| Kilmarnock Academy - News Archive |
February 2010 |
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YUILL CUP HAS FINALLY COME HOME It’s not often that something finds its’ way home after 105 years – but this cup has just made the long journey back to Kilmarnock Academy from Canada. This fine trophy was won by the school’s Cadet Corps at the Scottish Command Naval & Military Tournament in 1905, as first prize (tent pitching). The Cadet Corps at the school had been established some four years earlier by Captain (later Lieutenant-Colonel) David Yuille, TD, JP, a member of the Territorial Army (1st Volunteer Battalion, Royal Scots Fusiliers), former pupil, and at that time a primary teacher at the Academy. It is believed that this Corps was amongst the first to be established at a state-aided school in Scotland. The uniform consisted of “…a Norfolk-type jacket with .... (To read on click here) |
U CAN DO IT 2 63 KA pupils attended U Can Do It 2, a careers event organised through Determined to Succeed, on Tuesday 2nd February. During the event each pupil took part in two separate workshops delivered by a variety of companies & training providers. They thoroughly enjoyed the event and it certainly gave them food for thought on what their aspirations may be for the future. Report and Pictures by Mr Ramsay |
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DON'T SUPPOSE MISS BROWN'S BEEN UP TO MUCH..... |
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REMINDERS..... |
January 2010 |
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ATTENTION 37/38 YEAR OLD FP's! CLASS OF 1983 REUNION We have received word of a planned KA former pupils' reunion: |
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HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY Wednesday was the 65th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. Holocaust Memorial Day offers us a chance to hear the stories of Holocaust survivors directly from them, before it is too late. The numbers of survivors who have built their lives, communities and families here in the UK are inevitably diminishing, and, as they become frail, their thoughts are turning to future remembrance and the preservation of their memory. |
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S5/S6 PRELIMS ARE ALMOST UPON US! |
HAITI EARTHQUAKE APPEAL You will all be aware of the disastrous earthquake in Haiti and the effect it has had on the lives of the people there. We will be raising money next week to help with the relief effort – start saving now so you can donate as much as possible. Mrs Ford |
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NORTHWEST AMATEUR BOXING CLUB We recently received the following e-mail with important news from Northwest Amateur Boxing Club: "Hi,
Thank you very much for including Northwest Amateur Boxing Club on the Health & Fitness page of your web site.
The club has now created a new web-site & if possible could you also add this to your page? www.northwest-abc.blogspot.com
Northwest always welcomes new members. The club is now open 5 nights per week for various classes. Northwest ABC teaches the art of boxing & vigorously promotes self-discipline,self respect, respect for others & general fitness....."
To read on click here. |
| GILLY McCRONE IS BACK IN TOWN Hi there, I woz a pupil at the academy bout 24 yrs ago i moved 2 North Wales my name is Gillian Baccerini AKA McCrone I woz friends wif a couple of girl Tracy Hill, Rosemary Whiteside, Suzanne MClymount, Elaine McGregor the boys I can remember Scott McCall and David McCall not related I have move back 2 Kilmarnock and wud like 2 track sum peeps who may remember me or the above u can get in touch gillymuppmupp@hotmail.com im also on facebook Thanks folks - Gilly |
BUSINESS STUDIES SURVEYS |
BUSINESS STUDIES Mrs MacInnes's class have created surveys for the rest of the class to answer online. Once the class has completed the surveys they will analyse the responses. To access the surveys, Mrs MacInnes's pupils should click here . |
 This picture of David Murray appeared with a tribute in The Goldberry magazine in June 1908 |
DAVID MURRAY Dear Sir/Madam, I have recently found your website while I was researching my Murray family. I was surprised and thrilled to see the information on Rector David Murray both from the information put up by the Academy and from the notes on William Boyd placed on the feedback webpage. David Murray is my great-great uncle and your website has given me so much further information on a man who was up until recently just a ‘name’. I was wondering, however, if the Academy had any further information on David that could fill in any further gaps about this fascinating man – it seems that not only was he intelligent, he was very personable and well-liked by those students who were taught by him – and any information would be gratefully appreciated. Kind regards, |
December 2009 |
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THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS HAVE ARRIVED! HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR! FROM ALL AT K.A. |
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| FESTIVE SPIRIT - SPOT THE (20) DIFFERENCES |
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AND ANOTHER SPOT THE DIFFERENCES The last time we had a Spot the Differences some people said it was too easy.... so this one is just a bit more challenging. There are 20 differences in all. Click on the pictures below if you want to scrutinize them more closely. |
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UNDER-13 FOOTBALL KILMARNOCK U13s 11 – 0 INVERCLYDE ACADEMY U13s |
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MR KING'S WORD OF THE WEEK Tues, 15th December 2009 onomatopoeia (noun) the formation of words whose sound is imitative of the sound of the noise or action designated, such as hiss, buzz, bang, splat, etc. History:(1-6): from C16th , originally from Greek onoma, meaning name, and poiein, to make To view previous Words of the Week click here. |
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SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS In recent years, East Ayrshire Council has been working hard to make the town centre an attractive and welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors. With pressure on town centre businesses from retail parks, large company chains and internet trade the Council's support is vital. That support received a boost recently with the appointment of Glasgow woman Fiona Nicholson as town centre manager. |
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CRACKERS GO POLITICALLY CORRECT According to the Telegraph, "Christmas cracker firm Swantex has dropped dozens of jokes, including mother-in-law gags and references to animal cruelty, in favour of more ‘politically correct’ alternatives." Perhaps they should also reconsider calling them 'crackers' as that name could be deemed offensive to PE teachers and other unstable individuals. The term cracker is also used colloquially in a sexist manner, usually by middle-aged men in nightclubs (as in "Check her oot man.... she's a cracker!) |
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ATTENTION 37/38 YEAR OLD FP's! CLASS OF 1983 REUNION We have received word of a planned KA former pupils' reunion: |
November 2009 |
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EUROPEAN DAY OF LANGUAGES On Wednesday 11th and Friday 13th November 2009 (unlucky for some!), Kilmarnock Academy celebrated “European Day of Languages” in style! The Assembly hall was decorated thanks to the efforts of the S6 pupils from the Spanish class with the brightly coloured flags of many European Nations, (made by S1 and S2 classes). S1 and S2 pupils had fun dancing to French and Spanish music, singing a song and playing some musical games such as Corners and Simon Says – in French, of course! (To read on click here.) Report by Mrs Stables |
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IMPRINT WRITING COMPETITION Kilmarnock Academy had three winners in the top ten adult writers in this East Ayrshire competition. Very well done to Scott Milloy, Marc Strain and Lomax Allwood. If you think you do not know who Lomax Allwood is that is because he is writing under a pseudonym. Step forward Mr Stephen King, School Librarian. Three out of ten in East Ayrshire's top adult writers – a great result. Report by C. Ford |
CAROL WELLS (nee SLOAN) SAYS HI! FROM MILAN, ITALY
Had a look at the web site today, very interesting & great reading. I was a pupil from 1972 till 1978, was in Loudoun House, my first Registration teacher was Mrs Hollywood.I remember a few staff: PE: Mr Bone, Mr Park, Mrs Miller
Science: Mr Lyndsey, Mr Wells, Mr Watt, Mr Paterson, Mr Sheridan, Mr Robertson, Miss Walker
Home Economics: Mrs Black, Miss Bleese, Mrs I' Anson
Music: Mr Walker, Miss Christie
History: Mr Bunyan (used Izal toilet roll as tracing paper!)
