\Balfron High
German Christmas Party S4 pupils were treated to lots of German Christmas treats in class last Thursday, kindly sent from Germany by the parents of the school’s German assistant Ann-Katrin. She explained about German Christmas traditions - in German - after which the class played games and quizzes- again all in German. Frohe Weihnachten! Visit On Monday, December 19, S3S6 pupils had a fascinating end of term presentation by former pupil Dr Frank O’Donnell, currently a lecturer in strategic studies at the Britania Royal Naval College in Plymouth. He discussed his present role teaching naval officers and cadets but also discussed his fascinating education and work history since leaving Balfron in 2004. This has taken him from St Andrews and Aberdeen to London and Washington DC and finally, to Plymouth. Dr O’Donnell also gave the pupils great advice on how to pursue their career ambitions in whatever field they choose to pursue. The session concluded with an excellent Q&A session which ranged from the political situation in the US and security in the far east, to the role of think tanks in the political process and the content of international relations courses at universities. Charity Christmas Jumper Day Christmas Jumper Day arranged by 3E1 raised £454.88 for Save the Children. This was a combination of £1 donations, a bake sale by 3E1 and the technology department stall at the Christmas Fayre. Fun in Athletics As part of the S3 Sports Leadership Programme, more The than 30 S3 Sport Leaders helped Active Stirling organise the Fun In Athletics event. The event was held at Balfron High School with more than 100 primary schoolchildren taking part. With the hard work and training, the sports leaders pulled off a great showcasing the leadership skills they have been working on each week. On the run-up to the event, the sports leaders had specific Fun In Athletics training to help them assist and get ready for the P6 Fun In Athletics festival. Alongside this, Balfron modern apprentices and S6 sports leaders have been laying on athletics taster sessions to all nearby primary schools. All schools had a fantastic time at the festival and although this was only a fun event the overall winning school was Strathperformance blane Primary. Active Stirling’s Active Schools Co-ordinator Neil Thomson said: “I would like to thank all the schools for taking part in the Fun In Athletics festival. The children who attended the event all the really enjoyed themselves.”