It has been a busy first full week back.
We are so proud of how everyone is adjusting to their new routines, classrooms and learning groups. The beginning of any term can be challenging but particularly the first term after summer. Change can be difficult.
There is information to support parents with transitions here;
https://auth.education.gov.scot/parentzone/my-child/transitions/
Next week our P7 learners will be able to canvas for votes for the positions of House Captains, Head Boy/Depute Head Boy, Head Girl/Depute Head Girls. In addition to this there will be other leadership roles available in the coming weeks. Our P7s are wonderful role models for our younger pupils.
P6 & P7 pupils have the opportunity to be involved in the school newspaper. Thank You to those pupils who have already come forward.
Attendance
On Monday we had 100% attendance and took the opportunity to get a whole school photograph. It is so great to have everyone together. Good attendance helps form stronger bonds within our school community.
The overall attendance for the week was 95%. This is broken down by stage at;
P1 – 100%
P2 – 95%
P3 – 99%
P4 – 92%
P5 – 93%
P6 – 87%
P7 – 97%
This is a disappointing start at some stages. Everyday your child misses matters. We know genuine illness and family emergencies cannot be avoided, however, when this is added to non genuine reasons for absence it becomes problematic. Good routines that are consistent and predictable in the mornings and at bedtimes can help. Eating a balanced diet and taking part in regular exercise also help. If you need help with putting this in place please reach out and we can signpost to agencies that can support parents.
Class Charters
Ask your child about their class charter. Each session class teachers work with pupils to create a class charter. This is a set of expectations; decided by the children, of what the acceptable standards of conduct are. This supports our work around the United Nations Convention for the Rights of the Child. (UNCRC).
Assembly Focus – Forgiveness
Each week in assembly we explore themes related to the Gospel through resources endorsed by the Bishops Conference of Scotland. This week we talked about how forgiveness complements our school value of Harmony. There is a ‘mission sheet’ attached that will help you know what we are learning about. There are also ‘wonder questions’ that are set each week. These are great for promoting listening and talking skills and opening up conversations at home. Mission+Files+-+Week+One
A special thanks to Phoebe, Farrah and Alissa for helping show the actions to one of our favourite hymns to our newest pupils and to Marlene, Khiara, Jessica, Aanya-Lillie, Ella and Emily for helping set up and tidy up for assemblies.
Golden Book
Each week in assembly certificates are given to those children who have been nominated in our Golden Book. These are children who have demonstrated one or more of our school values to a high standard. 
This weeks nominees;
HARMONY – Seve, Kasey, Kendall
AMBITION- Niyah, Grayson, Hannah, Lia, Max, Oliver
EQUITY –
RESPECT- Aili, Luna, Kendall
FAITH –
Well done to you all.
Partnerships
YMI – we will be supported by Mrs Hill again to take part in the whole class strings project. Mrs Hill will work with P5/6 to continue the project started last session and will also work with P4/5 on the ‘I’ve got Rhythm project’. Mrs Hill will be in school on Monday mornings. Rock n Role Models will once gain provide small group song writing and creativity weekly sessions. Paul will be in school on Tuesday mornings.
Barry, our Active Schools Coordinator has already been in touch to discuss up coming opportunities. We will give details of what’s on offer in the coming weeks.
EIT – Education Inclusion Team are in school on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Mrs Avdic-Cekic and Mrs Fraser support pupils for who English is an additional language and Mrs Thompson will provide support for a range of additional support needs.
Football
As you may be aware we have enjoyed lots of recent success with our school football team. WE are indebted to Kenny and Josie who so generously gave their own time to coach our team.
We are on the lookout for new coaches. Our football team is open to P5-P7 pupils. This is of a competitive nature and is suitable for those who already play at a competitive level and train with a club.
If you would be interested in getting involved please get in touch. We would be keen to get this up and running as soon as possible.
Other After School Opportunities
Do you have a particular skill or interest that you would like to teach or coach our children in – please get in touch. We would be particularly interested in someone who can support with our school grounds, other sporting activities (badminton, netball), creative interests…
It’s the Diocesan Annual Pilgrimage to Whithorn on Sunday. Mass will take place on the beach next to St Ninians’s cave and be celebrated by Bishop Frank. Have a great day if you are going along.
