Everyone is settled back into school routines and learning. Most classes are learning about Scotland this term and are enjoying the learning focus. Primary 6 and 7 children are participating in a ‘Discovering China’ ten week learning programme in partnership with SCILT and University of Strathclyde. They are learning Mandarin and about the culture and traditions of China.
Covid 19 Update
The following steps are still in place to reduce transmission risk:
- Children play and learn in class groups. Children do not mix with other classes at break and lunchtime.
- There are regular hand sanitising and hand washing points during the school day.
- Windows are opened to ensure ventilation.
- Children sit in designated seats at lunch tables.
Outdoor and Indoor Clothing
At the mid way point of the year, I would appreciate if you could check that your child has suitable indoor shoes and waterproof clothing for school. If you need support or assistance with purchasing these items, please contact Miss Wharton.
Free Bus Travel for 5-21 year olds
All young people and children aged 5-21 years can apply for a card from 10 January to access the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel Scheme from 31 January.
Children will need a new National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot NEC card with the valid free travel entitlement with them whenever they want to take the bus – otherwise they have to pay for their trip.
Eligibility
If you live in Scotland and are 5-21 years old, you are eligible for a card giving you free bus travel from 31 January. Children under 5 years old already travel for free on buses and don’t need a card. Applications for cards open from 10 January. However, you are being asked only to apply at this point if you need to make essential journeys by bus.
Children and young people aged 5−21 years old will need a new or replacement National Entitlement Card (NEC) or Young Scot National Entitlement Card (Young Scot NEC) before hopping on board. Previously issued cards will not allow access to the scheme.
The Transport Scotland website provides all the information needed to apply.
Key Messages
- Applications for the scheme opened on 10 January. However, please only apply if you do need to make essential journeys by bus from 31 January.
- All other eligible applicants will be encouraged to apply at a later date when the situation with the pandemic has improved.
- Even if you already have a National Entitlement Card or Young Scot National Entitlement Card, you must apply for a new or replacement card to be able to travel by bus for free.
- Information on how to apply can be found on the Transport Scotland website
- If you do have to make an essential journey by bus, you must follow the latest Scottish Government COVID–19 guidance at all times.
Free School Meals
Free school meals are now available for children up to Primary 5. Unless you have claimed a means tested free meal entitlement then milk costs 20p per day. Fresh water is always available for pupils if they do not choose to purchase milk.
Primary School and Nursery Registrations
Nursery registration is now open for eligible children using the following link:
School registration remains open for late applicants using the following link:
Nursery transfer request information can be found using the following link: https://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/info/200184/early_learning_and_childcare/556/transferring_to_another_nursery
Primary and Secondary school placing requests can be made using the following link;
Thank you for your continued support.
Kind regards
Kirsty Duff
