Rosshall Academy
October Newsletter 2014
A message from our Head Teacher
Dear Parent/Carer
Welcome to our first Parents’ Newsletter of the new session. We have had a
very positive start to the new term and are delighted with successful examination
results in our first year of the new qualifications. I would like to thank all parents
and carers for your continued support to ensure your sons and daughters aspire to achieve and attain as highly as
possible. We are very proud of all of them. We were also delighted with the standard of our school uniform at the
start of the new term and would ask that you continue to support us to ensure this is maintained throughout the
session. A reminder of our requirements is below.
All pupils must wear:
Black blazer with school badge
White school shirt
School tie
Black cardigan / jumper / sweatshirt
Black trousers / skirt
Black shoes (not trainers)
The first few months of the session have been extremely busy, Our National Courses and a combination of Higher
courses are well underway and pupils tell us they are feeling motivated and challenged to perform at the highest
level possible in these qualifications. Our Aiming for Success events and our S4 parents’ evening on 6 October
were extremely well attended with highly positive feedback from parents and carers.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our new Head Girl and
Head Boy upon their recent appointment, Mream Hashem and Scott Smith have
undertaken their new roles with enthusiasm and I wish them both well.
As you will see from this newsletter, our pupils and staff also have much to celebrate
in terms of academic and wider achievement. Our pupils continue to embrace
opportunities to develop the 4 capacities of Curriculum for Excellence (Successful
Learners, Confident Individuals, Responsible Citizens and Effective Contributors) as
well demonstrating our 6 core values. Well done to all pupils – Rosshall Academy is
very proud of you.
I would like to wish all of you a good October break and look forward to welcoming our young people back, in
full school uniform, on Monday 20 October at 8.50am
Yours sincerely
Alison Mitchell
Head Teacher
-1-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
School – Employer Partnerships
Here at Rosshall we want to ensure our pupils are as fully prepared as possible for
the transition into employment. As such, we are aiming to increase the number of
links we have with businesses and employers and ultimately establish a group of
business/employer partners for the school.
We would like to enlist the support of parents in this initiative and we would be
interested to hear from parents who may be in a position to offer assistance, related to employment and the world of
work, to the school. This assistance could be provided in a number of ways, for example:
 Speaking to pupils about your job/ career
 Speaking to pupils about the relevance of particular subjects to your job/ career
 Participating in careers fairs
 Mentoring pupils
 Helping with interview skills
 Offer of work experience placements
 Offer of workplace visits
We would hope that this arrangement would be mutually beneficial and the school is willing to offer support in any
suitable way.
If you feel you are in a position to offer support to the school or would simply like further information please contact
Mr Murphy at the school
Phone: 0141 582 0200
Email: [email protected]
Duke of Edinburgh
Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award
Congratulations to this year’s 21 students who have successfully completed
their award. Various activities undertaken included baking, singing, football
coaching, climbing, jewellery making and volunteering in old people’s
homes, to name a few. Candidates also successfully completed two overnight
walking/camping expeditions firstly in Loch Ard forest near Aberfoyle and
then Loch Achray near Callander. Students developed outdoor skills such as
navigation, cooking with a stove, putting up a tent and avoiding midges (with
varying degrees of success). Well done to all our participants: Ericka Barker,
Brooke Mason, Jennifer Brownlie, Robyn Patten, Alan Morton, James
Morton, Dean Moran, Lauren Hargan, Amber Ferguson, Mhairi Craig, Rachel
Mathers, Jay Devine, Callum Shepherd, Lewis Lovering, Megan Dowie,
Melissa Wallace, Jade Burke, Vanessa Reid-Phelps, Matthew Price,
Christopher Rankin and Aaron Imrie. Also, thanks to our group leaders – Mr Barrett, Mr McFadden, Mrs Gormal,
Ms Mathieson and Ms Stephen.
-2-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
ASL Department
Here is what we have been doing so far:
 Organising PSA support for all the new S1 pupils for a couple of weeks
 Establishing the new Support TT for pupils.
 Transition group work with pupils new to S1
 Setting up the Buddy scheme which matches our S6 volunteers with pupils who might require just that extra
layer of support.
 Working again with Glasgow life who are running a self-esteem group for S1 girls – this is certificated so the
girls will all be rewarded at the end.
 Running another Princes Trust group which Mr McKenzie very expertly delivers every year.
 Welcoming the new EAL teacher Mr Choudry who is already proving a valuable asset to the school.
Now here is what we are looking forward to implementing in the new term:
 Starting up the reading groups with pupils from S1 and S2
 Re-establishing a behaviour support network with teachers and PSAs as mentors.
 Beginning a support network for pupils on the Autistic Spectrum
 Further developments with Glasgow Life
 Linking up again with SWAMP.
 And Ms Muir and Ms Isbister are taking the S4 Study Skills group to Crookston Early Years (Nursery) at
Halloween to read the Halloween stories, entitled The Witch’s Cottage, the group have written especially for
them!
I just want to publicly thank the staff in this department for all their efforts – I know they have earned a well-deserved
break. We will all enjoy the chance for some R&R and hope that you do too.
Frances Carey Oct 2014
Saltire Awards Ceremony – Friday 3rd October
Rosshall welcomed Humza Yousaf, MSP and Minister for External Affairs &
International Development to present Saltire Awards to Rosshall pupils
Around 50 Rosshall pupils received these Awards for volunteering both in school and
in their wider community.
