Maths Week

We had great fun with our learning this week celebrating Maths week. The House Captains organised an online quiz for P3-7 and class quizzes for P1& 2 giving every child in the school the chance to participate.

We also made great use of the building works for the nursery as a way of making our learning in maths meaningful. Visits from the architect and current site manager, talking about how they use maths in their day to day working lives. Having access to the plans of the nursery helped us demonstrate why accurate measurement and concepts such as ‘birds-eye’ and ‘elevated’ plans are so important. We will build on this relationship between maths and the nursery build over the course of this term.

Football Success

The boys and girls in P6 & 7 were very excited to bring home the boys St John’s cup for football. Up against stiff competition from the other schools in the area, the boys came first and with girls coming second, it was a great day.

Digital Learning

Digital Schools Award

The children have increased the number and range of ways in which they access digital technologies over the past number of years. This month we are being assessed to see if we will be accredited with a Digital Schools award. Miss Galloway and Mrs McWilliams were the staff leading this work and we are really hopeful that all their hard work pays off with the school receiving the award.

Class Blogs

The class blogs are all up and running and can be accessed via the school website:

Class Blogs

Given that staff are updating the Blogs on a regular basis, they will no longer complete individual interim reports in October. All other communications with parents will continue, including open afternoons, parents evenings and final reports in June.  As always if you have any concerns or questions about your child’s learning please contact us.

Parent Council News

The Parent Council usually meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the month in Barrhead High at 7pm.

In addition the Parent Council has a Facebook page for all parents at the school: Cross Arthurlie PC/ Fundraisers. This is a closed group for parents and will provide you with information on up and coming events.

The first of the Parent Council events will be the Hallowe’en disco on Wednesday 23rd October.

 

VIP assembly

Every month we have an assembly where we celebrate children who are recognized as demonstrating the school values. This certificates were awarded for children who demonstrate the school value of honesty. Awards were presented to: Georgia Pearson: Connor Gallagher: Emily Turnbull: Sophie Paton: Scott Druce: Lewis: Sam McFadyen: Fin Martin: Ryan Connell: Adam Sharif: Lucie Johnston: Freya Davidson: Mylee Pollock: Jessica Ferguson: Travis Glasper: Lewis Murray: Harris McCulloch: Orla McSporran: Harry Johns: Amber Mungavin: Lyla Winning.

We also like to celebrate achievements out of school at these assemblies, which are usually the first Wednesday of each month. If you would like to let us know about a particular achievement, please drop us an email, or if you prefer, your child could bring an award/certificate into school so that we can celebrate their success out of school as well as those in school.

 

Mrs MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

Homework Diaries P4-7

This year we are having an increased focus on children being more active and responsible. After using the diaries for the first time last year we have redesigned them to hopefully make them more child and parent friendly. Children will record what they are learning and any significant events in this diary. Please encourage your child by regularly signing their diary and talking to them about what they have been learning.

Building Works

Fleming have been appointed as the builders for the new nursery at Cross Arthurlie. We are very excited to be having this addition to the school, although we realise it will cause some changes to our usual routines while the building is taking place. The car park in particular will be very tricky and as I have already intimated, will be for staff parking only. Anyone coming to school during the school day will have to use the side gate. New signs will be installed to remind everyone of the safe route into school. I have talked to children about this particularly as it means children arriving by taxi or being picked up for doctors/ dentist appointments will have to use the designated pedestrian access.

Please do not park at the Co-op, the space is very tight and by blocking spaces regular customers cannot get access. The Co-op are huge supporters of the school and it is disappointing that a few parents are causing difficulties for Co-opstaff .

Staffing news

Mrs McWilliams had her little boy Oliver last week (a little earlier than ex-pected). Miss Lilley started with us on a temporary basis on Friday and will be teaching the children Mrs McWilliams was previously teaching.

Google Classrooms

A number of teachers have set up ‘Google Classrooms’ for their children. Children can access these through their GLOW account on the Internet. If you don’t have access to the Internet, please ask your child’s teacher or the school office as we have a number of lunchtime homework clubs which your child could perhaps access.

Parent Council news

The Parent Council are always keen to welcome new members. They had their first meeting on Tuesday and were pleased to welcome new members. The Parent Council usually meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the month in Barrhead High at 7p.m.

In addition the parent council has a Facebook page for all parents at the school: Cross Arthurlie PC/ Fundraisers. This is a closed group for parents and will provide you with information on up and coming events.

Jackets

Could you please make sure your child has a waterproof jacket and that it has your child’s name on it.

