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
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.
On Thursday the 8th May, we marked VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) at Portpatrick Primary, a special day that commemorates the end of World War II in Europe on 8th May 1945. It was a thoughtful and reflective day for our pupils as they learned about this important moment in history.
At 11:00am, the whole school gathered together to observe a two-minute silence, showing respect for all those who served and sacrificed during the war. The children stood quietly and respectfully, taking time to think about the bravery and resilience of people during those difficult times.
Throughout the day, pupils took part in a variety of VE Day-themed activities. These included making Union Jack bunting, writing postcards as though they were living in 1945, and learning popular facts about the war.
In the afternoon, we came together for a special VE Day assembly, where we shared what we had learned, and reflected on the importance of peace and remembrance. The children were engaged, thoughtful, and proud to take part in such a meaningful day.
It was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to connect with history and to understand why we remember and give thanks on VE Day.
This learning links closely to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), especially:
Article 38 – Children have the right to be protected during war and to live in peace.
Article 29 – Education should develop every child’s personality and talents, and encourage respect for others and the world around them.
Article 12 – Every child has the right to have a say in matters that affect them.
Our work on VE Day also supports the Global Goals for Sustainable Development, particularly:
Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
Goal 4: Quality Education – Helping children understand history, human rights, and the importance of peace.
Pupils from Primary 1 to Primary 7 took part in a fantastic mini marathon, running an impressive 2 miles in support of our school fundraiser. The event began on the top football pitch, where pupils ran laps with enthusiasm and determination. After completing the first mile, everyone continued their journey through the village, finishing the final mile on a scenic walk filled with smiles, encouragement, and a great sense of achievement.
This event not only promoted physical fitness and resilience but also brought our school community together in a positive and energetic way. Children of all ages supported one another, showing teamwork, perseverance, and school spirit throughout the challenge.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all our friends and family who kindly donated in support of the mini marathon. Your generosity has helped raise valuable funds for our school and made the event even more meaningful for the children.
The mini marathon was a wonderful example of health, community, and fun coming together, and we are incredibly proud of all our pupils for completing the challenge with such enthusiasm and pride.
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
SDG 4 – Quality Education
SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
UNCRC Rights of the Child:
Article 24 – Right to health and health services
Article 29 – Right to develop talents and abilities
Article 31 – Right to play and recreational activities
SHANARRI Indicators:
Healthy – Promoting physical activity and well-being
Active – Encouraging participation in outdoor exercise
Included – All pupils took part and were supported
Achieving – Children completed a physical challenge and contributed to a fundraising goal
Pupils from Primary 1 to Primary 7 enjoyed an exciting outdoor bowling session this week, where they learned and practised a range of bowling skills in a fun and supportive environment. The session began with a demonstration of basic techniques, followed by group practice where pupils worked on their aim, control, and teamwork. The younger children in Primary 1 particularly enjoyed playing small bowling games tailored to their level, helping them build confidence, coordination, and communication.
Older pupils explored more advanced skills, focusing on accuracy and strategy while encouraging and supporting their younger peers. The mixed-age setup promoted leadership, cooperation, and a strong sense of community across the school.
A special thank you goes to Jean, Linda, and Florence, whose support and enthusiasm helped make the day a great success. Their guidance and encouragement were appreciated by both staff and pupils alike.
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
SDG 4 – Quality Education
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
UNCRC Rights of the Child:
Article 29 – Right to develop talents and abilities
Article 31 – Right to play and recreation
SHANARRI Indicators:
Active – Engaging in physical play
Included – Mixed-age, accessible activities
Healthy – Promoting physical and emotional well-being
This Easter, students enjoyed a range of fun and engaging activities designed to celebrate the holiday while encouraging creativity, teamwork, and safety awareness. The day began with a fun cooking session where they made rice crispy cakes. Using chocolate, rice cereal, and mini eggs, students crafted delicious treats to take home. This activity allowed them to practice basic cooking skills while expressing creativity in decorating their cakes.
Following Mrs. Henry’s and Kim’s baking session, there was an exciting Easter egg hunt, where children eagerly searched for hidden chocolate eggs around the school grounds. This activity encouraged physical activity and teamwork as students worked together to solve clues and collect as many eggs as possible.
A special highlight of the day was a visit from the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) mascot, Stormy Stan. He spoke to the children about water safety and the important work of the RNLI. The mascot’s appearance was both entertaining and educational, reinforcing key safety messages in an engaging way (and he even brought the children and Easter egg each!)
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being Promotes physical activity (Easter egg hunt), emotional well-being, and healthy relationships through social interaction and teamwork.
SDG 4 – Quality Education Supports informal learning through hands-on experiences like baking and safety education with RNLI.
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities Encourages inclusive participation, ensuring all children are involved and valued regardless of background or ability.
UNCRC Rights of the Child Articles:
Article 12 – Right to express views Children are encouraged to share ideas and participate actively in the planning and enjoyment of activities.
Article 24 – Right to health and health services Activities promote health and safety awareness, especially through the RNLI visit.
Article 31 – Right to relax, play and take part in cultural and artistic activities All three activities support the child’s right to play and enjoy creative, recreational opportunities.
SHANARRI Wellbeing Indicators:
Safe – The RNLI visit supports understanding of water safety.
Healthy – Physical activity during the egg hunt and conversations around safe behaviour contribute to overall health.
Active – Participation in games and cooking keeps children physically and mentally engaged.
Included – All children are encouraged to participate equally in each activity.
Nurtured – Staff and mascot engagement provides emotional support and guidance in a caring environment.
Achieving – Children gain new skills through cooking and problem-solving during the egg hunt.
As part of our Rights Respecting Schools action, our generous families and pupils collected donations for our local food bank. We are proud to support our local community.
UNCRC Rights of the Child: Article 26 – Social & Economic Help
SHANARRI – Responsible
Sustainable Development Goal: 10 – Reduced Inequalities
We are delighted to announce that Portpatrick has been awarded it’s seventh first Eco Schools flag in recognition of our great environmental work over the last 10 years. We renew our status every two years.
Eco-Schools is the largest sustainable schools programme in the world with 19.5 million children, young people and educators engaged worldwide in 74 different countries.
Completing a Green Flag Application is recognised by the Green Flag Award which is a visible indication of a school’s commitment to Learning for Sustainability and is an internationally recognised accreditation for excellence in sustainable education.
This has been a team effort with the pupils, staff and partners such as ONUS and the Glasgow Science Centre. The children have taken the lead in driving forward our action plan for the key target areas of:
Litter and Waste – Global Citizenship – Climate Action
We are proud of our pupils taking positive action as Responsible Citizens and Effective Contributors!
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey.
#GlobalGoals #UNCRC #NationalNumeracyDay
