Portpatrick Primary

We had a wonderful time celebrating Shrove Tuesday by making (and eating!) delicious pancakes together. The children were so excited to take part in this special tradition, and the classroom was filled with smiles, teamwork and the lovely smell of pancakes cooking.

First, we talked about why Shrove Tuesday is celebrated and how it is sometimes known as Pancake Day. The children shared their own experiences of having pancakes at home and discussed different toppings they enjoy. This sparked lots of great conversations and helped build connections between home and school.

The children took turns measuring the flour, cracking the eggs, pouring the milk and mixing the batter. They showed fantastic metaskills throughout the activity:

• Collaboration – working together, taking turns and helping one another.
• Communication – sharing ideas, listening carefully and following instructions.
• Critical thinking – predicting what might happen when we mixed the ingredients or cooked the batter.
• Creativity – choosing and designing their own pancake toppings.
• Self-management – demonstrating patience while waiting for their turn and showing care when handling utensils.

Making pancakes also gave us the opportunity to explore children’s rights. We linked our learning to:

• Article 12 – the right to express their views and be heard, as children shared their ideas and preferences.
• Article 28 – the right to education, as they learned through hands-on experiences.
• Article 24 – the right to nutritious food, as we discussed healthy choices and balanced toppings.

Our pancake activity also connected to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger – learning about food, where it comes from and the importance of reducing waste.
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – discussing healthy eating and hygiene when preparing food.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – measuring carefully and not wasting ingredients.

Finally, the best part of all — enjoying the pancakes! The children proudly sat down to eat their creations for their playpiece, chatting happily and celebrating their hard work.

It was a joyful, hands-on experience that combined tradition, learning and lots of tasty fun. What a fantastic way to celebrate Shrove Tuesday! 🥞✨

We’re incredibly proud of two of our Primary 6 boys who represented our school at the Wigtownshire Badminton Championships. Competing against strong players from across the locality, they demonstrated fantastic skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the event.

This pathway competition celebrates participation and achievement, and the standard of play was excellent with all matches played in a friendly and supportive spirit. A special well done to Harry, who secured 🥇 gold, and Finlay, who earned an impressive 4th place against still competition – a brilliant accomplishment! Harry will go forward to the regional heat!

Thank you to the staff, volunteers, hosts, and families whose encouragement makes opportunities like this possible. It’s wonderful to see so many young people enjoying and developing their badminton skills. Mr Morrison and Mrs Ross has made sure the boys have had plenty of practice.

• Four Capacities: Developing Confident Individuals through resilience and teamwork
• Metaskills: Strengthening Self-management and Social intelligence through competition and sportsmanship
• UNCRC: Article 29 — developing talents and abilities
• SHANARRI: Promoting Active and Achieving

Pupils at Portpatrick Primary School recently celebrated Scotland’s rich language and culture during a successful Scots Poetry Showcase, welcoming families into school for a lively afternoon of performance and creativity.

The event highlighted weeks of preparation, with pupils taking part in three Scots themed competitions, handwriting, creative art and poetry reciting. Each activity encouraged creativity and confidence while celebrating Scots language. The children also entertained the audience with lively Scots songs, and a story reading in Scots, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Entries were judged by Mr and Mrs Ross, whose time and encouragement were greatly appreciated. Following the competitions, winners, along with other volunteers, performed their poems for the audience, delivering confident and expressive performances that proved a highlight of the afternoon.

The showcase was a celebration of Scots heritage, creativity and growing confidence, with pupils proudly sharing their talents with family and friends. Staff thanked everyone who attended for their support and said they were incredibly proud of all the children who took part.

UNCRC Article 30: Pupils express their voice and celebrate their cultural identity.

Four Capacities: Builds confident, creative learners through performance and literacy.

SHANARRI: Supports achievement and confidence through inclusive celebration.

Metaskills: Develops communication, creativity and self confidence.

Pupils from Primary 5 and 6 at Portpatrick Primary School joined with Primary 5 to 7 from St. Joseph’s for an exciting and hands-on STEM day at the college. The visit gave pupils the opportunity to deepen their scientific understanding while working collaboratively in a new and stimulating learning environment.

During the session, pupils learned all about electrical circuits and the flow of electrons. They explored how electricity travels around a circuit and discovered that a complete circuit is needed for electrical components to work. Pupils also investigated different materials to find out which are good conductors and which act as insulators, developing their understanding through practical experimentation.

As part of the learning, pupils were introduced to the symbols used in circuit diagrams, including those for a battery, switch, bulb, and wires. Using these symbols, pupils were able to design and build their own circuits, applying their knowledge in a meaningful and hands-on way. Throughout the day, learners demonstrated important metaskills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity as they tested ideas, solved challenges, and supported one another.

The visit strongly supported children’s rights under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Pupils experienced their right to education (Article 28) through engaging, high-quality learning opportunities and their right to develop their abilities and talents (Article 29) by taking part in practical STEM activities. Article 12 was also evident, as pupils were encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and reflect on their learning.

Links were also made to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing inclusive and meaningful learning experiences, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, as pupils developed an understanding of the scientific principles that underpin modern technology and innovation.

Overall, pupils had a highly enjoyable and successful day at the college. They returned to school with increased confidence, new scientific knowledge, and a growing enthusiasm for STEM learning. The visit was an inspiring experience that encouraged curiosity and helped pupils develop skills for learning, life, and work.

Pupils from Primary 1 to 4 at Portpatrick Primary School recently joined together with Primary 1 to 4 from St. Joseph’s for an exciting and inspiring STEM visit to the college. The day provided a valuable opportunity for pupils to learn, explore, and work collaboratively in a real-world learning environment.

