Education, Children and Families Convenor, Cllr James Dalgleish reflects on the start of both SQA exams and the Summer term for schools:
This week saw a return to the school routine after the Easter break for learners, teachers and school staff across the city. With the weather promising the start of Spring I know that, mirroring the shift in seasons, for many young people this time of year marks a transition from school to what comes next.
The annual SQA National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher exams started this week, running until 1 June. For many learners, particularly those taking SQA Awards and Skills for Work vocational subjects, assessments have already taken place throughout the academic year.
I have been pleased to see the shift from academic achievement as the sole means to measure attainment in recent years. We are focused on improving outcomes for all learners and this includes acknowledging that each of our young people are unique individuals with their own talents, skills, ambitions and aspirations.
For many young people, a timetable of academic subjects followed by formal exams works well but others are better suited to dynamic, hands-on learning – some find that a mix of the two suits them best.
Our award winning and innovative pathways work aims to increase the number of learners in positive destinations after school. We offer unique and tailored routes for all young people – whether university, college, an apprenticeship or the world of work is what’s next.
We work with a range of partners including Edinburgh College and local roofing and construction businesses to deliver National 5 qualifications. Alongside this, we offer courses in business skills, creative and digital media, food and drink, financial services among others – and starting in August, barbering.
It is positive that through our innovative partnership approach, the attainment of school leavers in the national benchmarks have improved across most measures in recent years. The number of vocational National Progression Awards achieved by City of Edinburgh school leavers increased from 1433 in 2023 to 2365 in 2025 – and in 2026, this is expected to rise again.
We are committed to offering the highest quality education that meets the needs of all our learners, narrowing the gap between the most and least disadvantaged young people and breaking the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage.
There is no ‘right’ route for a young person but there is the right support, guidance and opportunity to find a future path that fits.
So, as we all enjoy the sunshine and look ahead to Spring, Summer and beyond – let’s celebrate the start of a new school term and the potential it brings.
Good luck to all young people sitting exams over the next few months. I wish each of you all the best as you look ahead to life beyond school.
This article first appeared in the Edinburgh Evening News
Hundreds of people report being victims of stalking each year in Scotland
Police Scotland recorded 744 stalking offences between 1 April to 31 December 2025, up from 686 in the same period the year before, with detection rates of 78.13% and 80.88%, respectively. Almost half of these crimes were related to domestic offending.
National Stalking Awareness Week runs between 20 and 26 April and Police Scotland is joining forces with partner Action Against Stalking to highlight the impact of stalking and harassment and call out the importance of supporting victims.
Detective Chief Inspector Gary Sergeant, lead for domestic abuse, stalking and harassment, Police Scotland, said: “The impact of stalking and harassment on victims cannot be underestimated.
“As well as causing fear and alarm, it impacts on how they live their lives, how safe they feel, how they act and how they react. Police Scotland will continue to collaborate with partner agencies to protect and support victims of stalking and actively pursue perpetrators to prevent further harm.
“Every stalking situation is unique, but most stalkers demonstrate FOUR distinct types of behaviours: fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated.
“Victims can be subjected to unwanted calls, texts, or messages. It can include hacking into devices and installing tracking apps, taking control of someone’s social media profile, or sharing or threatening to share photos, videos, or personal information.
“If you or anyone you know is a victim of stalking, then please contact the police. We will listen.
“Information people share with us is vital in helping us put together that jigsaw of incidents and behaviours that taken together allows us to evidence stalking.
“Action Against Stalking advises keeping a log of incidents, and this can be extremely helpful for our investigations.
“We will assess the risk, put in place a safety plan and work with partners to ensure support is available.
“National Stalking Awareness Week is a reminder to us all of the impact of stalking and harassment and the importance of partnership in tackling this insidious abuse.”
Hayley Tennant, Action Against Stalking CEO said: “Stalking can have a devastating and long lasting impact on victims, affecting their sense of safety, wellbeing, and everyday freedom. It is not a series of minor incidents but a pattern of behaviour that can escalate and cause serious harm.
“National Stalking Awareness Week is an opportunity to remind victims that they are not alone, that support is available, and that early reporting and documenting incidents can be crucial in helping them regain control and stay safe. We always encourage individuals who are experiencing stalking to contact and report to Police Scotland.”
“If you or anyone you know is a victim of stalking and harassment then please contact Police Scotland on 101, or 999 in an emergency. People can also report online, or via a third party like Action Against Stalking.”
