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Leadership training to empower headteachers

Further funding for academies that have benefitted more than 2,000 so far

Training opportunities for school leaders will continue to be supported by the Scottish Government helping develop leadership skills, improve job satisfaction and benefit pupils and staff.

The Scottish Government is providing £395,000 to the Head Teachers’ Leadership Academies (HTLA), run by Columba 1400, which will be matched by the Hunter Foundation.

This brings total Scottish Government support for Columba 1400’s HTLAs to £790,000 since 2025-26, with this year’s funding expected to help up to 280 school leaders to develop their leadership skills.

Recent evaluation of the Leadership Academies revealed 2,000 headteachers and school leaders have already benefitted from the training, with participants reporting increased confidence and resilience, and improvements in their leadership abilities.

Education Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Our support for Columba 1400’s leadership academies will ensure even more school leaders feel empowered to deliver excellence and equity in education, providing the opportunity to develop knowledge, confidence and skills.

“Education leaders are looking out for and caring for our children and young people everyday, and I recently met with graduates of the Head Teachers’ Leadership Academy who gave glowing feedback on the transformative experience of participating in the leadership academy and how it helped to reaffirm their leadership abilities.

“It is fantastic that 2,000 school leaders have already benefitted from the programme, returning to schools to deliver the progress we have seen, reflected in the rising attainment and narrowing of the poverty-related attainment gap in this year’s Qualification Scotland results. Hundreds more opportunities for development will be available through our continued support for the programme.”

Sir Tom Hunter said: “The Hunter Foundation has backed the Head Teachers’ Leadership Academy from day one because we know that leadership matters.

“We’re delighted that the Scottish Government has renewed its commitment to this partnership. If we want the best outcomes for Scotland’s young people, we need to invest in the people who lead our schools.

“Strong leadership creates opportunities, raises aspirations and makes a lasting difference in communities across the country.”

Marie Clare Tully, Chief Executive of Columba 1400, said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Government and The Hunter Foundation have reaffirmed their commitment to the Columba 1400 Head Teachers’ Leadership Academy.

“This continued investment reflects a shared belief in the importance of values-based leadership and will enable a further 280 school leaders to take part in our academies in 2027. The greatest outcome of these experiences is seeing school leaders reconnect with their values, rediscover their sense of purpose and remember why they went into teaching in the first place.

“Time and again, we see the impact of that ripple out into schools and communities across Scotland, creating the conditions for children and young people to thrive.”

Alison Rooney, headteacher at Langloan Primary School and Nursery Class in Coatbridge, who recently took part in a HTLA, said: “The Head Teachers’ Leadership Academy gave me the space to reconnect with what matters most as a leader.

“The impact has stayed with me long after the Academy ended, influencing how I lead, how we work together as a staff team and how we create opportunities for children and young people to thrive. I’m delighted that future school leaders will continue to have access to this incredible experience.”

Mental Health Foundation: Talking about our emotions should never feel taboo

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

Talking about our emotions should never feel taboo.💜

This #WorldMentalHealthDay let’s not just check in with those around us, but let’s also create space for open and honest conversation about our mental health.

Let’s move past “I’m fine”.

For tips, advice and support on talking about mental health, check out our website: https://shorturl.at/KZ8RX

#WMHD

#WorldMentalHealthDay

#MentalHealthAwareness

#TalkAboutIt

#Conversation

Big Hearts: Kinship Family Afternoon

FREE DROP-IN EVENT

MONDAY 19th OCTOBER between 12.30 -3,30pm

WE invite Kinship Carers to stop by Tynecastle Park on Monday 19th October!

Our free family friendly event is designed for #KinshipCarers, with a range of community partners on hand to share useful info on support services and family activities available across Edinburgh.

You can drop-in anytime between 12.30pm and 3.30pm. Advance booking is highly recommended to access the Stadium. Book your free ticket:

https://eventbrite.co.uk/e/kinship-family-afternoon-drop-in-tickets-1999780656777

https://eventbrite.co.uk/e/kinship-family-afternoon-drop-in-tickets-1999780656777

Bus lane trial to launch on Monday

A new trial to assess whether bus journey times and reliability can be improved by extending bus lane hours launches on Monday, 12 October.

