The cobbled streets of Edinburgh have been brought to life by the colour and vibrancy of The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra.
The Orchestra are creating a carnival atmosphere each night with their performances at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and did the same at Victoria Street, wowing passersby with their spectacular outfits.
Set against the colour of the iconic Edinburgh street, the performers gave locals and tourists alike a glimpse of the colour of their performance at this year’s Tattoo Show, Stories.
The Tattoo is running until 26 August 2023 and tickets can be purchased at edintattoo.co.uk, on the phone on 0131 225 1188 or in person at the Tattoo Box Office at 1 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh.
Levels of attainment for pupils across Edinburgh remain above those achieved before the Covid pandemic, while passes in vocational courses continue to climb, according to exam results released yesterday.
More than 9500 pupils in the Capital received their results from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) on Tuesday (8 August). 2023 was the second year since 2019 that pupils sat formal exams and attainment remains high in comparison. Different assessment models were used in 2020 and 2021 due to the impact of the pandemic.
Passes in National Progression Awards (NPA), vocational courses equivalent to National passes, have also increased, with 48 NPA courses leading to 941 passes at levels 4, 5 and 6. This is compared to 26 NPA courses and 296 passes in 2019.
A total of 51,941 resulted awards were certificated for 9,583 candidates (includes special schools, adults and mainstream secondary pupils) in over 85 subjects ranging from Accounting to Urdu.
National 5s saw passes (A-C grades) of 78% (up one percentage point from 2019 but down one percentage point compared to last year) and Highers saw passes of 78% (up two percentage points from 2019 though three percentage points lower than 2022).
Notable results include:
By the end of S4, 48% achieved 5 passes at National 5 or better (5 percentage points up on 2019 but 1 percentage point down on 2022)
By the end of S5*, 63% achieved 1 or more Higher passes or better (6 percentage points up on 2019 and the same as 2022)
By the end of S6* 69% achieved one or more Higher passes (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 3 percentage points up on 2019)
Pupil Vincent Rodziewicz, who is about to start S6 at Craigmount High School, said: “This year I got an A and a few Bs and I was quite surprised by these results, they were very positive actually – I expected to do worse in Maths.
“I don’t feel that stressed about the way exams are done though, I don’t mind being in a big hall.”
Zaneta, who is an S5 pupil at Craigmount, added:“I was really nervous, but I think my results are good – I wasn’t really expecting straight As.
“It will give me a lot of confidence going into S5 as well, because I know it’s going to be a difficult year.”
Councillor Joan Griffiths, Education Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The Covid pandemic may seem like a distant memory for some, but recent years have posed a real challenge for pupils and teaching staff in all our schools who have had to deal with the impact on learning and teaching.
“All our teachers and staff have worked extremely hard in preparing pupils for these exams, as well as parents/carers whose support is invaluable and, most of all, our young people themselves should be praised for their hard work and achievements.
“We want to make sure all school pupils are able to fulfil their potential by attaining the highest level of achievements possible and by receiving the best possible experience – every learner’s journey is unique. We look forward to building on the success of this year’s learners as they move through the senior phase and onto positive destinations.”
Additional information – analysis
Results by the end of S4 5 passes at National 5 or better – 48% (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 5 percentage points up on 2019)
Results by the end of S5* 1+ pass at Higher or better – 63% (same as 2022 but 6 percentage points up on 2019) 3+ passes at Higher or better – 44% (same as 2022 but 6 percentage points up on 2019) 5+ passes at Higher or better – 24% (same as 2022 but 4 percentage points up on 2019).
Results by the end of S6* 1+ pass at Higher or better – 69% (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 3 percentage points up on 2019) 3+ passes Higher or better – 51% (2 percentage points down on 2022 but 2 percentage points up on 2019) 5+ passes at Higher or better – 38% (2 percentage points down on 2022 but 2 percentage points up on 2019) 1+ pass at Advanced Higher – 31% (1 percentage point down on 2022 but 4 percentage points up on 2019)
Following final advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), Scottish Government and Public Health Scotland (PHS) are finalising plans for the roll out of Scotland’s winter vaccination programme, delivered at a local level by Health Boards across the country.
This year’s programme has an increased focus on protecting those at highest risk of becoming seriously ill from flu and COVID-19. There will also be changes to call up dates to ensure maximum protection to these groups over the winter months.
Everyone over 50 and those with certain conditions will be offered a flu vaccination.
People aged 50-64 with no underlying health conditions, are now being called forward for appointments starting from 4 September.
The expansion of the flu programme to include secondary school pupils continues this winter, with all school age pupils, children aged 2-5 and children aged 6 months to under 2 years at risk being eligible.