Houses

We will have our first House meeting next Friday. All children will be part of a house and work towards weekly house prizes and a termly treat. The Houses are Craigie(yellow) ; Shanks (red); Levern (blue) and Glennifer (green)

Standards and Quality Report and School Improvement Plan

At the recent Parent Council I discussed the improvements the school has made and the focus for future improvement. These are detailed within the School Improvement Plan 2019-2022 and the Standards and Quality Report 2018-2019 which can be found on the school website.

I have prepared a summary of the documents which I have distributed with this newsletter. If anyone would like a paper copy or further information about anything in either document please don’t hesitate to contact me via the school office.

Head Lice

There have been a few reports of head lice in school. Please ensure you check your child’s head regularly and speak to your local pharmacist for advice.

VIP assembly

We also like to celebrate achievements out of school at these assemblies , which are usually the first Wednesday of each month. If you would like to let us know about a particular achievement please drop us an email, or if you prefer your child could bring an award/certificate into school so that we can celebrate their success out of school as well as those in school.

Every month we have an assembly where we celebrate children who are recognised as demonstrating the school values. This certificates were awarded for children who demonstrate the school value of fairness. Awards were presented to: Kyrin Wallace, Mia Lily Donald, Eliza Whyte, Lucy Clark, Evie Downs, Abby Shannon, jihna Khorchid, Olivia Stevenson, Zac Davidson, Orla McSporran, Naomi Blyth, Kian Dougherty, Sophie Clynes, Sam Blair, Elise Fullerton, Cara Foy, Sophie Paton, Kaci Wales, Adam Falconer, Olivia McQuade.

 

Mrs MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

Hopefully everyone will have their appointments with their child’s teacher this Wednesday and Thursday. A few other things will be happening during this time which we hope you find helpful.

Nursery Plans

The plans for the nursery are available on the Parent Council’s notice board for everyone to view and comment upon.

Chinese Art Work

As a Confucius Hub we are learning about both the language and culture of China. This term we have been celebrating the Chinese ‘Year of the Pig’ and many of the children have been creating beautiful art work. As commerce and commercial interests are an integral part of Chinese culture, on this occasion, we will have the children’s art work on display and available to buy for a small donation.

Nurturing Approaches

One of the priorities for the Cluster Improve-ment Plan was to consider how we continue to develop nurturing approaches throughout the school. We would be really grateful if you could complete a short questionnaire about this to help us with future planning.

School Show

Thanks to everyone who responded to our requests for help with costumes for the school. We are all really excited (and a bit nervous!) about the show, which will be on Thursday 28th March at 7pm in Barrhead High.

World Book Day

We had a great time last Thursday celebrating World Book Day. The children were really excited to share their favourite books and there was a real buzz around the school. One of my favourite parts of the day was when P7 and P1 shared their stories with one another. Both children in P7 and in P1 were completely engrossed in hearing from one another.

Red Nose Day

As you know P7 have been selling red noses for Red Nose Day this Friday. Children are invited to wear something red, along with their school uniform, and their noses, on Friday for a donation to this great cause. P7 will also be holding a cake & candy on Friday. Items will be priced from 20p. All donations of cake & candy will be greatly appreciated.

Easter Service

Due to the lateness of Easter this year, the Easter Service will be after our main Spring holiday this year. It will be held on Wednesday 17th April at 9:30 am. As part of the school’s charity work, P3 & P4 will be collecting flowers for display at the Easter service, which they will then be taken to a local care home.

Parent Council

We are very grateful , as a school to the Parent Council for their on-going donations to the school from fund raising activities. The school discos and family fun night are just two recent examples of the great work carried out by families in the school who volunteer their time to raise funds and provide additional experiences for your children. The dates of the next meetings (to be held in Barrhead High School ) are : 30/04/19; 04/06/19 (AGM in Cross Arthurlie).

Celebrating our Learning

Thank you to who came along to the Open Afternoon. Once again it was great to see so many friends and family in school celebrating what the children have been learning. We really appreciate the fact that so many parents and other family members take the time in their busy lives to come and see what we have been learning.

School Disco

As you know we have a one way system for pick up and drop off at the school discos. This was introduced following safety concerns when a child managed to leave the hall without an adult as people were coming in and leaving through the same doors. While we appreciate it can take a couple of minutes longer we will always put the children’s safety first.

Chinese Hub

One of the other benefit that we get from being a Confucius Hub is that we are invited to Edinburgh Zoo. Primary 6 benefitted this time and even had the treat of seeing the panda (although it was sleeping).

Sensory Garden

Mrs Eddie and the Eco-committee have worked incredibly hard to create a new sensory garden. More details to follow!

ASSEMBLY : VIP assembly, Kindness

This month’s VIP assembly was a little quiet as P5 were away to Belmont. They had an amazing time and both children and staff came back tired but happy.

There were also a number of children absent due to illness. They will receive their awards at a later date.