Many give a huge amount of time to help with local youth groups, charity
fundraising, sports coaching and other initiatives.
There are 3 categories of Awards, Paul Chaudhry, S6, explained. “I fell into the
‘Challenge’ category for stilt-walking with Circomodo at The Dead Crooked Parade
in Pollok. I also did lots of volunteering helping children with disabilities at Howford
School”.
Vanessa Reid Phelps S4 received her Award for 200 hours of coaching under 13’s girls Football during the summer
holidays and after school.
Vanessa said: “There’s not much for girls to do round here. Getting girls into football stops them sitting about doing
nothing.” The girls’ ages range from 5 to 13 and the pitch is locally known as ‘The Field’ in Pollock. “The grass used
to be knee-high with squinty goals, but now the grounds are looked after.”
So from Circus skills to Football Coaching and many more opportunities, Rosshall pupils have found this a fulfilling
and rewarding exercise. It has developed their self-confidence and awareness of the benefits of youth volunteering to
young people at the heart of the community.
-3-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Cycling Friendly Secondary School Camps
Rosshall Academy will be represented by six pupils at a Cycle Friendly
Secondary School Residential Camp during the October holidays. The
Cycling Scotland Camp will be held at Blairvadach Outdoor Education
Centre in Helensburgh. The pupils will be participating in a range of
activities such as Mountain Biking, Zip Wiring and Raft Building and
are also involved in Bike Maintenance and Cycle Trainer Assistant
workshops. The camp also involves seminars and presentations where
pupils discuss and refine ideas to establish cycling at school. After the
camp, pupils will have the opportunity to put their newly learned skills
and ideas into practice with the aim of promoting and encouraging
cycling within Rosshall! The pupils attending are: Thomas Fenion,
Lewis Hunter and Ben McDonald of S4 and Alexander McGrath,
Michael McGraw and Robert Morris of S5.
Christmas Charity Night – Tuesday 2nd December
This year’s Christmas Charity Night will be held on Tuesday 2nd December. The Intermediate
2 Community Involvement class will be responsible for co-ordinating the evening and we
would love to have as many staff, pupils and parents involved as possible – whether as
fundraisers, helpers or performers on the night.
I am now looking for bids to run stalls. There are 2 options available:
Option 1 – Charity Stall - free
Groups may bid for a table to sell products/services and raise money for a charity of their
choice.
Option 2 – Enterprise Stall - £15 (pupils), £20 (businesses)
Groups/businesses may bid for a table to sell products/services for profit. They will pay £15 for this stall which will go
towards the CI class’s chosen charity.
Bid forms for both types of stall are available from me now – email [email protected] for
details.
Also – if you are having a clear out over the holidays please think of us – Books, dvds, jewellery and bric a brac all
welcome and should be sent to FF63
Art Department
Ardentinny Summer Art Course 2014
The Ardentinny Camp (formally known as Castle Toward) was a great success our pupils all participated fully in all
aspects of the course….especially John Connor Patterson who won first prize as the best male fancy dress. Amy
Young S6 won a prize for the best helper upper and Alison Glass won the top prize as Mrs Tinny.
Pupils who attended this Summer Art course
Alison Glass
Amy Young
Bobbi Pollock
Lauren Pole
John Connor Patterson
Jennifer Green
Ayesha Mwanyali
Kyle Hunter
Amy McKechnie
All produced a variety of work which will be presented in an exhibition in the Tramway in November dates for the PV
to be announced.
Ms Cherubini is taken names of interested pupils and it’s already a long list of 16 so far but if you are interested,
please ask the pupils who have been before as they are the best source of information and add your name so that when
the 2015 information arrives it will be given to you as quickly as possible. The course is very hard work, it’s an
intensive week but you also have loads of opportunities to meet and make new friends from all over Glasgow.
Typical workshops offered are:
Photography
Textile Design
Landscape Painting
Body Adornment
Sculpture
Printmaking
Product Design
Animation
Architecture Model making
Mixed media Painting
Portraiture Painting
Life Drawing
Ceramics
-4-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
The Art Department also have pupils involved in creating a memorial to the Highland and Irish Famine victims
working with Willie Nelson at the Tramway after school. Pupils have been asked to research the famine and created
design and ideas for creating a memorial that will be placed in the George Square.
Rosshall Pupils involved:
Alison Glass
Chelsea Boyce
Sophie Tweedle
Careers Day at the Hanson Street Studios Friday October 10th
Full day workshops
Studio Visit with Rachel Mimiec
Workshop visit to Glasgow Ceramics Studio
Interactive workshop with David Sherry
Gallery of Modern Art-Generation resources & cross curriculum workshops
Wasp studio Helen Moore
Information on portfolio courses and entrance into Art school
Some of our senior pupils will be attending. Alison Glass, Kyle Hunter, Christine Gibson, Shelby Lynch, Sophie
Tweedle and Chelsea Boyce.
Tramway Saturday and Sunday courses :
Several of senior pupils have applied to this course and have been successful, which is beneficial to pupils applying to
Art school or further education/college courses. Also we have senior pupils attending Life drawing classes at the
visual art studios over a period of ten weeks.
