News
Stoneyhill Primary pupils discover the Wee Forest
Primary 4 children from Stoneyhill Primary School have been exploring the ‘Wee Forest’, which is part of the Queen Margaret University Outdoor Learning Hub. The pupils, with their class teacher Samantha Gallagher, spent their time exploring the natural environment and learning about how the trees and plants create a habitat environment for mammals, insects and birds.
“P4 had a great day at the Wee Forest. The children had the opportunity to explore what animals and insects live in the forest, linking numeracy and maths to find the length and width of the trees and identifying good and bad mud by experimenting with water,” said Samantha.
The Wee Forest project which is part of the global Tiny Forest initiative, assesses the impact of trees and forests on urban areas and invites local people to come in and engage with the forest helping with monitoring and evaluation.
“I think this space is brilliant. I would bring my class up at any opportunity possible. We can come and learn about all the things that are here, all the nature, all the environment, the biodiversity, conservation, the list is endless,” said Stoneyhill Depute Head Teacher Rachel Gallagher.
The children also got the chance to work with Jocyelyn Timperly, from BBC future who will soon be publishing an article on the Wee Forest and P4's experience of it.
The class will be returning in a few weeks to focus on the variety of life resident in and around the pond.
For more information:
Tiny Forest
QMU Outdoor Learning Hub
QMU Discovery Trail Videos on Youtube
Mandatory training for a safer East Lothian
A new core mandatory training module has been added to learnPro to help all staff contribute to a safer East Lothian.
Equally Safe
Together for Gender Equality supports Equally Safe in Practice (ESiP), a national project to create an environment for long-term culture and behaviour change in society to eradicate violence against women and girls. It was developed by Scottish Women’s Aid to support the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy.
“Insightful and clear”
The module is relevant for people across all council roles and responsibilities to build a shared understanding and language across teams, organisations and local areas. It aims to increase knowledge and understanding about gender and violence against women and girls by highlighting the dynamics and scale of the issue making the link with gender inequality and increasing the understanding of who is affected and how. It also provides staff with information on what they can do to make a difference.
Together for Gender Equality is mandatory for all colleagues and people who have already completed it have pointed to its usefulness:
“It was very insightful and clear”
“The module has good examples of gender inequality in everyday interactions and I think would be suitable for all council employees”
“[It] provided a safe environment for a sensitive topic to help recognise situations.”
Access the module
It can be found on learnPro under the Public Protection category. Together for Gender Equality is core mandatory for all council colleagues and must be completed by May 2026.
It is important to look after yourself when doing any training, and some of the content of this training may be challenging to hear or read. Please use your professional and personal supports and access this self-help guide for more information.
More information
If you need more information please contact Jenny Mair, Co-ordinator for Protecting Women and Girls against Violence, East Lothian and Midlothian Public Protection Office: email Jenny.
Are you staying Informed?
Make sure you’re keeping up-to-date with the latest information for colleagues.
Check your email settings
Outlook offers the chance to separate your inbox into two tabs – focused and other. Make sure that your Inform and Email Alert emails are delivering to your focused inbox so that you don’t miss out on important news, vlogs and emergency alerts.
You can choose how your emails are organised and apply the settings quickly and easily. Find out more from Microsoft support.
Keep Informed on the move!
Did you know you can read Inform from non-council devices? This makes it ideal for keeping up to date when you’re out and about for work, or for colleagues who don’t have a council phone or laptop. Visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk/Inform on your laptop, tablet or phone.
Managers Update Teams channel
People managers at all levels can join the ‘Managers’ Update’ teams channel administered by Organisational Development. It shares useful, supportive information and updates on a wide range of topics including leadership development opportunities, online learning and guidance on using learnPro as a manager. Email organisationaldevelopment@eastlothian.gov.uk to ask that you're added to the channel.
Shaping Our Future: we want to hear from you!
Do you have a spark of inspiration that could make a real difference? Whether it’s a small tweak or a bold new approach, your ideas could help shape our future and the communities we serve.
Why your voice is vital
We’re committed to delivering high-quality, essential services across East Lothian. But like many public sector organisations, we’re facing tough financial challenges. Over the next five years, we need to find savings equal to nearly 25% of our annual running costs. That’s no small feat.
To meet this challenge, we need to think differently. We need to work smarter. And most importantly, we need your insight.
Real feedback, real change
Thanks to your contributions through the 'Shaping Our Future' initiative, we’ve already uncovered key areas for improvement. One major theme has been manual processes that slow us down and frustrate colleagues.
Here’s what you said:
“Manual completion of forms – repeated keying of information. Lots of rekeying of information – Word documents – nothing pulling data or being prepopulated.”
“Contract letters are generated, filed in Civica EDRMS, and then manually entered into iTrent.”
“Experiences of downloading forms, using them, and issuing to HR only to be told they are outdated and a new version is available – mostly with the same information.”
This feedback led to focused work by the Transformation team, who found that outdated forms and inefficient systems were a major pressure point across the organisation.
