All posts by Miss Morrison

P5 Term 4 Update

Primary 5 – Term 4

Welcome back to our final term in Primary 5! I hope you all had a restful break. This term promises to be a memorable one, filled with exciting opportunities for learning, performing, and reflecting on how far we’ve come. As always, I am proud of the enthusiasm and determination this class continues to show. Here’s a look at what’s coming up in Term 4.

Literacy

In writing, we’ll begin the term focusing on non-chronological reports, allowing pupils to develop their informative writing skills. Later, we’ll transition into recount writing in the form of newspaper reports, where students will learn how to report events with structure and clarity. These genres will give pupils the opportunity to apply grammar and punctuation skills in meaningful contexts.

For reading, we will enjoy our class novel Wilderness War while continuing to develop comprehension strategies through Bug Club texts. Spelling and grammar work will include focus on phonemes, pronouns, alphabetical order to the third letter, similes, alliteration, onomatopoeia, and compound words.

Listening and talking skills will be developed through preparations for our Summer Show, where pupils will have the chance to build confidence, teamwork, and expressive communication.

Numeracy

Number

We will begin the term with a focus on fractions, exploring both unit and non-unit fractions, as well as developing understanding of equivalent fractions. Pupils will engage in practical, hands-on activities to help them apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and build confidence in using fractions in a variety of situations.

Beyond Number
Later in the term, we will move on to patterns and relationships, where pupils will be encouraged to think logically and solve problems. This area supports the development of reasoning skills and a deeper understanding of how numbers and operations relate to one another

HWB

In PE, our focus will be on tennis and bowling throughout April and May, followed by outdoor games and physical challenges as we move into June. We’re especially looking forward to visiting the local bowling club, where pupils will have the chance to apply their skills in a new and exciting environment.

Pupils will also be setting personal fitness goals and working collaboratively through a variety of physical activities. Later in the term, we’ll cover important topics such as emergency situations and sexual health education, delivered in a sensitive and age-appropriate way.

R.E

In May, our focus will be on Mary, Mother of God. Pupils will learn about Mary’s life and her importance within the Catholic faith, exploring key moments such as the Annunciation and the Visitation. We’ll reflect on her qualities such as faith, courage, and compassion and how her example can inspire us in our own lives.

Through stories, discussion, art, and prayer, pupils will develop a deeper understanding of Mary’s role in the Church and in the lives of believers around the world. P5 will also look at how different cultures celebrate Mary and the ways in which she is honoured, especially during the month of May. This unit will support pupils in thinking about the values they admire and how they can show kindness, respect, and faith in their own actions.

Expressive Arts

Preparations are already underway for our Summer Show! Pupils will work together to rehearse, perform, and support the production using a variety of expressive skills. Pupils will also be working within show groups demonstrating skills such as, technical, creative, communication and problem solving.

IDL

This term, our IDL topic will be Local Politics and Community Involvement. Pupils will explore how local government functions, including the roles of councillors, the responsibilities of the local council, and how decisions are made that impact our daily lives.

We’ll look at real-life issues and case studies to help pupils understand the importance of civic engagement. Pupils will learn how their voices can contribute to change, and how to express opinions respectfully and effectively. Activities will include group discussions, debates, and creating a mock council meeting to practise decision-making and public speaking skills. The class will also explore how laws are made, the importance of voting, and the rights and responsibilities we all share as members of a community.

Technology

This term we’ll focus on creating digital presentations using PowerPoint and Sway. Pupils will build skills in layout, text formatting, and multimedia use, as well as how to share their work with others.

UNCRC

This term in Primary 5, we are focusing on some key UNCRC articles that highlight important rights for children. We’ll be learning about Article 24, which is all about the right to good health and healthcare, and linking it to Mental Health Awareness Week in May. In June, we’ll observe World Day Against Child Labour (Articles 32 and 35), and talk about the importance of protecting children from harmful work. We’ll also mark World Refugee Day (Articles 10 and 22), exploring the rights of refugee children and the importance of family reunification. Through insightful discussions and activities, children will understand why these rights are so important, not just here, but for children all over the world. It’s a great opportunity for P5 to reflect on the rights they have, and how they can be advocates for others too!

 Upcoming Visit

We’re also excited about our upcoming trip to the Maritime Museum in May. This will be a fantastic opportunity to enhance our learning in a hands-on, engaging setting, and we’re looking forward to exploring the exhibits and discovering more about our maritime heritage.