Significant refurbishment and retrofit work at Brunstane Primary School is now complete and the school building has been handed over in time for the start of the new school term.
GRAHAM were appointed to deliver a multi-phase transformation project to retrofit the school building. The improvement works adopted a ‘fabric first’ approach – a sustainable building design strategy that maximises the performance of materials and components aiming to reduce energy demand and carbon impact.
Following the works, the school building has achieved the highest EPC rating of A, acknowledging the energy efficiency of the building.
The building works, which started in October 2024, include a three-storey tower and a single-storey block incorporating 14 classrooms and pupil support spaces, as well as a gym hall, kitchen and staff areas.
Supporting the Council to meet its sustainability commitments, a new energy centre was built on site including an air source heat pump which serves an updated heating system and replaces the existing gas boilers. Photovoltaic panels were installed on the roof along with new insulated cladding on both external walls and roof, with improvements to windows.
This investment in sustainable measures reduces the environmental impact of the building and offers a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for pupils and staff.
Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convener said: “We want all our schools and early years settings to offer the best possible learning environment for our children and young people.
“Central to this is ongoing investment in our school buildings to ensure that they meet the needs of our learners, offer a comfortable learning and teaching setting and support our net-zero goals.
“It is fantastic to see that the refurbishment works at Brunstane Primary School are complete, just in time for pupils and staff returning after the Easter break.
“The improvements to the building will make a huge difference to how the school building is used by teachers and pupils in the here and now, and for many future generations of young learners in Brunstane.”
Chris MacLeod, regional managing director at GRAHAM Building, said: “The handover of Brunstane Primary School marks the successful completion of a complex retrofit project delivered within a live school environment.
“Pupils and staff can now benefit from a modern, energy-efficient space that supports both learning and wellbeing, while considered sustainability elements will significantly reduce the building’s carbon footprint.
“Throughout the programme, our focus has been on minimising disruption and working collaboratively with the school to ensure a smooth delivery.”
A man has been convicted of an assault in Meadowbank in December 2023 which left a man permanently disfigured.
At Edinburgh High Court today (Friday, 24 April, 2026) Alijo Danso, aged 22, pleaded guilty to assault to severe injury, permanent disfigurement and danger to life.
Around 10.20pm on 3 December, 2023, emergency services were called to a report of the assault of a man at a property on Whyte Place, Edinburgh.
Danso was subsequently arrested and charged in connection and is due to be sentenced at Glasgow High Court on Wednesday, 3 June, 2026.
Detective Constable Chris Docherty said: “This was a violent incident that resulted in a man being taken to hospital.
“Danso will now face the consequences of his actions.
“I’d like to thank the public for their support and patience as we dealt with this incident.”
Gather friends and family for a garden get-together
Gardens are good for us and socializing in them even more so!
This year the National Garden Scheme is inviting people across the UK to bring together friends, family, neighbours and colleagues for a Great British Garden Party – a joyful community fundraiser supporting vital nursing and health charities.
Championed by Dame Mary Berry, the much‑loved Queen of Cakes, the Great British Garden Party celebrates the simple pleasure of sharing time together while raising money for charities that play a crucial role in so many lives, including Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Carers Trust, The Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing and Parkinson’s UK.
At its heart, the initiative celebrates community and the joy of sharing time with others. From your own garden to public parks and workplace green spaces – or even kitchen tables and front gates – everyone is encouraged to host a get‑together in their own way, creating memorable moments and making a meaningful difference.
Speaking about the Great British Garden Party, Dame Mary Berry said: “I am delighted to invite everyone to gather friends, family and colleagues for a Great British Garden Party.
“Whether you have a large garden, a small outdoor space or no garden at all, what matters is coming together. These gatherings are about reconnecting, celebrating friendship and community, and supporting nursing and health charities that many of us, our families and friends depend on in times of need.”
The beauty of the Great British Garden Party lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Past hosts have thrown open their garden gates and invited neighbours for afternoon tea, often making new friends along the way. Others have gathered loved ones to mark a special occasion, suggesting a donation in place of gifts.
From barbecues and family bake‑offs to picnics in the park, book swaps in the office or plant and produce stalls by the front gate, every event is different – and all are welcomed. The choice is entirely up to the host, making it easy for everyone to get involved.