The trial will be in force between Milton Road East and London Road, where bus lane times will be extended to operate between 7am and 7pm, seven days a week. Current bus lane times are peak only – 7.30am to 9.30am and 4pm to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.

The changes will test whether longer bus lane hours can help reduce delays for buses along the route, in turn encouraging and supporting people to choose to travel by public transport and improving the experience for those who rely on buses.

Reliable and efficient bus services:

  • are essential for getting around the city
  • encourage more people to choose public transport over the car
  • provide a vital transport option for many residents who do not have access to a private vehicle

Edinburgh has a great bus service, but more can be done to reduce delays to buses along key routes. Bus lanes that support buses to get ahead of traffic for as long as possible during the day are one way to achieve this.

The trial route is used by several services including the number 44, which Lothian Buses has identified as one of the services most affected by delays and reliability issues outside of current bus lane operating hours. Initial data analysis shows that bus journey times on part of the route have increased by 22% since 2019.

Data and stakeholder feedback collected during the trial will be used to help decide whether the measures should be made permanent.

Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “Edinburgh is lucky to have a first-rate public transport system, which hundreds of thousands of people rely on every day. We want to make travel by bus an attractive, accessible and reliable alternative to the car and bus lanes support that.

“However, travel behaviour is changing and bus demand is increasing, leading to delays outside of traditional peak periods. This trial will help us to assess whether extended bus lane hours can reduce journey times on one of our busiest routes.

“Thanks to the nature of the trial we’ll be able to carry out real-world monitoring of traffic impacts and network performance, alongside feedback from the public.”

The 18-month trial will be introduced through an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), which provides an opportunity to monitor the effects of the changes and gather evidence before recommendations are made on the longer-term arrangements.

Monitoring analysis will include bus journey times, traffic surveys, parking and loading surveys, business surveys and feedback from residents and other stakeholders. The first six months of the trial also serves as a consultation period.

During the trial some parking and loading restriction times will change.

People are encouraged to check signs and road markings and can find out more about the trial on the Council website.

Family adventures take over the big screen at Vue Edinburgh this October half-term

Families looking for ways to make the most of the October half-term can enjoy a packed programme of animated adventures, familiar favourites and big screen fun at Vue Edinburgh from TODAY (Friday 9 October).

Causing plenty of mischief on the big screen is Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, the latest feature-length adventure from Aardman. 

With Halloween approaching, Shaun and the Flock are looking forward to some spooky celebrations at Mossy Bottom Farm, that is until the Farmer accidentally destroys their prized pumpkin patch. Shaun’s attempts to fix things with a spot of mad science soon spiral out of control, leaving a mysterious beast roaming the woods of Mossingham.

Packed with Aardman’s trademark slapstick humour and playful takes on classic horror, it’s a fitting family watch as spooky season gets underway.

Families can also catch a recent big screen favourite for a low price of £2.49 when booked online with Vue’s Mighty Mornings, taking place throughout the school holidays. Among the films returning is animated adventure David, which brings the famous story of David and Goliath to life, following a young shepherd whose courage is put to the ultimate test when he steps forward to face a fearsome giant.

Also joining the Mighty Mornings line-up is Coyote vs. Acme, which sees legendary Looney Tunes character Wile E. Coyote finally fight back after years of malfunctioning ACME products. Teaming up with a down-on-his-luck lawyer, Wile E. takes the company responsible for his countless cartoon catastrophes to court in an adventure combining live action with classic Looney Tunes chaos.

For younger guests, Vue’s Big Shorts offers the opportunity to experience some much-loved stories on the big screen in a relaxed environment.

Join in the adventure with We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, the animated adaptation of Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s much-loved children’s story, alongside The Tiger Who Came to Tea, which brings Judith Kerr’s classic tale of an unexpected teatime guest to life.

Families at Vue Edinburgh can also enjoy Vue’s biggest and comfiest seat, the Ultra Lux. Strategically positioned to give the best possible view of the big screen, Ultra Lux seating also features an extra-wide armrest, back and leg rests that recline independently, a personal table for snacks and drinks and a state-of-the-art beverage cooler – making it the most luxurious way to immerse yourself in a great story.

Ian Chester, General Manager at Vue in Edinburgh, said: “The October half-term is a great opportunity for families to spend some quality time together, and there are plenty of adventures to discover on the big screen at Vue.

