Author: Mr Morrison

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! 🥞✨

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.

This week our school was delighted to welcome the Glasgow Science Centre, who delivered an inspiring, hands-on workshop for all classes from Primary 1 to Primary 7. Their team helped pupils explore the fascinating journey oxygen takes around the body, introducing them to the roles of the lungs, larynx, arteries, veins, and other vital body parts.

Throughout the session, pupils developed key MetaSkills, including curiosity, problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity, as they investigated how their bodies work. The presenters made scientific ideas accessible and exciting, encouraging children to ask questions, think deeply, and work together to explore new concepts.

Families were also invited to join the fun, taking part in a wide range of oxygen-themed activities such as:

• Oxygen-carrying races
• Heartbeat drums
• Exploring how heart rate changes during exercise
• Investigating DNA and what makes each person unique

These activities supported our learning in the UN Global Goals, particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing and Goal 4: Quality Education, by helping children understand how to look after their bodies and by promoting high-quality, inclusive learning experiences.

The visit also reflected our commitment to children’s rights under the UNCRC, including:

• Article 28 – the right to education
• Article 29 – education aimed at developing children’s talents and understanding of the world
• Article 31 – the right to relax, play, and join in a wide range of activities
• Four Capacities for learning: Successful Learners

The day was filled with laughter, learning, and hands-on discovery. A huge thank-you to the Glasgow Science Centre for inspiring our young scientists and helping them see just how amazing the human body truly is!

Our local unpaid worker team of dedicated volunteers from the Community Payback Team kindly gave up their time to help sort, clean and refresh the school’s outdoor benches. Their hard work has made a huge difference to our playground and outdoor learning spaces, making them safer, brighter and more welcoming for everyone.

The volunteers worked tirelessly—washing, repairing and arranging the benches—ensuring pupils have comfortable places to sit, chat and enjoy their breaks. Their efforts show the strength of our school community and how much can be achieved when people come together to help.

We are incredibly grateful for their time, energy and generosity. Thank you to our brilliant volunteers for helping make our school an even better place to learn and play! 🌟🛠️🪑

UNCRC – Supports children’s Right to Play (Article 31) by improving safe, enjoyable outdoor spaces.

Four Capacities – Encourages pupils to be Responsible Citizens by valuing community contribution.

SDGs – Connects to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities through caring for shared environments.

SHANARRI – Enhances pupils’ Safe wellbeing indicator by improving the quality and safety of outdoor seating areas.

A huge well done to Freya, Ella, Adam, Harry and Arran for their fantastic performance in the recent badminton competition! Each of them showed determination, teamwork and great sporting spirit throughout the event, representing our school with pride.

Their success links closely to important UNCRC Rights, including Article 29: the right to develop talents and abilities and Article 31: the right to play and take part in sports and cultural activities. By taking part in this competition, the pupils had the opportunity to grow their skills, challenge themselves and celebrate what they can achieve.

The competition also supported several UN Global Goals, especially Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, as the children stayed active and looked after their physical fitness, and Goal 4: Quality Education, where sport contributes to confidence, resilience and personal growth.

Throughout their training and on the day of the event, all five pupils demonstrated key metaskills—including focus, resilience, teamwork, self-management and problem-solving. These skills not only helped them succeed on the court but will support them in learning and in life.

We are incredibly proud of Freya, Ella, Adam, Harry and Arran for their achievements and the positive example they set. Well done, badminton stars! 🌟🏸

Portpatrick Primary pupils recently joined the local Rotary Club to plant crocuses as part of the Crocus Campaign, a global initiative to eradicate polio. Each purple flower represents hope and progress toward a future where all children are free from this preventable disease.

The project also supported key UNCRC Rights, giving pupils the chance to learn about their right to health (Article 24) and their right to be heard (Article 12) as they took an active role in a meaningful global cause. Through teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, and responsibility, pupils strengthened important metaskills that will support them in learning and in life.

By taking part, the children also contributed directly to the UN Global Goals, especially Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Their actions show how local community efforts can connect to worldwide change.

As these crocuses bloom, they will brighten the village and stand as a living reminder of Portpatrick Primary’s commitment to making a positive impact—locally and globally—one flower at a time.

UNCRC – Highlights children’s Right to Health (Article 24) through active involvement in a global health campaign.

Four Capacities – Builds pupils’ skills as Responsible Citizens contributing to their community.

SHANARRI – Promotes pupils feeling Included in meaningful community action.

A Wonderful Day of Stories, Songs, and Creativity in Portpatrick!

Pupils from Portpatrick Primary and St Joseph’s Primary enjoyed a fantastic joint learning experience this week as they spent the day together in Portpatrick. After a lovely lunch, the children took part in an engaging and energetic storytelling session with author Alan Windram, creator of the much-loved One Button Benny series.

Alan brought the stories to life through expressive reading, actions, and interactive moments that had every child joining in with excitement. Pupils explored how illustrations are created by looking closely at drawings from the books, inspiring their own creativity and curiosity about how stories are made.

A highlight of the day was working together to create an original song, linked to the themes in Alan’s books. The children sang, moved, and even finished the session with a dance, celebrating their learning in a fun and memorable way.

Linking to SHANARRI

The experience strongly supported the SHANARRI Wellbeing Indicators:

• Safe & Healthy: Children were supported in a safe environment while being active through song, actions, and dance.
• Achieving: They developed literacy skills through storytelling, listening, and contributing ideas.

Building Meta-Skills

The session also helped pupils develop key meta-skills, including:

• Creativity: Designing a song, acting out stories, and exploring illustrations.
• Communication: Listening carefully, joining in with actions, sharing ideas, and singing together.