The design of Scotland’s “baby box” will be decided in a competition launched this week.Under the scheme, based on a Finnish programme running since the 1930s, families of newborn babies will be provided with a box containing items such as bedding and clothing. The initiative is aimed at helping to reduce deprivation-related social problems, which contribute to a wide attainment gap between rich and poor children even before they start school. Early years minister Mark McDonald confirmed this week that the baby box will be piloted in Orkney and Clackmannanshire.
A drawing contest inspired by one of Scotland’s most famous artists and playwrights has opened for entries. The third John Byrne Drawing Competition is for P4-S3s. Mr Byrne told TESS last year that drawing was an essential skill and not always valued highly enough in schools. The closing date is 3 March, after which Mr Byrne will open an exhibition of entries in Paisley. Previous winning entries and rules can be viewed on the Education Scotland website.
The Scottish College for Educational Leadership (SCEL) has announced the reappointment of Professor Anthony Finn as chair of its board of directors for another four-year term from November. Professor Finn is a former chief executive of the General Teaching Council for Scotland. In a 7 October article for TESS, SCEL chief executive Gillian Hamilton highlighted the challenge of headteacher recruitment (“Help us change teachers’ perceptions of headship”). Many Scottish primary schools are relying on shared headship or acting incumbents, with professional bodies warning of knock-on effects for pupils.
A boarding school is offering scholarships for talented primary school golfers. Loretto School and Golf Academy, in Musselburgh, East Lothian, is seeking applicants for a programme aimed at pupils approaching the age of 12. Another Loretto golf scholarship is for pupils aged 16 and over. Assessment days will take place on 20 and 21 November. For more details call 0131 653 4455 or email admissions@loretto.com
