Please take a few moments to complete the survey using the barcode below. Once completed you will be entered into a prize draw. The survey will close at the end of March.
Thank you
Category Archives: Whole School News
Barcaple 2025
After a good sleep, eating breakfast and getting ready for our busy day. And the weather looks decent!
Barcaple 2025
Archery, bushcraft and abseiling before dinner
Barcaple 2025
We have arrived, getting the tour and getting fed before our first activity!
February Newsletter
Please find link below for our February Newsletter
|
Handball
January Raffle
Our January Raffle is live on Parentpay!
Don’t forget to buy your tickets to be in with a chance of winning a fabulous prize!
Tickets as always are £1 per strip of 5. The raffle closes on Thursday 6th February and will be drawn on Friday 7th.
Rag Bag
It’s that time again! If you could do with a New Year clear out, then please send any bags of clothing/shoes which you no longer need into the school on Friday 14th February. Please place all items in bin bags (as Rag Bag no longer issue us with bags) and tie securely.
Thank you
Storm Damage
Storm Damage
Unfortunately two of our trees have come down during the storm last week. These are currently blocking our gates between the upper playground and the lower school playground. Parents and carers can only access the lower school playground via the lower school gate and the upper school playground via the main gate. At the end of the school day children from P4-7 that would normally meet adults in the lower playground will exit via the primary 2 door instead.
We also have damage to our main bell. This means there will be no bell at the start or end of the school day. Children will exit to the playground as normal.
Thank you for your support and understanding as we await removal and repair work.
Chinese New year Menu 30/1
P7 Term 3 Curriculum Update
Happy New Year and I hope Santa was good to you all. And so we enter P7’s final year at primary!! Good to see all the pupils back after the holidays. Here is a brief overview of our learning focus this term.
Literacy
Our focus this term will continue to develop all reading skills through Bug Club guided reading texts. We will also be reading texts to identify fact and opinion and discuss the reliability of sources of information. For writing, we are concentrating on discussion texts, building upon persuasive writing from last term until the February holiday then look at the recount genre where we will retell events from what we have watched or experienced. For a short period, we will also be looking at Scottish texts, using Scots language and looking at Scottish poems and authors.
Numeracy
The emphasis of our numeracy this term is on fractions, decimals and percentages and how they interlink. Having completed the set Number Talk discussions, we will continue to use Number Talk strategies to develop mental strategies using all four processes. The class are also working on numeracy skills with Mrs McCreadie and will be investigating other aspects of measurement as well as data handling.
Health and Wellbeing
The PATHS focus this term is looking at respect and how to deal with conflicts and identifying positive steps to de-escalate situations. We will also continue to praise and compliment children through Pupil of the Day. We are also exploring risk taking behaviour including substance misuse and practise basic first aid procedures.
Our PE days are still Wednesday and Thursday. We will be first concentrating on fun fitness, creating personal fitness plans and setting personal goals. We also aim to develop our team game skills through netball where we will understand different roles within the team.
IDL
The topic this term is Scottish based and is looking at the Highland Clearances. We will be investigating important historical figures involved in the event, how people lived during that time and the mass emigration from the Highland area.
RE
This term we will be aiming to complete our Pope Francis Faith Award journals, revising all the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and giving evidence of them being used in the school, at home and in the community or Parish. As well as this, there will be a final reflection on how the Gifts will help support them as they develop and grow.
French
French this term will consist of learning how to say other countries and nationalities and looking in to current affairs within France as well as using the verb etre (to be).
Technologies
This term P7 will look at coding and understand its importance within society. We will use block coding software to program small digital devices and explore various commands to create games and move characters within games.
UNCRC
We will be looking at the articles and rights involved and associated in Holocaust Memorial Day in late January, Safe Internet Day and Children’s Mental Health Week in February, and World Book Day and World Water Day in March.
I look forward to working with P7 in their final year and will enjoy accompanying them on their trip to Barcaple this term.