Turning ideas into action
As a direct result of your input, a new project has been launched to tackle manual work head-on. The Transformation team is now working closely with HR to streamline processes, reduce duplication and eliminate unnecessary paperwork.
This is your impact in action. Your voice is shaping how we work.
Be part of the change
You know your job better than anyone. You understand the needs of your team and the communities you serve. That’s why your ideas are so powerful.
We’re calling on everyone - no matter your role or department - to share your thoughts, suggestions, and creative solutions. Whether it’s a new way of working, a digital tool or a simple fix to an everyday frustration, we want to hear from you.
Ready to share?
Join the conversation and help us build a more innovative, efficient, and sustainable organisation. Click the link on the intranet homepage to submit your idea today.
Together, we can shape a better future - one idea at a time.
Domestic abuse policy: have your say
Our Domestic Abuse and Gender Based Violence Policy is open for employees' views.
The policy defines our organisation's position on domestic abuse and all forms of Gender Based Violence which may affect employees in the work place. It also sets out our procedure for supporting employees affected and perpetrators of abuse.
The consultation will close on Friday 20 June 2025 and all feedback is welcomed.
We are a zero-tolerance employer. Should you or a colleague face any of the issues outlined within the policy you can speak in confidence to HR, your line manager, Trade Union Representative or contact our Employee Support Programme (EAP) for support and advice.
A list of a range of support services available is also available on the council’s intranet by searching the A to Z for 'Gender based violence services directory' or 'Domestic abuse'.
Candidates sought for Scottish Youth Parliament by-election
Young people in East Lothian are being encouraged to stand as a candidate for the Scottish Youth Parliament by-election to make a real difference to other people's lives.
Scottish Youth Parliament is a charity that gives young people in Scotland a voice and a platform to discuss and change things at a national level that affect them. The Scottish Youth Parliament is really important to children and young people as it can give them a chance to change and influence law, campaign and share their views. They also collaborate with charities which gives the parliament a huge range of people with so many different backgrounds.
Giving children a voice at national level
“The Scottish Youth Parliament is a great thing to give children a voice at national level. It is also one way that young people can exercise their rights,” says Emma Laverie from Connected Communities. She points to some of the amazing things that the Scottish Youth Parliament has been involved with over the years, including free bus travel for under 22 year-olds and free period products in toilets, which are really making a difference.
East Lothian is allowed three MSYPs (Members of Scottish Youth Parliament) for the area. Olivia Brown, who is also the vice chair of The Scottish Youth Parliament, and Katie Fairfull are both MSYPs and, following Finlay McIlwraith’s decision to step down from the position, a by-election is being held to fill the vacancy and to elect a third MSYP until the next full election in 2026. Finlay loved the role and says: “Being an MSYP is an amazing opportunity. It’s a great space to hear different lived experiences and meet lots of different young people who have decided to do this unique thing.”
Find out more!
MSYP candidates need to be between 14 and 25 years old. Find out more:
Applications close on 12 June 2025.
Lunchtime meditation and mindfulness sessions in John Muir House
Free meditation and mindfulness sessions are available all staff to attend in John Muir House.
The lunchtime meditation sessions are led by Jill Alexander from Heartfulness, and the mindfulness sessions will be led by Joyce Lukkes , Colleagues can enjoy a guided meditation session designed to reduce stress and increase wellbeing.
No booking is required - just turn up on the date and time and join in!
Please email Kate McCracken in Children's Services if you have any questions.
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Session
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Date
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Time
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Location
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Mindfulness
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Wednesday 11 June
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 2 July
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1pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 16 July
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 2
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Meditation
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Wednesday 6 August
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1pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 20 August
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 2
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Meditation
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Wednesday 3 September
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Mindfulness
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Wednesday 10 September
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 17 September
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 1 October
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1pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Thursday 16 October
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 5 November
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1pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Thursday 20 November
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Wednesday 3 December
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1pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Mindfulness
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Wednesday 10 December
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Meditation
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Thursday 18 December
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12.30pm
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JMH Saltire room 1
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Shopfront improvement grant scheme launched in Dunbar
A new initiative has been launched to complement the ongoing regeneration of Dunbar town centre.
The Dunbar Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme has been developed to provide support to business owners and community organisations to repair or enhance the visual appearance of their property within the historic town centre.
We are currently delivering the Dunbar Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) in the town centre with funding from Historic Environment Scotland, focusing on providing grant funding towards the appropriate repair of traditional buildings.
The Dunbar Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme will provide an additional source of grant funding to support town centre businesses to create a positive impact with the aim of encouraging more people to visit and use the town’s fantastic shops and services. The scheme is funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Grants of up to 75% of eligible costs are available, up to a maximum of £3,000. As the fund is limited, all applications received will be assessed in terms of the fund priorities, including how any proposals meet the objectives of Dunbar CARS and the enhancement of the historic town centre.
Funded works can include redecoration, new signage, repairs to shopfronts, reinstatement of missing architectural details or replacement of the shopfront with a new frontage. The fund is now open for applications with an initial deadline for submissions of Friday 13 June. A second round of funding will open in July for submissions in early August.