As we approach the end of the year, I’d like to thank you for your continued support. It’s been a privilege to see how far this class has come, and I’m excited to finish the year strong with lots of opportunities for celebration and reflection. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Take care,

Miss Dorby

May Newsletter

Go to this Sway

Important Information

We have had a number of parents contact us regarding their concerns in relation to potential “unwanted” visitors within childrens hair. 

We have today sent home with every child information on how to look for and treat any potential issues with this.

We would therefore kindly ask ALL parents to check their childs hair over the weekend and treat accordingly should you be required to do so.

Thankyou 

Mrs Fergusson

Please check

We have had reports of  unwanted “visitors”  to some children within the school,  we kindly ask that parents/carers routinely check their child/children’s hair for any of these  unwanted “visitors” and take appropriate action if required Thank you for your co-operation.  

P7 Transition Information

Please find below details and information regarding P7 transition visits to StJosephs.

Primary 7 Transition Dates StJoesphs Academy

With reference to your child’s transition to secondary school, I can now confirm the dates & times your child will attend St Joseph’s Academy for full day visits, these will be:

Visit 1:   Monday 12th May 8.50am – 3.40pm

Visit 2:   Tuesday 20th May 8.50am – 3.40pm

Visit 3:   Wednesday 21st May 8.50am – 3.40pm

Visit 4:   Thursday 12th June 8.50am – 3.40pm

Visit 5:   Friday 13th June 8.50am – 1.15pm (or 2pm if the school bus service)

The Pastoral Care team will distribute pupil timetables.  Pupils can access lunchtime facilities or opt to bring a packed lunch. Cash and ParentPay accepted.

Pupil must be in full primary school uniform (no leggings/tracksuits or hoodies including leavers’ hoodies). Pupils should ensure they attend fully prepared for example pen/pencil/PE kit if required.  It is hoped that the children who require transport to and from St Josephs will be able to access the normal school bus service this is yet to be confirmed.

Mobile phones are not permitted on campus. This will be a rule for all St Joseph’s pupils after the Easter holidays.

Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

April Newsletter

Please find below the link to our April Newsletter

Go to this Sway

Absence Telephone Line & Answer machine

When reporting your childs absence from school please speak to a member of staff as our absence line isn’t working at present.

Please do not leave messages on the answer phone either as this  is unavailable at present

We hope to have this rectified as soon as possible 

No Parking – Crossgates Care Home

      Reminder  that  parents/carers should not use the Crossgates Care Home Car Park when dropping off or collecting their children.

This is a private car park for use of staff & resident families ONLY 

Access should always be given to Emergency Service vehicles and overcrowding of this car park could prevent this from happening.

Please be considerate at all times when dropping off or collecting your children 

Thankyou 

February Newsletter

Please find link below for our February Newsletter

Go to this Sway

Schools/ECC Closure Tomorrow 24/1/25

The Met Office has now issued a red warning for wind from 10am until 5pm on Friday 24 January.

 

Storm Eowyn will cause very dangerous conditions and there will be significant disruption.  The Council has taken the decision to close all schools and Early Childhood Centres, plus SL33 and SL66 on Friday 24 January.

 

This is a difficult decision to take and the Council understands the impact on parents and carers, however the safety of children and young people is paramount.

 

Reconciliation 2025

Free Reconciliation Cliparts, Download Free Reconciliation Cliparts png ...

Parents of children taking part in Reconciliation in 2025 are invited to attend a short meeting in OLMC on Sunday 19th January 2025 after the 11.30 mass to discuss  the program.

Please bring along your childs registration form, if parents require a registration form these are available from the school office.

 

Primary 5 Term 3 Update

Primary 5 – Term 3

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas break. I am so excited to be joining Primary 5, and I’m absolutely delighted by how quickly everyone has settled into the new term. We have an exciting and busy term ahead, and I’m confident that Primary 5 will embrace every challenge and excel in all that we do. I’m really looking forward to working with each of you and watching how much the class will grow and thrive throughout the term. Here’s a look of what we’ll be learning about in the weeks to come.

 Literacy

Reading – This term, the class will embark on an exciting exploration of Scots language. A key focus will be on poetry, allowing the children to appreciate the richness and uniqueness of Scots verse while developing their analytical skills. Additionally, they will hone their non-fiction reading skills, concentrating on practical strategies such as note-taking, mind mapping, and scanning texts to identify and highlight key words and phrases effectively. These skills will help enhance their comprehension and organisation of information across all areas of learning.