English
Accelerated Reader programme S1 AND S2
After the October holidays, all S1 and S2 pupils will be
embarking on a fantastic programme of reading called
Accelerated Reader. The pupils will have their reading tested and
will be allocated a colour-coded book to read privately. Once
pupils have finished reading their book, they “quiz” online and
are given points and rewards for this. 10 minutes per English
period are being allocated for private reading. In addition, S1 and
S2 pupils are reading during their 10 minute registration period at
the beginning of each school day. However, reading experts say
that 25 minutes is the “GOLDEN TIME” per day to ensure that
each young person really reaps the rewards of reading for
pleasure. Can I please ask that you check your child’s reading
material, and that you ask them about their Accelerated Reading progress next term? 10-15 minutes private reading, at
home, should be seen as daily homework for all S1 and S2 pupils.
You can check out Accelerated Reader at home for yourself, and explore the benefits of the programme with your
child. From October 22nd, visit: ukhosted41.renlearn.co.uk/2231114 which will allow you to have access to Rosshall’ s
account. Your child will know their account details to log on with:
 the username is the first letter of the first name followed by the first 4 letters of the surname, e.g. jsmit for
John Smith
 the password for all is abc
I’m sure you will join with us in encouraging your child to read as often as possible. Confident, happy readers make
excellent learners.
We are currently rolling out Accelerated Reader to S2 next session which has allowed pupils in the year group to
continue their progress from S1 in the Broad General Education.
Many thanks and happy reading!
-5-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Pastoral Care
GIRFEC Youth Seminar
Melissa McGoldrick, Brodie Ambler and Jade Burke represented Rosshall Academy at the
City Chambers on the 9th of September for the city wide “Have Our Say - Getting It Right for
Every Child Youth Seminar”. The pupils participated in group debate with other schools on
how they think the National health and wellbeing indicators are being catered for in Glasgow
schools.
Melissa, Brodie and Jade are now working on a presentation to show pupils at assemblies on
what they learned at this seminar and how they believe all pupils can make sure Rosshall
continues to “Get it Right for Every Child”.
Well done!!
S1 Outward Bound Activity Days
In September, each S1 pupil took part in an Outward Bound Activity Day with their House group. They spent a day
outdoors at Lochwinnoch developing communication and teamwork skills, and building friendships and confidence,
through a variety of paired and group activities and challenges. The afternoon session was spent canoeing and several
of our pupils did particularly well in overcoming their fear of the water through taking part. Most pupils were
delighted to be able to complete the day by choosing to get completely soaked in the chilly water – only one staff
member was quite as brave! Feedback from pupils shows that they had a very enjoyable and beneficial day which we
hope will have a positive impact on relationships and responsibility in the classroom and around school.
Pupils’ Achievements
Pupils Demonstrate our Values in the Community
We were delighted to receive an email from Cardonald Library praising S1 pupils Jade Campbell and Leah Malcolm
for going to the library in their own time and offering to help tidy books. The library staff were very grateful for their
assistance and willingness to volunteer. Well done girls!
Modern Languages
S1-S3 pupils were treated to a week of taster lessons in Portuguese, Italian,
Polish and German to celebrate European Day of Languages. Pupils were very
enthusiastic, spotting the similarities and differences between languages they
already know and the new languages. Pupils created their own phrasebook of
handy vocabulary in each language and worked together to come up with facts
about each country, including the national dish and national stereotype.
Requests have been flooding in for more taster lessons on languages such as Arabic, Danish,
Swedish, Gaelic and Mandarin.
Rosshall staff were treated to a European buffet of wares from different countries
and many bravely took part in the Stinky Cheese Challenge, trying some of the
most odorous fromages known to man and matching name tags to the correct
cheese. The winner of the Challenge was Mrs Gormal who won a box of
chocolates to cleanse her palate. Many staff also contributed to the raffle to raise
money for global children’s charities winning some fantastic prizes. Thanks to all
for their support!
Our ‘stinkiest’ fromage
-6-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Inclusion
Visibility Visit
On Thursday 25th September, 7 of our pupils held a
discussion forum with Jamie, Sharon and Gill from
Visibility Scotland. The main focus of the forum
was for our learners to share information about the
technology they use to assist them in everyday
tasks and the barriers which they face in accessing certain things. A common issue seemed to be
not being able to access the internet through lack of Wi-Fi in Rosshall. Jamie, Gill and Sharon
offered advice in the areas of technology which can be accessed by visually impaired learners. It’s
amazing how many apps there are in this area!
The other area discussed was mobility with all of Rosshall’ s learners sharing their experiences of
how much independence they have gained following input from both Visibility staff and from
Glasgow City Council’s own mobility specialists. It was great for the younger pupils to hear how
more senior pupils are going independently out to Work Experience placements, traveling on buses
and trains to meet friends in Glasgow and attending events out with school on their own. Visibility
staff were keen to hear about what our learners felt they would like more input with regarding
mobility and it is hoped that partnerships with the Visibility team will be further strengthened.
Performing Arts News
Theatre Trips
The S5/6 Drama pupils recently attended a production of “1984” at the Citizens
Theatre. This was a fantastic version of the George Orwell novel, and had pupils (and
staff) on the edge of their seats throughout the production.
Also taking place before Christmas are trips to see “Three Sisters”, “Blood Brothers”
and “Miracle on 34 Parnie Street”.
