for Gryffe High Parent Council or use this link;
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GryffeHighParentCouncil/?ref=share
Working together we can improve our provision, our procedures, our key focus areas and make a real difference in the attainment and achievements of our children.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GryffeHighParentCouncil/?ref=share
Working together we can improve our provision, our procedures, our key focus areas and make a real difference in the attainment and achievements of our children.
Monday 18 November - Thanks to everyone who supported the school show by attending the Staff vs Pupil talent competition at lunchtime on Friday. There is so much talent in abundance at Gryffe that we are going to have to have a Part two! Watch this space...
Monday 18 November - Thanks to the Breakfast Club for this lovely photo of the sunrise this morning.
| Wee Sleep Out - Letter 2 kit list |
| Wee Sleep Out - Letter 1 breakdown of evening |
Friday 15 November - Have a look at the video of the finished Art Mural depicting the History of Linwood. This work is on show at the Showcase Cinema in Linwood and was completed by S5 and S6 Art pupils. Well done on all your hard work!
Friday 15 November - The Poppy Scotland Bus 'Bud' came to the school today. The bus provides a great opportunity for pupils to learn about 'Remembrance'. Exhibits within the mobile museum include historical artefacts, interactive displays and the moving stories of veterans and their families who have been supported by Poppyscotland. School Chaplains Rev. Hanneke Marshall, Rev. Kenneth Gray and Rev. Gary Noonan also worked with S1 to S5 pupils in the Remembrance Room.
Thursday 14 November - The MADD Show 2019 is coming! Join us on Wednesday 20th November at 7pm for an immersive evening celebrating all things creative. Tickets are a bargain at only £2!
This year we are honouring our beautiful planet with our “eco” theme. Pupils have been working furiously for weeks in preparation for this captivating event.
On the night, pupils and staff members will be strutting along our catwalk sporting upcycled sartorial creations. We are also holding Gryffe High School’s first ever Swap Shop! Bring along clothes you'd like to swap, exchange them for tokens, wait for the signal and then...grab yourselves a bargain! Hand your clothes into the Art department before the event to get your token. You can also bring items to swap on the night! In addition there will be breath-taking performances from singers and dancers throughout the night, and a display of stunning artwork by our talented pupils. Don’t miss it!
This year we are honouring our beautiful planet with our “eco” theme. Pupils have been working furiously for weeks in preparation for this captivating event.
On the night, pupils and staff members will be strutting along our catwalk sporting upcycled sartorial creations. We are also holding Gryffe High School’s first ever Swap Shop! Bring along clothes you'd like to swap, exchange them for tokens, wait for the signal and then...grab yourselves a bargain! Hand your clothes into the Art department before the event to get your token. You can also bring items to swap on the night! In addition there will be breath-taking performances from singers and dancers throughout the night, and a display of stunning artwork by our talented pupils. Don’t miss it!
Thursday 14 November - S3 HFT pupils had an informative and interactive presentation from Anne Simpson, Environmental Health Officer at Renfrewshire Council. Anne explained her role as an EHO officer and gave some real life experiences as well!
Wednesday 13 November - Today is World Kindness Day. Pupils have been writing messages of thanks at various times this week. These messages will be delivered during classes today, together with cards from staff. Remember to always be kind... and always be the rainbow in someone else's cloud. #CaringLearningAchieving
Tuesday 12 November - The November LETTER, has been uploaded and can be found under the 'NEWS' tab, then 'Letters'. The letter has also been sent out via SMHW.
Sunday 10 November - School Captains Lauren Rodgers and Lewis da Silva at the Armistice Memorial Service at the Cenotaph in Paisley
- 'Lest we forget'
Photograph courtesy of 'David Cameron Photographer Paisley'
- 'Lest we forget'
Photograph courtesy of 'David Cameron Photographer Paisley'
Friday 8 November - A group of S5 and S6 Art pupils have been working hard today at the Linwood Showcase on a mural that depicts the history of the area. As well as creating this amazing artwork, they have been a credit to the school and engaging with the public who were keen to see the finished outcome.
