Pupils talk their way into final

A Dundee secondary school's debating team has gone through to the national final of the toughest debating competition in the country.  The Harris Academy triumphed at the Scottish regional final of the Institute of Ideas & Pfizer Debating Matters Competition by beating Inverkeithing High School, Fife, in the final.

The judges were particularly impressed by Craig Fairnington from Harris Academy who received an honourable mention.  He said, "It forces you to really think through what you are discussing.  Because you will be questioned by judges and by the audience, your argument has to stand."

In the morning debate on the motion Nuclear power is the best alternative to fossil fuels, Craig paired up with Duncan Gauld.  Olivia Walesby teamed up with Peter Simpson for the second debate of the day, arguing against the motion People need protecting from violent films, lyrics and video games.  Olivia said she liked the fact that the competition allows you to include personal opinions.

In the final round, Harris Academy was up against Inverkeithing High School.  Olivia was then joined by Duncan Gauld and they argued against the motion Patients are entitled to healthcare whatever their lifestyle choices.  Olivia and Duncan were commended by judge Stuart Waiton, of Generation Youth, for effectively taking on the tougher side of the debate.

The pupils won personal prizes as well as £1,000 worth of books and resources from educational publisher Hodder Gibson for their school.

(Text courtesy of The Courier, Dundee)
 

Careers Convention 2006

On Thursday 2nd March, the school hosted a Careers Convention.  Numerous firms and organisations were represented and parents and pupils had the opportunity to talk to, and ask questions of, the representatives of employers from a wide spectrum of careers.  Many more pics are available by visiting School Info/Ethos or by clicking here.
 

Computers for Schools
 

Once again, Tesco are giving schools the opportunity to acquire valuable computer equipment.  Several departments have already benefited from this scheme and, this year, the Home Economics Department is hoping to be able to upgrade its equipment.

We would ask parents to encourage their children to bring in any vouchers.  However, any vouchers received from former pupils or friends of the school would also be very welcome.  These can be handed in, or sent, to the school office at Perth Road, Dundee.
 

SQA Timetable

It's that time of year again!  If you wish to download the full timetable for the SQA exams, or build your own personal timetable, visit the SQA website by clicking here.