24 March 2011
TO: PARENTS/CARERS OF S1 PUPILS
Dear Parent/Carer
Choice of Subjects for S3 : Alteration to Timing
For the past ten years or so, S2 pupils in Garnock Academy have made the choice of subjects that they intend to study in middle school, before Christmas of S2. S2 pupils have then moved into their new middle school classes on return to school after the Christmas break.
I am writing to give you advance notice that we do not intend making this Christmas changeover into middle school subjects next session. S2 pupils will therefore remain with their S2 subjects until the summer of 2012, whereupon they will move into their S3 subject choices. This is due to changes in secondary school curriculum and assessment arrangements (often referred to as the Curriculum for Excellence initiative) which require greater time for consolidation of work in S2.
This change will affect your son/daughter who is currently in S1.
The summer changeover model, to which we propose to move, is the normal model throughout North Ayrshire secondary schools, and indeed throughout Scotland.
If the timetable for implementation of the Curriculum for Excellence were to be delayed for any reason, we would reconsider the above decision and contact you with any alterations to the above.
If you have any concerns or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at school on 01505 682685.
Yours sincerely
Brian McNaught
Head Teacher