Thursday 10 December 2009

Paris Trip


Three students from the Higher French class, Jade Neil, Kerry Kennedy and Stephanie Smith, accompanied by Mrs.McKenzie PT Modern Languages had a fantastic 2 days in Paris. The group visited many of the famous sights including the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur and the Notre Dame. The students practised their French buying souvenirs and ordering crepes and snails. Bravo a toutes!

Ayrshire Leader Fund

Senior pupils have been discussing, with Sarah Baird from the Ayrshire Leader Fund, how to develop a number of exciting ideas relating to health, the arts and astronomy. The school staff and pupils are looking forward to seeing how these ideas can be embedded into the curriculum.

Coffee Morning


The Supported Learning Centre held a coffee morning to raise funds for Yorkhill Hospital for Children. Parents and staff were treated to a scrumptious feast of goodies whilst supporting a worthy cause.

Sailing fundraising

The Doon Academy Ocean Youth Trust Group has begun fundraising for their next trip. They are hoping to take 12 pupils sailing next June from Oban out round the islands. The trip will be open to any pupils from S3 upward who is keen to get involved with the fundraising and preparations. Previous trips have been very successful even if the weather hasn't been that good. Pupils gain a great sense of achievement from overcoming obstacles such as seasickness. They achieve success at sea from steering the boat, cooking for 18 people, hauling up the sails and tacking the boat. Their personal growth stands them in good stead when they return to school. The group are hoping that people will support their fundraising efforts.

Netball success

On Thursday 3rd December, Doon Academy notched up another netball victory. The home game against Kyle 3 was much anticipated after the previous away game against Kyle 2. Our super shooters, Jade Scott and Halle Fitzsimmons didn’t disappoint, scoring 5 in the first half. The dazzling defence unit of Claire Boyd and Lauren Shaw ensured Kyle had no chance of scoring. Varri Murdoch was a captivating centre and our wonderful wings, Paige McMahon and Annabel McTaggart, made sure there was always someone to pass to. Shannon Brown came on to play in the second half and the team scored another 3 points, making the final result 8-0. Well done to all players, particularly Claire Boyd who went home with the Player of the Match Award. This makes Doon Academy currently joint top of the league. The hard work is now paying off!

Cooking in the Kitchen

Congratulations to S3 pupil Jack Allsop who visited Ayrshire chef Rosemary Allan as part of his prize for winning the ‘Cooking in the Kitchen with Rosemary Competition’. Jack made his signature dishes; Pork Leg with sage stuffing and home made gravy followed by chocolate sponge pudding and custard. Jack accompanied by his mother had a wonderful day with Rosemary he said, “It was brilliant. I made friends with the other winners and their families. My mum also had a great time.”

Prelims

S4 pupils are currently sitting their prelim exams for their standard grade courses. They will sit their Higher Still prelims in February. The school staff and pupils extend a warm welcome to our invigilators under the leadership of our new Chief Invigilator Joyce Klimeck.

Student Teachers

Our student teachers Lyndsay Gilbertson in Biology and Dale Watt in PE have now returned to college. We thank them for all their help and wish them well in their future careers.

New Depute Head Teacher

Congratulations to Lyndsay McRoberts who was successful at interview and appointed to the post of Depute Head Teacher.

Thursday 3 December 2009

Accelerated Reader success


At an S2 pupils assembly pupils received certificates celebrating their success at moving up one or 2 levels within the Accelerated Reader programme. Three outstanding pupils, Jordan Berretti, William Paton and Mark McLean have achieved Advanced Reader and Mark is now up to the Star Reader level. Congratulations to all our readers.

Road Safely Talk


As part of National Road Safety week Strathclyde Police Officers visited the school and spoke to S1 pupils about keeping themselves safe while walking.

Statistically young people between the ages of 11 to14 are the most at risk group for getting injured whilst walking. The talk was followed up in PSE classes by lessons from a pack called “Your Call” which was developed with Road Safety Scotland.

Keep safe S1!

Alcohol awareness


S4 pupils took part in a pilot programme on Alcohol Awareness created by the British Institute of Innkeeping. The Scottish Certificate in Alcohol Awareness was developed to support government initiatives to raise awareness of alcohol issues among youths.

Most pupils were successful in passing the exam at the end of the six-week course and received the BIIAB Certificate in Alcohol Awareness at a presentation ceremony opened by Doon Valley councillor Drew Filson. Kilmarnock FC supported the event by sending two players, Cameron Bell and Lee Robinson to award the certificates.

Alice Cardwell-Hodges, International Development Director for the BIIAB said “I am delighted that pupils at Doon Academy have found the course so beneficial”. The programme has been well received by pupils, parents and teachers and will be rolled out to other secondary schools in East Ayrshire. Congratulations to everyone who took part in this worthwhile pilot.

Christmas concert

The Christmas Concert will be held on Thursday 10th December, 7pm – 9pm. Tickets cost £2.00 for adults £1.00 for children and are available from the school or various establishments in Dalmellington.

Pupils have made calendars and novelty bags as part of the school’s enterprise scheme these will be sold during the school’s Christmas Concert.

FOCUS West

As part of the FOCUS West programme senior pupils in Art will meet with tutors from Glasgow School of Art to discuss their portfolios and development needs.

Thanks

The Art Department would like to thank everyone who gave their assistance during the Doon Academy Art Exhibition. They are very grateful for the support of people in the local community and the Doon Valley Museum

Thursday 26 November 2009

Children in Need Talent Show


Congratulations to all the acts who performed in the Children In Need Talent Show. The show was a tremendous success and collectively with the non-uniform day, baking stall and face painting it raised over £500 for this worthy cause. Well done to the two winning acts S1 pupil Nicky Fairbairn who danced her way to top, and the senior girls with their tribute to Michael Jackson. Many thanks to the school captains and prefects who organised the event.

Art Exhibition


Many local dignitaries, together with pupils, parents and staff from the school community, attended the opening of the Doon Academy Art Exhibition at the Doon Valley Museum. The visitors were all eager to see the pupils work and they were delighted at the quality of artwork on display. The exhibition is on until the 5th December and the museum is open Thurs – Sat 11am – 5pm.

Crhistmas Concert

The Christmas Concert will be held on Thursday 10th December, 7pm – 9pm. Tickets cost £2.00 for adults £1.00 for children and are available from the school or various establishments in Dalmellington. There will be refreshments, raffle and a sale of Christmas goodies.

Car Boot Sale

The Senior Prom Committee is raising money for their prom in June to be held at the Western House Hotel. They are holding a car boot sale on Sunday 6th December. Any donations of bric-a-brac would be most welcome.

FOCUS West

The FOCUS West Top-Up programme for pupils in S5/6 applying to university, for entry in 2010, will begin on Thursday 10th December. Lecture staff from the University of Glasgow will visit the school to conduct workshops and prepare students for their seminar and lecture visits at the university.

Credit Union

The S1/S2 Credit Union holds lunchtime sessions on a Thursday in GP1. Pupils are busy saving up for Christmas. The credit union will be opened up for all year groups in January.

Christmas Concert

The Art Department is busy making the scenery and props for the Christmas show. They have been making calendars and gift bags with sweets to sell at the event. Well done to Nicole McCallister whose Christmas drawing of Loch Doon has been chosen as the cover for the Concert programme.

Thursday 19 November 2009

Fantasy Football success


William Paton in S2 gained the top score during the pre-season for the Fantasy Football League run by the Maths department. He was awarded a collection of books for his management skills. Congratulations and possibly a future career as a new Scotland football manager in the making!

