We had a fantastic enquiry-based, classroom learning experience this week, all centred around time – and what a fun and engaging lesson it was! ⏳✨ Pupils explored different units and aspects of time through a series of interactive, play-based activities. Working in groups and leading their own learning, they embraced new challenges, developed their understanding, and—most importantly—had great fun along the way! 🔄 Rotational Grouping ApproachWe used a rotational grouping
We took our learning outside this week for a fantastic Learning for Sustainability lesson all about renewable and non-renewable energy – and what a success it was! 🌱 This was especially meaningful as we celebrated Earth Day, helping us to think about how we can all look after our planet. Our P7 leaders – Ross, Myra, Danielle and Gregor – were absolutely brilliant at guiding the younger pupils through a
A great start to our first Gardening Club today with Mrs Westbrook. Pupils worked together to prepare the garden area and begin planting, showing good teamwork and a willingness to get involved.We look forward to developing this further over the coming weeks Links to learning:• UNCRC: Article 29 – developing skills and responsibility• Metaskills: Working with others and staying focused• Four Capacities: Responsible citizens• Wellbeing: Active and included through outdoor
We are pleased to share a great achievement from one of our pupils. Liana McKinstry recently performed for the first time with Ocean Echoes after just three weeks of being part of the group! Liana has fully embraced the experience, showing growing confidence, dedication and a real sense of joy in her singing. It has been lovely to see how quickly she has settled into the group and developed her
We’re delighted to share a glimpse into our first P1–4 after school Art Club this term! 🎨 The children had a fantastic time exploring decoupage with Mrs McKinstry (thank you!), showing great creativity, care and pride in their work. It was lovely to see everyone so engaged and enjoying a calm, creative space after the school day. We’re really proud of the effort, focus and teamwork on display. Well done
We’re excited to share that work is underway on some beautiful new wall art in our school library! 🎨 This is part of our ongoing efforts to make the library an even more inviting and inspiring space for our children, helping to promote a love of reading and encouraging them to spend time enjoying books. A huge thank you goes to Diana Hamilton, Mrs Donna Westbrook and Mr Bill Logan
We are incredibly proud of our P5–7 pupils who have successfully achieved their Meta-skills certificates after working independently through their Meta-skills booklets. 🌟 Throughout this work, pupils reflected on how they use important life skills in their everyday learning and interactions. These Meta-skills included: ✨ Focusing✨ Integrity✨ Adapting✨ Initiative✨ Communicating✨ Collaborating✨ Feeling✨ Leading✨ Curiosity✨ Sense-making✨ Critical Thinking✨ Creativity Pupils showed great maturity and honesty as they considered their strengths and
We were excited to welcome Donald McColm and members of Stranraer Rotary Club to St Joseph’s. They kindly donated hi-vis vests and litter pickers so we can help keep our community clean and stay safe while doing it. A huge thank you to our sponsors, Stranraer Development Trust. Donald talked to us about why recycling is important and how everyone should take care not to drop litter. We learned how
Our P5–7 pupils recently took part in a short block of orienteering sessions with Alison Murray from Active Schools, and it was a great experience for everyone involved! The sessions took place in the Ryan Centre hall, where pupils were introduced to the key skills of orienteering, including map reading, following directions, teamwork and problem-solving. These skills were developed through a range of fun, active games and fitness-based activities, keeping
Our P5–7 pupils recently enjoyed a fantastic visit from the Creighton Carbon Centre, who delivered an engaging and hands-on workshop all about ecosystems and biodiversity. 🌍 The session began in the classroom, where pupils learned about what an ecosystem is and why biodiversity is so important. They explored how plants, animals, insects and fungi all play a role in keeping environments healthy and balanced. After this, the learning moved outdoors
