Blair

Parent, Staff and Friends

Liz Bridge from the Parent, Staff and Friends group dropped in to chat to us. She explains how this group was different to the old PTA and School Board. She also outlined the things they were up to , including BHS' version of X Factor; the Talent Show. There were a couple of things that she mentioned that were very important; 'Wish Lists' and 'Development Funds' which are available to everyone ! This is definitely a podcast every student will want to listen to !

Rachel meets Shiona Baird

Our intrepid reporter Rachel met Shiona Baird. Shiona used to be a Green Party MSP and was used to being grilled by Kirsty Wark...so Rachel had a lot to do to impress the Co-convener of the Green Party. Have a listen and see what you think. Shiona is a very passionate politician and has a lot of interesting things to say. Let's have your comments and any thoughts you have. Rachel is going to be interviewing all the main parties in the coming months. Are there any questions you would like her to ask on your behalf ?

What S1 think...

We spoke to some S1 students who were new to the High School. We asked them about how they found it and what advice would they give to P7s back at their old schools. The general advice seems to be "it's big" and "don't worry".

This is a relatively short podcast...which you can download to your phone...hint hint... and please let us know what you think....you can leave comments.

Farewell to Miss McCumiskey

Miss McCumiskey is leaving the High School and moving to London. Marta caught up with her before she left and asked her a few questions about her time here. As you may be aware, Miss McCumiskey was the guiding hand behind the Shakespeare players and podcasting last year so it was good to hear her views. Good bye, thank you and good luck from all of the Podcast Posse.

As one podcasting legend fades out, another set arrives. Next week, we will be releasing the recording we made with some of this year's S1 students...their views of the school and other stuff. So look out for that - there are some surprises. Our ace reporter Rachel tracks down Shiona Baird of the Green Party and grills her...what did she mean about Sean Connery...you will have to listen to make your own mind up. Later in the week, we will be talking to Liz Bridge who has the best kept secret in the High School and you will definitely want to listen to her...she can make wishes come true.

So visit the school website and click on BHS podcasts....tell all your friends, parents and anyone else who wants to know about the best school. Click on this simple map to show where the podcasts are.

Be Blair or be square.

The Book Club got together

Lots of us read books in the summer break. So, it was only natural that we got together in the LRC to have a wee chat about faves...

And who is Samson anyway ?

The final day of teachers' advice to parents podcasts

Today is the final installment in the podcasts for parents. A number of teachers were kind enough to give their time and effort to making a series of small podcasts. The subject was how parents could support students in their academic efforts. The advice to date has been fairly simple. Not a single teacher has suggested bribery or chocolate. We would be really interested in some feedback as to how successful this series of podcasts have been for both parents and anyone else who has been listening. Please leave a comment or feedback below... we read them all !

And for today's advice...

Geography

Mr Kirkpatrick had some simple advice.

Business Studies

Alan Sugar wasn't available but his depute, Mr McMichael was.

Maths

This is a difficult subject for lots of people but Mr MacTavish explained the support experience from his perspective.

History

And finally... Mr Howie from the History Department was able to offer some practical suggestions that every parent could appreciate.

Another day, another set of Parent Podcasts

We were fortunate enough to get a number of teachers together to explain some things about their subjects. Today, Mr Pullar of Religious Studies and Philosophy joins us to explain his views on parents supporting students. Simple and straightforward, they are fairly straightforward and relatively inexpensive.

Physical Education

Mr Allison popped and recorded a brief message for both parents and anyone looking forward to exam success.

Modern Languages

This is a subject area where lots of people get wobbly. Happily, Ms Mackay is on hand to offer some words of wisdom.

More advice from the teachers

This week, we are presenting a series of podcasts aimed at parents in which teachers outline how parents can support students. Teachers generously gave up their time for these recordings - thanks again. Next up is Mr Maxwell and his advice about Art success. Listen carefully and you may find the advice is not what you imagine it would be.

Science

After art, it was obvious that we needed to get the views of Science and Mr Rae did a fine job outlining the key steps of how to support your own scientist.

Modern Studies

Ms Young came along to give some thoughts about Modern Studies and especially the role of homework.

Advice for Parents

As promised, we assembled some teachers and asked them a simple question; " What advice would you give a parent to help them help students here at Blair?" We asked them to keep their answers short and sweet. Most of them did and we are going to be posting the individual pieces here during this week.

Ms Irvine of the English Department was first up.

Home Economics

Mrs Smith from the Home Economics Department came along and had lots of advice. Interestingly enough, she also made a plea for some help !

Music

Finally, for today, Mr Murray from Music offered his insights. He also reveals what he loves but the students all hate.

We hope you enjoy these small podcasts. Any constructive feedback would be appreciated and there will be more appearing during the week!