Mr Bertoncini
The Christmas Recipe
After School Clubs🏸🏐🎽
The following After School Clubs are due to start soon. Letters for each club were given out to pupils yesterday (20/1). There are a maximum of 20 places available per club which will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
If your child wishes to attend, please complete and return the permission slip at the bottom of the letter. Thanks
Primary 2&3- Games and Multi-sports Club
Tues 28th January until Tues 25th February (Exc. Tues 11th Feb)
Primary 4 &5 – Racquet Sports Club
Thurs 30th January until Thurs 20th February
Primary 6 &7 Handball Club
Mon 27th January until Mon 24th February (Exc. Mon 10th Feb)
Scouts
Primary 6 curricular update
Primary 6 – Term 3
Hi everyone. We hope you all had a lovely Christmas break. Primary 6 have welcomed Mrs Terras into their routine with no problems and we are very proud of how they have adapted to the changes so far. There is lots to get through in the term ahead but this is a challenge that we know Primary 6 will flourish in. Here is an update of what is coming up in the term ahead.
UNCRC
As part of our UNCRC (United Nations Convention for the Right of the Child), the class took part in activities for Human rights day in which we looked at rights across the world with a particular focus on the rights of the child. The children then took part in a competition with which they were asked to design a logo for their favourite article that we had looked at. There will be a winner from each class and these will be announced in the new term. As always, we will continue to work on the class’ understanding of what their rights are as well as their responsibilities that coincide with these rights.
IDL
Mrs Terras will teach our interdisciplinary topic of Scottish myths and legends. During this topic, the children will take on a research task to find out about some famous Scottish myths such as the Loch Ness Monster. They will also look into the famous Scottish Kelpies and investigate the structure of these magical sculptures.
Science
Towards the end of the term the children will explore renewable energy with Mrs McCreadie. Within this learning, the class will look at what renewable energy is and how Scotland benefits from this form of energy.
Literacy
Reading – Along with Mrs Terras, the class will be learning all about Scots language. There will be a particular focus on poetry within this teaching. They will also be learning about non- fiction reading skills which will focus on note taking, mind mapping and scanning to highlight key words and phrases.
Talking and Listening – This will also be taught through Scot’s language with the children also developing their presentation skills as part of this learning.
Spelling – The children will continue to develop their spelling skills which will take place across the week with both of their teachers. We will continue to work on our active spelling techniques and this will feed through into our homework.
Writing – The writing for this term will be taught by Mrs McCreadie. The genres that will be the focus for learning is persuasive and discursive writing. Within this, the class will continue to develop their tools for writing skills with a focus on using complex punctuation as well as enhancing vocabulary through the use of dictionaries and a thesaurus.
Numeracy
We will continue with the use of number talks which helps to encourage different learners to use and understand different strategies. The children show an excellent understanding of the strategies taught so far and are always eager to share their understanding with their peers.
Mrs McCreadie will concentrate on the teaching of beyond number topics this term. The first concept to be taught for this will be time. This will look at both analogue and digital times. We will then move on to look at data handling.
Mrs Terras will concentrate on the core number processes and will concentrate on multiplication and division this term.
Health and Wellbeing
Our P.E. days will change to a Tuesday and a Thursday this term. This allows the children to have a P.E. slot with both teachers. The focus for P.E. this term will be netball, gymnastics and fitness.
Primary 6 already participate in mindfulness every day, this is something that the entire class benefit from and have been doing this since the beginning of Primary 4.
Our PATHS programme will continue to help the children to develop positive relationships within the class and school. Delving into the emotions that the children feel will help them to understand why they are feeling this way as well as giving them the tools to cope with these emotions. The children are also participating in the PATHS buddy scheme that helps support the infants in ‘how to play’ during lunchtimes.
Our core health and wellbeing teaching will focus on body hygiene and image. We will also be looking at what abuse is and some of the types of abuse that people experience at the hands of others.
R.E.
Core learning this term will focus predominantly on the work of the disciples and their importance in the bible. As the term progresses, we will begin to look at Lent and how we can celebrate this both in school and at home.