Glasgow Schools Symphony Orchestra
In September, 40 of the S3 music pupils went to the City Halls in Glasgow for an afternoon of film themed music.
Pupils were able to see their peers in action, including some ex Rosshall pupils. The highlight of the trip was a tie
between seeing Darth Vader from Star Wars on stage, or one of the Harry Potter themes. We definitely saw Mr Reilly
tapping along with his foot! Hopefully we will have some new pupils applying this session – see your music teacher if
interested.
-7-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Entry to the Creative Industries
30 S5/6 pupils recently took part in the above workshops. They explored the different pathways into the creative
industries, the entry requirements for both colleges and universities. Through this unique relationship with the Royal
Conservatoire of Scotland, Rosshall Academy pupils are eligible for free support in developing their creative skills,
knowledge and applications to following creative pathways upon leaving school. For more information please see the
Creative Pathways noticeboard outside GF01.
Royal Conservatoire Visit
Seniors Millie Whittington, Hazel Easton, William Forsyth & Stephanie McCabe were recently invited to attend a
Focus on Music Event at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Whilst there pupils were able to meet students and staff
at the Conservatoire, take part in a one to one lesson with a specialist and explore the range of courses on offer to study
music at college and university. Hazel and Millie commented “It was great to meet the
tutors taking courses and learn more about the entry requirements. We know now what
we need to do to put in a strong application next year!”
Transitions 20/40 Success
Congratulations to Greg Whitten S6 who has been accepted to the Royal
Conservatoire of Scotland’s Transitions 20/40 Programme. Greg will be involved
with the Production programme, which offers specialist training to young people who
are interested in pursuing a career within the stage production industries, including design, production arts, production
technology and stage management. The deadline for new applications is the 5th December and is ideal for pupils in S2
and above who are interested in going to drama, dance and/ or music workshops at the weekend. For more information
see Miss Murphy.
London 2015
For the first time, the faculty is taking 40 pupils to London in October
2015. Whilst there pupils will take part in a West End workshop, attend
a West End musical and a Shakespeare performance as well as take in
some of the sights of London. The group involves S1 – S5 pupils and
requests are already underway as to what musical we will go to see!
School Show
The June musical will be announced in November, with auditions taking place in December. This
year the show is open to any pupils in S1 – S6. We are simply looking for as many pupils to get
involved as possible. Pupils interested should pay attention to the bulletin and notice boards in the
Drama and Music corridors for further announcements.
Physical Education
Department
Queens Baton Relay
Two Rosshall pupils had the honour of
being baton bearers in the Queens Baton
Relay for the Glasgow 2014
Commonwealth Games. Vanessa Reid – Phelps (S4), who plays for the Rosshall Girls Football team was nominated
by her football coach at Crookston United FC. Connor Logan (S3) was voted by fellow pupils to represent Rosshall
Academy in the Relay as a result of his many achievements in swimming. Vanessa and Connor ran with the baton in
July along Crookston Road past Rosshall Academy and both thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Vanessa’s highlight
was meeting Scottish Paralympian Aileen McGlynn who went on to win a Silver medal at the Games in the Tandem
Cycling Sprint event. Connor’s was amazed by the whole experience and ultimately being able to hold the baton
which had travelled all round the world.
-8-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Netball Teams
We are delighted to have 4 netball teams representing Rosshall this year in the Glasgow Schools
Leagues and the Glasgow Schools Tournaments. Teams in S1 to S4 will compete at the Glasgow
Schools Tournament on Friday 10th October and we wish them the very best of luck!
The S3 team kick started their Glasgow League matches on Wednesday 1 st October with a 39-4 victory
against St Thomas Aquinas Secondary so congratulations to them!
Judo
Congratulations to Ryan McInnes S1 who recently won gold at the Highland Open
Championships. Ryan competes in the Under 46Kilo category and will be representing his club again
soon at the Aberdeen Open Championships. Best of luck Ryan!
Swimming
Congratulations to Connor Logan, Gabriel Kane (S3) and Jocelyn Burns (S4) for their
outstanding performances in the recent Glasgow Schools Swimming Championships. Connor
won Gold in the 100m Backstroke and Silver in the 100m Breaststroke. These impressive
performances stand Connor in good stead for the Scottish Time trials in November. Jocelyn
secured her place in the 50m Butterfly Final and Gabriel qualified for the Final of the 100m
Backstroke. These events will be take place at the end of October along with the Senior Finals
in which Ben Cunnigham (S6) will compete so best of luck to the 3 of them!
Athletics
Congratulations to Josh McDonald (S6) who represented Scotland during the summer in the 800m relay
against England, Northern Ireland and Wales. Josh’s team won for Scotland!
Sporting Achievement – Girls Football
Jamie-Lee Napier S3 was recently selected for the Scotland under 15s Football team and will
Represent Scotland against Germany at the end of the month.
Congratulations and best of luck Jamie-Lee!
Our science department have been really busy already this year!