“Whether it’s joining Shaun and the Flock for some spooky fun, catching up with recent family favourites through Mini Mornings or introducing younger children to the big screen with Big Shorts, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy together this half-term.”

Tickets are available at www.myvue.com 

October Half Term at Vue

Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom – Showing this October half-term

Mini Mornings: David – Showing this October half-term

Mini Mornings: Coyote vs. Acme – Showing this October half-term

Big Shorts: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt & The Tiger Who Came to Tea – Showing this October half-term

Police appeal following serious tram accident in Broomhouse

Road Policing officers are appealing for information following a serious crash in Edinburgh.

Around 10.55pm on Monday, 5 October, 2026, a pedestrian was struck by a tram on the tramline adjacent to Broomhouse Drive.

The pedestrian, a 20-year-old man, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries.

No other injuries were reported.

Sergeant Grant Hastie said: “Our enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances of this incident.

“I am appealing to those who witnessed the crash and have yet to speak to officers or anyone who was in the area prior and has information that could assist, to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3804 of 5 October, 2026.

STV stars get challenge-ready as Specsavers donates £15,000 to Children’s Appeal

Specsavers is donating £15,000 to the STV Children’s Appeal as it gets behind this year’s STV Children’s Appeal Challenge at the Kelpies.

As part of its sponsorship of the challenge, Specsavers is supporting the Appeal’s work with children and young people across Scotland, while also highlighting the importance of regular eye health checks.

STV presenters Laura Boyd and Sean Batty are preparing to take on this year’s challenge by making sure their eye health is in top form. The pair recently visited Specsavers Grangemouth for comprehensive eye tests and to speak to the store’s eye health experts about the importance of looking after their vision.

The duo will take on a team challenge at the Kelpies today (8 October 2026) to raise vital funds for the STV Children’s Appeal – although exactly what they will be up against is still under wraps.

With Laura and Sean preparing to put their skills to the test at one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks, getting them challenge-ready was high on the agenda.

This year marks the first time Specsavers has sponsored the STV Children’s Appeal Challenge, with the £15,000 contribution supporting the Appeal and its work with children and young people affected by poverty across Scotland. Specsavers is also using its involvement to raise awareness of the importance of regular eye health checks.

Specsavers dispensing optician and Grangemouth store manager Joe Smith welcomed Laura and Sean to the locally owned and run store at La Porte Precinct.

More than 20 Specsavers colleagues from across the business, including Joe, will also take part in the Kelpies challenge on 8 October.

Laura Baird, Specsavers Scotland Chair, says: “It is a privilege to support this year’s STV Children’s Appeal Challenge. It’s such an invaluable cause, which raises funds for children and young people living in poverty across Scotland.

“We’re delighted to be supporting the Appeal with a £15,000 contribution as part of our sponsorship of this year’s challenge. With Specsavers stores and colleagues across Scotland, supporting a cause that makes a difference to children and young people in communities right across the country is incredibly important to us.

“We’re also pleased to be highlighting the importance of regular eye tests and giving Laura and Sean the opportunity to make sure their eyes are challenge-ready!”

Laura Boyd, TV presenter and entertainment reporter, says: “Every year, the STV Children’s Appeal Challenge is something I look forward to, and this year it’s been very much kept under wraps.

“We know it’s taking place at the Kelpies, but we’re not sure what this involves – no doubt there will be some nerves but plenty of excitement on the day.

“There’s also a bit of friendly competition between Sean and me, which will add another fun element to the day, and I’m sure our teams will quickly get into the spirit of it. Ultimately, though, the most important thing is raising awareness and much-needed funds for the fantastic STV Appeal.”

Sean Batty, TV presenter and meteorologist, adds: “This is the fifth challenge that Laura and I will be doing together, and I have a feeling it’s going to be very special. We’re looking forward to seeing what they have in store for us.

“It’s also great to have Specsavers on board this year as our official sponsor, and it was fantastic to visit Joe and his team at Grangemouth to make sure our sight was in perfect shape ahead of the challenge.

“Knowing that Specsavers is also supporting the Appeal with a £15,000 contribution makes it even more special, and we can’t wait to get involved in the challenge at the Kelpies.”