Thursday 7 November - We are delighted to announce that Andrew Bogan of S3, won the Desktop Publishing competition with Mill Magazine. Andrew's final layout is now in print and you can pick up a copy of the Nov/Dec magazine in shops all over Renfrewshire. It will also be available to read online at www.millmagazine.co.uk
Well done to all pupils who took part in this. Thanks also to Paul Dickson of Mill Magazine for giving our pupils this opportunity.
Well done to all pupils who took part in this. Thanks also to Paul Dickson of Mill Magazine for giving our pupils this opportunity.
Wednesday 6 November - To mark Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland, Miss O'Hara worked with some of our wonderful young people to create a presentation for staff. The aim was to better inform teachers about the condition, and to suggest some more ways to help these learners in the classroom. Our pupils also bravely shared how it feels to have dyslexia, and expressed this through fantastic poetry and artwork. To top it off Emma and Callum Shaw brought in a book about dyslexia in which they both had interviews published!
Many thanks to all the pupils who helped prepare the presentation; Emma Shaw S1, Callum Shaw S1, Evin Hopkins S1, Ethan Owens S2, Indeah Carey S4, and Andrew Hay S5
Many thanks to all the pupils who helped prepare the presentation; Emma Shaw S1, Callum Shaw S1, Evin Hopkins S1, Ethan Owens S2, Indeah Carey S4, and Andrew Hay S5
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A message from Renfrewshire Council -
Additional Support Needs (ASN) Review – Parent Engagement Sessions
Currently, we are engaging with parents of children and young people with additional support needs who attend a mainstream school. The review team will be delivering three additional sessions to which all ASN mainstream parents – secondary, primary and early years – are invited.
These sessions are taking place in the evening. You are invited to attend the session that is most suitable for you.
- Paisley Grammar, Thursday 21 November (Time: 1830 – 1930)
- Johnstone High School, Monday 25 November (Time: 1830 – 1930)
- Renfrew High School, Tuesday 26 November (Time: 1830 – 1930)
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to ring or email Fiona Brown (PT Support for Learning).
Please note that each session will last for a maximum of one hour.
| ASN Review - Parent Brief |
Wednesday 6 November -The November NEWSLETTER, has been uploaded and can be found under the 'NEWS' tab, then 'Newsletters'.
Monday 4 November - A large number of pupils were privileged to hear Mike Haines OBE on Friday. Mike's brother was murdered by ISIS, but rather than focus on the negatives, Mike now campaigns for greater compassion, understanding and kindness to promote unity between people from different backgrounds. The campaign is called Global Acts of Unity.
"Mike is a true inspiration. His story is so powerful and his response is a real challenge to us all to live a better life".
"Mike is a true inspiration. His story is so powerful and his response is a real challenge to us all to live a better life".
Monday 4 November - It is Dyslexia Awareness Week! Throughout the week there will be informative awareness posters displayed around the school, pale blue ribbons worn, an after school Dyslexia workshop with pupil presentations and some staff will be wearing blue on a day of their choosing to raise awareness #endthestigma #dyslexiaawarenessweek
Friday 1 November - S4 History pupils enjoyed a great day to the Bannockburn visitor centre yesterday. A weapons and knowledge session was followed by an interactive 3D experience and battle game. The day finished with an outside walk to the campsite to gain a better understanding of the strategy involved. A great day was enjoyed by all!
Friday 1 November - The Modern Languages department were celebrating the end of Global Diversity month today with their favourite cultural celebration originating from Mexico “Feliz día de los muertos”
Thursday 31 October - Molly has an Amazing time at Space School Houston....