This scheme follows on from the recent Shopfront Improvement Grant Schemes in Prestonpans and Haddington, with more shopfront improvement grant schemes being planned for delivery across the county, working with local communities to ensure the investment is delivered to benefit each settlement, town centre or local area.
For further information on the Dunbar Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme or Dunbar CARS, or visit our website to download an application form and guidance notes.
Planning Committee approves new council homes at Wallyford
East Lothian Planning Committee met on Tuesday 3 June and discussed three applications; one relating to new council houses and a children’s home at Wallyford and two involving new homes at Blindwells.
The Wallyford application refers to a section of land next to Wallyford Learning Campus, on the wider Wallyford development site, which will accommodate 29 houses, six flats and a children’s home.
The 29 houses will be a mix of eight semi-detached and 21 terraced houses ranging from two to four bedrooms. There will be 12 cottage flats with one or two bedrooms and three-storey flatted blocks will contain one, two and three-bedroom homes. The children’s care home will be a residential home registered with the Care Inspectorate. It will be operated as a residential facility with 24/7 staffing with children staying for varying lengths of time. The home will accommodate four children and one live-in staff member. All of the homes will be owned and managed by East Lothian Council.
No representations had been received on the application and committee members voted unanimously to approve the plans.
Committee members also voted unanimously to approve two applications at Blindwells. No public representations had been received for either application. One, from Hargreaves Services, involved a slight amendment to the mix, house types and position of some properties in a development of 96 houses and 39 flats on the site, for which planning consent had already been granted. 93 of the homes are for private sale and 42 are affordable housing.
The other application, from Bellway Homes Ltd and Hargreaves, contained the detail of a development of 197 houses and 20 flats on part of the Blindwells site, 65 of which will be affordable housing. There will be a mix of two to five bedroom homes; 96 detached and 101 semi detached or terraced. The flats will be eight one-bedroom and 12 two-bedroom.
The relevant application numbers are: Wallyford, 23/01052/AMM and Blindwells 24/00777/AMM, 24/00931/AMM and 21/01580/PM.
Celebrating East Lothian's young volunteers
Did you know that, in 2022, young people contributed 9.7 million hours of formal volunteering?
That’s why, as part of Volunteering Week (2-8 June), we're celebrating all of our young volunteers.
Important contribution
Young volunteers bring so much to the community helping at community projects, local libraries, sports clubs, youth clubs and charities. Their contribution is so important: many organisations rely on young volunteers to keep going and, through their involvement, they also gain new perspectives, a different range of skills and different backgrounds to support their work.
It’s not just the groups that benefit from young volunteers: the volunteers themselves benefit greatly from the time that they give. They can gain more social skills, build new relationships and, what's more, they also get valuable experience that can help with future job or college applications.
Great experience
Sharon Young from Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) explains: “Volunteering helps young people to understand the community that they are a part of; it gets them involved nice and early. It also helps them in their careers. It goes without saying that you need experience to work in certain organisations and volunteering can help with that step and employability.
“As well as helping their community it can help them with mental health, making new friends and gaining new skills. There are so many benefits that can help young volunteers.”
VCEL’s mission is to: ‘To inspire, support and enable people and organisations to develop and advance as active members of their community.’ Not only does the team help groups to find volunteers, they are also available to help volunteers discover the right opportunity for them.
“We can help you find an opportunity that suits you whether that’s the type of activity you enjoy, such as gardening or working with animals or with an organisation that is close to your heart,” explains Sharon.
“We have a matching system so young people can come to the centre or set up a meeting online or over the phone, they can fill in an interest form and we can contact them with opportunities. It can be as simple as sending an email or we can help them fill out the form. We are here as an organisation to help young volunteers from start to finish.”
Here, two young volunteers share their experiences with Inform.
Dan’s story
“I would definitely recommend volunteering to other young people”
Dan started his volunteering journey with 1st Musselburgh Beavers as part of his bronze Duke of Edinburgh award. He found he loved it so much that he stayed on after he’d completed until the unit closed down.
He now volunteers at 1st Musselburgh Cubs and says he has learnt a lot about working with younger children and how to keep them engaged in activities. He has also increased his confidence and communication skills.
When asked about challenges, Dan mentions building confidence while trying to take on more responsibility but has overcome these issues, saying: “At first, I wasn’t sure how much I should take the lead or step in to help, but over time I’ve learned to trust myself more. I’ve also learned how to stay calm in busy situations and support the leaders without needing to be told what to do.”
Dan would recommend volunteering to other people: “It’s a great way to build skills, meet people, and do something meaningful,” he says. “Even just a few hours a week can make a big difference both for the group you’re helping and for your own personal growth.”
Anwen’s story
“Find somewhere you love and you will enjoy it”
When Anwen had to find a place to volunteer for her Duke of Edinburgh award it was a very easy decision for her to go and help at her local parkrun. She said: “My family do parkruns and parkrun can’t do it without volunteers so I wanted to help just to keep it going.”
It wasn't always easy as the weather wasn't always on her side but she kept going and had a great time while doing so.