Spelling – Throughout the week, the class will further develop their spelling skills. A variety of active spelling strategies will be implemented to engage learners and reinforce understanding, with a strong focus on consistency and application. These approaches will be extended into homework tasks, providing opportunities for pupils to consolidate their learning in different contexts.

Writing – The focus genres for writing this term will be persuasive and discursive texts, which will be closely linked to the class topic work to provide meaningful and engaging contexts for learning. Pupils will continue to refine their tools for writing, with an emphasis on mastering the use of complex punctuation and enhancing their vocabulary through effective use of a dictionary and thesaurus. This integrated approach will not only strengthen their writing skills but also deepen their understanding and application of knowledge across the curriculum.

Talking and Listening – This term, Talking and Listening skills will be developed through the study of Scots language, providing an engaging context for pupils to explore rich vocabulary and expressive communication. Additionally, pupils will enhance their presentation skills through links to their topic work, delivering presentations on a new invention, as well as the topic of tsunamis, flooding, and landslides. This integrated approach will allow students to build confidence in speaking and listening while deepening their knowledge and understanding of key curricular areas.

Numeracy

This term, P5 will continue with daily Number Talks as a starter to of our numeracy lessons, fostering critical thinking and encouraging pupils to explore and share a variety of problem-solving strategies. Our main focus for number based learning will be multiplication and division, to build fluency, accuracy, and confidence in these foundational skills.

In Beyond Number, the class will begin by exploring time, ensuring pupils develop a secure understanding of both analogue and digital formats, before moving on to the study of angles. Practical activities and real-world applications will be incorporated to deepen understanding and make learning engaging and meaningful for all.

Health and Wellbeing

Our PE days are Tuesday and Thursday. Our learning journey begins with a strong focus on fitness. In these sessions, the class explore various aspects of physical fitness, including cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and endurance. Through a range of activities and exercises, we will not only improve our physical abilities but also develop a deeper understanding of the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. P5 will challenge ourselves to set personal fitness goals, track our progress, and learn about the long-term benefits of regular physical activity. As we work together in a supportive environment, we will also foster teamwork, perseverance, and a positive attitude towards health and fitness.

During our lessons on substance misuse, P5 will explore the effects and risks associated with harmful substances, as well as the importance of making informed and responsible choices. To deepen our understanding, we will connect this topic with persuasive writing skills by creating our own TV advert. Through this project, the class will learn how to effectively convey important messages and influence attitudes using compelling language, emotional appeal, and strong arguments.

Science

This term in science, the class will be exploring the topic of sound and light. Pupils will investigate the properties of sound, including how it travels, how different materials affect sound, and how we use our senses to perceive sound. P5 will also explore the nature of light, examining how light travels, how it reflects and refracts, and how light enables us to see objects in the world around us. The class will use a range of practical and collaborative activities to reinforce these concepts.

IDL

This term, we are excited to explore the contributions of Scottish inventors and their impact on shaping Scotland’s culture and heritage. As part of this journey, the class will work collaboratively in teams to design our own innovative solutions to address a sustainable challenge facing Scotland today. Through this project, P5 will also dive into the concept of META skills, exploring how we can apply these skills—such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—in real-world scenarios to make a positive difference.

R.E

This term in R.E, the focus of learning will be on the life and teachings of Jesus, exploring how His example continues to inspire and guide people around the world. The class will also learn about the season of Lent, reflecting on its significance and the items associated with this period of spiritual preparation. Through this exploration, P5 will gain a deeper understanding of Catholic values and how they can be applied in our own lives. Together, the class will reflect on the themes of compassion, sacrifice, and renewal, considering how these ideas can shape our actions and attitudes.

Technology

Our focus in technology this term will be learning how to log on to and navigate the Chromebooks effectively. The class will explore essential skills such as accessing different applications, managing files, and using the internet safely and responsibly. Throughout this process, P5 will become more confident in using technology for research, collaboration, and task completion. Additionally, we will discuss online safety and digital etiquette, ensuring we understand how to protect ourselves and others while using technology.

UNCRC

After exploring the UNCRC for Human Rights Day, we created a class charter focused on the rights of the child. Each of us took responsibility for identifying and highlighting the rights we believe are most vital in fostering a positive, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment. Each of us plays an essential role in creating and maintaining this culture by actively respecting and supporting one another’s rights, ensuring that our classroom is a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support. The children have adapted well to the changes in their class structure, and we are so pleased with how they are managing. This term is set to be a busy and exciting one, and I am looking forward to all the learning and growth that will take place. If you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.

Take care,

Miss Dorby