Here is what she had to say on her return -
‘The learning journey to Houston, Texas was a once in a lifetime opportunity, that I will never forget. It was a trip packed with amazing opportunities, including behind the scenes access to NASA’s Johnson Space Centre as well as numerous talks from engineers, flight surgeon, astronomers and astronauts. The trip was a great stepping stone for the future as it created ambition for both my studies and career. I would definitely recommend this programme to anyone interested in STEM.’ Molly Barry S6
Here is what she had to say on her return -
‘The learning journey to Houston, Texas was a once in a lifetime opportunity, that I will never forget. It was a trip packed with amazing opportunities, including behind the scenes access to NASA’s Johnson Space Centre as well as numerous talks from engineers, flight surgeon, astronomers and astronauts. The trip was a great stepping stone for the future as it created ambition for both my studies and career. I would definitely recommend this programme to anyone interested in STEM.’ Molly Barry S6
Thursday 31 October - We were delighted to meet with Houston Primary School Eco Committee today. Both Eco Committees discussed lots of ideas ranging from battery recycling to energy consumption - keep an eye out for more updates.
Thursday 31 October - The S6 pupils put a great deal of effort into their Halloween preparations. They decorated their Social area and dressed up, all of Witch raised money for charity. They had a ‘Best Dressed’ event and I am sure you will agree that they had some amazing costumes.
Enjoy the full picture gallery here (with some S1 pupils featuring as well)...
https://sway.office.com/juQFgBHOrIPPPFvN?ref=Link
Enjoy the full picture gallery here (with some S1 pupils featuring as well)...
https://sway.office.com/juQFgBHOrIPPPFvN?ref=Link
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The small video clip - just a normal day of life in Gryffe!
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Wednesday 30 October - A fabulous display of transferable skills as finalists of the S1 Geography Tourism in Scotland Challenge presented their projects to their year group and the judging panel in the theatre - well done! Congratulations also goes to the winning group from 1Fm: Amber, Amelie, Erin, Martha, Anna and Iona.
Tuesday 29 October - Salut/hola from S6 Language Ambassadors 👋 - did you know that you can recognise them by their badges?
Monday 28 October - Lovely blue skies to start our Monday morning. #CaringLearningAchieving
Friday 25 October - To celebrate International Chefs Day, S4 pupils attended Healthy Eating workshops at West College Scotland on Wednesday. Worldchefs has committed to using International Chefs Day to teach pupils around the globe about the importance of healthy eating by hosting fun-filled workshops worldwide. The workshops included healthy ice cream, chocolate and passionfruit mousse, avocado wedges, healthy pizzas and mocktails.
Friday 25 October - As announced on Show My Homework and through the calendar and Pupil Bulletin, today was an own clothes day for House Funds. In addition to collecting pupil donations in the morning, the S6 House Captains organised their first house event. Pupils can be seen here enjoying a Just Dance event at lunchtime in the theatre.
Wednesday 23 October - We are delighted to say that Jack Young in S6 has been accepted into the prestigious New York Academy of Sciences’ Junior Academy. The New York Academy of Sciences is one of the country’s oldest and most widely respected scientific organisations. As a member of The Junior Academy, Jack will have the opportunity to collaborate with nearly 3,000 students from 94 countries on virtual STEM education challenges sponsored by industry leading companies. These challenges are designed by the Academy’s education experts to help students develop 21st-century skills as they prepare for the jobs of the future.
Well done Jack and we wish you well in this venture!
Well done Jack and we wish you well in this venture!
Wednesday 23 October - Pupils enjoyed their opportunity to get a henna tattoo today as part of our Global Diversity Awareness Month. Our talented team will also be back next Wednesday if you missed out today!
Monday 21 October - Please take a little time to look at our Standards & Quality Report for session 2018/2019, which can be found under the 'ABOUT US' tab. I hope this document gives you a feel of our pupils significant achievements. We are very proud of the continued positive direction of our school, and in the excellent relationships between pupils, staff, parents/carers and the local community. Please have a look at the report and feel free to contact us to provide your own views and possible feedback.
Additional Study Support for S4, S5 and S6 pupils can be found under the 'PUPIL ZONE' tab, then 'Supported Study'
Monday 21 October - AH Music pupils along with some Drama pupils enjoyed a visit to the Theatre Royal in Glasgow this evening, where they were introduced to opera with Tosca Unwrapped. This was a taster session, giving an insight into the performance and how it is created.