Christmas Concert

The Christmas Concert will be held on Thursday 10th December, 7pm – 9pm. Tickets cost £3.00 for adults £1.00 for children and are available from the school or various establishments in Dalmellington. There were be refreshments, raffle and a sale of Christmas goodies.

Prom Car boot sale

The Senior Prom Committee is raising money for their prom in June to be held at the Western House Hotel. They are holding a car boot sale on Sunday 6th December. Any donations of bric-a-brac would be most welcome.

Cricket Club

The Cricket Club Training will begin on Monday 23rd November from 6:30 – 8:30. Anybody welcome, as more members are required.
Congratulations to Bradley Kirkwood who has been elected Doon Academy’s Cricket Captain for season 2010.

Gardening tools

The Eco Group are delighted that the school’s collection of Morrisons Lets Grow vouchers bought the school 2 spades, 2 hand forks, 2 trowels and a watering can. These will be very useful for maintaining the garden areas. Thank you to everyone who donated their vouchers.

Focus West Campus Day

The FOCUS West Campus Day for S3 pupils will be held on 9th December at the University of West of Scotland (Paisley Campus). 24 S3 pupils will tour the campus, learn about life at university from student mentors and university staff and take part in workshops.

Focus West Campus Day

The FOCUS West Campus Day for S3 pupils will be held on 9th December at the University of West of Scotland (Paisley Campus). 24 S3 pupils will tour the campus, learn about life at university from student mentors and university staff and take part in workshops.

Anti Cyber-bullying

The School held an Anti Cyber-Bullying day on Tuesday 17th November to raise awareness of Bullying over the Internet and on mobile phones. Pupils undertook various activities on the National Anti-Bullying website and learned about how young people are affected by cyber bullying. Pupils made anti-bullying posters, which were displayed, around the school to raise awareness of this important issue.

Thursday 12 November 2009

Football success


Congratulations to the S1 7 a side football team who took part in the S1 Bank Of Scotland Football Tournament for East Ayrshire schools. The squad made up of Paul Jamieson, Connar Halbert, Corrie Wilson, Brandon Gasson, Iain Mcwilliam, Robert Brown, William McCleary and Patrick Gilmore managed to finish second in a group of four teams. A convincing 3-0 victory, courtesy of two goals from William McCleary, one surely a contender for goal of the tournament, and one from Connar Halbert followed a spirited 0-0 draw in the first game. Unfortunately, the final game was to finish in disappointment as we lost out to a very impressive Loudon team although the 4-0 score line did not reflect the closeness of the contest. Well done to all who took part, they were a credit to the school through their performances on the park and their overall behaviour at the event. Thanks must also go to our student teacher Dale Watt for helping with his coaching expertise.

New bikes?

S3 College Students are currently working on a problem-solving project that involves the re-manufacture of old bicycles into bikes with more than two wheels. This project will be finished by Christmas; they then hope to have a race on the bikes to determine the winning team. Roll on boys!

Festival of Learning

As part of the East Ayrshire Curriculum for Excellence programme. David Burrell, Jack White and Cameron McCrorie will be representing the School – College Partnership at the Festival of Learning in the Cumnock Town Hall.

Spring Read news

Three terrific authors have been booked for the annual Spring Read Festival, which begins in March 2010. Catherine Forde, Theresa Breslin and Keith Gray will all in East Ayrshire giving reading of their works and speaking to pupils. Look out for more information on the Spring Read Festival.

Burns Competition

S1/2 pupils are busy learning their Burns poems for the Burns Verse Speaking Competition. The Grand Final will take place in the school on the afternoon of Wednesday 16th December. Good Luck to everyone taking part.

Art Exhibition

Doon Academy annual art exhibition will be held in the Doon Valley Museum in Dalmellington on Thursday 19th November 6.30pm to 8pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and refreshments will be provided. The exhibition will run until the 4th December. The opening times at the museum are Thursday to Saturday 11am – 5pm.

Scots language workshops


Dr. Fred Freeman, the renowned author and academic, visited the school and took S1 and S2 classes for workshops on the Scots Language. Through the medium of Burns and Scottish songs Dr Freeman gave a lively talk on the history of Scots. Pupils were able to show their knowledge and prowess of the language and they really enjoyed singing traditional Scottish songs. Whilst at the school Dr Freeman was interviewed by the BBC School News Reporters for the BBC School Report.

Thursday 5 November 2009

"Routes for all" workshops



S5 pupils took part in the FOCUS West ‘Routes for All’ workshops. The activities are designed to be challenging but fun and they provide pupils with important skills for education and employment. Lecturers and university students from the University of Strathclyde also gave information; advice and guidance on practical issues relating to Further and Higher Education. The pupils really enjoyed their day and found it very interesting and informative.

The Halloween Disco was a roaring success with pupils and staff dressed in an eclectic range of outfits from Dracula to the Snow White. Well done to the 6th year prefects and school captains for arranging the event.

Mrs Cassidy's leaving

Doon Academy’s staff and pupils bid a fond farewell to Mrs. Helen Cassidy who is leaving the school to take up a post as PT Guidance at St. Joseph’s Academy. Everyone wishes her good luck in her new school.

Netball

The S1/S2 netball team started their season with a rip roaring success! Within the first 5 minutes, the Doon girls had 5 points and their Kyle Academy rivals were yet to score. Halle Fitzsimmons and Jade Scott were magnificent in their attack and gave the rest of the team a lift with the nets they scored. No ball got past the super defence system of Claire Boyd and Lauren Shaw, who both showed amazing technique and skill. Hazel Limond and Paige McMahon also showed strength in the centre court, with accurate passing and quick movement, they left Kyle under no illusion that they were out to win. The second half of the game saw our shooters get another 4 nets taking the score to 9-0. Stephanie Carrick who, alongside Halle, played their first game for Doon showed great effort. Special thanks goes to Alex’s Dearie who came last minute as a sub and ended up receiving ‘Player of the Match’. Well done to all girls who took part and won their first league game. May the season continue as it started!

Art Exhibition

The Art Department are having an art exhibition at the end of November. Pupils are busy preparing their artwork for the show.

Christmas concert

The Christmas Concert will be held on the evening of Thursday 10th December. More details in the coming weeks.

Recycling collections

The Supported Learning Centre’s chosen charity for this year is ‘Hearing Dogs for the Deaf’. Pupils and staff are collecting used stamps and used ink cartridges to raise money for the charity. In addition, they are collecting unwanted spectacles to send to developing countries. SLC pupils are also responsible for collecting paper and used cardboard from all classrooms and sending it for recycling.

PINK day

It was a PINK day at the school when S3 College Care pupils arranged a PINK Coffee Morning in aid of Breast Cancer. There was also a PINK non-uniform day. The Catering Direct staff donated a cake, which was won by Mr. Ellis. Mr Power won the pink bubbly champagne by guessing the name of the person in a picture. He choose Lucy the name of his dog! The total amount raised was £371.47. Well done to the S3 pupils for organising the occasion and thank you to everyone who donated to this worthy cause.

