This is the final update of session 2020/2021 and an opportunity to reflect on a challenging but rewarding session for pupils and staff.
Our children have been outstanding, showing their ability to adapt to the restrictions imposed by Covid 19. Throughout the year they have shown resilience and commitment while learning at home and flexibility and understanding while learning in school. I am very proud of the children attending Heathery Knowe PS and all that they have achieved. The children shared their views on the school this week with 95% of pupils agreeing or strongly agreeing that staff support them to do the best they can both in learning and personal development. 92% of pupils strongly agree or agree that staff treat all pupils fairly and with respect and 92% indicating that there are adults in school that they feel they can speak to if they are worried or upset. There have been improvements in all areas over the course of the last two years as the school embeds its values of, ‘be safe, be kind, be ready’ at all times.
We are very grateful for the support of parents / carers and wider family members over the past school session. As the Head Teacher, I speak on behalf of all staff when I acknowledge the commitment that parents have shown the school when supporting their child(ren) to learn remotely and the understanding of the restrictions imposed on school by Covid 19. Thank you for the support shown to the school with improvements in the school grounds and charity and fundraising ventures. It is all appreciated and ensures the children have a breadth and depth of experience in school. Please continue to keep in close contact with the school with any comments, concerns or compliments as we continue to improve the experience of children attending Heathery Knowe PS and Nursery Class.
None of this could have been possible without the commitment and professionalism of staff working at Heathery Knowe PS and Nursery Class. Staff working in education had to change and adapt their teaching methodology and methods of communicating as we moved into a virtual teaching environment. The staff at Heathery Knowe PS and Nursery embraced the challenge and provided continuity of learning as they moved between in school and remote learning and this was recognised as good practice by Her Majesty’s Inspectors when they interacted with the school as part of the national scrutiny of remote learning.
The team work and shared commitment to Heathery Knowe learners was evident in abundance this week as we worked together to welcome new Primary 1 learners and celebrate the achievements of Primary 7 learners preparing to leave. I feel very privileged to lead a dedicated, forward thinking and dynamic team where the children are at the centre of every decision.
Unfortunately, we need to say goodbye to Mr Currie who will continue his career in another school. Miss Harper will return to Cathkin Primary as DHT there. I would like to thank Miss Harper for her depth of experience and knowledge she has shared with the Nursery Team as they prepare to move towards full time hours in the Nursery Class. Miss Gordon will remain based at Heathery Knowe PS but will provide cover across South Lanarkshire Council.
Thank you for your continued support. I hope you have a fun filled and restful summer and look forward to welcoming all children back to school on Monday 16th August 2021 at 9am.
Kind regards
Kirsty Duff