The class will also begin their Pope Francis Faith Award journey with Mrs Terras this term. This will span the remainder of their Mount Carmel journey with some of the award being completed this year and then some in Primary 7. The Pope Francis Faith Award is an award of the Bishops’ conference of Scotland, designed to help children show “signs of love” in their daily lives.
ICT
The children demonstrate an excellent understanding of how to use the new chrome books we have in school and as a result have also learned how to use Microsoft online. The next steps for the children will be to learn how to use TEAMS in preparation for P7. It is our intention to send homework through TEAMS in term 4 as this is how homework could be allocated in P7.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you, as always, for your ongoing support. The children have accepted the changes to their class structure and are managing this well. This term will be a busy one and as always, if you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Take care,
Mrs McCreadie and Mrs Terras
Reconciliation 2025
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.
Dad’s Programme
Rose Reilly Football Sessions
Kris Boyd Football Sessions
Martin Chambers Ecuador Trust💙
Parent Council Minutes
Please view the minutes of our most recent Parent Council meeting here which took place on 14/1/25 online.
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
Free Classes
Celebrating achievements
Hi everyone.
I hope you have had a lovely break during Christmas and New Year!!
This is a gentle reminder to please send in any photos of achievements that your child has accomplished outside of school. We will celebrate these during our wider achievements assembly on the 17th January. It can be anything from dancing awards to riding their bike without stabilisers. We can’t wait to hear from you and thank you!
Mrs McCreadie
P1 Registration-August 2025 Intake
P1 Registration
For children who turn age of 5 years between 1 March 2025 and 28 February 2026 and whose parents and carers wish them to attend school should be registered for education during the week Monday 13 January 2025 until Friday 17 January 2025. To register you should complete an online application and submit no later than Friday 17 January 2025.
Register at: – https://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/schooladmissions
To register your child you will require to upload a copy of your child’s birth certificate and two proofs of your residence in the catchment area in the form of a Council Tax Notice or Utility Bill. Should you require a copy of your child’s birth certificate for Registration, this can be obtained at www.certificates.scot
If you are unable to register online then please phone your local school who will assist you to register your child.
Placing Requests
Parents and carers who wish to make a placing request must first enrol their child/children at their catchment school. Placing requests for the session beginning August 2025, should be received by 31 January 2025.
Requests must be completed and submitted online at: https://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/schoolplacingrequest
Parents and carers can also submit a placing request for Gaelic Medium Education for their child. For further information regarding Gaelic Medium Education at Sgoil na Coille Nuaidh on William McIlvanney Campus, please contact the school directly on 01563 558505.
Welcome Back!
Welcome back to all our pupils! We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
Parents/ Carers please view our January Newsletter 2025
Thank You
To the wonderful families of Mount Carmel Primary, thank you for all of the love and support you have shown me during my time with you.
It truly has been a joy and a privilege to work with your amazing children. Team MC will forever be in my heart.
God bless and farewell.
Mrs McGahon
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
The staff at Mount Carmel would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday 6th January 2025.
Lunch Menu for Monday 6th January 2025
Please note when we return after the Christmas break we will be on week 2 of the school lunch menu, however, there will be a change to the menu for the Monday only of that week.
The lunch that day will be as follows:
Macaroni and Cheese
Cheese Pizzini
Ice Cream
P1 Registration Week August 2025 Intake
P1 Registration week will take place from Monday 13 January 2025 until Friday 17 January 2025 for children who attain the age of 5 years between 1 March 2025 and 28 February 2026, and whose parents/carers wish them to attend school
Registration forms should be completed online and submitted no later than Friday 17January 2025. Adverts have been placed in the Kilmarnock Standard and Cumnock Chronicle for early December to advise parents/carers. East Ayrshire Council web pages will be updated and our communication team will send out information on relevant social media platforms.
We will also send you information to go out on the Safer Schools Scotland on registration week.
Placing requests for P1’s should be completed and submitted no later than 31 January 2025.