Anwen volunteered at her local parkrun for five months and, in that time, she gained new connections, better communication skills and more confidence.
Anwen’s message to anyone thinking about volunteering is clear: “The hardest part is getting in touch and the fear of someone saying no but what's the worst that can happen? Once you have been for the first few weeks and met some new friends, it is just a great experience.”
Council Leader Norman Hampshire marks Volunteers’ Week 2025
To mark the start of Volunteers' Week on 2 June, Council Leader Norman Hampshire paid tribute to volunteers and the amazing contribution they make.
Cllr Hampshire praised all those who donate their time and effort, including the many volunteers who are colleagues within East Lothian Council.
He said: "I'd like to thank the volunteers who work for community groups across East Lothian. Without volunteers, many community groups would not be able to deliver the activities that people in the county enjoy.
“Volunteering makes the quality of life within our communities so much better and the more volunteers we can have, the better the community will be.
“We benefit from having volunteers of all ages, from the youngest to the oldest. They care for our elderly, help those facing financial hardship by running foodbanks, beautify our public spaces, and organise groups to empower and inspire our young people.
“Whether it’s through sports clubs, In Bloom groups or community councils, we are fortunate to have people who volunteer and give so much back. I see their hard work and dedication in my ward and across East Lothian and we are lucky to have them. I offer them all my warmest thanks for their incredible efforts.
“And if you’re considering volunteering, there are many great causes available to give your support.”
Event to answer procurement queries
Procurement team is having a hybrid session on Thursday 12 June to answer all of your procurement enquiries.
Join them in person in John Muir House or on teams. Informal and informative, it’s a great way to find out more about our procurement processes and the support that’s available to you.
Date: Thursday 12 June
Time: 4.30pm-5.30pm
Venue: room G3 and on Teams (email procurement@eastlothian.gov.uk for the meeting link)
If the date and time doesn’t suit, please get in touch and they can arrange an alternative date/time to work for you.
This is the first in what will hopefully be a series of supportive sessions. Keep up-to-date through Inform on future dates.
Musselburgh parking consultation launched
A public consultation on proposals to improve parking management in Musselburgh has been launched.
The proposals being put forward are focused on encouraging greater turnover of parking spaces to provide better access for all to businesses and services, supporting the economy and environment. The proposals will also enable greater enforcement, leading to improvements in safety and supporting the council’s environmental commitments in relation to walking, cycling and public transport. Income from on-street parking charges will support investment in local infrastructure, while income from off-street parking income will be used to underpin core services.
A questionnaire is available for those wishing to respond to the consultation, while a drop-in event is also planned for Thursday, 19 June (further details below).
Engagement to identify issues
Engagement has taken place with community representatives to consider how best to address Musselburgh parking challenges. This has identified issues such as:
- a lack of parking enforcement throughout the town
- pressure on resident parking around Queen Margaret University and the Musselburgh Station
- commuters using Market Street, New Street, and High Street during work hours
- limited parking opportunities in Shorthope Street car park due to a low turnover of spaces
- many vehicles parking for extended periods at Fisherrow Harbour
- dangerous parking practices around some Musselburgh schools, with some users parking in residential areas
- the need to introduce loading bay provisions for business premises
- a lack of designated disabled car parking spaces
- residents unable to park close to their properties
- inadequate parking signage throughout the town
Proposals
Based on engagements to date, proposals for Musselburgh are based around solutions such as:
- the introduction of controlled parking where appropriate. Areas could be designated as short, medium or long stay parking
- short stay car parking areas would offer a limited period of FREE parking time. Once this time has elapsed, a charge would be applied
- the wider introduction of resident parking permits. These permits would allow unlimited parking throughout the day without a daily charge. However, such a solution would likely have an annual fee.
- a provision for healthcare workers to obtain parking permits. Healthcare providers would need to apply to the council to receive permits for their staff
- improved car parking signage throughout the town. The signage would clearly define the car park location and the type of car park, e.g., short, medium or long stay, as well as any charges that may apply
- greater enforcement of Musselburgh's parking regulations. This should reduce indiscriminate parking, improve traffic flow, and increase parking space turnover, positively impacting the local economy by providing more parking options for shoppers and visitors. Additionally, better enforcement would improve pedestrian safety by reducing instances of illegal parking.
The parking issue in and around the train station and its impact on the residential area has been acknowledged. Following feedback from recent engagement with community representatives, and having received multiple requests from residents living in the area, we plan to review the current parking permit scheme and assess the potential impacts of extending it.
Have your say
The consultation runs for six weeks from 9 June until 28 July. You can complete the questionnaire online; alternatively, hard copies will be available at all East Lothian libraries.
Any hard copies of the questionnaire can be handed in at the libraries or posted to:
Musselburgh Parking Management Consultation, Asset and Regulatory Manager, Penston House, Macmerry, EH33 1EX.
Responses and comments from the questionnaire will be used as a basis to draft Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs), which will be consulted on formally in the Autumn.