Both flu and COVID-19 vaccines will be offered to people most vulnerable to illness and, where possible, administered at the same time.
Clinical advice and evidence shows that administration of both vaccines together is a safe and efficient way to deliver maximum protection. JCVI has advised that protection is highest in the three months following vaccination, so vaccinating those at highest risk of COVID-19 later provides greater protection over the peak winter period and into the new year.
Invitations to people aged 65-74 years of age with no underlying conditions and those aged 12-64 years in a clinical risk group (excluding those with a weakened immune system) that leaves them at greater risk from COVID-19 will be the first to receive invitations, with appointments starting from 18 September.
Invitations for all other priority groups receiving both flu and COVID-19 vaccines will follow as the programme progresses. This includes people in care homes and those aged 75 and over who will receive invitations for appointments starting from mid-October. Both of these groups were offered vaccination during the spring COVID-19 programme, so their immunity has received a recent boost.
People should wait for NHS Scotland to contact them with details of their appointment, or prompt to book. Depending on their selected communication preferences, this will be by email, text, or by post in a white, NHS Scotland branded envelope, which replaces the blue envelopes used previously.
Public Health Minister, Jenni Minto said: “We thank the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation for their latest independent expert clinical advice which recommends we focus on protecting those most vulnerable to serious illness from COVID-19.
“We have accepted this advice and will continue to plan and implement the vaccination programme this winter.
“Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourselves, your loved ones, and the NHS from both COVID-19 and flu viruses, and I encourage all those eligible to take up their invitations when they are offered.”
Dr Claire Cameron, Consultant in Health Protection at PHS said: “Getting vaccinated is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself against flu and COVID-19 this winter.
“This year’s programme focuses on protecting those who are at highest risk. One of the ways we’re doing this is by offering vaccination to people who are most vulnerable to illness later in the programme to ensure they have maximum protection in the peak of winter.
“Scotland’s vaccination programme has always offered vaccinations in the safest and most effective ways possible. We know that administration of both vaccines together is a safe, efficient way to deliver increased protection when it’s most needed. Last year, over 89% of flu and COVID-19 vaccines were administered at the same time.
“We hope to see most vaccinations completed by early December. Those eligible for a flu or flu and COVID-19 vaccination this winter should look out for their invitation by email, text or by post in a white NHS Scotland envelope and take up the offer to protect themselves.”
View the JCVI advice on a vaccination programme for this winter:
NHS Scotland partner InnoScot Health and Heriot-Watt University have further strengthened their strategic relationship through the award of an honorary professorship.
Elaine Gemmell, Head of Regulatory Affairs at InnoScot Health, has been conferred the title of Honorary Professor in the Edinburgh-based university’s School of Engineering and Physical Sciences in recognition of her expertise.
The award reflects Elaine’s service and contribution to Heriot-Watt, and the close ties forged, particularly with the university’s Medical Device Manufacturing Centre (MDMC) which helps Scotland’s SMEs translate medical device concepts into commercial products.
A five-year collaborative partnership was signed by InnoScot Health and Heriot-Watt University last year to help fast-track innovation in medical and healthcare technologies. As part of the MDMC Advisory Group, Elaine is pivotal to the development of this strategic relationship, supporting ongoing projects, training, and development.
Commenting on the award, Elaine said: “I am both surprised and delighted to be awarded the title of Honorary Professor in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University.
“I enjoy a strong relationship with the university and share its ambition to accelerate medical device innovation across Scotland and beyond.
“I am privileged that my contribution has been recognised in this way and will continue to share my knowledge, experience, and expertise in medical device regulation to support healthcare innovators across Scotland.
“When we come together and pool our expertise, the impact is greater; so, I look forward to continuing my work with the University and building further networks and collaborations across the sector.”
Elaine joined InnoScot Health in 2002 and helped establish the organisation. With more than 20 years’ experience in medical device development, she is a certified ISO 13485 /ISO 9001 Lead Auditor and has experience of regulatory approval and CE marking for medical devices.
Elaine led InnoScot Health spinout company Clear Surgical, helping to launch two innovative devices – The Oplight™ and Cannulated Forceps – onto the market; and previously worked with Motorola Semiconductors for 20 years, gaining experience in manufacturing, design, and technical marketing.
Elaine now provides extensive regulatory expertise to NHS, academia, and industry. She sits on a range of advisory boards and provides training, presentations, and expert comment on a range of medical device related topics.
Executive Chair of InnoScot Health, Graham Watson, said: “This honour is a testament to Elaine’s valuable regulatory expertise, and commitment to sharing that knowledge to drive forward healthcare innovation in Scotland.