The award this month was for kindness and the following children achieved an award : Travis Glasper, Brayden Miller, Cara Foy, Abby Shannon, Poppy Aird, Fin Martin, Billy Gray, Brooke Pearson, Kyle Bone, Taliah Horsley, Ava McCullock, Ruby Maclaren, lee Gilmour, Sara Todd, David Jackson, Hannah More, Orla McSporran, Iona Thomason, Kiera MacPherson.

We also celebrated successes in the following: for reading, Harvey Grant, Abbie McMillan, Jack Adams and Ellie Clarkson; dancing, Linda Currie & Abi Hamilton; Brownie award, Alisha Ramsay and Cheerleading, Ruby and Lily Maclaren.

 

Mrs MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

As you will be aware one of our P6 children, Mirin, very sadly passed away in January. We held a short assembly last Thursday to celebrate her life. As well as thoughts from myself and Rev. Gordon, Miss Rice and I shared some thoughts and poems written by children. We know that supporting the children through this period of grief and loss will be on-going and have added some information for parents and children on the school website. We also have paper copies of the support leaflet available from the school office. If you would like to discuss any concerns you have around this please feel free to contact the school office.

The pupil council are chatting to the children about the possibility of planting crocuses on the hill at the back of the school in memory of Mirin and will keep everyone informed about this.

New Nursery Class

Plans for the new nursery class were shared with the Parent Council on Tuesday night. These are now available to view on the Parent Council notice board in school.

School Improvement Plan

Staff are continuing to work on developing literacy and numeracy as part of the School Improvement Plan. We have bought in a number of new resources and replaced some others.

Unfortunately we had to use £2000 of the school budget to replace missing reading books in the infant department.

Road Safety

As you know at Cross Arthurlie we have a number of children who walk or cycle to school. If you choose to drive instead please remember causing congestion or obstruction near schools is selfish and dangerous. Parking is restricted in the following:

 School keep clear and zig zag lines

 Double yellow lines

 Single yellow lines

 Parking on a pavement or verge

 Double parking and dropped footways

 School bus bays

 Pedestrian crossings

 Parking in disabled bays unless you’re a blue badge carrier

‘Cinderella and Rockerfella’

The auditions have taken place and rehearsals are underway for the school show. There will be one performance on Thursday 28th March at 7pm in Barrhead High School. We will shortly be looking for help with costumes. If anyone is able to volunteer to help with this, the school office would love to hear from you .

Parent Council

At the last Parent Council meeting I was able to share the drawings for the new nursery class planned to open in August 2020. These plans are now available to view on the Parent Council notice board. If you have any comments about the plans please leave your comments with the school office who will pass them on to the Parent Council

The dates of the next meetings (to be held in Barrhead High School ) are : 05/03/19; 30/04/19; 04/0/619 (AGM in Cross Arthurlie)

Celebrating Our Learning

Our second Open Afternoon is on Tuesday 26th February. This is a great opportunity for the children to share everything that they have been learning with their families, please come along and see what your child has been learning.

Also don’t forget to return the slip for Parents’ Evening which was issued this week.

Lots of children celebrated the life and works of Robert Burns and his impact upon Scottish culture during January. We were very grateful to the families who came along to the class assemblies of P7/1 on the Holocaust and P4/2 on the Rainforest. It’s really great to see how these important issues are well understood by our children in order that they build a better future .

Chinese New Year

As a Confucius Hub we have once again been celebrating Chinese New Year . Each class has also been working on some Chinese art work which you will be available to view and buy during Parents’ Night. We are also, once again, able to run our very popular Chinese Family Cookery Club. All of these activities are possible due to the additional funding we receive from CISS (Confucius Institute in Scotland).

ASSEMBLY : VIP Assembly

We had our VIP Assembly on Wednesday this week. It was great to celebrate the children who were recognized as demonstrating the school value of ‘respect’.

Well done to the following children:

Eliza Whyte, May Crangle, Ellie Clarkson, Laurel Maclaren, Ruby Noble, Beth Conroy, Molly Docherty, Emme Johnston, Robyn Shirlaw, David Brook, Erin Brogan, Dominique McEwan, Lauren Jamieson, Josh McFarlane, Bruce Hannah, Chloe Forbes, Kelly Rocks, Jessica Ferguson, Aeryn Thomson & Abbie Noble.

During our VIP Assembly we also celebrate children who have achievements out of school and in their community. This month we celebrated the following children : Aimee Williamson for dancing : Dylan Quinn and Lewis Murray for football : Under 13s and Under 11s boys and girls football.

If you child has anything they would like to share or an achievement to celebrate, they can do so on the first Wednesday of each month. Please feel free to drop me an email if there is something you would like to share.

Red Nose Day—Friday 15 March

Details will follow next week about Red Nose Day.