Friday 11 October - In-Service day today for staff who will all be taking part in a whole day Pivotal Education Workshop, looking at behaviour management and focusing on classroom practice that eradicates low level disruption and refocuses everyone on the learning. Ultimately leading to a shift in expectations in every classroom and from every adult.
As we look forward to our October break next week, we wish all pupils and staff a relaxing holiday. Return date is Monday 21 October, with our usual 8:50 am prompt start.
It will be an exciting week for S6 pupil Molly Barry, as she goes off to Houston in Texas, having gained one of only 10 places to Space School. Molly will enjoy VIP tours of the Johnson Space Centre, meet astronauts and visit Mission Control. We wish her a fantastic trip!
As we look forward to our October break next week, we wish all pupils and staff a relaxing holiday. Return date is Monday 21 October, with our usual 8:50 am prompt start.
It will be an exciting week for S6 pupil Molly Barry, as she goes off to Houston in Texas, having gained one of only 10 places to Space School. Molly will enjoy VIP tours of the Johnson Space Centre, meet astronauts and visit Mission Control. We wish her a fantastic trip!
Thursday 10 October - Over 20 of our pupils were trained by the Local Authority Youth Services Team, on Monday 9 October, and then led focus groups today looking at our Personal and Social Education Curriculum. This detail will led to changes within our curriculum, will also be fed back to the Local Authority, and then finally fed back to the Scottish Government.
We are delighted that the views of our pupils clearly matter.
We are delighted that the views of our pupils clearly matter.
Thursday 10 October - The Gryffe High Support for Learning Team showing their support for ADHD Week.
Thursday 10 October - 'Clap It/Wrap it' had a bake sale today in order to raise funds for their Young Enterprise registration and for the purchase of start up stock. Gryffe High School are participating in this yearly event and are looking to fulfil the stationery needs of Renfrewshire.
Wednesday 9 October - Tonight was the last session of Activ8, which is now in its 10th year. Activ8 is our annual spread of activities on offer, aimed at keeping active bodies and active minds for the 8 weeks of our first term. Doodle and Destress and Drama Club were busy activities with a very wide range of other activities happening in our PE facilities. Although Activ8 finishes now until August 2020 for year 11, there are various extended curricular opportunities around the school on offer on different days of the week with some new clubs set to begin on Wednesdays after school as a follow on from Activ8.
Wednesday 9 October - Miss Brown and Miss Still attended the @growingupinscot conference today. An insightful day into child development. This year’s conference aimed to explore the latest findings and hear about future plans for the GUS survey. Topics covered from the findings included overweight, obesity, cognitive development, ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and youth work.
Tuesday 8 October - Pupils teach the staff about ADHD. After school, pupils - Ben, Jack and Nathan - gave a presentation to over 20 staff on how ADHD affects them, along with Duncan who is Ben's S6 Buddy. They provided strategies that staff could use to help them in class. Ben and Duncan created a handout for staff, with support from Miss O'Hara, and made a small video clip to help raise awareness of ADHD.
Tuesday 8 October - The October LETTER, has been uploaded and can be found under the 'NEWS' tab, then 'Letters'. The letter has also been sent out via SMHW.
Monday 7 October - Sixteen S5 pupils completed their Silver DofE Practice Expedition over the weekend, Friday to Sunday. Their location was in the Aberfoyle Area. Our four DofE Young Leaders were with them.
Sunday 6 October - Very well done to Leo Downes in S3 who achieved a Bronze Medal today at the Scottish Gymnastics National Championships in Perth. This was in the Trampolining NDP4 13+ category, which is a new level for Leo. Watch his performance on the Gryffe High Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/gryffehighschool/videos/769872046795721/
Sunday 6 October - What a performance by former pupil Callum Hawkins, as he finished fourth in the World Champs. It really was a fantastic and well-timed run from Callum who clocked 2.10.57. The winning time was 2.10.40. A matter of seconds....how amazing is that. Very well done Callum!
Picture courtesy of British Athletics.
Picture courtesy of British Athletics.