English: Mrs Wells, Mrs Fulton
French: Miss Richmond
German: Mr Milligan (came in one day with one black shoe & one brown shoe! blamed the dark mornings)
Maths: Mr Oliphant, Mr I' Anson
Geography: Mr Herbert, Mr Scouler
There were others that I remember but did not teach me, Miss Carey, Miss Chesney, Mr Proudfoot (kept his belt on his shoulder under his cloak!) I attended a reunion at the school in 1997, 25 years after starting at KA, and it was great to catch up with classmates. I now live in Milan Italy. I am Pupil Welfare Officer (school nurse!) in a private British school. Don't know if school days were the best days of my life!!,have very fond memories but sadly no photographs. Will certainly be a regular reader now of your web site. All the very best, Carol Wells, nee SLOAN |
| CELEBRATING SUCCESS 2009 On the afternoon of Thursday, 26th November, Kilmarnock Academy staged the Celebrating Success Tea Party. The purpose of the event was to recognize just some of the hard work put in by staff and pupils as well as to highlight some of the success stories from within Kilmarnock Academy. The event was hosted by Mr Kerr and Mrs Ford. As well as being attended by visitors from outwith the school, the event was attended by many members of staff who were attracted by the free (and very successfully baked) scones, cakes, meringues and biscuits. To view the full list of awards click here. |
More pictures here |
TRASHCAN SINATRAS - SATURDAY 28th NOV. 4pm The Trashcan Sinatras played an open-air gig at Kilmarnock town centre on Saturday at 4pm. And what an impressive gig it was! The band were based in Kilmarnock throughout the 1990's although these days three of them are based in Glasgow and three in Los Angeles. In July and August they toured the United States and also played in Japan, promoting new album In The Music. This month they have been touring the UK and the Kilmarnock gig was the final date of the tour. Despite the fact that the band have produced some of the best music out there, an awful lot of people have never even heard of the band and most people have never listened to their music. If you are one of that deprived majority, click the links to hear Hay Fever, Easy Read, Freetime and new single People - no hype, no Simon Cowell, no Jedward - just glorious music! And visit trashcansinatras.com. |
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ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS Kilmarnock Academy won the East Ayrshire Entrepreneurial Challenge at Prestwick Airport on Wednesday 25 November. The winning team members were David Don, Fraser Kerr, Erin McKenzie, Suzanne Neville and Graham Sharpe. |
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ART & FASHION SHOW - THURSDAY 26th NOVEMBER An Art & Fashion Show takes place at Kilmarnock Academy tonight (Thursday). The Creative Stars night runs from 7 - 9pm. |
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MRS FORD IN THE NEWS
Kilmarnock Academy was in the news again on Thursday 19 November, on Reporting Scotland BBC1 at 6.30pm and in news reports throughout the day. Mrs Ford delivered her presidential address to the School Leaders Scotland conference of Scottish secondary head teachers and deputes. The content of her speech was highlighted on the news, including footage of staff and pupils in school. The Times newspaper also ran an article on this. To read what Mrs Ford had to say, visit the BBC, or The Herald or Young Scot. |
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DID YOU SEE "THE POLITICS SHOW"? Did you see The Politics Show on Sunday 15th November at midday? Mrs Ford was interviewed on film and live in the studio about exactly what being a Head Teacher is all about. The report was looking into the reasons why so few teachers nowadays want to be head teachers. The film report also featured some footage of pupils and of Mrs Stables demonstrating the latest French dance moves. |
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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY SERVICE 8th NOV. 2009 |
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EAST AYRSHIRE BOOK FESTIVAL The Imprint Festival is now in its third year. For 2009 there is a packed programme full of best-selling authors and poets including Jackie Kay, Liz Lochhead, James Robertson, James Kelman, Caro Ramsey, Scotland on Sunday Literary Editor Stuart Kelly and TV personality and author Neil Oliver. We’re also delighted to welcome Gary Moffat to his home town to discuss his debut novel Daisy Chain. For children we also have a whole variety of events from storytimes and drama workshops to Meet the Author events. Some events are already sold out. To find out what's on and what's still available click here. |
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BITESIZE LINK TO KA ENGLISH The BBC recently added a link to the English Standard Grade Study Guide on KA Web. The link to the Study Guide makes us the only school in Scotland to have a direct link from Bitesize English. In fact the only other external links from Bitesize English are the SQA site and Sparknotes on Macbeth. The Beeb was attracted to our Study Guide not only by the quality of the content but by its accessibility - "lots of useful information written in a fun style". Well done to Mr McIlvanney for creating the Study Guide - and all in his own time. Click here. Report by Mr McIlvanney's Mum |
October 2009 |
S4 PUPILS AT FLAVA DANCE WORKSHOP Flava, semi - finalists from Britain's Got Talent performed to a group of S4 pupils at Centrestage on Wednesday 21st October. The pupils then took part in a motivational workshop based on street dance. All thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Stephen Connell, 4W held up the side for the guys. Report and photos by Mr Ramsay |
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COCA COLA OUTING
On the 26 th of August a class of 14 from Kilmarnock Academy visited the Coca Cola bottling and distribution plant in East Kilbride to learn how every thing works - like the bottling, transportation and packaging - but that's a small list. They got on a bus and it was a short journey to East Kilbride . When they arrived you could barely keep them off the bus even though it was raining when they got in they had to wear safety jackets and then sat down to watch a presentation. The presentation told them about the process of making Coca Cola, making bottles, filling bottles, packaging, storage, and transport. Then they got to see the production line which is totally done by machines, although there are some employees to check the machines and discard the mistakes of the machines. After seeing the machines they had a break and enjoyed a drink and discussed what type of customers would be targeted for that drink. That was the trip to the Coca Cola factory. |
August/ September 2009 |
| NEW FACES FOR THE NEW SESSION To check out all of the new faces at K.A. for session 2009/2010 click here. |
 Mr McMenamin - Art |
 Miss Delvigne - Mod. Lang. |
 Mr Rowe - Tech. |
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DISAPPEARING UNDER A MOUNTAIN OF BOOKS All these will soon be added to Library stock; some may be used to replace old, tatty copies that we already have. Many thanks, Mrs MacD! Donated books are always welcome in the Library - I can't guarantee to use them all, but I will certainly look at any that come my way, and send rejects off to other good homes. Can anyone beat 104? |
June 2009 |
DON'T BE BORED THIS SUMMER |
Before the school closed for the summer, some of our pupils - who will be in second year next session - came up with some suggestions for places to go and things to do during the summer break. Here are some of their ideas: |
DOCTOR DICKSON HAS LEFT THE BUILDING |
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Doctor Neil Dickson, the longest-serving member of our English Department, has now left the building and is currently en route to a happy retirement. He joined the staff of Kilmarnock Academy in August 1977 on the day that Elvis died. In his 32 years at Kilmarnock Academy Neil has provided enlightenment and inspiration as well as compassion, understanding and humour (being an Aberdeen supporter, he certainly needed the humour). Throughout his career at KA, he has had his share of 'difficult' classes but always managed to get them on his side. Special thanks is due to Neil for all of the time, expertise and wisdom he has contributed to the creation and development of the history sections of the school website. His mischievous contribution to KA mythology and the world of fiction was "The Ghost of A Floor" . He will be missed by all those who value decency, integrity and knowledge and, above all, he will be missed by his pupils. We wish Neil a long and happy retirement. We also wish Mr Maider and Mrs Lyon a long and happy retirement. |
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WELL DONE OWEN! We are pleased to report that KA pupil Owen Gemmell has been awarded the Kilmarnock Rugby Clubs S2 Coaches Player of the Year trophy. Owen takes his rugby seriously and this year his hard work, dedication and skill have brought rewards and recognition. Owen, who is a second row forward in the scrum, plays for the S2 every Sunday and trains with the team every Wednesday night. This year Kilmarnocks S2s won their own Tounament, beating Cumnock RFC , Strathaven RFC and Cartha Queens Park RFC. |