If you have any questions regarding the consultation, please email musselburghparking@eastlothian.gov.uk
Drop-in event
People can also attend a drop-in event to provide feedback:
Venue: St Michael’s Parish Church Hall, 21A Dalrymple Loan, Musselburgh, EH21 7DH
Date: Thursday, 19 June
Times: 2-4.30pm and 6-8.30pm
Background
The East Lothian Council 2018 Local Transport Strategy and Parking Management Strategy highlights providing appropriate parking facilities that support the economic, environmental and accessibility requirements of towns in East Lothian.
At a Council meeting earlier in 2022, it was agreed that consultation would take place to consider and develop options around possible parking measures in town centres. The initial focus was on North Berwick, where consultation has already taken place regarding measures to improve town centre parking management. At the December 2024 meeting of East Lothian Council, following significant engagement with the community over a number of years, elected members approved plans for controlled parking zones, permits for residents, time restrictions and charges for parking on some streets and car parks in North Berwick. These measures will be introduced in the coming months.
Similar consultations are taking place looking at proposals to improve parking management in Dunbar and Haddington. A consultation for Tranent has recently closed.
Find out more about the parking management consultations.
Tenants move into new council homes in Longniddry
The first of our new new council properties on the Longniddry South development have been handed over to us by Cruden Homes with one tenant saying his new flat will make ‘a massive difference’.
Longniddry South, also known as Longniddry Village, is the Cruden development south of the train station, off the Coal Road. 31 properties are being built here on our behalf, with three houses and four flats now occupied.
Photo shows (left to right): East Lothian Council Chief Executive Laurence Rockey; ELC Head of Housing Wendy McGuire; Cruden Homes Project Manager Phil Purves; ELC Spokesperson for Housing and Property Maintenance, Councillor Andy Forrest; ELC Team Manager, Development & Regeneration, James Bee and Cruden Homes Managing Director Fraser Lynes.
'Really emotional'
Hugh Currie, 56, has just moved into his two-bedroom flat, having stayed with his parents for three years before spending three months in shared temporary accommodation in Wallyford when his parents moved into sheltered housing. He said: “Although I felt safe and secure in the temporary accommodation, there was the fear about how long I was going to have to be there.
"The phone call from Jillian [one of East Lothian Council’s Community Housing Officers] telling me there was a property for me in Longniddry came almost out of the blue, then seeing the place was really emotional for me. I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams that I could find a place like this.”
Hugh grew up in Tranent then lived in Portobello for almost 20 years until a relationship breakup left him homeless. The move back to East Lothian has felt like coming home as his parents are still in Tranent and he has even discovered that his great-grandmother and grandmother lived in one of the railway cottages that now form part of the Longniddry South development.
He said: “I never in a million years thought that I would be homeless but it can happen to anyone. This new home will make a massive difference to me. I have two children who can now come to visit and stay and that is the most important thing.”
Increasing council housing stock
Councillor Andy Forrest, our Spokesperson for Housing and Property Maintenance, said: “It is fantastic to hear how happy Hugh is with his new home and what a difference it will make to him and his family. This just underlines how important it is for us to carry on with our extensive affordable housing programme, which has delivered 38 new build council houses and flats in the last financial year, along with five purchases from the open market providing much needed accommodation. This sits alongside our Local Housing Strategy and our priorities for 2025/6 which include maximising the delivery of affordable housing and delivering our Homelessness Action Plan.
“I have talked at length about the pressure on East Lothian’s social housing sector and the fact we declared an Affordable Housing Emergency in November 2024. Working with the Scottish Government and partners such as Cruden Homes is crucial to increasing council housing stock. I am delighted to see these new homes occupied and look forward to welcoming more new tenants to Longniddry South over the coming months. It’s a really attractive development with great local transport links and it is heartening to see how pleased our new tenants are with their homes.”
A further 12 homes on the Longniddry South development are scheduled for handover in July this year and the final 12 in September, including one wheelchair accessible property.
New school uniform guidance developed by pupils
Congratulations to Lynette, Finlay, Amy, and Delta from Preston Lodge and Dunbar Grammar schools (pictured below) who presented at our Education and Children’s Services Committee on Tuesday 10 June, answering Councillors’ questions on new school uniform guidance that was developed by pupils.
While there is no legal requirement for uniform to be worn in Scottish schools, Scottish Government guidance states that schools should take a sensitive, pragmatic and inclusive approach that takes into account individual children’s needs.
Adopting a children’s rights approach, our education team supported a consultation group of S2 and S3 pupils from every East Lothian secondary school to lead a discussion around uniform and how guidance could be implemented. The group also consulted with groups of children from every county primary school.
Through the consultation process, pupils agreed six principles for school uniform: affordable, comfortable, inclusive, equitable, practical and sustainable. The principles have been embedded in guidance to offer all schools a framework against which they can consider any changes to their uniform policy.
The young people spoke confidently to the committee about the benefits of school uniform. They pointed to the need for approaches that can be adapted to meet the physical and sensory needs of pupils, is affordable with pre-loved stocks available in school and that supports learners to attend school.
Elected members were impressed with their insight into the issues and the practical framework which schools can now use to consider any changes to their existing school uniform guidance.
