The three Rs

Rubbish is the theme of an art and design exhibition by pupils from Kirkland High in Fife, which runs at Methil Heritage Centre until December 16. This is the school’s 15th annual exhibition and embraces a variety of work, including exam pieces by pupils from S1-6.

Debbie Rodigan, the principal teacher of art and design, says: “We have a different theme each year. Last year’s work was inspired by great artists and this year it’s all about the three Rs - recycle, reuse and recreate. Materials such as milk cartons, plastic bottles and cardboard tubes were used to produce the work which includes drawings, paintings installations, decorative containers, jewellery and shoes.”

Fencing

A new competition framework has been set up for schools’ fencers in an attempt to stop youngsters giving up the sport because of insufficient competition between the ages of 14 and 18.

The Foundation of Scottish Fencing has set up four youth competitions - the first on December 15-16 - to give them the chance to compete against children their own age.

This weekend sees the Scottish Secondary Schools’ Team Championships at Grangemouth Sports Centre. The best young fencers in the country will be competing.

The foundation has recognised that it can be a leap for fencers no longer eligible to compete in Under-14 competitions to take part in what is an Under-18 event. There is limited competition for fencers between 14 and 18, unless they take part in senior events or are prepared to travel to England. “It can be intimidating and we tend to lose competitive fencers at this point,” says David Duffus, chair for the foundation. “The aim is to encourage new fencers to take part, in a safe environment, and maximise the amount of fencing everyone gets on the day.”

The initiative will see events from now until April at Under-14, Under-16 and Over-16.