A north-east secondary school is planning to celebrate its pupils’ achievements with a virtual prize-giving ceremony.
The event for Banff Academy will be broadcast online, and it is hoped viewers will be able to enjoy the usual celebrations – including musical entertainment from the pupils, which would be recorded in advance.
Deputy head Helen Hendry said it was “important” that the event still goes ahead to recognise the achievements of pupils.
She said: “This has been a bit different but the pandemic isn’t going to stop us at Banff. Prize-giving is normally a big event at our school and it’s not something we want to lose.
“For the likes of our S6 pupils, this will be quite a strange end to their school career. However we hope with the online ceremony they’ll be able to keep the video recording as a memento.”
Mrs Hendry intends to make the online ceremony “to be as interactive as possible”, adding: “For the special awards we’ll have the nominations and announce the winner to create a build up. We’re also trying to put together a virtual choir as part of the musical entertainment for the evening.”
Local councillor Glen Reynolds praised the team at Banff Academy for adapting to the situation.
“Pupil attainment is, and will be recognised, and a virtual prize giving does not in any way diminish acknowledging the great efforts made by the bairns at Banff Academy,” he said. “We might not be able to congratulate them in person, but in spirit I commend all those who participate in this event.”
Education convener Gillian Owen also welcomed the “fabulous” plans and praised staff and pupils for “embracing the virtual world” for the celebrations.
The S4-S6 prize giving will take place online on July 1 at 7.30pm, ahead of the S1-S3 event the following evening.
Meanwhile, NesCol is encouraging potential students to sign up for a virtual open day for its Fraserburgh campus.
The event will be held on May 19 from 4pm-7pm, and during the session participants will get the chance to look at campus facilities, find out about courses on offer and ask questions about lecturing and support teams.
Principal Neil Cowie encouraged people to take part in the “excellent opportunity” to find out more, adding: “As NesCol continues to innovate across the curriculum, bringing new subjects and progressive opportunities for students, there are wonderful possibilities waiting to be explored.
“With applications open for the new academic year, our team are on hand to support students as they take the important next steps towards a bright and fulfilling future.”
To register, visit www.nescol.ac.uk/fraserburgh-campus-virtual-open-day/