Friday 30 October 2009

Winning Cook


Congratulations to S3 pupil Jack Allsop who won the Rosemary McAllan’s ‘Cooking in the Kitchen’s Schools Competition’. S1 - S3 students at Doon were invited to enter the competition to win a day cooking with Rosemary. Students had to write out their favourite recipe. The rules were the dish must include nourishing foods that can be sourced locally and the student had to explain how they would serve it e.g. with potatoes, rice, vegetables. Jack’s recipe was for Roast Pork Dinner with sage and onion stuffing, followed by Chocolate Orange Sponge Pudding with sauce or custard! Jack has won a day to cook with his mum and Rosemary and an apron and a tasting spoon. There were also 5 pupils from the school who were Highly Commended for their recipes David Burrell (S3) for Ayrshire Lamb Cutlets, and Ayrshire Tatties; Frazer Buchanan (S2) for Special Jerk Pork Fillet; Liam Haining (S3) for Honey and Lemon Chicken; Reece Wigglesworth (S3) for Shepherd's Pie and Megan Lees (S3) for Scottish Stuffed Chicken. Ms. McAllan will visit the school to present the awards. Well done to everyone who took part in the competition.

Scottish Youth Theatre visit


S1 pupils had a visit from the Scottish Youth Theatre, which is based in Glasgow. Drama leaders Emma and Mary put the pupils through their paces with various workshops on all aspects of drama and the theatre. Everyone really enjoyed their afternoon treading the boards.

Furureworld success

Congratulations to the S1 Media Group their film ‘Futureworld’, which won the East Ayrshire International competition, will be shown at the Learning Together International Conference.

Credit Union

The S1/S2 Credit Union is up and running and application forms are available from the Maths Department. Collections are made on Thursday lunchtimes in GP1. In the near future the Credit Union will be open for business for the remainder of the school.

Leadership Academy

The Dalguise Leadership Academy was an outstanding success. At the graduation ceremony 12 students and 2 teachers graduated as leaders. Well done to all our graduates.

Glasgow School of Art visitor

As part of the FOCUS West project, Deborah Holland from the Glasgow School of Art visited the Art Department and worked with senior pupils who were given the brief to produce an individual piece of work for their portfolio. Ms. Holland will return in December to review their progress.

Fund raising

Male staff in the school are taking part in ‘Movember’ which is a moustache growing event held during November each year to raise awareness of prostate cancer. From November 1st to the 30th participating males must grow and groom their moustaches/beards collecting for the charity along the way. Hair we grow!

Curriculum for Excellence meeting

College lecturers from Doon Academy’s college partnership, and a group of senior pupils will represent the school at a Curriculum for Excellence event for parents on the 14th November. The group will explain how the school has developed vocational education over the last few years.

Broaden Your Horizons

S4/5/6 Business Management students attended the ‘Broaden your Horizons’ event at Prestwick Airport, which was part of Ayrshire Business Week activities. Students learned about the work of the Prince’s Youth Trust and Oxfam during the seminar and were able to ask questions of young people who had received finance from the Prince’s Trust. Mrs Stewart, Mrs Strachan and Mr. Watt accompanied the group.

Rag Bag

The school recently undertook its second Rag Bag collection. Staff and pupils were encouraged to donate old clothes, shoes and other textiles. The Eco Group is pleased to announce that we raised £40.50 for future Eco projects.

Auchincruive Trip

On Wednesday 30th September, 20 S2 pupils were given the opportunity to visit the Scottish Agricultural College at Auchincruive Estate. With assistance from Mrs Gillespie, Mr Kavanagh, Miss Gilbertson and the helpful staff at Auchincruive, pupils were given an opportunity to take part in workshops in Biology, Home Economics, Chemistry and Geography. Luckily the weather stayed dry so pupils were able to explore the estate and it was a great day for all concerned. The S2 pupils are commended for their enthusiasm in asking questions as well as their excellent behaviour throughout the day. Many thanks to The Royal Highland Education Trust who hosted the event, and also to Mr Gooding who helped organize the trip.

Dalmellington Silver Band

The Dalmellington Silver Band Junior Section, including Doon Academy pupils Hazel Limond, Gail Limond, Lauren Young, Robbie Uriarte, Fiona Kennedy, Lisa Chalmers, Duncan McCluskie and Kieran Purdie, performed at Straiton Church on Sunday evening, 4th October. There was a mixture of well- known hymns and secular music. Everyone there was absolutely delighted with the performance and comments were made on how professional the members were. Folk at the Kirk were fulsome in their praise of the band and look forward to them coming back again in the not too distant future. Well done to all the band members.

Thursday 1 October 2009

International School award

Doon Academy has received Intermediate Level in the International School Awards (ISA). Congratulations to all pupils and staff for promoting Internationalism throughout the school and with our international partners.

New Tyre removal machine

S4 pupils undertaking the Doon Academy/Kilmarnock College motor vehicle course will be out on work placements at various garages in the Ayrshire area. Members of the department would like to thank the staff at Arnold Clarke’s Honda Garage in Ayr who have donated a tyre removal machine. This machine is a really useful piece of equipment to assist the pupils with their vehicular studies.

OYT trip

A group of 5 girls and 5 boys from S3 are heading for the high seas. As part of the Doon Academy Leadership programme, they will be taking part in an Ocean Youth Trust Scotland voyage in the Firth of Clyde area, sailing from the OYT's new base at Greenock. The weather forecast for the week is showers and wind so they should have an interesting trip. They have been warned to come prepared and wrap up well. Mrs Bax and Mr Tomlinson will accompany them on their journey. Bon Voyage everyone!

Leadership Academy

Staff and S3 pupils are also off to Doon Academy’s own residential Leadership Academy at Dalguise, which will involve a mixture of workshops and outdoor activities - wellies at the ready! Alongside OYT and Dalguise Leadership activities S3 pupils will be at the non-residential Kilmarnock College Leadership Course. This will be structured in the same way as our Dalguise course with a greater emphasis on the arts.

John Muir Award

S2 pupils Megan Kennedy and Abbey McRobert are taking part in the John Muir Award Scheme at Dumfries House. Good Luck to both of them.

Former pupil success

Congratulations to former pupil and renowned golfer Pamela Feggans. Pamela is currently on the European Tour circuit and she tied for 30th place in the Tenerife Open. Everyone wishes Pamela continued success in her golfing championships.

P7 transition

The Doon Learning Partnership P7 Primary Transition has begun in the school. Every Tuesday afternoon P7 pupils from our learning partnership schools, Dalmellington, Littlemill, Patna and Bellsbank Primaries will be at Doon Academy for lessons in English, Maths, Science, Social Subjects and PE.

Coraline trip

On Friday 30th October all S1 pupils will be visiting the Odeon Cinema in Ayr as part of National Schools Film Week. The pupils will see a screening of Coraline, which is an ideal film for the study of camera angles, and shot types, which will help pupils’ with their understanding of media techniques.

Staff success

Congratulations to Mrs Dorans in the English Department who received her Certificate of Achievement at the East Ayrshire Educational and Social Work Awards Celebration. Mrs Dorans was presented with the award for gaining the General Teaching Council’s (GTC) Professional Recognition in Learning and Teaching.

Glasgow School of Art visitors

After the October holiday, as part of the FOCUS West project, students and tutors from Glasgow School of Art will be working with pupils on their artwork portfolios.

Citizenship

The S2/3 Citizenship Group will be up and running at the end of October. The planned activities will focus on team building and communication skills.

Thursday 24 September 2009

School Captains

Congratulations to Lee Orr and Stephanie Roberts who have been elected as Doon Academy’s School Captains. They will be ably assisted in their duties by vice captains Jake Bunyan and Amy Fairbairn.

Fantasy Football

Mrs McClue, Acting Principal Teacher of Maths, is running a Fantasy Football league in the school. This league is open to students, teachers and parents. Each entrant is given a 'budget' with which they can create their own 'fantasy team'. Each team can be managed online. Entry costs £3.50. Participants can find out more and get entry forms from Mrs McClue. The entry closing date is 2nd October 2009.

