ERASMUS+ Comes to Successful Conclusion

Our ERASMUS+ visitors have now returned to their homes taking with them some stunning memories of Scotland, West Lothian and Carmondean P.S.  Their last day was taken up with working in classes teaching all children from Nursery right up to Primary 7 the terms in our Multi-Lingual Dictionary, which was created earlier in the project. Who could have thought that listening to and repeating words in 6 different languages could lead to such discussion when the children realised how closely related some of the languages were. In the afternoon, our guests participated in a Willow Weaving Workshop run by local artist Joan Campbell. Soon, children all over Europe will be trying out their skills as our visitors cascade their learning. The evening was pretty special too. We had challenged the catering students at West Lothian College to design a Scottish Menu for our guests which they served up to us in the Tarrace Restaurant in the college grounds. The meal was lavish and sumptuous using the very best of Scottish ingredients to produce ‘Master Chef’ quality in all three courses. Next, a speedy return to Carmondean P.S. where our guests participated in a Ceilidh. First, they were entertained by West Lothian Schools Pipe Band, who put on a dazzling display of musicianship. They were followed by four girls from the Myra Mackie School of Dance, who treated us to a display of traditional Highland dancing, including the treacherous ‘Sword Dance’. The girls put on  a skillful and precise performance for our guests. Next it was the turn of our own Carmondean P.S. Choir under the leadership of Mr John Platt. What a performance – our guests gave the choir a standing ovation which lasted for over 1 minute! Lastly, after cutting the Cake, it was time for our guests to try some Scottish Country Dancing, which they managed (sort of) before ending the night with Auld Land Syne. So, it was with an element of sadness that our visitors parted from Scotland yesterday leaving with so many happy memories and having learned and shared so much about education, learning and teaching.  Was it all worth it? You betcha!