The recent videos which have appeared on our website have attracted a great deal of interest (8000 views and counting!), and I think it's because they show extraordinary stories of achievement, academic excellence, and opportunities which enable our pupils to succeed in their chosen fields.
As S4-6 have been on study leave, and as they continue to work towards their exams, it is the confidence they have gained from their time at Hamilton College which encourages self-belief, and the support given by teachers, not to do their work for them, but to support them in learning independently and in developing themselves, which will help them achieve. This morning, I asked some S5 pupils which exam they were in to sit today, and they responded that they didn't have an exam. They were in to study together, in uniform, because they work well together, and can learn from their friends who have particular strengths.
This collaborative and supportive environment is what makes the major difference, and which represents Our Ethos in action. Pupils' willingness to help one another with Grace, their Wisdom in deciding to come in to school and work rather than be distracted at home, the Confidence that comes from the environment they are studying in, the Innovative approach to inspiring one another and working together, the empathetic Compassion for their friends in the same situation, and the self-knowledge that comes from that Reflection. Pupils' academic progress grows directly from all of these pastoral, personal areas of life, and it is great to see.
If you haven't yet seen the new videos, here they are. Enjoy the stories!