| READERS' CUP 2009 One sunny day in June, KA's 2009 Readers Cup team - along with reserves, supporters, Miss Brown, Mr King & Toby the Library Assistant - set off for Auchinleck Academy to compete in the annual S1 & S2 Readers Cup competition. Well, given that there are nine Secondary Schools in East Ayrshire, coming 7th wasn't too bad! Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, and the team (and Mr King!) went away with goody bags to commemorate the event. I don't think any of our supporters managed to win anything in the free-for-all that was the audience quiz - this consisted of shouting out answers as loud and as quick as possible. Our pupils were much too well behaved for that! Auchinleck Academy won - again - so this time next year we will be travelling down to their school to compete. We'll get our team chosen much earlier - so I can do a bit of coaching....perhaps! |
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| DID YOU SEE REPORTING SCOTLAND AT 6.30PM THURSDAY 11th JUNE? If you tuned in to Reporting Scotland on Thursday 11th June you would have caught a fleeting glimpse of life at KA. A team from BBC News visited Mrs Dunsmuir's class to film Mrs D teaching and interview her, as well as three pupils, about the present exam system. By the time the footage was transmitted at 6.30pm, other news developments meant that the report had been shortened and, while we did get some colourful footage of Mrs D and her class, the interviews were completely cut from the report - a pity as we always like to hear what Mrs D has to say. After filming at KA, the news team - Kevin Jackson and cameraman, Pete Cole - also had reports on Setanta and on Swine Flu to film, edit and have ready for the news at 6.30. Now that's pressure! |
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| 'TIMES ED' AT KA While the BBC were filming Mrs Dunsmuir's class, upstairs in Home Economics Miss Lamont was the focus of attention. Chris, photographer for the Times Ed, was taking some shots of Miss Lamont in action to accompany a follow-up piece on probationer teachers for an upcoming edition of the Times Ed. |
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| A FURTHER GLIMPSE OF LIFE AT KA Just in case you missed Reporting Scotland or you don't have a TV, here are some snapshots of life at the great Citadel of Learning. |
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ANNUAL PRIZEGIVING Kilmarnock Academy's Annual Prizegiving ceremony will take place on Monday 15th June. As always, there will be a range of quality musical items and speeches in addition to the presentation of prizes. In case you're wondering how it all works, our academic awards are not based on the old-fashioned system of aggregating raw scores from all subjects and ranking the pupils with the highest average scores. Instead, each department nominates a set number of 'top pupils' and those pupils with the most nominations get certificates of distinction. To find out who will be receiving prizes click here. |
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GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS A group of S3 Business Managers - John Routh, Holly Jarvie, Michael Glover, Leigh McMaster - visited the Mitchell Library in Glasgow for an exciting day of trading on a computer-simulated stock exchange. The group competed against another 24 schools to see who could make the most money. Groups were given a set amount of money to buy stocks and shares, with the ultimate aim of their money growing, in order to make a profit. Sounds simple - but the pupils found it an exciting and stressful day when share and stock prices rose and fell constantly. Pupils had a great day and learnt a great deal about the stock exchange. Report by L MacInnes |
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REMINDERS..... Summer Activities (Mr Ramsay) |
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THANKING LOCAL BUSINESSES Stephen McIlwraith and Gregor Keachie, both 4B, accompanied by Mrs Hamilton, attended an event in the Park Hotel on Tuesday 2nd June. The purpose of this event was for schools to thank local businesses for any help given during the session. Pupils in KA have had the benefit of many business people this year - in the work experience programme and mock interviews mainly. We are always grateful to local companies, local authority personnel, not to mention the Ayrshire Chamber for help...(click to read on) Report by L Hamilton |
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SCOTTISH YOUTH THEATRE - ROADSHOW 2009 The Scottish Youth Theatre is planning a range of events and activities over the coming months. If you are interested in finding out how to develop your interest in drama and theatre then click here to find out what is on offer. |
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MOST POPULAR BOOKS In a recent survey of books borrowed from the Library Resource Centre, New Moon by Stephenie Meyer came out on top. Here is the list of most popular books: 1. New Moon by Stephenie Meyer 2. Run Zan Run by Catherine MacPhail 3. Twilight by Stephenie Meyer 4. It's OK, Im wearing really big knickers by Louise Rennison 5. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne 6. Roxy's Baby by Catherine MacPhail 7. The Beast Within by Catherine MacPhail 8. Cirque du Freak by Darran Shan 9= Clone Wars Adventures (Graphic Novel) 9= Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer 9= Simpsons Comics Extravaganza 9= The Escape by Robert Muchamore 9= Your Most Wanted Cheats by Cath Birch Information supplied by Stephen King, School Librarian. |
May 2009 |
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CHANGE OF TIMETABLE - MONDAY 1ST JUNE The new timetable will begin for all pupils on Monday 1st June. Pupils will stay with their current register teachers and remain in the class until 9.30 am. Timetables plus instructions for respective year groups will be issued to register teachers before the end of the week A copy of the instructions for all year groups will be issued to all staff for information. SQA exams are still running in the hall until Friday 5 th June therefore some pupils may be missing from classes. |
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MOST POPULAR BOOKS In a recent survey of books borrowed from the Library Resource Centre, New Moon by Stephenie Meyer came out on top. Here is the list of most popular books: 1. New Moon by Stephenie Meyer 2. Run Zan Run by Catherine MacPhail 3. Twilight by Stephenie Meyer 4. It's OK, Im wearing really big knickers by Louise Rennison 5. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne 6. Roxy's Baby by Catherine MacPhail 7. The Beast Within by Catherine MacPhail 8. Cirque du Freak by Darran Shan 9= Clone Wars Adventures (Graphic Novel) 9= Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer 9= Simpsons Comics Extravaganza 9= The Escape by Robert Muchamore 9= Your Most Wanted Cheats by Cath Birch Information supplied by Stephen King, School Librarian. |
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NO MORE HOLIDAYS UNTIL JUNE With the long May weekend now behind us, staff and pupils have to face up to the grim prospect of having no more holidays until June. Between now and then there will be a lot happening to keep us all constructively occupied and our minds on the job, with SQA exams now running well into June and the change of timetable taking place in the first week of June. |
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PARENT COUNCIL |
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CALLING ALL KA PARENTS....AND PUPILS (Survey Closed June 1st) Kilmarnock Academy is always keen to hear parents' views and suggestions for improvement. If you are the parent of a pupil at the school please click here to complete a short survey. This is a quick and easy way for us to find out what you think and how we might improve. Thank you for taking the time to do this. If you are a KA pupil, you are also invited to complete a short survey - your chance to tell us what you think about the Kilmarnock Academy experience. Take a few moments of your time to express your opinion and influence how the school develops in future. To access the pupil survey click here. |
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KILMARNOCK LEARNING PARTNERSHIP JOINT ENTERPRISE This year, the joint enterprise was held in International Week , which was at the end of April. The primary, nursery and special school s were the hosts and S1 Kilmarnock Academy pupils were the visitors . 1F visited Hillhead PS and joined in the activities there. P1 were finding out about Spain – painting the flag and flamenco dancers. One class in P2 heard a talk from a parent about life in Africa , while the other class tasted pizza and painted the Italian flag. P4 learned how to count to ten in Japanese , while P6 tasted French food and learned a rap in French put together by the Academy pupils. (To read on click here) |
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SOME RECENT S1 ACTIVITIES S1 Pupils Visit Lochgoilhead KA first year pupils visited Lochgoilhead from 11th to 15th May. S1 Trip to Glasgow Science Centre This was scheduled to take place on Wed 6th May. Health Day For S1 This was a big event organized by Mr Howie and took place on 25th March. |