School Photographer

Please note Tempest Photographers will be in school on Friday 22 March to take P1 & P7 class photos.

Imaginative Play Donations

The children in P1 are looking for toy donations to use in class i.e. dinosaurs, doll-pram/buggy/highchair/cot, action figures, vehicles etc. If you have anything in good working order that you would be happy to donate, we would be most grateful. Thanking you!

Daily Absences

Please remember if your child is going to be absent from school you must contact the school office between 8.30-9.30am to report this absence.

 

Mrs MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

Welcome Back

Welcome back and I hope you all had a great Christmas and New Year, and were able to enjoy the festivities despite the colds, flu and chicken pox which have been doing the rounds. It was great to hear from the children about the time they spent with friends and family and of course the presents many of them received.

Staffing

Many of you will be aware that Mrs Scott is moving to New Zealand and wished us a sad farewell on the last day of term. Mrs MacDougall welcomed her baby, Oliver, at the beginning of the year and I’m pleased to let you know both mum and baby are doing well. Miss McGoran, who has been in Cross Arthurlie for a few years on a temporary basis, will also be leaving us this month and we wish her well . On Monday we welcomed Mrs Fishwick as a new member of teaching staff who will be with us on a part-time, temporary basis until June. Classes who have been impacted by these changes have been informed. In addition to changes in teaching staff we also welcomed Mrs Shankland as a new PSA to the school. Having previously worked in MACS and as a cleaner in the school she is already familiar with staff and children.

Road Safety

As you know at Cross Arthurlie we have a number of children who walk or cycle to school. If you choose to drive instead please remember causing congestion or obstruction near schools is selfish and dangerous. Parking is restricted in the following:

 School keep clear and zig zag lines

 Double yellow lines

 Single yellow lines

 Parking on a pavement or verge

 Double parking and dropped footways

 School bus bays

 Pedestrian crossings

 Parking in disabled bays unless you’re a blue badge carrier

‘Cinderella and Rockerfella’

We have started working on the school production with children in P6 & 7 learning songs and auditioning for parts. We have been really impressed so far with the way in which children have approached this activity: learning lines, acting and learning songs words for the audition process. Miss Rice and I are going to have a very difficult task next week as we seek to cast the production.

Parent Council

Representatives from the Parent Council have met with a number of people from East Renfrewshire Council as we seek to address the challenges of selfish and careless parking around the school.

The dates of the next meetings (to be held in Barrhead High School ) are : 05/02/19; 05/03/19; 30/04/19; 04/0/619 (AGM in Cross Arthurlie)

P4 Swimming

P4 will be swimming this term. As part of our commitment to reducing the cost of the school day and to ensure that all children can participate in learning this important skill we have decided to use P.E.F. funding to support this activity.

P1 & 2 Muddy Movers

Primary 1 are really looking forward to developing their learning outdoors through the ‘Muddy Movers’ programme. This will involve the children working together to move large items outdoors and develop their skills and abilities in problem solving.

With the help of funding from the Parent Council we now have new waterproof trousers and jackets which the children in P2 are able to access.

Primary 7 Transfer and Primary 1 Registration

ERC are looking to streamline processes regarding registering your child for school. Online registration for P1 parents has already taken place with parents coming into school from14-18 January 1.45-3.30pm, with the required documentation.

P7 parents have already received their transfer forms through the post and these should be returned to school by Monday 14 January along with your 2018/19 Council Tax bill and a recent utility bill.

ASSEMBLY : Special Treat

This week’s assembly at Cross Arthurlie was very different!

On Monday we were contacted by M&M Productions offering us a FREE performance of their production of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ for Wednesday morning. It was a brilliant pantomime performance which all children thoroughly enjoyed, with lots of the usual booing, hissing and singing along one expects with a traditional pantomime.

 

Mrs MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

Visitor from (and to) China

Last Friday we were privileged to welcome a delegation of Chinese Head Teachers and Government Officials to Cross Arthurlie. They spent the morning in the school talking with Mrs MacDonald and touring the school, visiting many classes. They were very impressed with equipment available in the school, the welcoming staff and the very polite children who were all very interested in their learning.

We are also very excited to hear that Miss Rice will be visiting China, representing Cross Arthurlie and finding out about schools and culture there. We can’t wait to see her photographs!

Fruity Friday

As part of our commitment to being a Health Promoting School the Pupil Council have decided to introduce ‘Fruity Friday’. Children who only bring or buy healthy snacks such as fruit and vegetables will get a point on a Friday and the class with the highest percentage of children bringing only a healthy snack will get an extra playtime at the end of the month.

GDPR

The introduction of GDPR has meant a few changes for us as we wait for consent for photographs to be used ensuring that we are complying with your wishes as parents with regard to sharing information. We are aware that this has meant some class blogs have been delayed.

