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A worldwide pandemic, what seems like a never-ending onslaught of bugs, a cost-of-living crisis and a period of industrial action has impacted on children and young people attending at schools across the nation, and Orkney is no different.

Since Covid, schools in the county have seen lower levels of attendance overall – from 95.6% in 2018/19 (just above the Scottish average) to 91% at present – the same as the Scottish average.

There are a number of potential reasons for this – some pupil and parental anxiety following the pandemic period and return to school, an increase in sickness absences following the pandemic, to a much lesser degree the recent industrial action and there will be other more complex factors.

A group of young students from Kirkwall Grammar School are tackling racism head on with a series of planned activities over the coming months.

The Anti-Racism Group – under the guidance of Theo Ogbhemhe, Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies teacher – have received funding of just over £4,000 from the Scottish Government to drive forward the anti-racism events. The students will also be fundraising for a further £2,500 to enable them to carry out all that they have planned through non-uniform days, bake sales and a raffle.

Community views are being sought on initial ideas to improve access issues at Birsay village and the Brough of Birsay car park.

Save the date! A special conference for the many unpaid carers in Orkney will take place at the Picky Centre on 18 May 2023.

The Royal rowan sapling has been planted within the gardens of Tankerness House.

Orkney’s Lord Lieutenant Elaine Grieve did the honours and was ably assisted by the team at the Yard Plant Nursery, who maintain and produce plants for the gardens, and various other grounds.

We have a number of new staff members due to start with the Council soon, but they are finding it very difficult to source accommodation. We would hate to lose them because they can’t find a home.

Nel Govender and her family have lived in locations around the world, but it is their hope to move to Orkney and embrace life and work in the islands.

Afternoon folks, just the heads up that a refuse truck on Area 6 needed a trip to the garage mid-way through the collections earlier today.

Thanks to our mechanical magicians, the vehicle is on the road again – but it does mean the team are a bit behind.

They will be pulling out all the stops to try and complete the collection today, including pulling in a second truck to help if possible.

The Council’s School Catering Service are appealing for help to keep pupils fed and watered.

There’s a number of jobs available within school catering, from cooks to kitchen assistants, permanent and relief.

Papdale Park now comes fully equipped with an EV charger at the site.

Folk could take a wander around the green space or have a seat and enjoy the surroundings while the vehicle is plugged in.

An update on road works underway or soon to start in the county - for the week beginning 27 March 2023.