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CELEBRATING FLEMING'S ACHIEVEMENT May 2009 sees the 80th anniversary of the presentation of Sir Alexander Fleming's ground-breaking paper on the discovery of penicillin. We at K.A. are justly proud of our famous ex-pupil – one of two to hold a Nobel Laureate award – so when our local MP, Rt. Hon. Des Browne, contacted us to discuss this, we felt we should get involved. That's why the LRC was closed earlier this week – your intrepid Librarian made the long haul “down south” .....(to read on click here). |
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WELL DONE CLAIRE-LOUISE! Former pupil Claire-Louise Fergus recently made it through to the final of this year's Miss Scotland contest, staged on the 14th May. Aged just 17, Claire-Louise was the youngest of the ten finalists. She is studying childcare at college and hopes to qualify as a nursery nurse and would also love to become a successful model. At school, Claire was a perfect pupil and we think she'd have been a worthy winner. (And congratulations to Mr Reid who recently won the Coatbridge heats of the Fray Bentos International Search for a Real Man contest.) |
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S4 MOCK INTERVIEW PROGRAMME All S4 pupils followed the mock interview programme and had a mock interview in school during January. In February, pupils applied for jobs supplied by local businesses in competition with pupils at Grange, James Hamilton and Stewarton Academies. 23 Kilmarnock Academy pupils were selected for interviews in March, but only one was successful. This was Stephen McIlwraith of 4B who was "appointed" to the job at The Jefferson Hotel. Report by Mrs Hamilton |
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SQA EXAMS |
May 2009 SQA EXAMS Make sure • You know the details of all your exam times • You have your candidate number in a safe place • You are working hard in school and at home so that you do as well as possible in the exams. |
SQA EXAMS - S4/S5/S6 PUPILS Revision website |
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GOOD OLD-FASHIONED HEROIC TALES |
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THE HUMAN COST OF KNIFE CRIME Some time ago I worked on pages for this website commemorating former pupils who died in the two world wars. At the time I stated that the real emotional impact of that memorial derived from the fact that the individual stories and tributes succeeded in humanising the statistics, giving a real sense of the lives behind the names and conveying an overwhelming sense of loss. Recently I came across a web page that did the same thing for young victims of another tragic war - on the streets of modern Britain. Anyone who thinks that it's cool to be "tooled up" should click here. N. McIlvanney |
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MP DES BROWNE VISITS KA Our local MP, Mr Des Browne, visited Kilmarnock Academy on the afternoon of Friday, 24th April. Mr Browne was conducting research into the background of Alexander Fleming and was particularly interested in viewing old documents pertaining to Fleming from the school archive, as he is planning a range of events to commemorate the publication of Fleming's paper on penicillin. Mr Browne is pictured holding the school Admissions Register containing the entry for Alex Fleming, who joined KA on 28th August 1894. Also in the photograph are our School Librarian, Stephen King, and Head Teacher, Carole Ford. |
April 2009 |
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COUNSELLING NETWORK We have just added the Counselling Network website to our community health links page. The purpose of the Counselling Network site is ultimately to provide the UK with a huge counselling support network, enabling those in distress to find a counsellor close to them and appropriate for their needs. This is a free, confidential service that will hopefully encourage those in distress to seek help. The website also contains a number of sections on emotional disorders (types of distress section) and provides some useful statistics. To have a look at the site click here. |
Former Pupils Worldwide |
JOHN FINDLAY - LIVING THE HIGH LIFE IN SYDNEY |
S1 TRIP TO BURNS COTTAGE - MARCH 2009 One bright and blustery day in March, 40 or so eager S1 pupils piled into a bus to visit Burns' birthplace. Mrs Dunsmuir and the rest of the staff counted them all into The Tam o' Shanter experience - and 20 minutes later counted them all out again with "life and mettle in their heels". A quick trip to Alloway's auld haunted kirk was followed by a brisk walk up the road - no problem for these "plump and strapping teens" - to pay homage to the great man's first home. Our "honest men and bonny lasses" were suitably impressed with the thatched cottage, and all wondered how the whole family slept in the one box-bed. And so back onto the bus, where "mirth and fun grew fast and furious" on the trip back to KA. A successful and enjoyable trip - especially as no one was found "deep drown'd in Doon"! |
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WORTH ITS WEIGHT IN GOLD |
COLIN WILSON - GREETINGS FROM GREENOCK I'm now staying in Glasgow, married with children! After leaving school (1997) I toyed about with a few bands in the Glasgow circuit but chucked in favour of a more steady career. I am now in charge of waste strategy in Inverclyde Council. Have to say that my fondest memories have to be in the music department - the dungeon was great! New building was good as well though only had it for part our final year there. Going by the photos looks like all our old teachers are gone. Anyone know what happened to Mr Muldoon and his crossbow? |
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STEWART CONN GETS IN TOUCH WITH KA WEB |
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YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS.... Well, actually, we were not being serious. The two items below appeared on KA Web at around 12.30 am on April 1st and were intended to be a bit of fun, in the spirit and traditions of April 1st. Having said that, there is no doubt that each of the spoof initiatives outlined below does sound quite interesting and appealing. Indeed, some days at KA it seems that one aspect of the Tropical Room idea (ie tropical temperature) is already being piloted in most rooms and corridors in the school. |
 New School Minibus for a New Age? |
KA - THE PEACEFUL PLACE |
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ENGLISH DEPARTMENT PILOTS PORTABLE CONCENTRATION PACKS In a bid to assist pupils who lack focus and who have difficulty concentrating with other pupils around them, KA English Department has come up with an innovative solution. The individual "Concentration Zones" come flat-packed, for easy storage, and can be easily constructed to give pupils their own space, free of distractions. "The product is still in development," said Miss Templeton, " but we have some great refinements in mind. Pupils will be able to produce better quality work and finish it more quickly. With the additional learning time this creates, pupils will be able to individualise their own zone and they can even colour it in - an essential part of any English project. We also have plans to get scented zones to stimulate creativity and enhance mood - for example I recently used Autumn Breeze (available at Tesco's) when my class was writing an essay on autumn and, when the pupils read out their work, I could almost see the leaves falling." You can find out more about this and other exciting, new ideas in the Ideas in Action section - coming soon to KA Web. |
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THE GOLDBERRY MAGAZINE - CAN YOU HELP? Do any former pupils or staff out there know if the Gold Berry was published during the following years? 1976/77/78/79, 1985/86/87, 1990/91/92. |
March 2009 |
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SPRING NEWSLETTER - MESSAGE FROM OUR LEADER |
| OPEN EVENING FOR P7 PUPILS & PARENTS On Wednesday 25 March we held an open evening for primary 7 pupils and parents, to give them a flavour of the delights of Kilmarnock Academy. The programme for the evening was in four parts: a short information session led by Mrs Ford, an art and design fashion show in the Assembly Hall, display stalls prepared by a number of departments to illustrate their work and a tour of the building, in groups, to see pupils at work in a number of subject areas. We were delighted to welcome Cllr Ian Linton to the evening, not only the council spokesperson on educational matters but also a former pupil of Kilmarnock Academy. Refreshments were provided by a team of classroom assistants.Many thanks to everyone who helped to make the evening such a success, including prefects who acted as ushers and tour guides. Report by Mrs Ford |
SKI TRIP TO ITALY |
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WEATHER OUTLOOK FOR THE WEEK
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday: |
SOME SNAPSHOTS OF LIFE AT KA |
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 Class 1A1 Kilmarnock Academy 1923 |
JAMES DEMPSIE BURNIE - PICTURED IN 1923 I thought you might like this for your archives. I wonder do you keep an archive, have any old records survived.? I would be pleased to hear so I might ensure the orginal picture goes back home to Scotland from Suffolk.