As we can no longer give out information to children about clubs in the community we have introduced a ‘Community’ wall near to the school office with leaflets and information about various different organisations in the area, please feel free to help yourself to any information there.

All About the Books!

At assembly on Wednesday I explained to the children that we are having difficulties with children taking books home and forgetting to return them. We are therefore having a BOOK AMNESTY ! If you have any school books at home could I ask that you return them (no questions … no fines… no rows… just a thank you in return !)

Dogs in the Playground

Could I please remind everyone that dogs are not permitted in the school grounds.

Parent Council News

The Parent Council usually meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. The latest meeting was on Tuesday 2nd October and in addition to school budgets and fundraising we were joined by one of the local Cllr Danny Devlin to discuss parking issues around the school.

The dates of the next meetings (to be held in Barrhead High School ) are : 06/11/18; 27/11/18; 05/02/19; 05/03/19; 30/04/19; 04/06/19 (AGM in Cross Arthurlie)

Parent Council Events

The next event planned by the Parent Council is the Hallowe’en Disco, Tuesday 23rd October.

Supporting Learning Outdoors

As you know we are really keen to encourage children to learn outdoors as well as indoors. We are looking to see if anyone, especially if you have recently had building work done, would have any off cuts of large planks of decking or guttering. The P1 & P2 children love working together to build and balance using these.

The Parent Council have said they would willingly buy some new waterproof clothing for the children to use but had wondered if anyone had some waterproofs (or wellies) that folks were no longer using that they would be willing to donate to the school.

The school garden is taking shape once again thanks to Mrs Eddie and the Eco-Committee, if you were able to help in any way with this please contact the school office and Mrs Eddie will be in touch.

Open Afternoon

The first Open Afternoon of this session will be this Thursday 11th October. This is always a great opportunity for you to visit your child’s class and find out about what they have been learning since August.

V.I.P. ASSEMBLY

We had our first VIP assembly on Wednesday this week It was great to celebrate the children who were recognized as demonstrating the school value of “loyalty” .

Well done to the following children:

Grace Falconer, Lucy Clark, Max Morrison, Holly Simpson, Amirah Gad El Karim, Tara Hoppe, Zac Davidson, Freya Wilson, Evie McFarlane, Kaci Wales, Mylee Pol-lock, Chloe Forbes, Robbie Wallace, Jack Laing, Paul McEwan, Olivia McQuade, Kaiden Horsley, Alex Grassie, Katie Mackle.

During our VIP assembly we also celebrate children who have achievements out of school and in their community. This month we celebrated Blair Auchincloss who participates in BB, swimming and rugby; Anna Dove who has a new

role in Brownies and Emily Conaghan who got her Grade 1 in piano. If your child has anything they’d like to share or achievement to celebrate they can do so on the first Wednesday of the month. Please feel free to drop me an email if there’s something you’d like to share too… it’s great to see the look of surprise on their faces.

Bikes and Scooters

It is great to see so many children coming to school by bike or on their scooters. Please remember to be aware of children if you are bringing your child to school by car and remember everyone on a bike or scooter should be wearing a helmet.

Duathlon

Recently children in P6 & P7 took part in a Cycling & Running Duathlon. Four children from each house will compete against each other to see who the overall champions are.

 

Mrs Fiona MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

 

Maths Week 10th—16th

Throughout Scotland schools and businesses will be celebrating Maths Week next week. Last year we celebrated by taking our maths outdoors and this year we are looking to help children have a “I can do it” approach to maths. Each day Mrs Duncan has organised for every class to complete a daily maths puzzle which will help children to try different methods of getting their answers.

The House Captains, with the help of Miss Rice, will organise a House Maths Quiz and Primary 7 will participate in a range of different puzzles. I can’t wait to see all the creative and fun ways the children find to use maths. Regular updates on the week will be available through the school Twitter account.

School Improvement Plan and Standards and Quality Report

As part of our duties to ensure that we continue to support children and improve the school we think about our strengths and areas we need to improve every year. The Standards and Quality Report lets you know what has happened over the year and identifies the areas we still need to work on. The School Improvement Plan sets out how we will address the needs that have been identified over the course of the year. Full details of these are available on the school website with a summary version being given to all parents.

Homework Diaries

New diaries have been issued to children in Primaries 4-7 where they will not only record their homework but also their learning and with the support of the teacher plan their next steps. We hope that children will begin to take more personal responsibility for their learning and have an increased sense of achievement by doing so.

Parking

Unfortunately a number of parents are continuing to park in a way which is putting children at risk. It is ILLEGAL to park in the school bus bay. A number of parents have raised their concerns with me and the police have been informed.