“Elaine’s knowledge and experience of medical device regulation is invaluable in the fast-moving world of innovation and is a vital driver of our commercialisation work at InnoScot Health.
“As one of our original staff members, Elaine has been continuously involved in shaping the organisation since 2002 and this award is incredibly well deserved. Congratulations Elaine!’
Residents and guests at Strachan House care home in Blackhall will be hosting their first of many Edinburgh fringe events on Saturday 26th August at 3pm and are inviting their local community to come along and support what is set to be a magical afternoon.
Following on from the success of a trial of a Fringe Care Festival event last year and the ongoing community links that were built, Barchester Healthcare are now continuing their support by being the founding sponsors of an even bigger event this year and for years to come – The Edinburgh Fringe Festival Care Fest.
Strachan House will be opening their doors to Edinburgh festival performers Octovoce, an accapella group who will be taking everybody on a magical afternoon of well-known music.
As well as this, they are encouraging everyone to come along dressed as their favourite character and enjoy a themed buffet prepared by their wonderful chefs, whilst being immersed in a fairy tale sing along event that would be fit for any prince or princess.
Mandy Head of Activities said “Eventually, the long term goal would be for all Edinburgh care homes to be part of this amazing initiative – no matter what company, but in the meantime Barchester get to go first, with the 4 Edinburgh homes taking part!
“Shaping the event foundations for other care providers to follow suit in the coming years…”
General Manager, Gordon Philp said, “Our residents and guests are very excited about this event and the team are working behind the scenes to ensure it is a great success.
“We do our best to provide a wide range of activities and entertainment at Strachan House as part of the lifestyle enrichment programme for residents, and this was will certainly be outstanding!”
Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.
Convener of Regulatory Committee, Neil Ross, said: “The Council was successful in defending large parts of the policy and the Court did not criticise any aspect of the Council’s consultation nor the evidence base which it used to reach its decision. Having reviewed the Court’s decision in detail, the Council has decided not to appeal the ruling.
“We have changed our policy to reflect the decisions reached by the court, which took effect from 13 July, and the date for applying for a licence is 1 October. Existing hosts and operators have until that date to submit an application for a licence.”
Extinction Rebellion (XR) are hosting their talk “Heading for Extinction and What to Do About It” this month as part of PBH’s Free Fringe Programme.
The talk was developed over five years by the climate justice campaign group and is regularly delivered both online and in-person around the UK. Two speakers from XR’s Edinburgh and Lothians local group, Dom and Alex Porter will deliver the talk in the Liquid Rooms on 15th and 22nd August.
Dom said: “The talk is in two parts: what science tells us is causing the Climate Emergency and what humanity needs to change to survive; then, XR’s take on what we need to do to bring about that change.”
As detailed on Extinction Rebellion’s website, the talk is aimed not just at those already supportive but also at those sceptical about the severity of the Climate Emergency or hesitant about joining the climate justice movement. Audience members will have the chance to learn how to get involved with Extinction Rebellion.
When asked why people should come to the talk, founding member of XR, Clare Farrell, said: “We are clearly already in deep shit, the planet is burning and unhinged leaders are doubling down on the cause.
“We have to pull together, to support each other, build successful resistance and commit to creating a caring, regenerative new society.
“Time is short, we have to work together. Come and get involved.”
Your Voice Matters in Shaping Health and Social Care!
Ever wanted to put your question to the Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health, and Social Care? Here’s your chance!
Michael Matheson MSP will appear before the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee on 12th September, and the Committee want to hear from you.
Whether you’re part of the public or work in health and care, submit your relevant questions on topics such as the NHS recovery from the pandemic and be part of scrutinising the work of government.
Clare Haughey MSP, Convener of the Committee, says, “This is a great opportunity… your suggested questions may help to inform our scrutiny of the Scottish Government’s approach.”
9 places to eat & drink this Fringe to support the local community
This August, the Edinburgh University Students’ Association hosts a variety of dynamic Fringe Festival spaces. These spaces support Edinburgh students, as well as local businesses, charities and sustainable commerce.
As a registered charity, income earned from the Associations’ Fringe venues and food & drink outlets go towards its student services, providing advice, representation and welfare support to its 49,000 student members.
These include services such as the Advice Place (professionally trained advisors giving free, confidential and independent advice for students across a broad range of issues), Student Opportunities (student societies, volunteering and peer learning), and Student Voice (empowering students to make a change and run campaigns).