The original picture, not surprisingly, had some damage (click here). We have now done a bit of restoration on the original scan and you can view the full-size, cleaned-up version by clicking on the picture on the left. Noreen's father is in the centre of the third row down. |
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I only attended Kilmarnock Academy for 2 years as I came from Stewarton and in 1978 Stewarton High School only went up to 4th Year. Any pupils wishing to stay on for 5th and 6th Year Studies had to travel to Kilmarnock Academy. In comparison to Stewarton High School the Academy was HUGE and I thought I would never find my way to the appropriate classes! My short stay at Kilmarnock Academy was great fun though as I made lots of new friends and the teachers made everything seem so interesting. I had already met Mr I’Anson the Maths Teacher while on a short holiday in Arran a year or two before and he recognised me when I started the Academy – how he remembered my face with so many every day I will never know! I attended a Parents Night with my sister many many years later and Mr Frank Donnelly, who was still Rector at the Academy, asked for former pupils to put their hands up. Of course I never put my hand up as I thought attending for only 2 years I didn’t really qualify – well Mr Donnelly stared straight at me in the large crowd of parents and my hand shot up! I felt like a pupil all over again! After over 15 years working as a Legal Secretary in various solicitors offices in Glasgow, I eventually became a Foster Carer and now have my own website http://www.urstv.com which is based in Kilmarnock but seems to be growing every day! I was recently allowed on to the Tower at the Academy to take some pictures and video of Kilmarnock and these are now all on URsTV. Many thanks to Mrs Carole Ford for allowing me access and to Mr Stephen King for a tour of the library. Kilmarnock Academy’s website is absolutely fantastic – well done to all! |
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FLEMING'S LEGACY UNDER THREAT - JUST AS HE PREDICTED |
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ALEXANDER CUMMING - FORMER RECTOR OF HERMITAGE AND K.A. |
AUTHOR CATHERINE MacPHAIL VISITS KA Wednesday 18th March was quite a red-letter day for KA - Greenock author Catherine MacPhail came to visit us - along with guests from Doon, James Hamilton and St Joseph's Academies. Once she'd negotiated Kilmarnock's one way system (and there's an idea for a scary book), Cathy kept over 100 pupils enthralled with her descriptions of some of her best known novels. We learnt how to develop a plot, how characters can change throughout a book, and why "sinister" is such a GOOD WORD! Cathy finished by signing a huge number of books, posters, diaries and bits of paper, before collapsing into the LRC for a well-earned coffee & cheese and ham roll from the Metro (about which she was most complimentary). In the afternoon, Cathy was due to visit Loudoun Academy - but she admitted that anything after the reception she received at KA would be an anticlimax. As she said, "It's not every day I get to meet the author of my Wikipedia entry - and meet the person who's name will feature in my next book!" |
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THE GOLDBERRY MAGAZINE - CAN YOU HELP? Do any former pupils or staff out there know if the Gold Berry was published during the following years? 1976/77/78/79, 1985/86/87, 1990/91/92. |
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BILL McCLUNG CONTACTS US FROM OAKPARK, ILLINOIS Good Afternoon, I'm Bill McClung (once known as William), one of the globe-trotting former pupils you refer to, having left KA in 1965 - I now reside in Oak Park, IL (Illinois) USA... which is famous for some of it's (former) sons and residents... namely: But few folk in Ayrshire will know Oak Park - so we just say Chicago - although technically we are outside the city limits and are the first suburb west of the city. (To read on click here.) |
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KILMARNOCK ACADEMY INDUSTRIAL AWARENESS DAY 2009 This annual event for all S3 pupils was held on Thursday 5th March. Pupils were split into groups and given tasks to do. The first task was to create a poster explaining what they understood by the question “What is Industry?”(To read more and view photos of the event click here.) |
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JASPER COOPER VISITS K.A. Last week we had a really interesting visit from author Jasper Cooper. Now Jasper's not just your ordinary author - not only did he used to be a tennis professional, he illustrates his own books, publishes them himself, and travels everywhere with a cuddly albatross called Neville! Jasper spent the whole day at KA, working with a variety of English classes including the Junior Book Group, and also with the Senior Media Studies course. (To read more click here.) |
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REQUEST FROM FIONA ADDLETON (RIACH) |
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LIKE GETTING BLOOD FROM A LIBRARIAN... Our librarian, Stephen King, has a blog and it makes interesting and entertaining reading. This week he has been giving blood:
"So what did I get up to last night? I had a nice easy lie down for 90 minutes on a bed in Glasgow. And why, I hear you ask? We all thought you were really busy? "Well, once a month I go up to the Blood Donor Centre in Glasgow to give platelets. Platelet donations are really important - unlike whole blood, they can only be stored for about a week, so the Blood Transfusion Service really need a regular supply. Platelets are used to treat a number of different illnesses and diseases - prematurely born babies often need a platelet boost, they are used to treat different types of cancer, and people with a condition called Haemophilia need platelets. (To read on click here) |
 BRITAIN'S MOST WANTED |
APPARENTLY, WE USED TO BE EXCELLENT..... In the course of researching material for this website, I came across an interesting line in an obituary for former pupil, Jimmy Knapp, taken from The Independent newspaper. In the report it states that after attending "Halford" primary school, Jimmy Knapp went on to have an undistinguished career "at the then excellent Kilmarnock Academy". Mrs Ford, in case you want to defend the honour of 21st century KA and take the author to task - the piece was written by the then excellent MP, Tam Dalyell, a man known for his forthright expression of controversial opinions. (To read Jimmy Knapp's obituary click here.) |
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A TALE OF THREE MODERATORS... The election, last November, of the Rev William Hewitt as Moderator Designate of the General Assembly means that the church’s top job has gone to a former KA pupil for the third time in less than a decade. The Rev John Miller held the post in 2001, the year after the Rev Andrew McLellan, who went on to become Scotland’s inspector of prisons. (To read more click here.) |
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INTRODUCTION TO CRICKET In conjunction with Active Schools East Ayrshire, there will be a Taggerts Introduction to Cricket held at Kilmarnock Academy on 16/3/09 from 4.00 to 6.00; 'This is an introductory level course aimed at teaching basic skills for the sport of cricket'. If you are interested please contact your Active Schools Coordinator within EAC or e-mail Jonathan (Juniors) via the contacts page on Kilmarnock Cricket Club's website. You should give it a try - by the way, there is no cost for this course. |
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DR NICOL PEACOCK TO BE ADDED TO FAMOUS FORMER PUPILS |
February 2009 |
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MSP FORMER PUPILS |
 Murray Tosh |
KILMARNOCK ACADEMY - STATISTICALLY SPEAKING.... |
WE HAVE A WINNER..... |
GENERAL RC MENZIES ADDED TO 'FAMOUS FORMER PUPILS' |
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? If you have ever wondered what Mr King gets up to all day in the Library, then you can find out by checking his blogspot at http://kalibrary.blogspot.com. |
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REQUEST FROM JOHN LYLE FOR INFORMATION ON JAMES LYLE I'm in the process of researching my family history and understand that my grandfather's twin brother JAMES LYLE, 8 Wallace Street, Kilmarnock was a one time Principal Art teacher at the Academy. He died on 28th February 1955, so his tenure would be prior to this. James Lyle was apparently instrumental in the development of Robert Colquhoun's artistic talents. (I note he is one of your famous former pupils). Any additional history you may have regarding James Lyle - even some form of obituary - would be of great interest, and ultimately any photographs of James Lyle would be the icing on the cake. (click) |