Parent Council news

The Parent Council usually meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. The first meeting was on Tuesday 4th September and as well as sharing reports I gave an update on the school budget. It was also great to hear of all the events which the fundraising committee are hoping to run this year. As a school we really appreciate the Parent Council and all the work they do on behalf of the school.

The dates of the next meetings (to be held in Barrhead High School ) are : 02/10/18; 06/11/18; 27/11/18; 05/02/19; 05/03/19; 30/04/19; 04/06/19 (AGM in Cross Arthurlie)

Jackets & Uniform

Can I please ask once again that you put your child’s name on items they bring to school. Unfortunately children do leave items in the playground or put their things on the wrong peg. If you show your child where they will find their name it also helps as then they can take responsibility for finding their things.

After School Clubs

Mrs Duncan and Mrs Campbell are currently working on the after school clubs which will run this year. Please don’t worry if your child doesn’t get their first choice the first time around we work very hard to ensure that all children can access something that they like in the course of the year.

Miss Gibson had a wonderful first lunchtime choir club this week, really looking forward to hearing what this year’s choir sound like… they have a lot to live up to after last year.

Bikes and Scooters

It is great to see so many children coming to school by bike or on their scooters. Please remember to be aware of children if you are bringing your child to school by car and remember everyone on a bike or scooter should be wearing a helmet. Some Primary 7 pupils are embarking on Bikeability Level 3 training. They are really excited to be developing their skills at an advanced level.

 

V.I.P. ASSEMBLY

We had our first VIP assembly on Wednesday this week It was great to celebrate the children who were recogniSed as demonstrating the school value of “fairness” .

Well done to the following children:

Harris McCulloch, Emaline Boyd, Isla Nisbet, Darcey Lucas, Grace MacDonald, Hollie Clarkson, Anna Lagan, Grace Todd, Alastair McKel-vie, Daisy Aird, Kayla Condron, Kaidence Wright, Zoe Semple, Holly Rankin, Bruce Hannah, Kaiden Hors-ley, Amie Williamson, Anna Dove, Lauren Jamieson, Taliah Horsley and Kaiden Wales.

During our VIP assembly we also celebrate children who have achievements out of school and Zara McAdam was awarded a certificate for art. Isla Carruth was also presented with a ‘Mollie’s Dolly’ from the charity Children’s Heart Federation as a thank you for designing a poster for their charity. If your child has anything they’d like to share or achievement to celebrate they can do so on the first Wednesday of the month. Please feel free to drop me an email if there’s something you’d like to share too… it’s great to see the look of surprise on their faces.

Mrs Fiona MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

Additional Teachers

It’s great to see everyone back in Cross Arthurlie and to welcome a number of new staff. Miss MacLean (P2/2), Miss McGhie (P5/2) will be with us for the year and Miss Little (P7/1) will be here permanently. We are also in the very fortunate position of having a number of teachers who will be teaching vari-ous groups of children at different points throughout the week. Mrs Carr, Mrs Berry, Mrs Britton, Miss McGoran, Mr Gouchez, Mrs Eddie, Mrs Shearman and Mrs Scott will be teaching a range of different subjects throughout the school extending the children’s learning either by co-operatively teaching with the class teacher or perhaps teaching in smaller groups.

Miss Jardine has also joined us as a Pupil Support Assistant.

GDPR

As you will be aware new laws came into force in May which effect how personal information is handled. In the next few days you will receive a number of forms which will need to be completed and returned. We would be very grateful if these are completed and returned ASAP.

A number of parents had not completed forms last year and this has meant that important information is not able to be passed on to their child. If you think you are missing out on information please contact the school office who will be able to help.

Primary 1

The children in Primary 1 have settled really well and enjoying continuing to learn through their play as well as other forms of learning.

Remits

The Senior Management Team have maintained their remits from last year. As Headteacher I have overall responsibility for the school however in addition I also have a particular focus on the children in P1 & 2. Mrs Duncan (PT) has responsibility for P3 & 4 and Miss Rice (DHT) has responsibility for P5, 6 & 7.

Parking

Please be considerate when using your car in and around the school. The school car parks are for staff only and should not be used by parents. There have been a number of near misses in the past and we do not want any child to come to harm. The school bus drop off point MUST be kept clear at all times.

Parent Council News

The Parent Council are always keen to welcome new members. The Parent Council usually meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. The first meeting will be held in the school from 7pm on Tuesday 4th September and will be a cheese and wine event. Please come along to meet everyone and find out how you can help support your child by supporting the work of the parent council. In addition the parent council has a Facebook page for all parents at the school: Cross Arthurlie PC/ Fundraisers. This is a closed group for parents and will pro-vide you with information on up and coming events.