One of the highlights of the visit was learning about genetics, using sheep as a fun and engaging example. Pupils discovered that although sheep can look different from one another, they often inherit characteristics from their parents. Through hands-on activities and discussion, children developed key metaskills such as curiosity, problem-solving, and critical thinking as they asked questions, made observations, and shared ideas with their peers.

The second activity focused on learning about the human body, specifically different organs and how the skeleton protects them. Pupils explored how the rib cage protects the heart and lungs and how the skull protects the brain. This activity supported the development of communication and collaboration metaskills, as pupils worked together, listened to one another, and confidently explained their learning.

The visit strongly reflected children’s rights as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Pupils experienced their right to education (Article 28) through high-quality learning opportunities and their right to develop their talents and abilities (Article 29) by taking part in engaging STEM activities. The day also supported Article 12, giving children opportunities to share their ideas, ask questions, and have their voices heard.

In addition, the learning linked well to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, through learning about the human body and how it works, and SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing inclusive, meaningful, and engaging learning experiences for all pupils.

Overall, pupils had a fantastic day at the college, building new knowledge, strengthening friendships, and developing important skills for learning, life, and work. The visit was an inspiring experience that sparked curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM, leaving pupils eager to continue their learning back in school.

Primary 5 and 6 pupils at Portpatrick enjoyed a hands-on clay workshop where they designed and created their own clay birds. Inspired by local wildlife and the natural environment around us, pupils experimented with shape, texture and detail to bring their ideas to life.

Through this activity, learners developed important metaskills such as creativity, collaboration, problem-solving and resilience as they tested ideas, supported one another and refined their designs.

The session also linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

• SDG 4 – Quality Education, by providing creative, meaningful learning experiences
• SDG 15 – Life on Land, by encouraging appreciation and respect for birds and nature
• SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, through careful use of materials

Children’s rights were at the heart of the learning, reflecting the UNCRC, including:

• Article 12 – the right to express their views and ideas
• Article 29 – education developing talents and abilities
• Article 31 – the right to play and take part in creative activities

Our P5 and P6 pupils from Portpatrick recently took part in an exciting residential experience at Barcaple, filled with challenge, fun and unforgettable memories. During their stay, the children tackled a range of adventurous activities including wall climbing, orienteering, archery and abseiling. These experiences helped pupils develop key metaskills such as confidence, resilience, problem-solving, teamwork and effective communication as they supported one another and stepped outside their comfort zones.

The residential also supported learning linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, through physical activity and outdoor learning, and SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom that promote personal growth and independence.

Throughout the trip, pupils’ UNCRC rights were upheld, including Article 29 (the right to an education that develops talents and abilities), Article 31 (the right to rest, play and leisure), and Article 15 (the right to work together and build friendships). Pupils were well cared for with dinner, breakfast and lunch provided, ensuring everyone felt safe, supported and ready for each day’s activities.

Of course, no residential would be complete without a rather sleepless night, full of excitement and chatter! Overall, the Barcaple residential was a hugely positive experience that helped our pupils grow in confidence, independence and resilience, while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Today, we grabbed the opportunity to take part in our postponed sponsored walk. The blustery wind died down which meant we were able to have a leisurely stroll around our walking route. The whole school set out accompanied by friends and parents. After our walk, everyone enjoyed a hot drink and biscuits.

Thank you to everyone who has supported our fundraiser by sourcing sponsors, participating and helping with refreshments. We will share the total raised when we have all the sponsor money in and counted

UNCRC – 15: Paticipating

Wellbeing – Included

Metaskills – Effective Contributor

Pupils at Portpatrick Primary had a wonderful time at our annual Christmas party, kindly hosted by the Portpatrick Hotel. The day was filled with festive cheer, laughter, and plenty of excitement!

The hotel treated us to a delicious buffet lunch, ensuring everyone had plenty of festive treats to enjoy. The Road Runner kept spirits high with energetic entertainment that had everyone dancing and laughing. Pupils also enjoyed a variety of party games, making the day even more memorable.

The highlight of the day was a special visit from Santa, who brought sweets and gifts for every child.

A huge thank you to the Portpatrick Hotel for their kindness and generosity – your support made our Christmas celebration truly magical.

Linking Learning and Values:

• UNCRC: Every child’s right to play and enjoy special occasions.
• Meta-skills: Creativity, collaboration, and confidence.
• Four Capacities: Supporting learners, contributors, citizens, and individuals.
• Wellbeing: Promoting happiness, safety, and positive relationships.

Linking Learning and Values:

• UNCRC: Every child’s right to play and enjoy special occasions.
• Meta-skills: Creativity, collaboration, and confidence.
• Four Capacities: Supporting learners, contributors, citizens, and individuals.
• Wellbeing: Promoting happiness, safety, and positive relationships.

Today our school was delighted to welcome two very special visitors from the Portpatrick Lifeboat crew. Johnathon and Jayne took time out of their busy schedules to visit the children and spread some festive cheer 🎄.

During their visit, they very kindly gifted every child a Christmas selection box, which was met with lots of smiles and excitement across the school. The crew also took the opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, helping to make the day feel extra special as we head towards the holiday season.

This visit was a lovely example of the strong community connections we are so proud of. The Portpatrick Lifeboat crew play an incredibly important role in keeping our local community safe.

We would like to say a huge thank you to Johnathon, Jayne, and everyone at Portpatrick Lifeboat for their generosity and kindness. Visits like this remind us how fortunate we are to be part of such a caring and supportive community.

We wish the Portpatrick Lifeboat crew a very Merry Christmas and a safe New Year from everyone at our school. 🎅🎁