Thursday 3 October - A big thank you to Professor Adam McBride OBE who gave two inspiring and interactive lectures to S1 and S5/6 pupils on “Mathematics in our Modern World” today. This was just one of many activities happening across the school to celebrate Maths Week. Gryffe also hosted the Enterprising Maths regional heat for Renfrewshire yesterday. This is a Scottish Mathematical Council competition, for teams of S3 and S4 pupils.
Thursday 3 October - S6 Wellbeing Ambassadors, Matthew Cliff and Laura Workman joined Miss O'Hara in representing the school at the Mental Health Foundation 70th Anniversary Evening Reception held last night. This took place at 'The Lighthouse' in Glasgow. The event detailed the crucial work that has been undertaken in the prevention of mental health problems spanning the last seven decades.
Wednesday 2 October -The October NEWSLETTER, has been uploaded and can be found under the 'NEWS' tab, then 'Newsletters'.
Tuesday 1 October - What a day on Thursday! A fitting finish to Gryffestyles week, with over 400 pupils (from S1 to S6) taking part in the 3K Fun Run organised by S6 Sports Ambassadors and the PE Department. P7 pupils from our associated primary schools also ran in the event. 3K Fun Run proceeds go to LGBT Youth Scotland...... Well done to all!
Be sure to check out both our Gallery of pictures by the Media Team and video with Peter (our Sports Reporter) and Robbie on camera.
https://sway.office.com/DWbPXIAVPuE7giIH?ref=Link
https://youtu.be/1xOcti-ca9M
Be sure to check out both our Gallery of pictures by the Media Team and video with Peter (our Sports Reporter) and Robbie on camera.
https://sway.office.com/DWbPXIAVPuE7giIH?ref=Link
https://youtu.be/1xOcti-ca9M
Wednesday 25 September - European Day of Languages was celebrated across the school today. Thanks to our amazing S6 Language Ambassadors for leading the event. The day included an S1 fun and fact filled assembly accompanied by reggaeton-a-thon, world photo booth and a charity bake sale.
Wednesday 25 September - A great World Challenge launch for parents last night! Thanks so much to our amazing past challengers who I think said more about the benefits of World Challenge then we ever could have! So the sign up is on! Anyone interested please sign up online by 10th October. See Miss Still or Mr Findlay if you have missed the information evening but are still interested!
Vietnam, here we come!
Vietnam, here we come!
Tuesday 24 September - Yesterday was S1 Health Day at Gryffe. This being the start of Gryffestyles Week. Pupils attended various Wellbeing workshops with the morning being kicked off with a bang by Brian Costello from Headstrong! More details in this months newsletter.
Monday 23 September - All pupils in S4-6 received a letter about the Senior Phase Parent Information Evening, which will take place on Monday 7 October, 6pm - 8pm. This event will begin with a subject showcase, which will provide parents with information about individual courses, such as assessment and coursework information, homework expectations and study support. This will be followed by two presentations in the theatre: Miss Holmes, PT Pupil Support, will talk about how we recognise & promote achievements and Brian Costello, from Headstrong Scotland, will talk about helping young people cope with exam pressure.
Monday 23 September - Today was very special for S4 pupil Sasha Kaloheris, who was given the opportunity to be interviewed live on Celtic Music Radio. Sasha also impressed listeners with her music - all her own compositions. Amazing talent.
Listen to the podcast here -
http://podcast.canstream.co.uk/celticmusic/index.php…
Photo used with kind permission of Celtic Music Radio.
Listen to the podcast here -
http://podcast.canstream.co.uk/celticmusic/index.php…
Photo used with kind permission of Celtic Music Radio.
Friday 20 September - History pupils are currently in Poland and yesterday they had a tour of Auschwitz Birkenau. Their tour guide stated that it was a pleasure to be with "exceptional" pupils this afternoon. Today, they will visit a Jewish Museum and meet with a Holocaust survivor. These are lessons which will stay with the group forever.
| Gryffestyles Week 2019 |
Thursday 19 September - Please read the attached letter which provides information on our Health Awareness Gryffestyles Week, including timings for our 3K Fun Run.