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GIRLS' HEALTH & FITNESS |
 Not in Kilmarnock..... |
KILMARNOCK AVOIDS WORST OF THE WEATHER |
 Mrs Ford at her School Valentine Tea Dance |
VALENTINE DISCO |
January 2009 |
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BURNS' SUPPER 2009 |
 Despite the picture..... Money doesn't grow on trees! |
FINANCIAL THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK |
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S5/S6 PRELIMS ARE ALMOST UPON US! |
| READ ALL ABOUT IT ! In case you didn't make it to the newsagents' this morning, you can catch up on all the news and headlines here on KA Web. Click the picture on the left to access everything from the Daily Record to the Guardian. If you have time, you should also check out the MAGAZINE RACK (right) where you will be sure to find something to appeal to - or develop - your interests. |
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| HOMECOMING SCOTLAND 2009 As part of Homecoming Scotland 2009, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of Burns, Learning and Teaching Scotland will be developing their Homecoming 2009 website. It is hoped that this will help "children and young people develop a real appreciation of Scotland's development, culture and contribution to the rest of the world". To check it out, click here. Kilmarnock Academy will be participating in Homecoming 2009. |
| HAPPY NEW YEAR! Pupils returned to school on Monday 5th January at 8.55am - for many of them, the first time they had seen 8.55am in over two weeks. We would like to wish all staff, pupils, former pupils, friends and visitors to our site a very happy and prosperous New Year. |
December 2008 |
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THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS HAVE ARRIVED! HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR! FROM ALL AT K.A. |
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SPOT THE DIFFERENCES The last time we had a Spot the Differences some people said it was too easy.... so this one is just a bit more challenging. There are 20 differences in all. Click on the pictures below if you want to scrutinize them more closely. |
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FROM TOM BRUNTON To the principal,staff and students of Kilmarnock Academy: What a delight it was cruising across the internet to come across the website of the Kilmarnock Academy's proud legacy of former students - servicemen and women of WW1 and WW2. It is beautifully done , and most impressive to me. I am originally from Hilton of Cadboll and had four family members lost in the 2 World Wars , 3 MacAngus men and one Tarrel , my mom's cousin , her brother , and the brothers of both my grandmother and grandfather. My grandmothers other brother was a Black Watch Lt. wounded in action who recovered and became a headmaster at schools in Tarland, Aberdeenshire, and Portmahomack, Fearn, Ross-shire. (To read more, click here) |
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REMINDERS..... Early warning (Mrs Hogg) Tempest Photography will be coming to school on Tuesday 6th January 2009. S1-S4 will be having class photos taken, S5 will have a year group photo taken and S6 will have a year group and individual photos taken. Pupils should report to normal classes and then go to the assembly hall as follows: S1 – P1 S2 – P2 S3- P3 S4 – P4 All S5 and S6 – P5 Pupils will return to class as soon as their photograph has been taken. School uniform should be worn. This early information will allow you to plan your showering, hair cuts and hair washing! Remember your comb/brush on the day. S5 France/Belgium Trip – 21st June 2009 (Mr Reid) Passport forms and photographs need to be returned as soon as possible for the above trip. The third payment for the trip is now due. For more details and events click here. |
TRIP TO PARIS - NOVEMBER 23rd & 24th 2008
21 pupils studying Higher, Advanced Higher and Intermediate 2 French went to Paris for two days accompanied by three teachers and our French Assistant, Geneviève. Mrs Stables organised the trip with the help of Mrs Nicolson and Mr Kirkland from the technical department also came along to help out. We packed plenty of sightseeing into our two days and visited L’arc de triomphe, walked down the Champs Élysées (in the snow and sleet!), saw the Mona Lisa in the Louvre and also marvelled at the inverted pyramid. We heard mass sung in Notre Dame and enjoyed a fantastic meal in a typical French bistro. The second day, the weather was much better and we had a perfect day! (To read on and view more photos, click here.) Report by Mrs Stables |
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"What's the funny green thingy?" |
"They're really good ... watch me.." |
"Should've got the chips'n'cheese..." |
2P3 - THINKING ABOUT HOLIDAYS As the Christmas season approaches, some of our second year English pupils have been expressing their thoughts on Holidays. To find out what they think, click here. |
Holidays |
Winter: the Festive Season |
The Festive Season |
One of the best holidays kids love is Halloween because of the bright, shining pumpkin lanterns glowing on the window sills. One of the best bits about Halloween for kids is going out to the shops and buying their scary costumes. The main event the kids look forward to in Halloween is trick or treating, this is where the costumes come in handy because the kids go out scaring old ladies and telling them jokes to get their toffee apples and chocolate bars...
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We all love the count down to Christmas especially the 1st of December where the children get to open the first doors of their advent calendars, some children get chocolate others may get sweets. Through out the month of December many children will write their mile long letters to Santa, while some parents might even take their children to see him, in his crimson red suit with his white fluffy beard and jet-black boots glistening in the light..... (Read more) |
Aaron Ng |
Cameron Tasker |
Katie Fenwick |
Christmas |
Christmas |
Events in the Year |
It’s that time of the year again that many children enjoy…and many parents dread. The excitement is understandable as Christmas only comes once a year. However, the downside to all of this excitement is that many children become competitive and greedy about toys and therefore forget what Christmas is really all about. They also put their parents under immense pressure because the prices are high, especially for toys that are scarce. (Read more) |
Everyone loves Christmas, it’s official - from the depressed workers, run off their feet, in Lidl to the “well-to-do” who simply can’t be seen there. Each little detail adds up to that special day: putting up the Christmas tree, wrapping the presents, having to get a better Advent Calendar than everyone else - all these little things make that 24 hour day seem much bigger than it actually is. So enjoy it while you can because soon enough it will be Boxing Day... (Read more) |
We all should love most of the events in the year even though we don’t know some of them but we love most of the ones we do know. Kids love their birthdays, Easter for the chocolate eggs and Christmas for the presents while the adults enjoy the Summer for the kids to run outside and they get some peace for once in the year if the sun actually comes out for once but the events we all love are Halloween and New year. (Read more) |
Ryan Love |
Rachel McIlvanney |
Calum Cameron |
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S4 PRELIMS HAVE STARTED If you are in S4 and you really want to have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, then we strongly recommend that you consult your prelim timetable now and ensure that you turn up for each of your exams in plenty of time and properly prepared. Remember, these exams will help to determine your future - no pressure, you understand. Click here to get organised. Also check out: Helping your child to Revise at Home & S Grade English Study Guide |
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NUTZ TAKES CHARGE With Mrs Ford being out of school some days in connection with her Head Teachers Association duties, it's good to see that a very able stand-in has been found. Nutz, who has a Saturday job at Rugby Park - home of Kilmarnock FC - is delighted at having been selected from a very competitive short leet that included a wooden owl and a life-size cardboard cut-out of Barack Obama. Nutz commented: "I am used to handling pressure and hostility - every time there's an Old Firm game at Rugby Park - so this will be fun." |
