All posts by Miss Morrison

Summer Trip 2024

School Summer trips are a great way for our children to enjoy a fun filed day out with their class mates.

Unfortunately we have a LARGE number of permission forms that have still to be returned to us as well as a LARGE number of payments for the trip still outstanding –  this payment item has been available on Parentpay accounts since the 21st March amd will remain open until Friday 30th May.

If you have still to return your child’s form or make payment for the trip, this must be done by 30th May or your child WILL NOT  be able to attend the school trip and will therefore have to stay at home on the day of the trip as there will be no teaching provision on the day and this will be marked as an unauthorised absence.

We also have a number of lunch forms outstanding  these MUST be returned to us by 30th May or we will be unable to arrange  a packed lunch for your child from the kitchen should they require one.

Thanks

Mrs Fergusson 

Head Teacher 

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.