Dr Richard Claxton, Chief Executive of the National Garden Scheme, said: “The Great British Garden Party is such a great idea. It’s perfect for that situation where an informal gathering is taking place anyway – a birthday party, a silver wedding celebration, or even just having friends over for a barbecue, and this can be turned in a modest way into a fundraiser.
“It also allows people to share their garden space with friends and family, without going as far as a public ticketed opening, allowing both small, intimate or large, sociable gatherings to raise valuable funds for our Beneficiary Charities – all in the special sanctuaries of our own gardens.”
The official Great British Garden Party campaign week takes place from Monday 13 July to Sunday 19 July, but supporters are welcome to host their event at any time that suits them, throughout the year.
Taking part couldn’t be easier. Hosts can sign up via the National Garden Scheme website, invite their guests, and receive guidance and support from the National Garden Scheme events team.
For more information or to register your Great British Garden Party, visit:
If Jane McNiven (63), a GP Practice Manager from Alexandria, hadn’t checked her breasts in front of a mirror at home, she may never have known she had breast cancer and might have missed out on a year filled with precious family moments, and many more still to come.
Just over a year ago, Jane was lying in bed when she noticed something didn’t feel quite right when she lay on her side. It felt like a small lump, but when she stood up, it disappeared. Trusting her instincts, Jane decided to check her breasts properly in the mirror.
Standing face on and placing her hands around her neck, she could clearly see that something looked different in her right breast.
“It would have been completely undetectable if I hadn’t checked in front of the mirror,” said Jane.“I am so glad I did, because otherwise I would have just carried on as normal, completely unaware that anything was wrong.”
Jane contacted her GP and was quickly referred to the Breast Clinic at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for scans and a biopsy.
“It all happened very quickly. I was told I would need surgery followed by chemotherapy. It was a huge rollercoaster of emotions, but I felt grateful that I had found the lump early and that treatment could start straight away.”
Following surgery, Jane felt well enough to continue working between treatments.
“I was very fortunate to feel relatively well physically, but cancer also brings a mental and emotional load. I decided to focus on looking after my health and getting on with life as much as I could.”
Jane and her family are passionate dog lovers and, just before her diagnosis, she had taken on two new puppies bringing her total to four Scottish Highland Terriers (Scotties): Edward, Ebony, Tromie and Dugald.
“My family and the dogs kept me going. I walked them every day, which really helped keep my fitness levels up. I then decided to start walking to raise money for cancer charities.”
Jane’s granddaughters, Daphne (11) and Evie (9), also wanted to help. They organised a school fundraiser through the charity event Scotties in the City, raising money for Maggie’s, the cancer support charity. Earlier this year, the girls attended Crufts, where they were awarded the Young Person’s Award in recognition of their fundraising efforts.
“Going to Crufts is really special for our family, and seeing the girls recognised for their fundraising was one of my proudest moments,” said Jane.
“It’s something I might never have experienced if I hadn’t checked my breasts, been diagnosed early and received treatment.”
Now recovering and looking to the future, Jane is determined to share her message with others.
“I urge everyone to check their breasts regularly. Look, feel, and know what’s normal for you. Even if you attend regular screening or have recently been given an all-clear, changes can still happen in between.
“Checking my breasts, especially looking in the mirror, saved my life. Please make it something you do for yourself.”
Rosemary Stevens, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Jane’s story is a reminder of why being breast aware is so important. Breast screening can save lives, but it is also vital that people know how their breasts normally look and feel and check for changes in between screening appointments.
“Also, this is important for women who may not yet have reached the routine screening age of 50.
“Checking your breasts doesn’t need to take long and there’s no right or wrong way to do it. NHS Inform advises looking at your breasts in the mirror with your arms by your sides and then raised, and feeling all areas of the breast, up to the collarbone and into the armpit, using both light and firmer pressure. What matters most is getting to know what’s normal for you.
“If you notice any change, whether it’s a lump, a change in shape, skin texture, nipple position or discharge, please contact your GP practice without delay. Finding cancer early often means treatment is more straightforward and outcomes are better.”
Changes in breasts to be aware of are:
a lump or bump, or an area of thickened tissue on one or both breasts
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
a lump or swelling in either armpit
skin on either breast that looks like orange peel
crusting on or around either nipple
a leaking nipple, that may or may not include blood
dimples on your breast, or skin that’s become drawn in
a nipple that’s become turned in
For more information on checking your breasts visit:
The Royal Bank & the University of Edinburgh have today (24 April 2026) announced a new partnership, pooling programme expertise between the Royal Bank of Scotland Accelerator and the University’s AI Accelerator to better support Scotland’s entrepreneurs.