European Day of Languages

To celebrate the European Day of Languages S1 and S5 pupils in the Modern Languages Department made some delicious French food. Staff and pupils enjoyed hot crepes with a choice of fillings, croissants and pains au chocolat.

Student teachers

We welcome two new student teachers to the school until the end of term at Christmas. Miss Lindsay Gilbertson in our Science department and Mr Dale Watt in our P.E. department. We wish them all the very best!

Scottish Agricultural College visit

On September 30th, 20 S2 pupils donned their wellies and waterproof jackets to visit the Scottish Agricultural College at Auchincruive. The visit was designed to assist pupils in deciding their third year option choices by providing information on a wide range of subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Home Economics, Geography and Modern Studies. Pupils worked outdoors with 3 other academies and the Royal Highland Educational Trust.

Leadership Academy

The first Doon Leadership Academy of the new term is set to take place from the 5th – 9th October in Dalguise, Perthshire. On this trip, pupils will learn the essential skills of leadership such as integrity, focus and awareness. These skills will help the pupils in both school and future life. 12 students and 4 teachers will experience workshops that teach the values of leadership.

Scottish Chamber Orchestra visit

On September 23rd, two members of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra visited the music department to work with students on a project called Masterworks 2009. This involved S4, 5 and 6 pupils taking part in a composing workshop based on the piece ‘Tryst’ by composer James MacMillan. Following this, students involved will attend a musical concert at the Grand Hall, Kilmarnock, to see this piece played by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.

Gala Concert

Music students are busy rehearsing for the Instrumental Service Gala Concert in the Palace Theatre in Kilmarnock. The concert will take place on September 30th and includes many different schools from East Ayrshire Playing a wide variety of instruments. Doon’s pupils will mainly be involved in the vocal and brass groups of the orchestra. Tickets are £5 and £3 concession and are available at the Palace Theatre Box Office. Telephone 01563544900

Thursday 17 September 2009

Sponsored Walk

Doon Academy's Sponsored Walk took place on the afternoon on Thursday 17th September. The students and staff undertook a 5K-walk beginning at the school, along Bellsbank Brae and through Craigengillan Estate. This event will help pupils and teachers raise money for the school. Funds will go towards educational trips and outings to help broaden our student's curriculum.

Leadership programme future

On Thursday 10th September, our Senior Leaders from the Leadership Academy met with Elaine Stewart, Chair of Dalmellington Partnership and The Zone Project Manager, to examine funding ideas for the school's leadership programme. This meeting followed on from the great success of our Summer Showcase in June 2009. The funds raised will be spent on Leadership Academies for further generations of students.

Leadership programme future

On Thursday 10th September, our Senior Leaders from the Leadership Academy met with Elaine Stewart, Chair of Dalmellington Partnership and The Zone Project Manager, to examine funding ideas for the school's leadership programme. This meeting followed on from the great success of our Summer Showcase in June 2009. The funds raised will be spent on Leadership Academies for further generations of students.

Activate

Doon welcomes back Nancy Law from Careers Scotland who will take the ACTIVATE group for students. ACTIVATE helps students develop skills and obtain the knowledge to assist them in moving on from Doon Academy to further education or into employment.

Cooking in the Kitchen

In Home Economics S1 to S3 pupils are entering a ‘Cooking in the Kitchen’ competition where the winners will be able to spend a day cooking with Rosemary McAllan. Entrants have to select their favourite recipe, which must include nourishing foods that can be locally sourced. Good Luck to all the participants.

Student teachers

Two student teachers will be on placement at the school from the University of West of Scotland. Miss Lynsay Gilbertson in Biology, and Mr Dale Watt in PE. Staff and pupils welcome them and wish them well with their teaching placement.

Literacy Across Learning

Doon Academy's teachers have scheduled a meeting with Literacy Across Learning Working Party (LALWP) to discuss the development of a booklet of literature activities for use in every subject. This will increase students' literacy skills through means of fun tasks and games.

Glow champions

Mrs Stewart and Mrs Bax recently attended Glow training at St Joseph’s Academy in Kilmarnock. Mrs Newall from the office has already received training to be an Administrator. The staff at Doon Academy will now be trained on how to use the system. Glow is an intranet for education, which it is hoped, will transform the way education is delivered in Scotland. Glow provides a safe environment for pupils and staff, and an area where personal programmes of work can be created, as well as resources shared throughout Scotland.

Friday 11 September 2009

OYT Trip


Brigid Stoney, Development Officer with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland visited Doon Academy to talk to the participants and their parents about the forthcoming OYT trip. She showed them a short video and some photographs to give pupils an idea of what to expect on the trip. She also responded to concerns about seasickness, food, bedtimes and home contact. After the presentation, pupils had a chance to look at a sea chart of the area where they will be sailing and to try on the waterproofs they will be wearing. A group of 5 boys and 5 girls from S3 will be participating in an OYT voyage from 5th to the 9th October, accompanied by Mrs K Bax from Doon Academy and Billy Tomlinson from Kilmarnock College. The trip will be from Greenock out into the Firth of Clyde area and back. All the pupils present were really keen to go after finding out about the trip.

Morrison's Let's Grow

Mrs. Elder’s S2 elective class are currently collecting Morrisons ‘Let’s Grow’ vouchers. These vouchers are available between now and 1st November, The group would like to collect as many vouchers as possible in order to obtain essential gardening supplies required to make improvements to the school gardens. Vouchers can be handed in at to the school’s social subjects department.

YIP World


Welcome to Gavin and Arlene from YIP World who are in school on Wednesday afternoons as part of the ‘Inspiring Scotland’ project. They are working with a small group of S3 pupils on teamwork building and confidence skills.

Zone

Doon Academy is working in partnership with The Zone as part of the ‘Youth on the Move’ project. Senior pupils are acquiring skills to support them in their transition into the world of work.

Art

Principal Teacher of Art, Mrs. Humes, attended a Teachers Forum at the Glasgow School of Art to discuss new admissions and to see examples of art portfolios. Mrs. Humes said’ It was a very interesting day and I enjoyed seeing all the portfolios of artwork.’

Young Enterprise

A Young Enterprise Group is being set up and they will be working on enterprising activities throughout the school.

GLOW

Mrs Stewart and Mrs Bax have been trained as Glow Champions for the school. They will now train staff on using Glow in the school. Mrs. Newall has been trained as Administrator for Glow.

Paris Trip

Bonjour. The Modern Languages Department is running a trip to Paris, in November, for the S5/6 French class. They will be visiting many of the famous Parisian sights, sampling French food and practising their French language skills. Bon Voyage!

Fantasy football

A fantasy football league will be starting up in Doon Academy. This is open to all pupils, parents and staff. Entrants manage their team online. Entry forms and further information from Miss. McClue in the Maths Department.

Thursday 3 September 2009

Sponsored Walk

The school sponsored walk will take place on the afternoon of Thursday 17th September. The 5k route takes in the Bellsbank Brae and the Craigengillan Estate. Pupils and staff will be raising funds for the school through this healthy and enjoyable sponsored activity. All funds raised go towards educational school visits to enhance the school’s curriculum.

Staff Working Groups

The first staff after school collegiate time meeting was held and the focus for discussion was Working Groups. These groups are linked to the 5 main entitlement areas on the improvement plan, which are Raising Attainment, Wider Achievement, CPD, Parents and Enterprise. Staff selected which of the working groups they wished to serve on during this academic year.