The new framework will be implemented by schools when their own uniform guidance is next under review therefore avoiding additional costs for families.
Thanks to all children and young people who took part in this work and to Lynette, Finlay, Amy and Delta for their excellent presentation.
Read the guidance online (item 02).
(l-r): Lynette and Finlay (Dunbar Grammar), Amy and Delta (Preston Lodge)
What's On
What's on at The Brunton
The weather is heating up and so is The Brunton’s programme in Musselburgh, Tranent and Haddington this June.
From the director of The Full Monty, and based on a true story, join us at Loretto Theatre to watch Oscar nominee Steve Coogan in this poignant dramedy as it follows an Englishman’s personal and political awakening after he adopts a penguin during a cataclysmic period in Argentine history.
Tennessee Williams’ timeless masterpiece comes to Loretto Theatre this June. Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby, and Ben Foster lead the cast of one of the most critically acclaimed plays of the 20th century. From visionary director Benedict Andrews, this acclaimed production was filmed live during a sold-out run in London.
Over at Northesk Parish Church, Pop-up Opera celebrates opera on a miniature scale with Gilbert & Sullivan comedies. Packed with screwball humour, memorable characters, and, of course, incredible vocals – these short operas are perfect for audiences of all ages!
Amiri Harewood is an exciting young classical pianist who will be bringing his talents to The Brunton’s Lunchtime Recitals. Our Lunchtime Recitals include established and emerging, prizewinning performers with sparkling programmes of music, specially selected for you to enjoy.
Following two extremely successful performances in East Lothian earlier in the year, The Maxwell Quartet returns with a very special programme of music by Haydn at The Fraser Centre. The Maxwells bring together classical and folk music, believing that the string quartet is the ultimate place for the two styles to co-exist.
In Haddington, The Brunton and Haddstock have partnered to produce a series of concerts at the Corn Exchange in 2025 – 2026, the first of which is Rachel Sermanni, Sermanni is a Scottish-based singer/songwriter, brimming with dreamy indie-folk pop goodness. She is supported by Wayward Jane and Rosana Lyall, a student at Knox Academy. Roseanna is opening the concert as part of an opportunity provided by ELJam (East Lothian Youth Music Forum) and Haddstock. Rosanna's singing career started at Haddstock in 2023. She plays solo at the Fraser Centre Sessions, at Knox Academy concerts audiences and in March played the lead in We Will Rock You at The Brunton (Loretto Theatre).
ABBAMANIA returns to the Corn Exchange this June. Get ready to dance, jive and have the time of your life! ABBAMANIA’s widely acclaimed tribute to Abba is a sensational two hour show featuring all your favourite record breaking and timeless hits.
Calling all true crime lovers! Join The Brunton for a chilling, thrilling night at the theatre as Colin, ex-head of a Metropolitan Police murder squad, tells stories of how he caught some of the UK’s most evil murderers.
AFTER ALL, from choreographer Solène Weinachte, is a celebration of our vulnerable and courageous existence using dance, theatre, storytelling, and comedy to ask: how do we deal with the end? AFTER ALL is a hopeful attempt to conjure a better sort of space for us to be with loss and collectively contemplate the finite nature of our lives.
BEYOND AFTER ALL is a discussion open to anyone, regardless of whether you attended the performance the previous evening or not, to share any experiences, feelings or questions around death.
Direct from London’s Adelphi Theatre – celebrate the music that has charmed six generations with all things Diamond, in a sensational live show. Starring Gary Ryan, as seen on Stars in Their Eyes!
Finally, The Brunton is delighted to announce that Perthshire farmer and legendary agriculture comedian Jim Smith will be joining the evenings comedy line-up as the new headliner (previously Milton Jones). Expect an evening of unforgettable comedy featuring a line-up so good, even your funny bone will get jealous.
Warning: side effects may include sore cheeks and accidental snorts.
What's on in our museums
New Exhibitions
The Art of Balance in Nature
Exhibition as part of the European Land Art Festival & Stone Stacking Championships 2025.
11 June to 27 July
John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.
Far from the 'Floating World' an exhibition by Kenneth Wilson
16 May to 22 June
Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery, High Street, Dunbar EH42 1ER.
Following where the rocks lead; permanence and change. Paintings, prints and sculpture influenced by geology.
Exhibitions - James Burnet Munro (1925 – 1990)
James (Jim) Burnet Munro was a noted Artist, Sculptor, Musician and Educator who was born and brought up in Fisherrow.
Two exhibitions - one in the John Gray Centre and one in the Musselburgh Museum - shine a light on his talents and legacy.
Creative Journey - A Hundred Years of Family Creativity
15 May to 16 August
John Gray Centre (Museum) 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.
An exhibition celebrating James' centenary, eight artists from his extended family present paintings, music, sculpture, prints, photography and film from their own diverse creative practices alongside James' work. Each of the artists was trained and some have worked at Edinburgh College of Art from the 1930s to 2025.
James Burnet Munro, Nancy Munro Curran, Alex Munro, Kenny Munro, Gordon Munro, Sheena Watson, Jane Hyslop, Kerry Watson and Rosalind Thomson.
