The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the significant disruption to learning, including the cancellation and extensive modifications to exams in 2020 and 2021.

The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) have however been planning for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher exams to be held in spring 2022, the first since 2019. Course content has been modified to take account of the disruption to learning that young people have experienced, and teaching staff in Orkney’s Secondary and Junior High Schools have detailed plans in place, to allow student to sit the exams, based on Public Health guidance.

Despite a continuous spread in COVID-19 across Orkney throughout the festive period and into the new year, nurseries, schools and the college were able to reopen in full on the first day of term, Wednesday 5 January.

A number of staff and pupils were absent in relation to the virus across a handful of schools, however, there were no closures as a result.

Just before Christmas the Scottish Government announced further Covid-19 Business Support Grants for the hospitality sector.

You can find all of the information related to what support is available, eligibility and how to apply on the Find Business Support website.

An online ceremony is set to recognise and celebrate sporting excellence in 2022 — after organisers decided to postpone the Orkney Sports Awards.

Orkney Islands Council is reminding local users of sports and leisure services that some changes will be coming into place at facilities across Orkney (including The Pickaquoy Centre) from December 27th due to recent Government announcements around Covid restrictions.