CERN Trip
Dylan Wallace, S6, won a place in an exclusive competition, open to all
S5/6
Higher Physics pupils, to Switzerland to visit CERN. On the trip he met with top physicists who work directly with the
Large Hadron Collider and was given special tours of CERNs facilities. These visits are not open to the public and is a
once in a lifetime experience for a very select group. Dylan had this to say “It was an incredible experience, so glad
that I took advantage of the opportunity, and I still meet up with some of the other people at the Hub”
-9-
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
BAe Systems and RAF Roadshow
In September of this year, a joint STEM roadshow from BAe Systems and RAF visited a
group of select S2 pupils at Rosshall Academy. They demonstrated a number of interesting
science and technology experiments to the pupils, for example, DIY Air Canons, levitating
objects just using air and using music and a Tesla coil to give a unique physics/music
concert. Our very own Amy Patrick, S2, was our outstanding musician. We hope to have
them return next year
Physics – Medical Physics
As part of the S3 Medical Physics course, some S3 pupils had the opportunity to dissect and
examine a pig’s eye. As part of the course they study the structure of the human eye and the
shape of human eye lenses. As a pig’s eye is very similar in size and shape, they get some
real life experience of how one looks, feels and smells. Hopefully it didn’t put them off their
lunch!
S1 Volcanoes
As part of the S1 science curriculum, all S1 pupils study the science of volcanoes. They learn about the chemical
reactions that take place in volcanoes and study the different types of rocks created in volcanic eruptions. The sum
total of their work allows them to build a working model and deliver presentations about what they have learnt. Below
are some photos of 1.8, making and talking about their volcanoes.
WOSPEG
At the beginning of September, 3 Higher Physics pupils (Robyn
Geary, Beth McCloy and Hussain Khurshaid) participated in the
West of Scotland Physics Education Group Quiz. They were
pitted against 3 other secondary schools and had to answer
questions on physics, pop culture and general knowledge.
Thankfully they came first in the heat and are marching towards
the semi-finals in October. However, most importantly they
received the infamous “I (heart) Physics” mug. Best of luck in
the semis.
- 10 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Science Club
Miss McSkimming is running a science club for 1st year pupils in sf12 on
Wednesday lunch times. Some great fun experiments so far! Pupils have been
burning metals and are about to find out how a magic levitation wand works. We
might even enter some science competitions! If you are interested in joining see
Miss McSkimming. Watch this space……
Science Careers Event
A group of S2 pupils will be visiting Glasgow Science Centre on November 12 th for a STEM
careers event. The event features an interactive show aimed to enthuse pupils about Science,
technology and engineering as they consider their future subject choices. Pupils will also
experience highly engaging Science demonstrations and will have full access to the Science
Centre mall where they can explore various scientific activities which are linked to the
Curriculum for Excellence.
CSI DAY- Science and Drama
The whole of S1 adopted the roles of criminal investigators as part of a murder
mystery on Wednesday 24th September. This was a fantastic event organised by our
Drama and Science departments. Pupils spent the day visiting various stations around
the school (finger printing, forensics, police records bureau, interrogating suspects,
press room, puzzles) where they received vital information to pick up in order to solve
the crime. Community Police were also on hand throughout the day to give more
information on procedures and also took part! By the end of the day a trial had taken
place and the correct culprit was identified. Senior pupils were guides for the S1
classes and the suspects were portrayed by S4 & 5 drama pupils. An enjoyable day
was had by all.
CSI DAY- Science and Drama
The whole of S1 adopted the roles of criminal investigators as part of a
murder mystery on Wednesday 24th September. This was a fantastic
event organised by our Drama and Science departments. Pupils spent the
day visiting various stations around the school (finger printing, forensics,
police records bureau, interrogating suspects, press room, puzzles) where
they received vital information to pick up in order to solve the crime.
Community Police were also on hand throughout the day to give more
information on procedures and also took part! By the end of the day a trial
had taken place and the correct culprit was identified. Senior pupils were
guides for the S1 classes and the suspects were portrayed by S4 & 5
drama pupils. An enjoyable day was had by all.
- 11 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Maths
“S5/6 Higher supported study is running throughout the year with Mr McGarvie –
FF15 on a Wednesday”
“Watch this space – extra supported study will also start to run on selected lunchtimes to help you
get the best pass”
Extra-Curricular Clubs
Netball
Netball at Rosshall is extremely popular across the school. As a result there are four teams: S1, S2 and two mixed S3
and S4 teams. All teams are entered into a Glasgow wide league and compete in tournaments against other schools in
the city. S1 and S2 train with Miss Paterson on Tuesdays at lunchtime and Thursdays after school. S3 & S4’s train on
Tuesdays after school and Thursday lunchtimes with Mrs Smedley. The Netball clubs are very successful at Rosshall
and new members are always welcome to join!
Badminton
In the Badminton club, pupils are able to develop their skills and challenge players of different ages across the school!
As the club expands, we hope to enter into competitions and events with other schools. The Badminton club runs on a
Thursday lunchtime and a Friday after school. Any pupils interested are encouraged to speak to Miss Paterson in the
PE department. The club is open to all ages and abilities!
Girls Fitness
The Girls Fitness Club runs on a Wednesday lunchtime in the Fitness Suite. Pupils try out different pieces of
equipment and exercises during the club. Girls Fitness aims to promote healthy lifestyle habits and highlight the
importance of regular exercise. S1 Girls are welcome to sign up for the club with Miss Paterson in the PE department.
RUGBY TEAMS (S1 – S3)
The teams have started squad training on Thursdays after school
and Fitness training on Tuesdays after school. Competitive
matches begin after the October holiday. Any S1 – S3 boy who
would like to come along and join us, please see Mr Brown any
interval for a consent form.