The dates of the next meetings (to be held in Barrhead High School ) are : 02/10/18; 06/11/18; 27/11/8; 05/02/19; 05/03/19; 7/5/19; 04/06/18 (AGM in Cross Arthurlie)

Jackets & Uniform

We are keen to ensure that children are able to make the most of playtime and, given that we live in the west of Scotland, this will mean that sometimes when the children are out playing it may be raining. Could you please make sure your child has a waterproof jacket and that it has your child’s name on it. We encourage the children to be responsible for their belongings, but sometimes they can become misplaced and it is much easier to return lost property if items are clearly labeled.

The children are all looking wonderful in their school uniforms which is in line with East Renfrewshire Council’s “Dressing for Excellence” policy. We prefer the children to be in recognisable Cross Arthurlie uniforms with sweatshirts and polo shirts for younger children and shirts and ties for older. This does not mean all items have to be branded with the school badge, as plain navy sweatshirts and plain polo shirts are perfectly acceptable. If you have any questions about school uniform please don’t hesitate to ask. Thank you for your continued support with this as it genuinely helps us build and develop a real sense of community and being part of something that matters.

PE and Outdoor Learning

We are looking forward to making the most of our wonderful outdoor space. In Primary 1 & 2 the children will be learning outdoors on a regular basis and will be working through a programme called “Muddy Movers” which seeks to develop their large motor skills and encourage them to work cooperatively. Could I ask if you have not already done so, you drop off a pair of wellies for your child.

Most children will have two PE slots one of 100 minutes and one of 50. Initially P1 will have 3 x 50 minute slots.

Mrs Duncan is introducing a new PE programme to children in Primaries 4– 7 which will also involve the children in being outside. It is im-portant therefore that children in the upper school also have suitable kit for PE outdoors.

Bikeability

Miss Rice is once again supporting P7 children in gaining their bikeability level 3 awards. We are keen to continue to be health promoting and encouraging children to bring their bikes to school. Bikeability is one way of ensuring that when children are using their bikes they are doing so safely.

A new bike shelter has been fitted in the infant playground where children can safely leave their bikes.

Mrs Fiona MacDonald

Head Teacher

 

Whatever the Weather

We are looking forward to being outdoors as much as possible over as summer approaches. We are aware however that, living in Scotland the weather is likely to change . Please ensure your child has suitable clothing to be outside and if the sun ever decides to shine brightly on us again that your child has a hat in their bag if they need one.

The children are happier and healthier if they are outside at playtime and I am looking to see how we can make better use of the grassed area for learning and for playtimes. P.E. will also be outdoors as much as possible this term.

Confucius Hub

Being a ‘Hub’ school for Mandarin means that children in Cross Arthurlie have access to a number of additional activities that we otherwise wouldn’t access.

This term we are delighted to welcome Scottish Opera to work with Primary 6 and 7 on a performance of ’The Dragon of the Western Sea’ . The children have loved learning the songs so far and I’m sure will enjoy both the workshop and performance which are part of the programme.

This term we are also able to offer an after school Chinese cookery club for parents and their children.

This has been an extremely popular club and we had so many families applying we had to pull names out of a hat.

Questionnaire Returns

Thanks to everyone who came along to Parents’ Evenings just before the end of term. During that time we were very grateful to those of you who managed to complete a questionnaire about your child’s experience in Cross Arthurlie.

The responses were generally very positive and we will use the information from this to inform the school’s Standards and Quality report and School Improvement Plan.

Scottish National Standardised Assessments (SNSA)

For the first time this year children across Scotland in Primaries 1,4 and 7 are participating in online assessments of their literacy and numeracy. In Cross Arthurlie these will take place in April and May. Anyone needing more information is welcome to come into school or access the SNSA parents website.

Parent Council

Spring Fun day is coming up on Saturday 19th May we are having a dress down day on Friday 11th May, please bring a donation for the tombola. More information will follow but we’re looking forward to a hopefully beautiful morning!

Dates of next meetings: May 1st (Barrhead High) and June 5th AGM at Cross Arthurlie

Events coming up: 19th May: Spring Fun Day; 12th June discos : 21st June: Leaver’s Dance

After School and Lunchtime Clubs

We have so many after school and lunchtime clubs happening this term it’s going to be hard to keep up with them all. Thanks to Mrs Duncan for organising these and to Gary McGunnigle, our fabulous Ac-tive Schools Coordinator for his support.

Big Pedal

Over the next fortnight we are also participating in The Big Pedal. Children across the school have been encouraged to bring their bikes and scooters to school. Thanks to Miss Rice and the JRSOs for organising this.

Bikeability

Primary 6 are currently being trained in stage of Bikeability. Thanks to the parents and staff who are supporting our children in learning how to cycle safely.

Taster Days

Our taster days for children will be on Tuesday 12th (pm) and Wednesday 13th June (am). Parents of children who are new to Primary 1 will have the chance to come with their children to school on that day and all other children will have the opportunity to hopefully meet their new teacher.