Wednesday 18 September - Gavin Newlands MP on Twitter - 'One of the few professional benefits of prorogation is being able to attend more Community Councils. So my thanks to Houston CC for allowing me to attend this evening. Great to hear the contribution of @GryffeHighSch pupils. Would be good to see this replicated at other CC's.'
Please note some changes to the school calendar for later this session.
VE Day holiday has been confirmed at Friday 8 May 2020 .... we had that already in our calendar. However there are two confirmed extra In-Service Days
Wednesday 6 May becomes an Additional In-Service Day (Our calendar had it originally as Thursday 30 April, so the Thursday 30th will be a normal school day)
Thursday 7 May becomes an In-Service Day (It had originally been Friday 1 May, so Friday 1 May becomes a normal school day)
Friday 8 May is the May Day Holiday (We had originally predicted this)
All changes will be made in the school calendar, under the Calendar tab above.
Monday 16 September - 'Parents in Partnership' initiative continues with Parents enjoying sessions in HFT and PE this morning, followed by an information session on ‘Teaching and Learning’. Last week it was the turn of Modern Languages, Science and Wellbeing. Parents can be seen here learning about the pH scale and identifying the pH value of some household substances. This mirrors what S1 pupils are learning at the moment in 'Becoming a Scientist'. In PE they were very quick to learn a routine.
Thursday 12 September - The whole of S1 and S2 took part in a STEM roadshow presented in partnership with BAE Systems, the RAF and the Royal Navy. This event is designed to enhance the interest of young people in Engineering and the opportunities that are available for them in this field. The presentation was exciting, interactive and showcased a range of new technologies, based around the theme of connectivity and communication.
Wednesday 11 September - The Media Team had a great afternoon making the news at Sky Academy Skills Studio in Livingston. All 16 pupils worked very hard taking on their various roles as presenters, editors, experts, reporters or working with cameras. Have a look at the news report that they produced as they learned about the value of good teamwork when working under pressure. Well done to all of the pupils!
https://youtu.be/fefQJ8rGs6A
https://youtu.be/fefQJ8rGs6A
Friday 6 September
The wait is over...
It's been announced...
The excitement begins...
The wait is over...
It's been announced...
The excitement begins...
Friday 6 September - Mrs Jardine reports that the Modern Studies and History pupils have had an amazing day in London. They left school at 10pm last night and dropped off at the Horse Guards Parade. They walked up the Mall to Trafalgar Square and had a quick stop for breakfast. They met Lord Melvyn Bragg who was kind enough to stop for a picture. The pupils then went on to have a tour of Parliament and take part in a workshop. After lunch it was time for a visit to the Imperial War Museum where all pupils visited the Holocaust section. All 43 pupils have been amazing. They answered lots of questions, asked some of their own and were incredibly respectful in the IWM - all on very little sleep! We are very proud of them and have loved the day, but cannot wait for our beds!
Have a look at some more pictures on our Facebook album -
https://www.facebook.com/pg/gryffehighschool/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2453454228222804
Have a look at some more pictures on our Facebook album -
https://www.facebook.com/pg/gryffehighschool/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2453454228222804
Thursday 5 September - S3 pupils in Graphic Communication are currently working with Mill Magazine to create a page layout for the Nov/Dec issues. Owner Paul Dickson visited our pupils yesterday to introduce them to the brief. He will judge the best entry and it will be published in the next issue. Pupils were keen to ask Paul all about his company and what the role of graphic designer is really like.
We look forward to Paul continuing to work with our pupils and seeing our winner's design in print.
We look forward to Paul continuing to work with our pupils and seeing our winner's design in print.
Digital Ninja?
Do you want to design your own App ?
Win a trip to London?
If so, then you need to join the Digital Ninjas.........
Wednesday 4 September -The September NEWSLETTER, has been uploaded and can be found under the 'NEWS' tab, then 'Newsletters'.
Tuesday 3 September - Great to see the Gryffe Duke of Edinburgh team out again. Miss Badger reports that our Young Leaders are doing a fantastic job with their map reading skills and planning route cards for our Bronze group.