A public trail accompanies the exhibition. www.jamesbmunroartist.co.uk
The Jim Munro Combo
Musselburgh Museum’s current exhibition also commerorates James through his music.
The American jazz music scene of the 1940s heavily influenced the music making and bands in which he played. The Jim Munro Combo was recorded by Tom Renouf in Musselburgh, Scotland in 1958. Jim picked some of Scotland's top musicians to play in his combo, in and around Edinburgh and Musselburgh.
Exhibition runs until 14 June. Open 10.30am – 4pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Musselburgh Museum, 65 High St, Musselburgh EH21 7BZ.
Events
Wee Wednesdays
Prestongrange Museum, Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX.
Wednesday mornings at Prestongrange Museum, 10 to 10.30am, Bookbug for 0 to 5s and their parents/carers, no charge. Followed by craft activity, £1 per child.
East Lothian Council Museums:
15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX
Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm
Saturday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm
126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ
Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm
Sunday 1pm to 5pm
High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1ER
Wednesday to Sunday 1pm to 5pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)
Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX
Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4.30pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)
School Road, North Berwick, EH39 4JU
Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 4pm
(from Wednesday 9 April to Saturday 25 October)
65 High St, Musselburgh EH21 7BZ
Thursday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm
(from Thursday 3 April to Saturday 27 September)
Summer arts market: Saturday 28 June
Join our Arts Service as they are hosting a Summer Arts Market with The Brunton at the Corn Exchange in Haddington on Saturday 28 June from 11am to 4pm.
This is the perfect opportunity to support local creatives who will be selling arts, crafts, ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, and more! Browse a variety of stalls, and perhaps make some purchases!
Haddington Farmers Market will also be running, so there will be lots to enjoy in the area.
Entry to the Summer Arts Market is free – so pop by any time between 11am and 4pm.
Step into the Story Garden this summer with East Lothian libraries!
Celebrate stories, adventure, and the great outdoors in East Lothian Libraries this summer with the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge: Story Garden, from Saturday 21 June to Saturday 23 August.
The Reading Agency’s annual Summer Reading Challenge encourages children ages 4 to 11 to read for fun and happens in libraries across the country every summer.
This summer, your local library invites you to step into the magical world of Story Garden, the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge theme. With stunning artwork by illustrator Dapo Adeola, children will uncover stories that celebrate the great outdoors and the power of imagination.
Why the Summer Reading Challenge?
Research shows that only one in three children and young people now enjoy reading, a 33% drop since 2005. One in four children in the UK cannot read well by age 11.
There’s good news though! Research also shows that reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success, plus has amazing benefits for mental wellbeing and self esteem.
With incentives to collect and plenty of brilliant books to enjoy, the Summer Reading Challenge is the perfect summer activity to build young readers’ skills and confidence during the summer break, and keep them on track to grow into lifelong readers.
Okay, I’m in! How do I participate?
It’s simple: children can visit any East Lothian library to sign up for the Challenge and start by taking your first book. The goal is to read any six library books over the summer. You can collect stickers along the way; every finisher receives a certificate and is entered into a prize draw.
We have lots of free and fun events in libraries over the summer holidays to help celebrate nature, the outdoors, and – of course – books! Visit our website for more information.
Celebrate Story Garden with local author Tom Nicoll
Join us at Musselburgh Library on Friday 20 June 2.30pm to 4pm to help us launch the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge. We’ll be joined by local children’s author Tom Nicoll and the Musselburgh Library Junior Gardening Club. Sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge and receive your very own sunflower seedling to grow over the summer (while supplies last). Contact Musselburgh Library for more details.
We can’t wait to grow some stories with you this summer in East Lothian Libraries. For more information, please contact your local library.
Brunton £10 ticket offer for council colleagues
After All
Thu 19 June, Corn Exchange Haddington
7:30pm
*Edinburgh Fringe Sell Out Show 2023*
After All, from choreographer Solène Weinachter, is a celebration of our vulnerable and courageous existence.
In this beautiful and moving performance, Solène melds dance, comedy, storytelling, and theatre to ask
- what happens in the end?
By exploring various funeral rites, ones we have, ones we have lost, and those yet to be invented, Solène confronts our transition between worlds head-on.
"Bursting with vitality" ★★★★ The Times
"Confidently warm and funny" ★★★★ The Guardian
Recommended for ages 12 plus, themes of death, dying and loss
Running time 1 hour
A limited number of £10 tickets*
Book online https://www.thebrunton.co.uk/whats-on/after-all/
*On the basket page input the code Inform1906 at the ‘Redeem Promocode' prompt.
Box Office 0131 653 5245
Bats, birds, moths and minibeasts: countryside family summer activities
Our Countryside Rangers are holding a series of fun events across the summer to help families explore our beautiful coast and countryside.
Find out more about moths and minibeasts, explore Dunbar Castle and the cliffs to learn about the Kittiwakes and their young chicks who call the area home, ramble through rockpools and dip in rivers and even join a nightwalk to see if you can spot some bats!