This new partnership brings together Scotland’s biggest bank for business and one of its largest universities to build on the Royal Bank of Scotland’s commitment to supporting 5,000 Scottish startups in 2026.
In a significant boost for Scottish startups, Royal Bank of Scotland has today (24 April 2026) announced a new partnership with the University of Edinburgh to combine entrepreneurship expertise.
The new partnership will build on the existing close relationship between Scotland’s largest bank for business and one of its largest universities. A dedicated member of Bank staff will work with the University’s AI Accelerator programme team to provide strategic coordination between University of Edinburgh entrepreneurs, academic innovation teams, and the Royal Bank Accelerator community, driving growth, insight and commercial impact.
Building on years of collaboration and a shared commitment to Scotland’s entrepreneurial and research-led growth, the new facilities and renewed partnership bring an expanded programme of support for Scottish entrepreneurs, as well as for alumni, staff and student founders.
Through practical, in-person advice as well as large-scale sessions and boutique events, the Royal Bank Accelerator team will be on hand to help businesses scale and succeed, tapping in to the University’s innovation expertise and networks.
For founders working at the intersection of entrepreneurship and advanced research, Royal Bank of Scotland has also announced today that it will provide £30,000 to the University of Edinburgh’s AI Accelerator, enabling participants to boost their offering by accessing support from academics, PhDs or other resources from across the University.
The AI Accelerator programme has supported over 100 companies so far to collectively raise over £120 million in funding and is currently recruiting for its 10th cohort.
Supporting the University’s pipeline of talent is central to the renewed partnership. Royal Bank of Scotland already engages with university students across departments, supporting initiatives that promote employability and career development.
This new partnership sees opportunity for both parties to collaborate further, enhancing student experience, employability and recruitment outcomes.
The announcement comes as part of the Royal Bank of Scotland’s commitment to supporting 5,000 Scottish startups and the broader NatWest Group’s commitment to launch Accelerator hubs in 10 Universities throughout the UK over the next three years, with the Universities of Oxford, Manchester, York, Brighton and Warwick signed up to the programme.
The University of Edinburgh partnership spans four key themes: Accelerator, Innovation, Research, and Student Experience and Recruitment. Each area is designed to strengthen the pathway from idea to impact, enabling founders across Scotland to access tailored support as well as helping research-led innovation to connect more effectively with industry.
The announcement forms part of the Bank’s new five point Growing Together plan, setting out how they will help build the conditions for UK-wide growth: supporting the innovators shaping the future economy, backing powerful regions, championing mid-market companies, supporting the country’s infrastructure, and boosting financial confidence for people and families.
Commenting on the launch, Heidi Simpson, Regional Accelerator Director, Royal Bank of Scotland said:“Scotland is full of talent and bold ideas and through our new alliance with the University of Edinburgh, we’re focused on helping founders turn them into real businesses. This partnership strengthens Accelerator support where innovation is already thriving within the university environment.
“Building on a foundation of years of collaboration, we’re supercharging our partnership to support the innovators of the future. We’re putting a complete support system in one place, with hands-on coaching, expert insight and a community that founders and students can tap into.
“This is about making it easier for start-ups and scaling businesses across Scotland to move faster, think bigger and turn ambition into growth that in turn benefits the Scottish economy.”
Looking ahead to the partnership Douglas Graham, Director of Innovation Clusters at Edinburgh Innovations, the University’s commercialisation service, said:“This new alignment of entrepreneurship expertise and resources between the Royal Bank of Scotland and the University of Edinburgh is great news for the entrepreneurs across our cohorts.
“Offering our combined support to talented founders and their emerging ideas and technologies strengthens our regional and national innovation ecosystem, and helps harness data, digital and AI for the good of all.”
To join the UK’s largest community of entrepreneurs, download the Royal Bank/ NatWest Accelerator app here.
Two traditionally rigged tall ships, Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew, crewed by a rotating team of 70 wounded, injured and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel, sailed into Leith, yesterday (Thursday 23 April) as part of the Full Circle Expedition.
The voyage, coordinated by local veteran sailing charity Turn to Starboard and delivered in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, aims to raise £300,000 so the charity can purchase a second tall ship to support more veterans facing PTSD, physical injury, isolation and a loss of confidence.
Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event that uses competitive sport to support the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS service personnel and veterans, bringing together nations from around the world to share their journeys of resilience.
Full Circle set sail from Falmouth on 17 March 2026 and will travel anticlockwise around the UK, stopping at 22 ports in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, before returning to Falmouth on 11 June 2026.
The voyage will carry the Invictus Games Flag around the UK, building momentum towards the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 one-year-to-go event at the NEC in July 2026.
The crew is expected to dock in Leith for eight days. There, the Invictus Flag will be handed over to the City of Edinburgh and raised to honour the crew, local veterans and all of those competing at the Invictus Games. Formalities will also a civic drinks reception hosted by the Lord Provost at the City Chambers.
Further engagements across the visit will include a commemorative Anzac Day wreath laying at Edinburgh Castle, live music and cultural gatherings, and a series of community visits such as to SS Explorer and the Poppy Factory.
Sir Nick Hine, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Marine Sector, said: “At Babcock, supporting veterans is a responsibility we take seriously. Leaving the Armed Forces can be challenging, particularly for those who are wounded, injured or sick, which is why initiatives like Full Circle are so important in helping to restore confidence, purpose and connection.
“We are proud to sponsor the Leith stop on this remarkable journey, backing a programme that recognises service in a meaningful, practical way and helps veterans to thrive long after their time in uniform.”
To donate to Full Circle and help Turn to Starboard purchase a second tall ship, so that the charity can support more veterans facing challenges such as PTSD, physical injury, isolation and loss of confidence. visit:
Sally Terry, CEO of Turn to Starboard said:“This expedition brings together two organisations committed to empowering veterans through challenge, camaraderie and community, each united in the belief that adventure can be truly transformative.
“While Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 harnesses the spirit of sport to inspire recovery and rehabilitation, Turn to Starboard draws on the unique challenges of life at sea to rebuild confidence, restore purpose and help veterans navigate life with intention and fulfilment.
“More than a voyage, this expedition is a powerful story of courage, service and renewal, showing how adventure and the sea can heal, inspire and bring people together.
“We can’t wait to bring this inspiring message to Leith to reach more veterans and highlight their challenges and remarkable achievements.
“The journey is divided into five legs, with a crew changeover for each one: Falmouth to Chatham, Chatham to Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Oban, Oban to Liverpool, and Liverpool back to Falmouth.”
Paul Miller, Army veteran and skipper of Spirit of Falmouth, said: “Being part of this expedition fills me with real pride. It has reminded me how far I’ve come in my own recovery and how much further we can all go together.
“Sailing the Invictus Games Flag around the UK is deeply meaningful. It represents courage, determination and community – values that we must hold on to after military service ends.
“Taking the Invictus Flag on this journey feels especially meaningful. It carries the hopes of so many people rebuilding their lives through courage and community. Seeing Turn to Starboard and the Invictus Games come together in this way is powerful – every mile we sail, and every donation raised, helps build resilience and support the veteran community.”
Full Circle forms part of the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 Impact Programme. Through teamwork, challenge and time at sea, the expedition will help inspire the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS veterans who are suffering from trauma as a result of their service.
Captain Lee Hazard RN, Director of Special Projects, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 said:“With the Invictus Games Flag onboard, these remarkable veterans led by Turn to Starboard will utilise their military skills to sail with purpose and skill. Full Circle shows that recovery doesn’t only happen on the field of play – it happens through challenge, connection and community.
“As we build towards Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, the Full Circle Expedition is helping the nation see the strength and resilience of those who serve today and those who have served before them.”
To follow the expedition on social media, visit:
www.turntostarboard.co.uk and www.invictusgames2027.org; and follow progress through Instagram (@fullcirclet2s and @Birmingham_2027), TikTok (fullcirclet2s and weareinvictusgames), Facebook (Full Circle T2S and Invictus Games Birmingham 2027), X (@Birmingham2027) and LinkedIn (Turn to Starboard and Invictus Games Birmingham 2027).
Turn to Starboard would like to thank Babcock International Group for their support of the Leith Stop as well as the Invictus Games Foundation, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, principal partner ATCO and our founding partner AirTanker; and partners – Team Forces, Palo Alto, Forces Support and Just Giving ; and official supporters – Aku, Gill, Morrisons, Mustang Survival, NSSLGlobal and SunGod for supporting the Full Circle Expedition.
