Author: Mr Morrison

This week our classroom was buzzing with excitement as we explored how rockets work. We began by learning about the science of thrust – the force that pushes rockets up into the sky. The children discovered that rockets need fuel, and that when gases are released quickly, they create the power to make a rocket move.

To bring this to life, everyone had the chance to design and launch their very own rocket. Using plastic tubes, bicarbonate of soda, and vinegar, the children worked carefully to measure, mix, and prepare their rocket fuel. With great anticipation, we counted down, stepped back, and watched as the rockets went WHOOSH! into the air. There were lots of cheers and even more curiosity about why some rockets went higher than others.

This hands-on experiment was a brilliant way to blend science, creativity, and teamwork. The children not only developed their understanding of forces but also their confidence in trying new ideas, testing, and problem solving.

We can’t wait to see what our young scientists will explore next!

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Links to Learning

• UNCRC Article 28 – Every child has the right to an education.
• UNCRC Article 29 – Education should develop every child’s talents and abilities.
• SDG 4: Quality Education – Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
• Metaskills: Curiosity (asking questions, exploring how things work), Collaboration (working together safely), Problem Solving (testing, adapting and improving designs), Creativity (designing their own rockets).

Today our class went on a trip to Tongland Power Station, near Kirkcudbright. It was amazing to see how electricity is made using water from the River Dee.

When we arrived, the staff welcomed us and explained that Tongland is a hydro-electric power station. That means it uses the energy of moving water to turn turbines, which then make electricity. We were surprised at how powerful the rushing water sounded!

We learned that Tongland has been producing clean energy for almost 100 years. Instead of burning coal or gas, it uses a renewable source – water – which helps to protect the planet.

Walking around the station, we saw big machines, control panels, and even the river flowing into the dam. The engineers told us about their jobs and how important it is to keep everything running safely.

The trip made us think about how much we rely on electricity every day – for lights, computers, cooking, and even charging our phones. It also made us realise we need to use energy wisely.

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What we learned connects to:

MetaSkills

• Curiosity: We asked lots of questions about how electricity is made.
• Creativity: We imagined new ways to save and use energy.
• Collaboration: We worked together in groups to take notes and share ideas.

UNCRC Rights

• Article 12: We had the right to share our views and ask questions.
• Article 24: We have the right to a safe and healthy environment, which renewable energy supports.
• Article 29: Education should help us learn how to care for our world.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy: Tongland produces renewable electricity.
• SDG 13 – Climate Action: Hydro power helps reduce climate change.
• SDG 15 – Life on Land: Using clean energy helps protect animals, plants, and nature.

Our school fundraiser coffee morning was made even sweeter thanks to the hard work of our Primary 5 and Primary 1 to Primary 4 students!

Primary 5 took the lead in making buttery, crumbly shortbread. They practiced important skills like measuring ingredients carefully, mixing the dough, and baking it to golden perfection. Their teamwork and focus really paid off — the shortbread smelled and tasted amazing!

Meanwhile, our younger friends from Primary 1 to Primary 4 got busy making colourful, chocolatey rocky road. They measured, mixed, and stirred all the yummy ingredients like marshmallows, biscuits, and chocolate. Everyone worked together cooperatively, sharing tasks and encouraging each other.

Both groups helped prepare these tasty treats to sell at the coffee morning, raising funds for our school. It was wonderful to see children of all ages learning practical skills, working as a team, and having fun while helping a great cause.

Thank you to all the students, teachers, and families who supported the event — together we made it a huge success raising £761!

UNCRC Articles related to the baking and fundraiser

• Article 12: Children have the right to express their views and be listened to.
  — Children planned and worked together, sharing ideas and cooperating during the baking activities.
• Article 28: Every child has the right to education.
  — Learning new skills like measuring, mixing, and baking is part of their education.
• Article 29: Education should develop every child’s talents and abilities.
  — Through cooking and teamwork, children develop practical skills and confidence.
• Article 31: Every child has the right to relax, play, and take part in cultural and artistic activities.
  — Baking and cooperating with friends is a fun and creative activity that supports well-being.

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Global Goals (Sustainable Development Goals) related to the baking and fundraiser

• Goal 4: Quality Education
  — The children are developing important life skills and working collaboratively, which supports quality learning.
• Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
  — The fundraiser teaches children about contributing to their community and supporting local causes.
• Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
  — The fundraiser helps build a sense of community and supports equal opportunities for all children.
• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
  — The activity shows how working together—students, teachers, and families—can achieve great things.

We welcomed the new P1s to our school for Transition Day!