The Association’s Fringe food partners (hosted in Students’ Association venues) also contribute to local business, while supporting charities and campaigns that help the community, such as free hot meals, tackling homelessness and promoting sustainable food.
The Students’ Association employs local staff to run its venues. In 2022, around 300 temporary staff were hired, 70% of which were Edinburgh University students. Over half of these then stayed on to work during term time.
“Our Association’s integral part in the festival means we can generate funds to support our students. We hope everyone who visits enjoys the city and has a great time visiting our venues!” – Sharan Atwal, Students’ Association President.
9 Places to Eat & Drink this Fringe to Support the Local Community:
Pleasance Courtyard The Pleasance Courtyard will be packed with city favourite bars and food vendors such as Pizza Geeks, Harajuku Kitchen, Smash & Stack and Mimi’s Bakehouse. The bustling area is a great spot to enjoy the festival come rain or shine, sitting under a canopy of umbrellas and stretch tents in the traditional cobbled courtyards.
Mimi’s Bakehouse (Pleasance Courtyard) This renowned bakehouse has many charity endeavours to accompany its delish cakes. It has a charity partnership with CHAS (Children’s Hospice Association Scotland) where it sells rainbow cupcakes every year (all proceeds to charity), hosts families of children in respite care for afternoon tea at the Leith store (providing cake for children’s and family birthday parties), and has a “pay it forward” cake box (£5) where it delivers cakes straight to CHAS for each customer donation
Each Monday, Mimi’s Bakehouse donates leftover cake to a local food kitchen in Leith for those in need called Empty Kitchens Full Hearts. They also sponsor local football teams Leith Athletic and Hibs Ladies, regularly providing cake for events and during matches. This year, they have special “boob” cupcakes to raise awareness of breast cancer with proceeds donated to charity.
“As a family business, Mimi’s Bakehouse is always excited to launch charity partnerships which support the local community. By embracing new opportunities like these, we hope to make our family business an Edinburgh institution for generations to come by spreading joy through cake and making someone’s day,” Michelle Philips, Owner and Founder.
Pizza Geeks (Pleasance Courtyard) On top of their geeky theme, Pizza Geeks are incredibly community driven. Their Pizza for the People initiative is a way to give back to the community by giving hot meals to those in need, as well as the heroes who help them. Since opening in 2016, they have made and donated 30,000 pizzas across Edinburgh. This Fringe, they’ll be returning with their delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas, including the ever-popular Chorizard with a tomato base, mozzarella, chorizo, black Pudding, fresh chillies, and hot honey.
“Our PFTP initiative is a way to give back to the community. Every week, we make and donate pizzas to those in need all across Edinburgh. You can very easily get involved just by eating our pizzas!” Pizza Geeks
Harajuku Kitchen (Pleasance Courtyard) The Harajuku Kitchen gives customers the option to donate £2 per purchase to Edinburgh charity Social Bite, which will buy a meal for a homeless person. Harajuku Kitchen also donates directly to the charity from the profit they make from the Fringe.
Mint (Potterrow Plaza) Named one of Fringe 2022’s top places to be, the Potterrow Plaza will return outside the Pleasance Dome, this time with an extended space. It will host Mint, which offers its renowned Chicken and Halloumi Wrap and plenty of meat-eater and vegan options.
Teviot Row House Teviot Row House is home to one of the city’s oldest bars, The Library Bar, which serves a varied menu both day and night (including its student-favourite cheesy nachos!). It will also host Gilded Balloon, one of Scotland’s leading festival companies.
Garden at Teviot The Garden at Teviot is a hidden gem next to the busy Bristo Square. The garden offers colourful beach huts (each seating 6), two full-service bars, coffee from Edinburgh’s Throat Punch and delicious local produce from Ròst Eats. There is also a large, covered area to avoid Edinburgh’s likely showers!
Throat Punch (Garden at Teviot) If you’re looking to stay green this Fringe, visit Throat Punch. This local coffee outlet doesn’t use any unnecessary plastics, opting instead for biodegradable wherever possible. It also only uses milk and oat milk that is delivered in glass and collected again for reuse by the manufacturer.
The Screaming Peacock (Charles Street Lane) The Screaming Peacock offers a variety of sustainable food. Their Wild venison comes from their family hunting business, and their Pheasants are sourced through local estates in Fife, making their food 100% sustainable. They even source their salad toppings from friends down the road, working with a local Fife merchant. The burgers are wrapped in recyclable greaseproof paper and a compostable meal box. So, when it comes to ditching the rubbish, all you’ll need is a recycling bin.
Your Voice Matters in Shaping Health and Social Care!
Consultation is open to all – click the link to submit your question today: 
