Mathew is one of the many pupils across Scotland who has attained a pass in History at Nat 4 level, but he hardly attends school at all.
Mathew Moir is 17 years old, a Hibs fan and someone with a great interest in the Second World War and attending air displays to watch military aircraft of a certain vintage.
He was born with Spina Bifida and Hydrochephalus and as a result he has missed a lot of school due to lengthy hospital stays.
Mathew said: “I have a lot of problems because of my health and it does get to me as it means I can’t go and spend time with my peers or friends both in and out of school. It has also stopped me taking part in many things in school too.
“I have spent the last few years working with a few teachers in HOTS (Hospital Outreach Teaching Service) because I haven’t been able to go to school.. They have been fantastic in helping me keep up with some of my work, especially History which is my favourite subject because of my interest in World War ll.
“With HOTS, I was able to achieve my Nat 4 in History, which was a big deal for me as I didn’t have much confidence in my school work because I wasn’t able to get into school. I even was able to get my Nat 3 English and Math in short time with the teachers in HOTS too. I am really grateful to them helping me.”
HOTS is the Hospital Outreach Teaching Service which has won awards and is quite special for those like Mathew who simply cannot get to the classroom.
They work with young mums and provide teaching for those like Mathew who spend too much time in hospital wards.
Mathew has achieved Nat 4 in History which is pretty extraordinary for someone who does not actually make it to school! He is enrolled at St Augustine’s RC High School not far from where he lives, but it depends on how he feels whether he can get there or not.
We met him yesterday at his home where he already knew he had passed as the Nat 4 is a continual assessment programme rather than an exam-based test.
Here’s what he had to say about the HOTS system which has helped him get his pass. (and well done Mathew!)
The Edinburgh Reporter NEWS from Phyllis Stephen on Vimeo.
St Augustine’s RC High School pupil Mathew Moir has passed his Nat 4 in History – except he hardly goes to school!
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A huge thank you to HOTS and my son’s History Teacher along with his Pupil Support teacher for all the support and encouragement given to Mathew, especially this last year. Thank you also to Phyllis for choosing to do this article on ny son. One very proud Mom.
Well done Matthew, it’s been tough but you did it xx
Thank you for pritnting this story of our Grandson,Nephew and Cousin.We are very proud of Mathew Moir. We know it was tough for him but as his Family in Canada we been there for him. xxxxx
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