Activities are aimed at families with children age 5+ however younger siblings may attend for free. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times, therefore spaces must be booked for both adults and children attending.
Please contact our Countryside Rangers if you have any questions: ranger@eastlothian.gov.uk
Our People
Facilities Management colleagues hailed at ASSIST FM Scottish National Awards
Colleagues from Facilities Management were hailed for their achievements after being nominated as finalists at the ASSIST FM Scottish National Awards.
The awards, which were held at Glasgow’s Crowne Plaza Hotel in May, recognise excellence, commitment, and professionalism in the country’s 32 local authorities.
Senior Facilities Assistant Karen Kelly, who is the driving force behind a breakfast club for Meadowpark, was nominated for the Community Focus Award.
Meadowpark, part of Knox Academy secondary school in Haddington, is a specialist provision for young people with complex needs primarily associated with autism spectrum disorder. Karen established the school’s breakfast club in 2021, and its popularity has grown. Around half of the 57 pupils gather in the cafeteria to enjoy breakfast and time with friends before the school day starts.
Karen Kelly
Kenny McCrorie, the janitor St Gabriel’s Primary School in Prestonpans, was nominated for the Outstanding Contribution to FM Services Award.
Kenny was honoured for his actions during an emergency situation at the school last December which resulted in the immediate evacuation of staff and pupils. Displaying remarkable quick thinking, Kenny took control of the situation and prioritised the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.
The Crookston Care Home Catering Team was nominated for the Outstanding Contribution to Catering Services Award. Comprising a Cook, an Assistant Cook, and a team of Kitchen Assistants, they provide nutritious meals and snacks every day of the year at the 60-bed care home in Tranent.
Their menu, developed through extensive menu tasting sessions with residents and staff, reflects their commitment to catering not just for dietary needs, but for preferences and comfort as well. This approach was highlighted in the glowing feedback received during a recent inspection by the Care Inspectorate where residents and their families praised the quality and variety of food on offer.
Vanessa Sanal, Service Manager - Facilities, said: “We are so proud of our nominees whose hard work was recognised at the ASSIST FM Awards.
“Karen has made an invaluable difference to the lives of children and families in our community through running the breakfast club. She has created an environment where children from all backgrounds, including those who may be struggling financially or facing other challenges, can begin their day with the nourishment and care they deserve.
“Kenny demonstrated exceptional resourcefulness and compassion, going far above and beyond what was expected. His unwavering commitment to the well-being of others make him a shining example of excellence in an emergency response.
“The Catering Team at Crookston display dedication that goes beyond the kitchen. They are adept at managing intricate logistics to meet the diverse needs of the residents, ensuring that every mealtime is a positive and nurturing experience.”
Transport Services honoured with Fleet Award at ceremony
Our Transport Services team scooped a top honour at the APSE Striving for Excellence Awards 2025.
The awards celebrate the work carried out by Scotland’s local authorities in the fields of waste and recycling, parks, grounds and streets, and fleet services.
The winners were selected by an independent judging panel.
Transport Services received the Fleet Award for delivering cost effective and efficient services across the county.
Collecting the award are (left to right) Diana Murray, Claire Clarke and Siobhan Murphy
The judges also acknowledged the department’s leading role in developing of software solutions to organise home to school transport and its continued investment in vehicle maintenance through staff training, apprenticeship programmes and digital adaption.
Transport Services works to ensure cost effective and efficient services are maintained across East Lothian. These range from ensuring all drivers undertake driving assessments, recording their vehicle use whilst ensuring legislative obligations are met.
Well done to everyone involved!
Thank you! Celebrating staff compliments
Individuals, teams and departments across the council regularly receive compliments from residents, visitors, staff and businesses. Here's a selection:
Local resident: Libraries. Thank you for your hospitality and amazing day today. We are really grateful for work you have put into organising our visit to the John Gray Centre. Thank you also to Anita for organising tea and coffee for us. This was lovely.
Council tenant: Property maintenance. Everyone in property repairs, starting with Amanda this morning, has been so helpful. Everything requested has been done and now I can have a peaceful weekend.
Prestonpans resident: Amenity Services. I cannot believe the difference in Prestonpans cemetery - all grass tidy, all rubbish picked up, and all trees and shrubs trimmed. Could you please thank whoever is responsible. Thank you.
Staff member: Libraries. I just wanted to say that the overwhelming feedback was so positive, and particularly about how friendly, helpful, and welcoming the staff at Haddington library are, and what brilliant relationships you all build with young people.
North Berwick resident: Road Services. The issues surrounding any work related to the east end High Street have been a point of contention and conflicting opinion for many months. The need for renovation of the road surface, pavement space etc. was obvious. However the concern around access to shops and businesses, the issue of parking and the significant difficulties for those with limited mobility was hotly debated.
I have walked down the High Street this morning on a gloriously sunny day, acknowledging a professional and pleasing renovation which reflects quality workmanship and aesthetic materials.
Thank you for the planning, the work teams involved and the efficient completion of the process.
Completed work at North Berwick High Street