We were so excited to welcome our newest friends from nursery to our school for Transition Day! It was a special day designed to help the little ones feel comfortable and happy as they get ready to start their school journey.

During the visit, the P1 children explored our classrooms, met their new teachers, and made new friends. They enjoyed fun activities like storytime, arts and crafts, and playing games together. It was wonderful to see their big smiles and hear their laughter!

Our older students helped by showing them around and sharing tips on how to have fun and learn at school. Transition Day is all about making new children feel welcome and confident, and we can’t wait to see them all again when they start officially.

Welcome to our school Kaiden and Arya!

UNCRC Articles related to Transition Day

• Article 28: Every child has the right to an education.
  — Transition Day supports children’s right to start school and access quality education.
• Article 12: Children have the right to express their views and be listened to.
  — The P1 children are encouraged to share their feelings and ask questions about their new school.
• Article 29: Education should develop every child’s personality, talents, and abilities.
  — The activities on Transition Day help children discover new skills and build confidence.
• Article 31: Every child has the right to relax, play, and take part in cultural and artistic activities.
  — Fun activities like games and crafts make learning enjoyable and support children’s well-being.

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Global Goals (Sustainable Development Goals) related to Transition Day

• Goal 4: Quality Education
  — Transition Day promotes inclusive, equitable quality education and supports lifelong learning opportunities for all children.
• Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
  — Helping children feel safe and happy during transition supports their mental and emotional well-being.
• Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
  — Providing all children with the chance to get ready for school helps reduce barriers and inequalities.
• Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
  — Creating a welcoming and supportive school environment builds peaceful, inclusive communities.

A Fun-Filled Day Out for Our Partnership Schools!

What a fantastic day it was when our partnership schools came together for an exciting day of fun, laughter, and friendship! Students, teachers, and staff all joined in for a special outing that included putting, eating ice cream, and enjoying the sun at the beach.

The day started with a friendly putting competition. Everyone gave it their best shot – some students showed surprising skills, while others just enjoyed trying something new.

After working up an appetite, it was time for a sweet treat. Vanilla and Raspberry ripple flavours were devoured by the children.

The highlight of the day was definitely the trip to the beach. The golden sand and sparkling sea welcomed everyone. Kids built sandcastles, collected seashells, and splashed in the gentle waves.

This day was a wonderful reminder of how much fun learning and friendship can be when the schools work together. We look forward to many more days like this, filled with joy, teamwork, and sunshine!

UNCRC Articles related to the fun day

• Article 12: Children have the right to say what they think in all matters affecting them.
  — The children actively participated in choosing and enjoying activities like putting, ice cream, and beach play, showing their right to have a say and be involved.
• Article 31: Every child has the right to relax, play and take part in a wide range of cultural and artistic activities.
  — The fun day with putting, ice cream, and beach games supports children’s right to play and enjoy recreational activities.
• Article 24: Every child has the right to the best possible health.
  — Spending time outdoors, playing in the sea, and enjoying healthy social interaction contributes to children’s physical and mental well-being.

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Global Goals (Sustainable Development Goals) related to the fun day

• Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
  — Encouraging physical activity through putting and beach play promotes children’s health and well-being.
• Goal 4: Quality Education
  — Partnership schools working together to provide enriching, inclusive activities supports inclusive and equitable quality education.
• Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
  — Bringing schools together fosters peaceful, inclusive societies and promotes collaboration and community spirit.
• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
  — The collaboration between schools demonstrates the importance of partnerships in achieving shared goals, including the well-being of children.

Our annual Sports Day was held today, the sun threatened to break out but our pupils made the most of the breezy conditions! The kids were filled with excitement, cheering, and the occasional boo! (Mr. Morrison in the teacher race) Pupils from all year groups took part in a variety of races and activities, showcasing their energy, teamwork, and determination.

The day began with the sprint races, where students dashed across the field, cheered on by their classmates. This was followed by the skipping race which added a fun twist with ropes flying everywhere. We then held the sack race, which caused lots of laughter as everyone tried to hop to the finish line without falling over (unsuccessfully)! The egg and spoon race tested our balance and focus with some funny concentration faces.

Later, the distance race challenged the runners’ stamina, and the obstacle race brought out everyone’s agility as they climbed, crawled, and zig-zagged their way through. One of the most exciting parts of the day was the relay race, where teams worked together to pass the baton and race to victory, this was given as a joined first as Carter and Louise passed the line at the same time.

We also enjoyed watching the parent and teacher races, which brought lots of cheers and smiles – especially when Mr. Morrison triumphed in a closely contested teacher race. It was great to see everyone joining in and having fun.