New College Courses

S5 and S6 students have begun College Courses on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Our students travel to Kilmarnock College to attend courses in Fashion and Textiles, Construction and The Performing Arts, and Ayr College for Sport and Fitness, Hairdressing and Beauty and Childcare. Also, our in-house S3 to S5 courses have begun in Engineering and Child Care.

Auchencruive trip

On September 30th, 32 students from S2, soon to be thinking about choices for their third year, will be going on a trip to Auchincruive for the day. There, they will be carrying out fieldwork, (experiments and investigations) outside in the fresh September air instead of the classroom. They will carry out studies in Geography, Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Home Economics. We hope they enjoy the day!

Higher Education Convention

The Higher Education Convention will take place on Tuesday 15th September at the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock. S5 and S6 students will be given the opportunity to talk to representatives from universities, colleges and professional organisations.

Art Club

Our Art teachers Miss Fuller and Mrs Hume are busying organising an after-school Art Club. Anyone who is interested in art as a hobby, that's students and staff, and for any busy art students who just need more time to complete their artwork, they are all more than welcome to attend. The Art Department is a friendly and welcoming haven for all those interested in art.

Prefects

Congratulations to Doon Academy's new senior prefects! The school now has 21 elected S6 prefects who will be assisting staff in the smooth running of the school. Elections for School and House Captains will take place this week.

Thursday 27 August 2009

Peer Mediation


In the first week of term, our S6 students took part in a Peer Mediation training session. We now have large group of trained mediators who will assist younger students within the school with any problems they encounter such as peer pressure and difficulties with homework. Well done to all our new mediators.

S5/6 book group

Mrs Bax, our school librarian, is starting a book group for S5 and S6 students. All S5/6 students are welcome to come along and join in the fun. Also there is a new Doon Academy library website accessible through www.doon.e-ayr.sch.uk. It is a goldmine of information ranging from useful links to study tips for students.

New staff

This term at Doon Academy, we're welcoming many new faces. We say hello to Mr Kavanagh, our Social Subjects probationer teacher, Miss Gillies, in the Maths Department, Mr Ellis in Technical Studies, Mrs Shorts, in Business and ICT Department, and Mrs Gillespie, our new Home Economics teacher. We extend a warm welcome to them all and wish them the best of luck in their new posts.

In order to welcome new people into our school, we must unfortunately say goodbye to others. This year we bid a sad farewell to Mr Reid and Mrs McCormick from our Senior Management Team, Mrs McLatchie and Mrs Cummings from the Home Economics Department, Mr Nisbet from Technical and Mrs MacKenzie from our Business and ICT department, who have all retired. Also farewell to Mrs Brotherwood from our Maths department who has taken up her new post as Principal Teacher of Maths at James Hamilton Academy. They will all be greatly missed by students and staff. We thank them for their support for the school and wish them the best of luck in the future.

PE

Miss Griffin from the PE Department is busy forming the Doon Academy's 2009/2010 netball teams. Team practice will begin in September for the junior and senior teams. Anyone who wishes to have a tryout should see Miss. Griffin. Body Attack classes will also begin in September.

Citizenship graduation


At the end of last term the S3 Citizenship Group was a great success and all the members graduated with distinction. The boys undertook many tasks around the school one of which was to tidy and plant shrubs in the quadrangle. Congratulations to them all.

Monday 10 August 2009

Leadership Showcase

The showcase was staged to show the benefits of our leadership programme to an audience of employers, community leaders and parents and to develop partnerships which would provide options for the shape and direction of the leadership project in the post-Schools of Ambition funding era.

This showcase was planned and delivered by pupils who are graduates of Doon Leadership Academy with support from Kilmarnock College and Ocean Youth Trust leadership participants.
Our pupil leaders are experienced presenters of leadership activities at local and national conferences and they have built the school's strong reputation in this area (see SOA - aCfE, Leadership page on www.doon.e-ayr.sch.uk/).


In the 5 weeks prior to the event pupils worked with a variety of partners:

  • the school canteen were commissioned to prepare a special 4-course dinner;
  • the music department willingly agreed to entertain guests on their arrival;
  • the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce provided the database of business links;
  • office staff managed the guest list and other arrangements;
  • businesses and individuals with links to the school provided fabulous prizes and gifts for the raffle and auction;
  • and a key-note speaker was secured.

The event was attended by 92 guests from 3 roughly equal groups of business leaders, community leaders and parents. They enjoyed musical entertainment from the school's junior silver band; a welcome speech from the head teacher; dinner; an auction and raffle; and the highlight of the evening – an interactive demonstration of the Doon leadership experience.

What did the event achieve?

Firstly, the event succeeded in its main aim which was to forge links which will allow the leadership project to grow in new directions. Local and national employers and community groups offered ideas and practical support and assistance in a variety of ways. For example:

  • the Zone and Dalmellington Partnership supported and worked with us from the start of the project
  • the local Co-op directed us to their own community fund;
  • Stagecoach offered work placements and assistance with travel;
  • a number of individuals told us about opportunities which will develop pupils' leadership skills and qualifications including service opportunities in the local community (Scouts/Beavers), BTEC training, and attendance at Ayrshire Chamber leadership development events.
Secondly, the total raised through the raffle, auction and donations of money stands at an astonishing £2100 with a further funding options to be explored.

Thirdly, the event demonstrated the enormous reservoir of goodwill which we feel encouraged to turn to again to support us with future projects. As usual, the local community's support for another school initiative has been overwhelmingly generous. This included donations of prizes for the raffle and the auction, cash donations (including 4 of 3-figure sums), and other pledges of support.

Thank you

The Showcase organisers are grateful to all who assisted with its organisation and delivery and who have not, so far, been mentioned.

The pupils who organised this event deserve special mentions. The steering group of experienced pupil leaders were Lee Orr, Stephanie Roberts, Jake Bunyan and Kyle Stewart. Other leaders also worked tirelessly on the night greeting guests, serving the dinner, and demonstrating and explaining the benefits of our leadership programmes.

Finally, the leaders would like to thank Lorna Dempsey, our keynote speaker. Lorna is a former head girl of Doon Academy who was named Cancer Research UK's Volunteer of the Year 2009 in the week before this event. Last year Lorna was Woman of the Year for the Scottish Association of Business Women (Ayrshire Branch). Lorna's speech was inspirational to the young and less-young in the audience. In the weeks prior to the event she gave freely of her time and expertise to advise the pupils on the effective delivery of this ambitious event.

John MacKenzie
July 2009

Friday 26 June 2009

Leadership Showcase


Leadership team members organized and delivered a ‘Showcase’ of the leadership programme to an audience of 95 national and local business people, community leaders and parents. The event was staged to improve links with the wider community and to raise funds for the school’s leadership academies.
The evening was hosted by 6th year leaders Lee Orr and Stephanie Roberts and consisted of a dinner, an auction, a raffle and an entertaining presentation delivered by past graduates of the leadership academy. The presentation was confidently delivered and the practical challenges that were set were also well attempted by the audience. Guests also heard a speech from guest of honour, Lorna Dempsey, from Butterfly Events. Lorna is a former head girl at Doon Academy and was recently named Cancer Research UK’s Volunteer of the Year 2009. The event raised an amazing £2100 for leadership funds. The pupil leaders who organised the event would like to express their thanks to all who attended and gave their support to this new venture.

Maths to Malawi


The Maths Department has been busy sorting out maths textbooks to send to schools in Malawi. Mrs. Brotherwood, Acting Principal Teacher of Maths, said: “ These textbooks are ones we no longer use in the department and I know they will be a great help to teachers in Malawi who have very limited resources to purchase books.”