The STV Children’s Appeal has raised more than £39 million since it launched in 2011. In 2025, the Appeal raised more than £2.4 million, taking its total raised since launch to more than £39 million.

This year’s challenge will be unveiled on the show on Thursday 29 October and will reveal the fundraising total.

For more information, visit https://stvappeal.tv/https://www.specsavers.co.uk/

Sports and Outdoor Clothing for community groups

COMMUNITY CLOTHING EVENT at THE PLEASANCE SPORTS COMPLEX

Are you a community group or service that could use some outdoor/sports clothing and footwear?

Join us for our Community Clothing Event! 👕👟🧥

⁠

⁠

The details:⁠

* Friday 23 October⁠

* Midday-3pm⁠

* ‘Hall of Fame’, Pleasance Sports Complex, 46 Pleasance (What3Words: ///coins.vanish.tiger) ⁠

* Please register to help us manage the day at https://edin.ac/4zjFDBN⁠

We’ll have good quality, pre-used items collected from our students when they moved out of our halls.⁠⁠

If you can’t make it but could use some items, please email Sarah.morton@ed.ac.uk⁠

Shout out to colleagues from the University’s Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, Accommodation and Events Services and University of Edinburgh Sport for making this happen.⁠⁠

Hope to see you there!

QMU student wins national Converge Award for performing arts analytics business

A Queen Margaret University (QMU) student has won a national entrepreneurship award and £5,000 in funding for a business designed to help artists and theatre producers make better decisions using data.

Aisha Josiah, who is studying MA Arts, Festival and Cultural Management at QMU, received the Converge Performing & Production Arts Challenge Creative Fusion Prize 2026, sponsored by Mark Logan, for her business, ‘Stage Analytics’. The platform brings together information such as ticket sales, audience trends and reviews to give performing arts organisations real-time insights that can help with decisions on marketing, pricing and scheduling.

The idea was partly inspired by Aisha’s experience at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where thousands of shows compete for audiences each year. Stage Analytics aims to address the lack of accessible data available to independent artists and producers, while supporting the sustainability of Scotland’s creative economy.

The £5,000 prize will help Aisha take the next steps in developing Stage Analytics and exploring its potential as a business supporting artists and producers across the sector.

Carolyn Low, Knowledge Exchange Manager at QMU whose role involves providing startup support to students, staff and graduates through QMU’s Startup Studio, said: “Aisha has taken an idea rooted in her own experience of the performing arts and developed it into a business with the potential to address a real challenge facing the sector.

“Being able to support students as they develop ideas like this is an important part of what we do at QMU. Converge gives them the opportunity to take those ideas further, gain valuable business experience and connect with people who can help make them a reality.”

Aisha was one of four QMU innovators to reach this year’s Converge final, with QMU originally having 11 entrepreneurs selected to take part in the 2026 programme. The four finalists represented the breadth of entrepreneurial activity at the University, spanning data and technology, theatre, cultural inclusion, sport and community development.

QMU also had a particularly strong showing in the Performing & Production Arts Challenge, with three of the six finalists coming from the University. Alongside Aisha, the finalists were QMU graduates Mirren McIver, founder of Four Door Theatre, and Lok Pui Lo, founder of ESEA Creatives.

This year, 123 participants entered the competition, with 34 finalists representing 15 Scottish universities. The 34 finalists were selected from across 15 of the 18 universities taking part in the programme, the widest pool of institutions represented in Converge’s 15-year history.

Converge Executive Director Adam Kosterka said: “This year’s finalists represent one of the strongest and most diverse cohorts in our history, spanning industries from healthcare to climate tech.

“Being selected among such a competitive field is a testament to the skill, creativity and commercial potential of all our winners.”

The Converge programme is supported by the Scottish Funding Council, universities and corporate partners. Since launching in 2011, it has trained more than 1,000 aspiring entrepreneurs and supported the creation of more than 500 companies.

Aisha’s success builds on a strong year for QMU in the Converge programme, highlighting the range of entrepreneurial ideas emerging from the University’s creative and cultural community.

Her achievement was announced at the Converge Awards ceremony at Barony Hall in Glasgow, which celebrates promising university entrepreneurs and business ideas from across Scotland.

To find out more about the programme and the projects it supports visit Converge.