Andrew Lamont (Monty) the Rugby Development Officer
attached to Rosshall
Under 18’s Football
Rosshall Academy under 18’s started the season with an away defeat to All Saints in the
league cup. However, there were plenty of positives to take away from the match and the
team hope to secure a second round place in the Scottish cup when they face Williamwood in
their next match. The team’s first home tie will be a league match against St Margaret Mary’s
on Wednesday 22nd October and all support is welcome.
S1 Toryglen League
A group of S1 pupils have been attending Toryglen on a Tuesday evening to participate in a 7 a-side football
tournament. The boys have been working hard to try and win games against other Glasgow schools to secure the spot
at the top of the league. They have displayed great sportsmanship and respect for other players throughout the
competition, and are persevering with their efforts to move up the league table. There are still spaces available so if
you would like to join, please see Miss Stephen for information.
- 12 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Under15’s Football
The under 15s have had a mixed start to the new season. Player shortages have
contributed to them losing v Hillpark away and drawing with Kings Park away.
However new striker Joe McNeil grabbed the only goal as they defeated a strong
Bishopbriggs side 1-0 Monday past at home. It was a strong defensive performance
with standout players Daniel O’Neil, Nathan Hewitt, Lee Nelson and Lee Duncanson
putting in big performances. A man of the match performance from now injured GK
Darren Black encouraged the boys to a great Scottish Cup win v Lenzie Academy. Scott Wilson provided the goal in
this match, the team now awaits the winner of St Columbia v Dumbarton Academy in the next round. We wish Darren
all the best in his recovery from a serious injury. So far I am confident this team can build on last year’s qualification
of the Glasgow Schools Competition Final 8 play offs.
Under 16’s Football
The under 16s have continued last season impressive run with it
now stretching to 7 wins in their last 7 games. The two
competitive matches so far this year has been v Hillpark at home
in the league where the boys romped to a 6-1 victory and 5-2 v St
Benedicts away in the Scottish cup.
Kai Brown grabbed an opportunistic hat trick v St Benedicts with
other goals from Captain Lewis Hunter and Manny Pascoal. Ben
McDonald put in a man of the match display v Hillpark scoring a
double including a 40 yard screamer! Two of the team’s most
impressive performers Jordyn Donlin and Manny Pascoal also
found the net. Kai scored one and Mahdy scored a debut goal.
The Morton brothers James and Alan have been ever present and
provided a reliable core to the team. This team are looking likely
to contend this season and silverware is not out of the question!!
Technical Department
Farewell
Rosshall Academy’s Technical Dept. said a sad farewell to Mr Jim Brown after many many years of
dedicated service at the end of June. Mr Brown was formerly a techy teacher in Penilee Secondary until
it merged with Crookston Secondary all those years ago to form Rosshall Academy. Mr Brown is a
very keen golfer and I imagine that as you probably read this, that he’s “on a course” right now. We
wish him a very happy, relaxing and well-earned retirement (his wife will get all those little jobs
finished no more excuses Jim – parents’ nights, reports, courses).
Arrival of Miss Edgar
Sad as we are to say farewell to Mr Brown we are delighted to welcome Miss Donna Edgar to
our dept. Miss Edgar has worked in many different school in Glasgow City Council and we
were absolutely delighted that she secured permanent employment at interview in May. Miss
Edgar started with us in August. This year our S1 pupils have the exciting chance to join Miss
Edgar’s after school craft club on a Thursday evening. She has lots of interesting and wonderful
project for our pupils over the coming months (as long as they like pink). ‘Everything is
awesome; everything is cool if you are pink and part of the team.’
Senior School Leadership Captains
Our senior school leadership captains are busy working with the Tech staff in the development of our school cottage
and charity fundraising events. So far they have arranged the FIFA tournament for all S1-S6 at interval and lunchtimes
in addition to the staff v’s senior pupil’s charity football match for the 29 th October, all in aid of Brick by Brick appeal.
Well done, keep up the hard work!
Supported study
This year as ever it’s a busy place here in the Tech Dept., we have supported study available to all S4-S6 classes on
various lunchtimes and evenings. A more formal timetable will be issued to pupils nearer the assessment period. S4
Design and Manufacture supported study is currently on a Wednesday afterschool
- 13 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Barra House
House captain
Congratulations to Bobbi Wilkie, Barra’s new House
Captain. She was appointed after interview, and has already
successfully led the recent house assembly. Congratulations
also to Head Boy for this academic session, Scott Smith of
Barra House.
Bobbi is being supported by a team of prefects:
S6 Prefects
Rachel Black
Chelsea Boyce
Lauren Brodie
Brooke Cawley
Ben Cunningham
Kyle Davison
Katie MacGregor
S5 Prefects
Aqeel Ahmed
Victoria Armour
Ellis Fraser
Becky Broadley
Congratulations to our top performing pupils who have received the most
merits so far:
Matthew Ferguson 3B2, Lucas Correia 1B1, Sophie Lee 1B2, Kyle Peebles 2B3 and Jay
Touray 2B1
Well done to Kelvin Keenan of 1B2 who has successfully achieved a Black Belt in Karate.