Morrisons Vouchers

The Eco Group will be collecting Morrisons 'Let's Grow' vouchers between 7th September and 15th November. Vouchers can be handed in to Eco Chair Mrs Elder, or the school office. The vouchers will enable us to purchase gardening equipment to continue our improvement of the school grounds. Also, the school has received 25 free water hippos from Scottish Water, which will be installed in the toilets next session. Hippos can save up to 3 litres of water in every toilet flush! Anyone can claim a free hippo from Scottish water at www.business-stream.co.uk/free-hippo.

Winning Film


Congratulations to the S1 Media Group who won 1st prize for their film ‘Futureworld’ in the East Ayrshire International Media Competition. The pupils won media equipment for the school.

Games Day

Games Day was a great success again this year with staff and pupils taking part in 12 different activities ranging from bowling to softball. Our thanks to Mr McCrorie for organising the event. Well done to Doon Clan who won the house trophy.

Citizenship garden

The Citizenship Group have transformed a derelict area into a beautiful garden with fruit trees and shrubs. The pupils worked with Kilmarnock College lecturers to design sculptural features. The boys received certificates for their service to the school at a graduation ceremony.

Science Study Room

From next term there will be an S6 study science room which will be set up with a computer and printer. Mr. Gooding, Acting Principal Teacher of Science, said: “This will be an ideal room for S6 pupils to revise and study for their examinations in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.”

Bowls Competition


During this session the PE Department introduced a new sport, bowling, to the curriculum and the first bowling competition has taken place with teams from Dalmellington Primary and Doon Academy. Congratulations to Doon B team who won the trophy.

Maths PT leaving

Congratulations to Acting PT of Maths Nanette Brotherwood who was success at interview for PT Maths in James Hamilton Academy. Mrs. Brotherwood will take up her position in August. She will be sadly missed and we wish her every success in the future.

Carnegie Medal

Pupils have been enjoying reading books from the Carnegie Medal shortlist and the winning books have been named as Bog Child by Siobhan Dowd and illustrated book Harris Finds His Feet by Catherine Rayner.

Thursday 18 June 2009

Readers' Cup Quiz


Doon Academy’s team of Heather Dunn, Alastair Paton, Fiona Kennedy and Mark McLean put in a great performance at the East Ayrshire Schools Readers' Cup Quiz. In a very close contest they were up with the leaders from the start and, despite struggling with the sequels round, they finished in a very creditable 3rd place. Each team member won a goodie bag, and each school library was presented with some books donated by helpful publishers. Auchinleck Academy was the eventual winner. All the participants and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the quiz.

Coffee morning


S1 and S2 pupils in the Pupil Support Department invited their parents to a coffee morning celebrating their successes over the past year. Parents enjoyed being served coffee and cakes by pupils and also had the opportunity to see some of the work the pupils had completed. Everyone had a really enjoyable morning and pupils relaxed with a well-earned cuppa and cake after their guests had gone! Many thanks to the families who supported this event.

Pamela Feggans success

Congratulations to former pupil Pamela Feggans who gained tied 5th place, 2 shots off the winner, at the Portugal Ladies Open Golf Championship. Pamela recently visited the school and was interviewed by the BBC news reporters. She also opened an achievement display board dedicated to her success. We wish Pamela the best of luck in future tour events.

Bronze Expedition


Well done to Duke of Edinburgh Awards participants Ryan McKnight, James Mulholland and Caroline Crosby who completed their Bronze outdoor overnight expedition on Arran. Ms. Griffin, Mr. Tomlinson and Andy McNamara from East Ayrshire Outdoor Education accompanied the group. They had dry and warm weather conditions for their walk and everyone really enjoyed the expedition. The midges enjoyed the group’s visit too!

New Acting Depute Head Teacher

Congratulations to Principal Teacher of Support for Learning/Behaviour Lyndsay McRoberts who was successful in interview for the Acting Depute Head Teacher position. We wish her good luck in her new role.

Leadership Showcase

Leadership Graduates are busy preparing for the school’s Leadership Showcase. Former pupil Lorna Dempsey, Ayrshire’s Young Businesswoman of the Year 2008, will be at the event. We hope to make good contacts with the business community with a view to entering into long lasting partnerships that would support the continuation of our Leadership Academy.

School books back please

All departments are asking for the return of textbooks pupils have borrowed over time. Please have a search of your homes and return books to the school. Please also return any library books to the school.

International School Award

Doon Academy’s portfolio for the British Council’s International School Award has now been submitted and the result will be published in September.

Thursday 11 June 2009

Bridges4Europe

The final meeting for our Comenius ‘bridges4europe’ was a great success. Twenty-eight pupils and staff from our four partnership schools in Bulgaria, Italy, Romania and Turkey visited the school. Doon Academy’s pupils and staff entertained the visitors with excellent recitations, singing and musical interludes. The partnership group visited the local area and were given tours of Culzean Castle and Grant’s Distillery, which they really enjoyed, and then onto shopping in Ayr. They also had a visit to the historical sites in Edinburgh. Our school’s Comenius team would like to thank the families of Marc Dyer, Jennifer Phillips, Gail Limond, Gavin McFadzean, Lesley Baird and Lorna Brown who hosted our visiting pupils. Also, thank you to The Glenpark Hotel in Ayr for accommodating the visiting teachers. A full report and photographs of the visit can be found on the Bridges4Europe website at http://bridges4europe.wikispaces.com/scotland09

Leadership conference

Doon pupils were to the fore at a conference for schools and employers, which have been in partnerships over the last session. This event was organised by staff of Determined to Succeed - the government organisation that supports enterprise in education and was held in the Park Hotel, Kilmarnock on Tuesday 2nd June. Leadership graduates Ashleigh Mitchell, Holly Weir, James Mulholland, Craig Pettigrew and Graeme Davis (all S3) assisted with the conference arrangements by welcoming guests and dealing with technical matters. It was Graeme though who had the main responsibility. He shared the stage with Mr John Wilson in a slick double act, which held the audience's attention and ensured that the conference was a great success. Mr Wilson and the Determined to Succeed staff expressed their thanks to all the Doon pupils for their assistance with the conference.

Ayrshire Athletics

Eleven pupils from the school spent the day at Dam Park taking part in the Ayrshire Athletics. After qualifying in May at the East Ayrshire Athletics, the pupils were faced with competitors from all of Ayrshire. With 10 of our 11 pupils returning with medals, it was an extremely successful day for Doon Academy and all pupils returned to school elated from their victories. S1 pupils: Varri Murdoch 3rd Discus, Stuart Paulin 3rd Javelin, Lauren Shaw 2nd Shot Putt, and Ross Mellis 3rd Discus. S2 Dillan Dunn 100m 2nd and 3rd place in the 200m. S3 pupils, Kyle McCormick 3rd Discus, Stacey Chalmers 2nd Hurdles. S4 pupil Connie Hose won 2nd place in Discus. S5 pupil Hayley Simpson 3rd Discus. Well done to all for their hard work!