VIP ASSEMBLY

We had our monthly VIP assembly last Wednesday celebrating the school value of kindness. The following children were awarded VIP certificates : Ellie Clarkson, Robbie Reid, Alfie MacDonald, Michael Blyth, Ramine Uthmani, Sebastian Donald, Evie McFarlane, David Brook, Leigha Harvey, Paul McEwan, Kaiden Wales, Holly Rankin, Dean Wilson, Niamh Stewart, Ruby Noble, Sam Blair, Josh McFarlane, Lewis Martin, James Leaf.

We also celebrated a range of achievements out of school:

Dancing: Evie Downs and Isla Thomson; Cheerleading: Lily Maclaren, Ruby Maclaren, Millie Craig.

 

Communication

Thanks to everyone for your support during the recent spell of severe weather. We tried to ensure that everyone was kept up to date with information about whether the school was closed or not via text alerts, Twitter and on the Parent Council Facebook page. Hopefully everyone received a text from the school, but if not it could be that you have changed your phone and not got around to letting us know. If you could do so as soon as possible we would really appreciate it.

As you will see I have decided to send a paper copy, one per family, of the newsletter in addition to the email. I became aware that some people were missing out on information so hopefully this way everyone will receive a copy.

Open Afternoon and Homework

Thanks to everyone who came along to our Open Afternoon. I know from your comments that you really enjoy seeing the children in their classes and finding out about what they have been learning.

This time I also asked for parents views on homework and what any changes that we should make to homework in Cross Arthurlie. We received some great ideas of ways in which we should change some things and met last week, as a staff to discuss the findings. It was interesting that there was a bit of a difference between the comments from P1 & 2 and the rest of the school but one thing which was agreed upon was for homework to be perhaps issued weekly to allow for clubs etc. to be accommodated. We will also consult with children on their views on homework and will pull together the comments to support us in developing a new homework system.

Lord Provost’s Debate

Primary 7/2 even took their thoughts on homework to the Lord Provost, as they debated the issue of homework in the Council Chamber.

World Book Day

Although we missed the official World Book Day due to snow it was great that it was able to go ahead last Tuesday … this time despite the snow! The children loved hearing stories being read by different teachers and there was a lovely happy atmosphere in the school that day. Many children, and staff had chosen to dress up in their favourite characters and looked great.

Primary 5 Residential

P5 had a great visit to Belmont Outdoor Centre last week. They were enthusiastic about trying new challenges and enjoyed their time making the most of the great outdoors.

Parent Council

The Parent Council support the school with fundraising and as a mechanism for gathering parent views on matters which affect the school. We are really fortunate to benefit from the funds raised by the Parent Council and will be using some of the money raised recently to subsidize the cost of up and coming school trips. We are looking to have a flat fee of £3.00 per class trip in the first instance and see how this unfolds.

Dates of next meetings: May 1st (Barrhead High) and June 5th AGM at Cross Arthurlie

Events coming up: 19th May: Spring Fun Day; 12th June discos : 21st June: Leaver’s Dance

Primary 4 Read Shakespeare

Read me and set me free!’ Pri-mary 4 have been given a ‘Wild Book’ for @Shakespeare-Week. They will read the book in class before setting it free in Barrhead for the next lucky person to find. Watch this space tomorrow for a clue on where to find it…

Sport Relief 2018

P7 invite family and friends to join them in their Sponsored Mile Run at Cowan Park for Sport Relief on 23rd March 2018. Sponsor forms are out now!

Parents’ Nights

You will receive information about appointments for next weeks Parents’ Nights. We look forward to seeing you then

Easter Service

Our Easter Service will be Thursday 29th March at 9:30, everyone is very welcome to attend this celebration. As is the usual tradition, if you’d like to donate some flowers to the school, for distribution around the local care homes, please send them to school on that day.

Primary 5 Charity

Primary 5 raised £ 261 by holding a crazy hair day on Friday 23rd February for the Royal Hospital for Children.

VIP Assembly

We had our monthly VIP assembly last Wednesday celebrating the school value of responsibility. The fol-lowing children were awarded VIP certifi-ates : Sophie Munro, Zack Kenny, Aimee Williamson, Isla Thomson, Anna Dove, Brooke Pearson, Ellis Townsend, Abby Reid, Millie Downs, Abby Drummond, Adam Brownlie, Blair Dobbins, Beth lemke, Fraser Leaf, Zoe Sem-ple, Adam Wilson.

We also celebrated a range of achievements out of school:

Dancing: Lacie Mia Cur-rie; Football: Dylan Quinn and Kamiran Othman

 

Mrs MacDonald

Head Teacher