What an achievement as participating in martial arts has many benefits as it fosters selfdiscipline, improves listening skill and physical activities. He will be presented with this the
coming week.
It would be great to hear of other successes out with school. Please, don’t be shy …….. Share
your achievements with us and inspire others!
Barra House Council
Barra House is aiming to set up a House Council in order to embed Pupil Voice and ensure every pupil’s views and
concerns are adhered to.
Our House Captain Bobbi Wilkie will be chairing our meetings and each class will be represented by a nominated
Barra representative.
The Group and its Members will:
 Meet each month to discuss house related issues and come up with solutions
 Set out a clear vision, targets and goals in order for us to achieve
 Be role models for our house and clear ambassadors representing us positively
 Be good at listening, working together as a team and taking responsibility
‘This is Our House, Our Future’
Aqeel Ahmed
S5 Barra Prefect
- 14 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Outward Bound Day
Iona House
Prefects
This year’s S5 Prefects are:
Brodie Ambler
Neera Chaudhary
Andrew Hannah
Calum Lindsay
Victoria Paul
Millie Whittington
S6 Prefects are:
Alannah McPhee (House Captain)
Alisha Gentles
Andrew Shearer
Jesika Watson
Scott Young
All pupils have begun their duties well, planning and organising events and displays such as;
The Iona Pupil Council, Iona House Assembly and the Iona display board. The prefects are also making themselves
known to all pupils in Iona by greeting them in corridors, making sure the S1 pupils are settling in and participating in
lunch duty.
Iona Achievements
Iona S1 Outward Bound Day
Well done to all of the S1 Iona House classes who participated in the
Outward Bound activity day at Lochwinnoch before the September
break.
Pupils worked really well together during team building games and
water activities, all the while making sure they adhered to the Rosshall
Values while they were representing their school.
Mrs King and Ms Loudon were very proud of all of the Iona pupils
achievements on the trip.
Well done to ALL Iona pupils who have contributed to Iona House
being FIRST place on the merit system for October!! What an
excellent start for the reigning champions!
Particular congratulations to classes 2I2 and 1I3 for gaining the most
merits.
- 15 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Harris House
House captain
Josh McDonald S6 has been elected this year as house captain for Harris House.
As House Capitan Josh intends to encourage Harris pupils to work together and
aspire to first position this year.
Harris House Prefects this year:
S6
Sarah-Louise Bennett
Sophie Brown
Alison Glass
Molly Lockhart
Scott Russell
Greg Whitten
S5
Adam Mitchell
Sean McCorry
Amy McInalty
House Council
Tutor classes will be asked to elect a pupil to represent their class on the House Council when they return after the
October break. As House Captain, Josh will have the responsibility of chairing this meeting and they will meet on a
monthly basis.
Outward Bound
Pupils in 1H1 and 1H2 thoroughly enjoyed their Outward Bound trip to Castle Semple on 15 th September.
Achievements
We want to celebrate Harris pupils’ achievements both in and out of school at our house assemblies and in the
newsletter. Please inform Josh, any of the prefects, Miss Sharp or Mrs Stillie of your achievements and successes.
- 16 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Top performers
Our top performing pupils with merits for the month of September are:
5 Merits:
Ailey Tinney 1H1
4 Merits:
Kareen Fee 1H1, Shannon Douglas 2H2, Andrew Morton 3H2
Well done to all the above pupils and hopefully will see lots more names next month.
ing the most merits and to Jade Masson 2I2, Melisa McAllister 2I1 for receiving the most individual merits.
Lewis House
Head Girl
This year Lewis House is proud to have one of our pupils
represent the whole school as Head Girl, Mream Hashem.
Since joining Rosshall Academy Mream has been a determined
and driven student who has participated in a wide range of
activities and opportunities including representing the school on
the REACH university programme. Mream has always been very
aspirational for herself and plans to go to university to study
microbiology next year.
House Captain and Prefects
Mream is not the only pupil leader in Lewis with three senior
pupils Aysha Mwanyali, Sophie Tweedle and Cameron Hannah
all performing exceptionally well during the house captain
interviews with Cameron being the successful candidate.
Cameron has already made an impact in his role as house captain
by leading our recent assembly and introducing the house
council to all pupils and explaining that every Lewis class from
every year will nominate a pupil to take a leading role as part of
our house council. Cameron will be supported in making sure
Lewis house builds upon our current second place in the house
competition by working with our excellent prefect team of: Jodie
Conroy, Courtney McCrear, Melissa McGoldrick, Aysha
Mwanyali, Dawn O’Hare, Rachel Sherry, Sophie Tweedle, Amy
Graham, Beth McCloy and Maria Murray and by encouraging all
pupils to become involved.
Congratulations
Lewis house was also very proud to have one
of our pupils, Dylan Wallace S6, be successful
in a competition run by Glasgow University’s
Physics Department to go to Switzerland and visit
the CERN laboratory. Dylan reported back that
this was a brilliant experience and has made him
even more determined to secure a place at
University to study physics
- 17 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Outward Bound
The S1 Outward Bound day was a great success with all S1
Lewis pupils getting involved and having a great time
completing the activities.
Top Merits
Congratulations to the following pupils who currently have the highest merits in each year group!