Netball

ü The S1 netball team had their final games of the season. Going away against Cumnock Academy, the girls were in high spirits with many who had never previously played for the school team. The first team played well, with Sophie Dobbie and Jade Scott managing to get three points for the team. Excellent defence as usual came from Claire Boyd and Lauren Shaw, who unfortunately had to exit the game early with an injured knee. Varri Murdoch took the Centre bib and alongside Paige McMahon and Raegan Heggie, did a great job in mid court. Half time saw Rachael Maxey and Hayley Mitchell come on, who both performed a sterling job. Unfortunately the Cumnock girls were just too strong for us again and the final score finished 7 – 3. The second game gave many girls who had never played before, a chance to see what playing a real game was like. Congratulations to Jane Gallacher, Carly Hay, Lauren Young, Amy Fulton and Alex Dearie who all coped admirably in their first ever game. The girls lost out 9 – 2 but put in maximum effort which was appreciated by their opponents. Player of the Match was given to Jade Scott and Lauren Shaw was awarded Player of the Year. She received her prize alongside a glorious cheer for all her hard work, determination and dedication this year. Congratulations to Lauren, who will also receive a trophy at Doon Academy’s Prize Giving Ceremony. All girls did an excellent job in their first ever netball season. They put up superb challenges against much larger schools and next season we look forward to seeing them storm up the league with all the netball experience they’ve now gained under their belts (or should that be netball skirts!). Well-done Doon Academy’s S1 Netball Team and good luck for next season!

Models wanted

In the Art Department, after the summer holiday auditions will be held for models for the Fashion Show. Also there are still places available for the Barcelona Visit in June 2010 please contact Ms. Fuller for more details.

Thursday 4 June 2009

School garden


The S2 Citizenship Group would like to thank Dobbies in Ayr for kindly donating plants for the school’s quadrangle garden. Ryan Brown, Lyle Wares and Kerr Boyd visited Dobbies to choose their plants and were helped by the plant and general managers. The S2 boys have been busy tidying the garden area and planting the new trees and shrubs.
Thank you to Dobbies and to the citizenship group for all their hard work. The quadrangle is looking super.

Football

S1 boys competed in a football tournament at The Grange Academy in Kilmarnock. They played against six other East Ayrshire schools and proved that even though they are from a small school there is still a great deal of talent. With some great defending from Mark McLean, Ross Mellis and Scott Hunter, the boys managed to fend off many attacks. Once Connor Strang, Jordan Berretti or Michael Harvey got the ball, there was no stopping them with each of the boys scoring at least one tremendous goal. With our solid midfield players of Peter Featherstonehaugh, Robbie Ogilvie and Jack Baird our team managed a very admiral two wins, two draws and two losses, placing them 3rd out of 7 teams. Well done to all boys who took part, as their behaviour was impeccable and their determination exceptional.

Storytime


Dalmellington Primary School’s P1 class, with their teacher Mrs. Gormanley, visited Doon Academy to hear stories read to them by S2 pupils. The stories were all from the short list for the Kate Greenaway Medal, which is awarded by children’s librarians for an outstanding book in terms of illustration for children and young people. After the readings the pupils all enjoyed their juice and biscuits. The P1s voted for their favourite book, which was The Way Back Home, by Oliver Jeffers read to the class by S2 pupils Shereen Steele and Chelsea Carruthers.


Barcelona 2010

The Art Department are arranging another visit to Barcelona for June 2010. The previous visit was a great success and everyone enjoyed their trip. For more details please contact Mrs. Humes or Ms. Fuller in the Art Department.

Thursday 28 May 2009

Duke of Edinburgh Expedition




The practice expedition to Glentrool for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards was a great success. Pupils Ryan McKnight, James Mulholland, Connor Adam and Caroline Crosby accompanied by Mrs. Strachan, Mr. Tickner and Andy McNamara from East Ayrshire Outdoor Education had dry and fairly warm conditions for their overnight camp. The group are now preparing for their final expedition to Arran on the 9th and 10th June and Miss. Griffin, Billy Tomlinson and Andy McNamara will accompany them. Good Luck and enjoy your expedition on Arran. We hope you have good weather!


Coraline film visit

Staff and pupils in the Pupil Support department enjoyed a trip to the Odeon cinema in Ayr to see 'Coraline' last week. All the pupils on the trip had read the book by Neil Gaimen and opinion was divided about whether the book or film was better! Megan and Rachael thought the film was fantastic, but Shereen and Mrs Murray thought that the book was better. Jack and Liam liked the ending and Joe thought the button eyes were scary! Liam and Scott thought it was interesting that the film had a character in it that had not been in the book. Everyone really enjoyed the afternoon.

Leadership showcase

Doon Academy’s Graduate Leaders are busy planning for a showcase event on Leadership to be held at the end of June. This will demonstrate their leadership skills to an invited audience of local business leaders and the wider community.

French Assistant leaving

Pupils and staff bid a fond farewell to our French Assistant Andre Valente who will be returning to university in Toulouse in France. Andre has been a great asset to the school by helping pupils with their French vocabulary. He also introduced them to the customs and culture of France. Andre said: “ I have really enjoyed my time at the school and I will miss everyone”. We all wish him the very best of luck for the future.

Leadership Academy

Our Leadership Academy was a tremendous success this year. 12 pupils and 4 staff attended the 5-day course at PGL Outdoor Centre in Dalguise, Perthshire. 3 staff and 2 pupils who are all previous graduates of the academy facilitate the programme. The course is based around 6 codes of leadership: Awareness, Focus, Creativity, Integrity, Perseverance and Service. All pupils participate in workshops for each of the leadership codes. They also take part in outdoor activities, which are chosen specifically to link with each workshop. The celebration dinner and graduation ceremony are also an important aspects of the programme. Everyone graduated and received their Leadership polo shirt and Certificate.

Student teachers leaving

Our student teachers, Mrs. Corrigan in English and Ms. Smith in PE, have now finished their final placement at the school. We wish them every success in their future teaching careers.

Nurse Leaving

Karen Egan, School Nurse, for Mental Health and Emotional Well-being will be leaving the school at the end of June as funding for the 20/20 Vision has now ended. Pupils and staff will sadly miss Karen.

Athletics Competition


23 pupils from Doon Academy visited Dam Park for the annual East Ayrshire Athletics competition. The weather was glorious and all pupils behaved exceptionally well and performed to the best of their ability. The athletics training that had been taking place really paid off as our school came away with 9 gold medals. Lauren Shaw in S1 gained 2 gold medals for High Jump and Shot Putt, S2 pupil Dillon Dunn 2 gold medals for 100m and 200m, S1 Varri Murdoch gold medal for Discus, Stuart Paulin S1 gold medal for Javelin, Ross Mellis S1 gold medal for Discus, Ashley Green S2 gold medal for Discus, S3 Kieran Mullen gold medal for Discus. We also came home with 2 silver medals. Rory Dempsey S1 Long Jump, Dylan Thirtle S1Triple Jump. Finally, there were 4 bronze medals presented to S3 pupils, Marc Dyer 1500m, Jonathan Milligan 2 medals for High Jump and Long Jump, Kieran Mullen for Shot Putt. Special mention to all the senior athletes who automatically go through to the Ayrshire Athletics due to the lack of participation from other schools. Congratulations to all athletes for their impeccable behaviour and great results. We look forward to more of the same when our athletes go to the next round in the Ayrshire Athletics.

Netball win

Tuesday 12th May saw the first victories of the S5 netball team from Doon Academy. The girls took maximum points from their games against Ayr Academy 1 and Ayr Academy 2. After a disappointing season this leaves the girls mid way in the league table and gives them the confidence boost they needed. Well done to all girls who have taken part this year throughout the whole competition. You have shown that even when games do not go your way and team members quit, you are mature and have great sportsmanship. Well done to all.