Tuesday 3 September - Advanced Higher Spanish pupils enjoyed a trip yesterday to see Spanish filmmaker Almodóvar’s new release at the Glasgow Film Theatre, followed by some authentic Spanish Tapas.
Monday 2 September - The Monday 'Parents in Partnership' group enjoyed Maths and Music this morning. It is amazing what you can learn in Music in 25 minutes!
https://www.facebook.com/1809604165941150/posts/2450432041858356/
https://www.facebook.com/1809604165941150/posts/2450432041858356/
Thursday 29 August - Here are your S6 Wellbeing Ambassadors this year. All pupils will have a specific Wellbeing responsibility and can be recognised as they wear a purple Wellbeing lanyard.
Tuesday 27 August - Delighted to see so many new faces at the first Parent Council meeting of the new term last night. There were 24 parents in attendance and they had the opportunity to meet some of this year's PMG (Pupil Management Group) and hear all about their plans for the coming session. They also heard from Aaron Mills, who gave a most interesting and impassioned impromptu account of his recent World Challenge expedition to Bolivia. There was then some great discussion on several topics including Activities Week, DofE and SQA Exam Results. More detail in the September newsletter.
Monday 26 August - Over the course of the next six weeks, over thirty S1 parents have gone ‘back to school’ for our Parents in Partnership Programme. The unique programme involves parents attending class and experiencing the teaching methods and vocabulary their children encounter on a daily basis within Gryffe. This is our fourth cycle of the programme and due to the ever increasing popularity, for the first time we are excited to offer the programme twice a week. Mr Anderson and Mr Findlay would like to thank all parents and staff for their involvement in the initiative. Our picture shows some concentrated faces in Art today learning weaving skills.
Friday 23 August - Our S6 Pupil Management Group at their weekly 8:00 am breakfast meeting. School Captains Lewis Da Silva and Lauren Rodgers chair the meeting, with Mr Johnson, Mrs Brown and Mr Findlay present. Our young school leaders discussed, and created points of action, on: Wellbeing; Communites; Citizenship; Charities; Eco; Models of Excellence; House Captains and initiatives; and achievements. We also discussed Team Building, Houston Community Council meetings and pupil/staff photographs to help all know who is leading and driving initiatives. A very busy and productive meeting from a group of young leaders who are, without doubt, driving improvement within Gryffe and the community.
Wednesday 21 August - Well done to Craig Ross, Mirren Murray and Matthew Hill who attended the Houston Community Council Meeting at Houston & Killellan Church Hall. They updated the Community Council on the school commitment to keep the community clean, with a particular focus on South Street and the South Mound, as well as our Eco and Green Flag achievements, including our aim of requesting an electronic car charging station within the Gryffe High School Car Park. They also spoke of other achievements within Gryffe, detailed within our newsletters, and including our School Show and Dance Show where there is always an open invitation to the local community to attend.
Wednesday 21 August - S6 Wellbeing Ambassadors received training today at Houston & Killellan Church hall. As always the pupils were engaged, motivated & excited to support the Wellbeing of Gryffe over the next year. Please keep an eye out for them out and about in the community. See their first newsletter article (4th Sept) for full details.
Monday 19 August - S4 Work ExperienceWe have now extended the deadline for completion of S4 work experience forms to Friday 30th August 2019. Beyond this point, we cannot confirm that there will be sufficient time to secure council clearance for placements and, as a result, pupils in this position will not be guaranteed to take part in the work experience programme.
Please support this worthwhile experience and encourage your child to return the completed form in advance of 30th August. All forms should be handed to Mrs Carmichael.
Please support this worthwhile experience and encourage your child to return the completed form in advance of 30th August. All forms should be handed to Mrs Carmichael.
Monday 19 August - This year we are organising an Activities Week for all S1, S2 and S3 pupils in order to offer a wide range of educational experiences that we cannot normally provide during the school year. We have tried to provide an exciting and varied programme for these days and we hope that every pupil will be able to take part. Please find the details in the document below.
| Activities Week Booklet May 2020 |