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CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCHED ON The Kilmarnock Christmas lights were switched on last Sunday and those in attendance were able to enjoy a packed entertainment programme with the "street party" starting at 2pm. The Kilmarnock Standard has all the details of what was on (click here). The Standard is also promoting the campaign to support local business, in conjunction with East Ayrshire Council's ongoing efforts to regenerate the town centre. If you are in town during December then you really should check out what the local retailers have to offer. |
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CELEBRATING SUCCESS TEA PARTY On the afternoon of Thursday, 27th November, Kilmarnock Academy staged the Celebrating Success Tea Party. The purpose of the event was to recognize just some of the hard work put in by staff and pupils as well as to highlight some of the success stories happening within Kilmarnock Academy. As well as being attended by visitors from outwith the school, the event was attended by many members of staff. |
| SIOBHAN BECK - YES WE STILL HAVE THAT PICTURE! It was good to hear from former pupil Siobhan Beck who painted the Kilmarnock mural in Mr Dickson's room, way back in 2000. The mural is still adding some colour and style to Mr Dickson's lessons and many pupils still ask about the artist and the contents of the picture. The mural featured in The Scotsman and also made the front page of the more prestigious Kilmarnock Standard click here. To find out what Siobhan is up to these days click here. |
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| SITE MAINTENANCE & UPDATES At the moment, I am trying to do some major, behind-the-scenes maintenance on KA Web. As there are currently over 800 pages on the site, there's a strong possibility that I may miss some corrections or updates. If you spot anything that requires fixing or updating then please e-mail me (maintenance@kilmarnockacademy.co.uk). One problem I am aware of with the site is that the drop-down menu fails to appear in certain web browsers and on some machines. If any experts, tech-heads or general computer wizards out there can point to a solution - or recommend a web-menu software that works with all the main browsers - then please get in touch. Neil McIlvanney |
KA WRITERS' WINDOW COMING SOON |
October/November 2008 |
| GAVIN MORRISON SAYS "HI!" Hi everyone. I came across the website and I think it is fantastic. I attended KA from 1995-2000. I can't believe the change in staffing and it would be lovely to see some old faces on the site. From the age of 14 onwards I would tell my guidance teacher at the time, Mr. Kerr that I wanted to be an air-steward and I did fly for 3 years. I'm currently doing my Nursing degree at UWS in Hamilton and I have one year left to complete, then I will be set free in to the wards, what a scary thought!!! To earn money whilst I'm studying, I work for a homeless association. I really love this work and it is very rewarding (it pays not too bad also). Anyway hi to all of the staff who remember me and to any former pupils who come for a look. Gavin Morrison p.s. my side kick and partner in crime, Greig McMurray also says hi!!! |
KILMARNOCK ACADEMY'S GOT TALENT
As part of the programme for Children in Need, Miss Templeton arranged an afternoon of fine entertainment and what a good job she made of it! The judges for the event - Mrs Mckenzie, Mrs Dunsmuir and Mr Reid - were well impressed by the acts on show although some of Mr Reid's comments and views attracted a hostile response - something he's used to, being a Rangers supporter living in Coatbridge. To view more photos of the event click here. |
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 Some winning contestants |
 Hughie Walsh & Granni Minogue |
 More talented contestants |
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FRIDAY - CHILDREN IN NEED Friday was the big day – and everyone dug deep in their pockets for Children in Need!
Remember this was all for a very good cause, and thanks for giving generously! We raised an amazing £1,733.79. |
BAG-PACKING AT ASDA
Over 130 pupils and staff took part in the recent bag-packing event at Asda in Kilmarnock and they came in fancy dress because it was Hallowe’en. They did us proud and were complimented on their appearance and attitude. (To view more photos of the event click here.)
L. Hamilton |
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 Mrs McFarlane - the happy witch |
 Mrs Hamilton's Fenwick night out! |
 Mrs Ford poses as an academic... |
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KILMARNOCK ACADEMY WAR MEMORIAL This time last year, we added the K.A. War Memorial to our website. While former pupils of K.A. will be familiar with the War Memorial in the Old Academy Hall, most probably were not aware of the fact that, after each world war the staff and pupils at K.A. compiled a booklet of "Short Biographical Notices of the Old Boys that fell" during the conflicts. These tributes were scanned by Dr Neil Dickson and uploaded to our website by myself. Our Memorial also contains work by pupils and photographs of Mr Reid's school trip to visit the trenches. If you have not yet viewed this section of our website, you should do so. Neil McIlvanney |
| CLASS 1A1 - KILMARNOCK ACADEMY 1923 My father was James Dempsey Burnie, he is in the center of the 3rd row down.I thought you might like this for your archives.
I wonder do you keep an archive, have any old records survived.? I would be pleased to hear so I might ensure the orginal picture goes back home to Scotland from Suffolk. Noreen Burnie Finch |
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FINANCE WEEK Kilmarnock Academy held a Finance Week at the end of October. The aim was to focus on money matters, not only because of the current “credit crunch”, but to increase awareness of how much things cost. Pupils were made aware of how much more things cost when borrowing was involved. Every pupil in the school was given a “cash tracker” to keep for the week. This was a money diary ... (to read more click here) |
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HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW? It's firework time again and, of course, we all know what we're doing - so did the 69 UK fireworks casualties in Oct/ Nov 2006. If you think you know the score, then try to guess the other rules in the Fireworks Code (there are another 9 of them). Click the picture (left) to see if you were correct. |
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COMPETITION TIME The Herald newspaper group is running a competition to find the best description of where to have fun in Scotland. You can win £1000 for yourself and £5000 for the school. You simply have to write a short description (a paragraph or two at the most) of a good place to visit or spend time (eg Mr Fyffe's class, the Burns Mall, the Smokey Mountains). To enter go to www.s1play.com/inspire |
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REMINDERS..... Book tokens (Mrs Ford) The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers are running a book token scheme for schools. If you collect and hand in the token from these newspapers we can claim free books. Please hand in tokens to Reception. Past papers (Mrs Ford) Any senior pupil who has past paper books they no longer require is kindly requested to hand them in to Reception. These will be distributed to departments to use them for current classes. Thank you in advance for your (anticipated) generosity. For more details and events click here. |
MRS FORD MAKES NEW FRIENDS Our Head Teacher, Mrs Ford, made some new friends on her October trip to the Smokey Mountains in the United States. She told each of her new friends all about her previous trips to the US and gave them the lowdown on the current state of education, the world economy and life in the old days. |
 Cardboard Obama |
 Solitary Alligator |
 Wooden Owl |
DANIELLE McKENZIE SAYS 'HI!' Hi To all,
I dont know if you will remember me but I was flicking through the website and it's looking great - except the picture of me playing my clarinet. I remember that day I was practising for my exam and Mr McIlvanney popped his head round with the camera!
Just thought I would pop by and leave a wee e-mail to say thanks for putting up with me - don't know how you did, lol. I am now working in beechams catering department and loving it. I am starting management training soon and can't wait.
My wee sister is now at kilmarnock academy and she says it's great. All my best memories are there from young life and I would do it again if I could - but actually do the work this time.
Say hi to Mrs Timmons for me - one of the teachers I remember the most - and my computing teacher Miss Wilson but I dont think she is there now.
Thanks for all your support - I wouldn't be where I am now if it wasn't for my techers at Kilmarnock Academy.