Leadership Academies

The Dalguise Leadership Academy was a tremendous success and pupils and staff graduated as leaders. On the course pupils and staff took part in various team building and leadership activities. Gavin McFadzean from S3 said “I did raft building, abseiling and I also took part in communication workshops. It was all really good and I am pleased I am now a graduate leader for my school”. A full report will be in next week’s issue.
In the same week 12 more S3 pupils took part in Kilmarnock College’s Leadership Academy. Pupil Demi Whiteford said: “ We did rock climbing which was great and also had singing and dancing which was a good laugh. I had a great time and it was good fun! Congratulations to all our Leadership Graduates.

Mary's Meals


Mrs Stewart’s S1 register class received their certificates for their enterprising task of being ‘slaves’ for teachers to raise funds for our Malawi Project ‘Mary’s Meals’.

Thursday 14 May 2009

Alba Explorer voyage



The Ocean Youth Trust Scotland sailing trip on the Alba Explorer from Largs to Oban was a great success. S2 pupils Dean Miller, Reece Wigglesworth, Jack Allsop, Jordan Kane, Garry Anderson, Paige Collins, Shannon Rodger, Leigh Brown, Megan McCleary, Tyla Crocket with Mr. Tomlinson, Mrs Bax and the boat’s crew had a very eventful voyage. This is their report.
Monday 4th May
Arrived at the Marina at Largs. We were met by sea staff and shown to the boat. Our crew worked together to load all their bags and the provisions for the week onto the boat. The skipper, Dan, told us that the weather forecast was the worst he had seen in years. There was a major low coming across from the west and gales were forecast for the week.



Tuesday 5th May
We set off from Largs in a stiff breeze, which became much stronger after we were clear of Cumbrae. The wind continued to pick up and approaching Arran the jib sail split in two. This forced a change of plan and we anchored in Lamlash Bay for the night. Before going to bed the crew removed the broken sail and fitted on another smaller jib. All the crew participated in an anchor watch on a rota basis, taking turns to get up and check our position and the wind strength.
Wednesday 6th May
Due to a forecast lessening of the gale, we all got up at 5am to set sail by 5.45 in order to get around the Mull of Kintyre, which can be a very rough area of sea in a storm, before the weather worsened. We set off in a force 3-4 and made it round the Mull before the wind picked up too much.
Thursday 7th May
As the gale was forecast to pass over us on Thursday, the decision was made to stay put and let everyone recover before venturing out to sea again. Thursday morning the crew were on deck for a while in a freezing wind playing games to learn the parts of the boat that they needed to know for their Start Yachting certificates.
Friday 8th May
The crew had listened to our advice and eaten a good breakfast and wrapped up well to prevent seasickness. Megan had 10 layers on. We motored out of the shelter of Loch Craignish about 10 am. The weather was a bit better and we had a fantastic sail up the sound. Despite the fact that it was gusting up to force 8, with a swell running, the crew were all on desk and in high spirits, enjoying the sail. We managed to catch up and overtake another OYT boat, Alba Venturer. The crew were very excited to see Tobermory and keen to get ashore. They had not had a chance of a shower since the start of the week. After dinner they had time ashore to walk around before bed.


Saturday 9th May
In order to catch the favourable tide back down the Sound of Mull, we did not need to leave Tobermory until lunchtime, so the crew had time for showers and shopping in the morning. At about 8.30pm we moved off our anchor and motored carefully out of the Loch through shallow waters with a crewmember calling out the depths as we went. We sailed towards Oban as dusk fell and the final part of the trip was completed in the dark. We tied up at a mooring about 11.30 and everyone went to bed.
Sunday 10th May We woke to brilliant sunshine for the first time in the week, which made everyone feel more cheerful about the big end of voyage clean-up. At the end of every trip, the sails have to be stowed and the desks tidied. Below decks the galley and the cabins and the heads are tidied and thoroughly cleaned. The waterproofs are washed down and everything is made ready for the next crew to take over. We were debriefed by the skipper who presented everyone with their OYTS voyage certificates and their RYA Start Yachting certificates

Eco Group

The Eco Group members are delighted that the weather has improved as it means they may begin their outside activities in the garden area. There are seeds to be sown and cuttings to be planted.

J. K.Rowling - Writer of the month

In English, May’s Writer of the Month is J.K. Rowling author of the Harry Potter books. Pupils will be exploring the life and works of this famous author and presenting a display for the corridor.

Study leave starts

Senior students are now on study leave for their examinations. We wish everyone the best of luck. New S5/6 students return to school on Monday 8th June.

Monday 11 May 2009

Activate successes


Pupils from Doon Academy recently attended a Celebration of Success to mark the end of this session's Activate programme. During a visit to the Odeon cinema Pat McPhee, East Ayrshire Team Leader and Activate Co-ordinator, presented pupils with a certificate that documents their achievements. Activate is an employability programme delivered in school for four months prior to school leaving date. It supports young people during the transition from school to college, training or employment by focusing on improving the skills and knowledge required to enter the world of work. It also offers ongoing support and contact for one year after the end of the programme. Congratulations to all the participants.

Doon Academy Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition

The Doon Academy Duke of Edinburgh Award group is going on their practice expedition on 19th/20th May. They are going to Glentrool to prepare for their main expedition in June. The pupils attending are; Caroline Crosby, Robert McDowell, James Mulholland, Connor Adam and Ryan McKnight. Andy McNamara from the East Ayrshire Outdoor Learning Centre will accompany them along with Mrs Strachan and a second member of staff from Doon. The final destination for the Expedition is still to be chosen.

Sailing trip


Pupils attending the Ocean Youth Trust leadership sailing course undertook a training session in rope tying and knots. They all had to learn the various techniques for securing the boat and sails before their sailing trip from Largs to Oban.

Unfortunately they do not seem to be getting a good week this week for sailing in the Clyde!

Alton Towers spaces

There are still places available for the S1-S3 trip to Alton Towers. Please see Ms. Fuller for details.

Athletics heats

Heats are underway in the PE Department to select representatives for the East Ayrshire Athletics Event on the 13th May. Good luck everyone.

Problem of the week

In Maths, Ms McClue has posted this week’s ‘Problem of the Week’. Details are on her notice board. Remember: Points mean Prizes!

Dalguide Leadership

Pupils and staff attending the Dalguise Leadership Academy are busy preparing their kit bags for their weeklong course, which starts on May 11th. 14 pupils and 7 staff are participating in the programme. Have a great trip!

Acting PT Science

Congratulations to Mr Douglas Gooding who is now our Acting Principal Teacher of Science whilst Mrs. Brooksbank is on maternity leave.

Student teachers

Welcome back to our student teachers Mrs Corrigan in English and Ms Smith in PE who are on their final teaching placements.

Burns by Bonnie Doon

Doon Academy’s annual event ‘Burns by Bonnie Doon’ which forms part of the ‘Burns an’ a’ that’ Festival and the P7 Numeracy and Literacy Day will take place on Wednesday 20th May at the Doon Valley Museum. Pupils will not only be working with staff to study the life and works of Burns but also working with Doon Valley artist Geoff Forrest to make 18th century willow platters.

Parent Council

Doon Academy Parent Council AGM is being held in the school library on Tuesday, 26th May at 7pm. It is hoped that there will be a good turnout of parents/guardians this year.

Thursday 30 April 2009

Scottish Youth Parliament


Congratulations to 4th year pupil Lesley Baird who was recently elected to represent the Doon Valley area at the Scottish Youth Parliament. Well done Lesley we wish you every success in your post and hope this is the beginning of a budding career as a politician.