Mentors in Violence Prevention

A large group of staff took part in training for MVP earlier this session. This week we were delighted to train our first group of pupil mentors who will be delivering lessons to S1 pupils.

Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) is a peer mentoring programme that gives young people the chance to explore and challenge the attitudes, beliefs and cultural norms that underpin gender-based violence, bullying and other forms of violence. It addresses a range of behaviours including name-calling, sexting, controlling behaviour and harassment, and uses a ‘by-stander’ approach where individuals are not looked on as potential victims or perpetrators but as empowered and active bystanders with the ability to support and challenge their peers in a safe way.

This piece of work links directly with our school vision and values, our Positive Relationships Policy and Anti-Bullying Policy.

S1 Parents’ Evening

We held our first in-person parents’ evening this week. It was great to have so many parents and carers attend, meet staff and learn about how young people are settling into Gleniffer High. A group of S6 volunteers helped out on the evening and did a fantastic job of representing the school. S1 parents and carers will receive a tracking report after the Christmas holiday which will give an update on pupil progress in all their subjects. We are delighted with how S1 pupils have settled into Gleniffer High, staff find them engaged, hard-working and eager to learn.

Litter Pick

We had a litter pick scheduled today, however due to the awful weather this was cancelled and will take place next week at a time to be confirmed.

Barista Qualifications

We have introduced a new qualification this session, which trains senior pupils in learning the skills of a Barista. Mr Madden has been running an after-school session every Wednesday, where they have been honing their skills in making the perfect coffee/cappuccino/latte/hot chocolate. This is a great opportunity to have some fun while adding to CVs. Mrs Montgomery has also been training pupils in this skill via Health and Food Technology. Starbucks and Costa should look out!

Enterprising Maths Competition

A group of S3 and S4 pupils entered the Enterprising Maths Competition this week which took place in Gryffe High School. Our group came third which was a fantastic achievement as this was the first time they had worked together as a group! Ms Walker commented on how much effort they put into the variety of tasks. I think some new friends have been made too.

Mental Health Parents’/Carers’ Awareness Session

We have been working with Headstrong on developing our understanding of how to support the mental health of young people. On Monday 10^th October there is a session running for parents and carers in Gleniffer High, starting at 6.30pm. A link has been sent to sign up for this session, which based on our experience so far should be really useful for parents and carers. S1 have already had a presentation from Brian Costello and S4 will receive one next Friday. I would encourage you to sign up as we know the importance of mental health on all aspects of our children’s lives.

Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership

A new health and wellbeing service has been launched for 12-17 year olds, every Thursday 6-8.30pm in Lagoon Leisure Centre. This is a drop in-service for young people where they can get advice and support from health workers. There is also a free Circuits class offered each week.

Read more in Headteacher's Reflections Blog