Throughout the day, we were proud to uphold the values of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), especially:

• Article 31: The right to play and take part in sport and cultural activities.
• Article 6: The right to life and to grow up healthy.

We also linked our Sports Day to the United Nations Global Goals, especially:

• Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing – encouraging physical activity, positive relationships, and mental wellness.
• Goal 4: Quality Education – by promoting learning through play and teamwork.
• Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities – making sure all pupils could take part, regardless of ability.
• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals – as we worked together with families and staff to create a successful event.

Our Sports Day also reflected many of the SHANARRI wellbeing indicators:

• Safe: The event was well-organised and supervised.
• Healthy: Everyone took part in physical activity.
• Achieving: Pupils set goals and tried their best.
• Nurtured: Supportive staff and cheering friends created a caring atmosphere.
• Active: The whole day promoted movement and enjoyment through sport.
• Responsible: Pupils helped set up, tidied away, and followed the rules.
• Respected: Every child had the opportunity to participate.
• Included: Events were accessible and welcoming for all.

Overall, it was a fantastic day full of energy, encouragement, and school spirit. A big well done to all the pupils for their amazing efforts, and thank you to the staff and families who made the day such a success.

This week, P1–7 have been busy learning all about mapping Europe as we helped organise luggage for Reverend Breakey’s exciting trip around the continent! We explored different countries, identified capital cities, and calculated travel times between destinations. Using maps and atlases, we developed our geography skills while practising time and organisation. It was a great way to connect our learning to real-life adventures!

We linked our work to Global Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), and explored UNCRC Articles 28 (right to education) and 17 (access to information). Bon voyage, Rev. Breakey! 🌍✈️🧳

Today, P1–7 had a fantastic time making delicious apple crumble to celebrate National Numeracy Day! We measured ingredients carefully, practising our skills in weight and volume. A big thank you to Mrs. Shannon and Miss Mackenzie for helping us in the kitchen. Our apples were locally sourced, linking our activity to sustainability and Global Goals 12 (Responsible Consumption) and 13 (Climate Action). We also explored our rights through UNCRC Articles 24 (health and food) and 29 (education goals). Everyone loved learning through cooking — maths, sustainability, and fun all in one! 🍎🥣 #GlobalGoals #UNCRC #NationalNumeracyDay

Mapping Our Community

This week in class, we’ve been exploring maps as part of our geography learning — and the children have loved becoming mini map-makers!

We began by learning how to read map symbols and keys, understanding what different pictures and colours represent, such as schools, parks, rivers, and roads. Pupils then used these skills to explore maps of our local area, pinpointing familiar places like the school, library, shops, and their own streets.

We also created our own maps of the community, adding keys and compass directions to show landmarks and routes. It was a fantastic way to link our learning to the real world and develop our understanding of where we live.

This learning supports:

• UNCRC Article 28 & 29 – Every child has the right to an education that develops their knowledge of the wider world.
• Global Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Learning about the places and people in our local area helps us understand how we can care for our communities.

The children showed great teamwork, observation skills, and pride in learning more about the place they call home!

At Portpatrick, we love bringing learning to life through exciting experiences — and our recent school trips did just that!

Trip 1: A Journey Through Space

P1-4 had an out-of-this-world adventure as they visited the Kirkcudbright planetarium! Inside the darkened dome, they watched stars twinkle and planets swirl, learning all about the solar system in a truly immersive way.

Back at the learning centre, the children took part in fun science activities, exploring how gravity and forces work. They tested different materials, dropped objects to see how fast they fell, and even investigated how astronauts live in space! We even had time for a picnic and play at the local park afterwards.

This trip supported:

• UNCRC Article 28 & 29 – Every child has the right to an education that develops their talents and curiosity.
• Global Goal 4: Quality Education – Promoting hands-on, inspiring learning opportunities for all.

Trip 2: Discovering Nature Through a Lens

The whole school then explored a beautiful botanical garden on Thursday, surrounded by trees, flowers, and peaceful green spaces. Guided by an expert, they learned how to use photography to explore contrast, capturing shadows, textures, and colours in nature.

They took their time observing the details of plants, insects (and especially fish!), linking their photography to their learning about science, habitats, and art.

This trip supported:

• UNCRC Article 31 – Every child has the right to relax, play, and take part in cultural and creative activities.
• Global Goal 15: Life on Land – Learning to appreciate and protect the natural world.
• Global Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Exploring green spaces and how we can care for them.

Both trips were fantastic opportunities for pupils to learn beyond the classroom, ask big questions, and build lasting memories.