S1 – Arin Crawford
S4 – Dean Moran
S2 – Craig Moffat
S5/6 – Maria Murray
S3 – Stephanie Bruce
House Hero’s
Lewis House would like to celebrate all of our pupil’s achievements and this
year our house captain, Cameron, has introduced the house hero’s initiative.
Please encourage your son/ daughter to tell us of their achievements outside of
school or to nominate their friends!
Skye House
Well done to all pupils in Skye House that have contributed to making such a positive start to this school year.
Top performers
Congratulations to our top performing pupils who have received the most merits so far. These pupils areAmanda
MacDonald 3S2, Lewis McVey 3S2, Ember Charlton 2S2, David Docherty 2S2, Abiskar Gaire 1S2, Danni
Hainey 1S1, David Hart 2S2, Beth McColl 3S1, Hannah Smart 1S1, Adam Wilson 1S1, Amy Young 1S1
Congratulations to Katy Garner one of our 6 th year pupils who was elected Skye
House Captain.
Skye prefects
Skye 6th Year Prefects this year are:
Katie Garner, Megan McLaren, Rachael Dempster, Hannah Gerrie, Saul Bouhadjar,
Carly McGuire, Jia Ying Chen, Ross McVeigh
Skye 5th Year Prefects are
Tanya Singh, Sara Syed, Ryan Little, Kaitlin Ruddy
Our Skye prefects have been busy updating the Skye Notice board and meeting to discuss their ideas of all the
different events opportunities they would like to create for all pupils within Skye House.
- 18 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
Skye News
Congratulations to……….
Ryan McInnes 1S2 our very own Judo Champion who has been winning several medals in Judo including Gold
recently at the Highland Open Judo Championships
Rachel Hamilton our star skater who recently won a silver medal at the Lee Valley Open in London.
Gemma Carberry, Gemma Gibson and Abbey Black all S4 pupils who were successful in gaining a place on this year’s
Careers Academy Programme. This is a fantastic achievement and is an exciting and worthwhile opportunity for them
all.
A huge heartfelt thank you to Jade Campbell and Leah Malcolm (1S1) who volunteered in their own time to go and
help tidy books at the library. Cardonald Library were so appreciative of the girls help they wrote a lovely email of
thanks to the school. Well done girls 
Outward bound day
Well done to all S1 Skye Pupils who demonstrated excellent behaviour, attitude and commitment on their S1 Outward
Bound Day. A great day was had by all!!
Employment and skills department
Are you studying Maths, Economics, Business and/ or Accounting and looking for an alternative to university for a
career in business in finance? If so, please read on!!!!!
EY Insight will be hosting an Insight Evening on Tuesday 14th October in our office in Glasgow. The insight
evening will run from 5pm - 7.30pm and will give students the chance to find out more about EY, what we do, our
schools opportunities, and meet some of our current school leavers. I would be grateful if the links below could be sent
round to schools and forwarded to students who are in 5th and 6th year, studying Maths, Economics, Business and/ or
Accounting and looking for an alternative to university for a career in business in finance.
About EY insight
The EY Insight is for school and college students who are exploring the different options to starting a career in a global business. Held in our
offices all over the UK, these open evenings are a great way to start planning your future. You'll get an idea of what your strengths are and how to
use them. You'll also meet our people, learn about making a successful application, and get a taste of what life is like working for a leading global
business.
Registration is now open. We welcome group bookings however students will need to register individually. (Please
see Mrs Allison, Employment & Skills Manager, Pastoral Care Dept to register)
This event is open to any school or college students currently in their 4th, 5th or 6th year of study.
For more information please follow the links:
http://ukcareerguide.ey.com/schools/
http://ukcareerguide.ey.com/schools/improve-yourself/ey-insights-reserve-your-place-today/
- 19 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
OCTOBER 2014
Friday 10th October
Monday 13th October
Tuesday 28th October
School Closes 3pm
Pupils return
Primary 7 Open Evening at 7.00pm
NOVEMBER 2014
Tuesday 4th November
Wednesday 5th November
Monday 10th November
Monday 24th November
S2 Parents information evening
Parent council Meeting
S5/S6 Parents meeting 4.30pm
S2 Parents meeting 4.30pm
DECEMBER 2014
Tuesday 2nd December
Monday 8th December
Wednesday 10th December
Friday 19th December
Christmas charity evening
S1 Parents evening
Parent council meeting
Christmas service and talent show –School closes 2.30pm
SCHOOL CONTACT DETAILS
131 Crookston Road
Glasgow
G52 3PD
Telephone
0141 582 0200
Fax
0141 582 0201
[email protected]
www.rosshallacademy.glasgow.sch.uk
Follow us on Twitter @RosshallAcademy
Head Teacher
Ms Alison J Mitchell
Depute Head Teacher
Depute Head Teacher
Depute Head Teacher
Depute Head Teacher
Depute Head Teacher
Mr Graham Keith
Mrs Wendy Stillie
Ms Tracey Loudon
Ms Maureen Moy
Mr Stephen Murphy
Barra House
Harris House
Iona House
Lewis House
Skye House
Pastoral Care Teachers
Mrs Kathryn King
Ms Brenda Sharp
Mrs Evelyn Brogan
Mr Barry Quinn
Mrs Nicola Hood
Iona House
Harris House
Barra House
Lewis House
Skye House
- 20 -
ROSSHALL ACADEMY: OUR SCHOOL, OUR FUTURE