Danielle Mackenzie (2000-2004)
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WORDS OF WISDOM - HOLLY STRAIN Alright teachers, I'm doing my HND Photography & Digital Imaging now at a young seventeen years old. I'm also on chapter thirteen of my own novel, which I hope to have published someday, and in the coming years, after I sit my HND, I'm hoping to move to either Yokohama or Tokyo. I just want to say that I couldn't have gotten where I am today without the help and advice of my teachers. In particular, Mr Rigg, my guidance teacher who seemed to have endless amounts of patience. I want to mention Mrs Ogg, Mr Reidford, Ms Fullerton and Mrs Lightbown in particular. All of my teachers have helped me throughout the years, but they're the ones who come to mind. I didn't always get on with some of you, but you each inspired me in different ways, and helped push me forward. It actually saddens me when I see my friends who are still at school always complaining about how much they hate it and want to leave. It didn't take me long to realise that your school days are the best days of your teenage years. I have one friend in particular who has no respect for education, and it's sad to say, but if you don't stick in at school and try your best, you're limiting your chances of being successful in later life. I learnt that the hard way when I got my standard grade results through. While I did mostly well, I realised that there were two subjects in particular I could have tried much harder at. I knuckled down in 5th year, and after an art portfolio course, I got into an HND. I'm doing something I thoroughly enjoy and without education, I wouldn't be where I am. I don't know what I'm trying to say here. I just want all the pupils who don't take school seriously and think they 'hate' their teachers to listen to me. I see it too often, young kids who go out and get drunk, and don't give a damn about schoolwork. Most of them are setting themselves back for the future. I'm not speaking as someone who used to go on like that, I'm speaking as someone who's had friends like that, and I've watched them fall further and further behind in coursework, and really regret it afterwards. Education is one of the most imporant things in life. It's all good to say you can go and resit everything at college, but why resit when you could maybe have passed first time? College is fine, but there's something special about your school days that you can only really appreciate when you've left and moved on. I just hope that some of you will read this and have a think, and then try a little bit harder. Holly |
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OCTOBER HOLIDAY ENDS School closed for the October holiday on Friday 10th. Staff returned for an in-service day on Monday 20th October and pupils returned the following day. Whether you manage to get away for a bit or just stay at home and potter around, we hope all pupils, parents and staff had an enjoyable break. The term running up to Christmas is always a busy one. You can find out what lies ahead by checking our School Calendar. |
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HI, FROM STUART GALLACHER IN THE USA "Hey, just a quick e-mail to let you know that I am having an awesome time out here in the U.S.A. The basketball is going well along with my subjects and I am enjoying the American life style of eating, sleeping and playing sports. Yours faithfully, Stuart Gallacher" Stuart, an extremely talented sportsman & a gifted musician, is one of the good guys and we wish him well! |
"A WONDERFUL SCHOOL!" - LILLIAN McGHIE Ah! the wonderful memories of Kilmarnock Academy. Our family did not have much which was the way of many in the early 70's but the camaraderie at Kilmarnock Academy helped diminish any shortcomings we may have had. I am Lillian McGhie (Doran) and enjoyed my time at the great school with many many friends. Starting out with Mr. James Hyslop and advancing to Mr. Frank Donnelly, with very fond memories of all the teaching staff.
I am now the owner of an environmental air pollution control company based in St. Catharines Ontario Canada and have a wonderfully talented 16 year old daughter. I did travel to Kilmarnock on a regular basis before the passing of my parents and always made that nostalgic stop at the Old School. Sad to see the apartments as we had so much fun in the Music department down there. I could go on forever, but to all of the Students today enjoy our wonderful school. It was a pleasure and a wonderful honour to have attended such a grand institution. Fond memories of Mrs Torrance who forced me to improve those office skills that I still use today in my own business. Lillian J. McGhie
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KA WRITERS' WINDOW COMING SOON |
August/September 2008 |
S4 WORK EXPERIENCE
S4 pupils have had the opportunity to go on work experience during the last fortnight. The placements ranged from a residential week with the army to a single day out with a school's music instructor. Pupils who did not go on work experience had the chance to do an Employability course with Careers Scotland. Report & pictures by Lesley Hamilton |
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EXPLORING THE PAST
Click on the maps below to see what Kilmarnock was like in days gone by. |
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HOLIDAY WEEKEND School was closed for the September weekend holiday on Friday 19th and Monday 22nd September. The weather was pleasant compared with summer of rain we have endured this year and we hope all pupils, parents and staff had a pleasant weekend. You can check this week's weather forecast at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/ukweather/sscotland/ Quick-Quiz - Where were the weekend pictures below taken? |
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HAPPY DAYS AT K.A.
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 Alan, after posting his letter to Santa. |
 Siobhan: "Check my blue nails!" |
 Lewis - "Alan can't help it..." |
 Concentration, as Alan chair-dances. |
 Ms Fullerton does the Hokey Cokey. |
 You work - and we'll watch. |
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TECHNICAL EDUCATION SECTION REVAMPED The Technical Education section of KA Web has been completely revamped and now features a whole range of activities to keep you occupied during the long winter that lies ahead. As well as a wide range of homework and research activities, you will find many pictures of pupils and their creations. Special thanks is due to Mr Campbell who spent a lot of hours fixing up the existing pages and adding new materials. Well done that man! Start exploring the world of Technical Education by clicking here. |
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ENERGY PLAY TOWN CENTRE GIG Local band Energy played an open air gig at Kilmarnock town centre on Saturday 6th. The band (S5 pupils Ross Leighton, Marc Strain and Greg Walkinshaw) provided locals with a welcome diversion from the usual Saturday routine and they went down really well. You can find out more about the band at: Energy at myspace.com and http://www.myspace.com/rossleightonmusic |
AND ON A MORE SERIOUS NOTE... |
NEW FACES 2008 |
 Ms MacInnes - ICT Bus. Studies |
 Mr Christie - PT Physics |
 Miss Brown - English |
HAPPY TIMES IN PSE
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 Alan writes his letter to Santa |
 Adele gets Charlie in a headlock |
 Dangerous? Not on a football pitch |
ENTERPRISE IN SCHOOLS - IT'S BEEN AROUND SINCE THE 1950s
Does any one else remember July 1953, for some of us our last day at the Academy, when we lifted the Tech. Master's Austin Seven on to the half-landing, and quietly dispersed? As a memento I had just had this photo taken of me on the steps, when someone had the bright idea of lifting the car on to the half-landing just inside the door. There was no shortage of willing helpers, and it only took a couple of minutes. The master took it in good part. We generously volunteered to lift it back down, and he had us "volunteer" to give it a wash to remove the mass of sticky fingerprints. The photo shows him supervising our efforts. Jimmy Murray. |
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August/September 2008 |
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY You can start getting organised for the coming session by checking out what lies ahead in the recently updated school calendar. This year we have included exam times, parents' nights and even school assemblies in addition to the usual information on term dates and holidays. |
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SUMMER'S GONE... BACK TO SCHOOL! The holidays are over. Pupils returned to school on Thursday 14th August and staff returned on Wednesday 13th. We would like to offer a special welcome to all our new pupils at K.A. and wish all of our pupils - new and old - good luck in the coming session. (Although you should remember that success is more to do with having a positive attitude and a healthy workrate than it is to do with luck). |
MADE IN SCOTLAND, FROM STORIES
One Nation, Five Million Voices was produced by National Museums Scotland to explore a changing nation through the lives of ordinary and extraordinary Scots. The Ayrshire section was filmed in Kilmarnock Academy. Report by Elaine Scott |
PAINTING PEOPLE Even though school was out for summer, it was business as usual for some keen young artists recently. Twenty teenagers from schools across East Ayrshire attended Art & Design Summer School in Kilmarnock Academy, where they improved their drawing and painting skills. Classes were led by acclaimed portrait painter Andrew Ratcliffe, from Appleby, Cumbria. The young East Ayrshire artists enjoyed working alongside a professional artist and learned a lot about painting from life, using a model, rather than from photographs. This intensive course will help the students with future work in their Higher or Advanced Higher Art & Design courses. Andrew Ratcliffe has painted portraits of members of the royal family, including Prince Charles and Princes William and Harry; he has also painted other well-known people such as Neil Kinnock and Ken Dodd and his paintings hang in galleries in the UK, USA, Australia and Europe. His commissioned work is represented in The Royal Collection, National Portrait Gallery, National Museums & Galleries on Merseyside, House of Commons, Private Collection of the Prince of Wales and private collections in the UK and abroad. The artwork produced during this summer school will be exhibited in the Schools Art & Design Exhibition in January 2009 in the Young People’s Gallery in The Dick, Kilmarnock.Report by Elaine Scott |
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