Latest Parent Information

Please see our weekly update below.

Highlights of the Week

• Christmas Show Success: What an incredible evening we had at our Christmas Show! The pupils were absolutely fantastic, and it was wonderful to see so many families there supporting them. A huge thank you to all staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the event such a success. We also really appreciate the efforts of our Parent Council, who raised a fantastic £468 at the show. Incredible!
• Festive Fun: This week, pupils enjoyed three brilliant Christmas parties across the school. It was lovely to see everyone dressed up and having fun together. We even had a special visitor at our Primary 1-3 party…ho ho ho! All children received a selection box, which was organised by the Parent Council through a donation from Tesco and partly funded by the Parent Council too. We are truly grateful for this kind gesture.
• Community Singing: Our Primary 4 and Primary 5 pupils visited Tigh Na Drochaid to share some festive songs. They sang beautifully and brought lots of Christmas cheer to the guests. I was able to go along and watch the classes and I was so incredibly proud of each and every one of them. They are a credit to our school. 
• Christmas Lunch: We all enjoyed a delicious Christmas lunch yesterday – thank you to our kitchen team for working so hard to prepare such a delicious meal and for making it so special.
• Dance Festival: Primary 7 pupils represented our school at the ASG Dance Festival and did us proud with their energy and enthusiasm. They enjoyed meeting lots of other pupils from schools across the Island. A special thanks goes to Sarah Ross for coordinating such a great event.
• Home Farm Visit: Primary 7 also visited Home Farm this week, spreading festive joy and connecting with our local community. Our school really is so wonderful and it is great to be able to share this out in the community.

Looking Ahead

• Tue 23^rd Dec: Last day of term – Christmas Service at Shepherds Way Church at 10am. Parents and carers are warmly invited to come along to our service. We will be collecting donations at the service for Mountain Rescue, so pupils can donate if they wish. Parents and carers are invited to stay for tea and coffee after our Christmas Service.
• Tue 23^rd Dec: Last day of term – Festive Walk (Children can wear Christmas jumpers on this day)

Reminders

Lego Club

There will be no Lego club next week, but it will return in the new term.

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways and be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.   We would urge parents who are dropping off or collecting pupils not to use the school/nursery staff car park. The community police liaison officer is going to be working closely with the school to support us to ensure everyone is safe.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

A Personal Note

It’s been a wonderful festive season in school, and I’m so proud of our pupils and staff for all their hard work and kindness. Thank you to families for your continued support – it makes such a difference. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we look forward to seeing you in 2026!

Warm regards,
Jennifer Tyronney

I hope this update finds you well. As your new Head Teacher, I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for their support and kindness as I have navigated this period of transition. I want to share what’s been happening in school this week and what’s coming up.

Highlights of the Week

• Learning Focus: This week, pupils have been focusing on rehearsals for the school show. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and creativity and I’m sure you will all be incredibly proud watching them on the stage on Monday evening. A huge thankyou to all staff for working so hard in the lead up to the show. So much work goes into organising, rehearsing and performing a whole school show and its testament to the hard work of our fantastic staff and pupils.
• Celebrating Success: A big well done to our Primary 6 pupils who attended the dance festival with other pupils from the ASG on Tuesday. They conducted themselves beautifully and had a great time. Thank you also to all pupils for their support in taking part in Christmas Jumper Day 2025 and for the kind donations.

A huge congratulations to Joni in Primary 7, who came second in the West Highland Free Press colouring competition. We are all very proud of her!

• Community Spirit: Our Primary 4 and Primary 5 pupils attended the community pantomime yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed it. The cast commended the behaviour of our pupils and the encouragement they gave to our own pupils and staff taking part. A huge thankyou to our Parent Council, who supported with the funding for this. There are still shows tonight and tomorrow afternoon if anyone would like to go along. Tickets can be purchased at www.portreeandbraes.org/events/

I love hearing all about our pupil’s good news and achievements and like to share this at assembly. If your child has anything that they would like to share, please send me an e-mail and I will celebrate this at our weekly assembly. Thanks.

Looking Ahead

• Mon 15^th Dec: Christmas Show Rehearsal (9:30am, The Venue, Portree High School)
• Mon 15^th Dec: Christmas Show (6pm, The Venue)
• Tue 16^th Dec: P7 Dance Festival (10am–12pm), P1–3 Christmas Party (PM)
• Wed 17^th Dec: P4 & P5 Christmas Party (PM)
• Thu 18^th Dec: Christmas Lunch, P6 & P7 Christmas Party (PM)
• Tue 23^rd Dec: Last day of term – Christmas Service at Shepherds Way Church
• Tue 23^rd Dec: Last day of term – Festive Walk (Children can wear Christmas jumpers on this day)

Reminders

Christmas Show

Our Christmas Show will take place from 6pm on Monday 15^th November.  Can pupils please arrive no earlier than 5:45pm to allow staff time to set up. Tickets for this were sent home on Monday.  A reminded that if you do not wish to attend, please return your tickets to the school.  If you require more than two tickets, please contact the school office. The Parent Council will be selling raffle tickets before the show and there are 3 fantastic hampers to be won. Winners will be announced on Monday evening. We will also have some donation buckets on show night and will be accepting donations to go towards our school funds.

Christmas Parties

Our Christmas parties take place next week and we are so excited to see the pupils dressed up and enjoying some festive fun. As parties take place in the afternoon, pupils should bring party clothes to school, and they can get changed at lunchtime.

Term 2 After School Clubs

After School clubs will not run until the New Year. We will let pupils know which clubs are available and how pupils can sign up. I’d like to thank all of our fantastic club organisers for giving up their time to provide these opportunities for pupils.

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways and be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

A Personal Note

It’s been a privilege to meet so many of you already. I’m committed to working closely with families to ensure every child feels safe, happy, and ready to learn. If you have any questions or ideas, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Dear parents/carers,

Please see our weekly update below.

Head Teacher Handover

Mrs Tyronney and I have spent much of the past week working together in preparation for next week’s change of Head Teacher.  Mrs Tyronney will begin as Head Teacher on Monday 8^th, therefore this week’s update will be the last one written by me.  It’s been a pleasure to have been Acting Head Teacher over the past two years, and I have particularly enjoyed getting to know many of the parents and families in our school community.  Thank you all for being so supportive.

I now look forward to returning to my substantive role as Area Additional Support Needs Teacher, where I will continue to work in Portee Primary School at least 3 days per week, beginning next week.

Please direct any emails relating to leadership of the school to Mrs Tyronney (Jennifer.pringle@highland.gov.uk) from Monday onwards.

Visit to Skye Stroke Friends at Skeabost Hall

12 members of our P6 class volunteered to visit Skeabost Hall this week to meet and entertain members of Skye Stroke Friends.  I was so proud of how mature and confident they all were in their interactions with others.  It was great to see and hear their skilled performances including the multi-talented Hamish’s piping and Highland Dancing, as well as the group’s Christmas singing.  Well done!

The class members who did not go to Skeabost Hall were tasked with supporting learners in P1/2 for an hour in the afternoon.  I have had very positive reports about how helpful and supportive these children were with younger learners.  Well done to them, and to everyone in P6 for representing the school in such a brilliant way.

Shinty Success

Our shinty team (P4 and P5) performed exceptionally well at last Friday’s tournament in Kyleakin, making it all the way to the final!  Very well done to all involved for their great effort and determination. 

Christmas Show

Our Christmas Show will take place from 6pm on Monday 15^th November.  Tickets for this will be sent home next week.  Each family will receive two tickets, if you do not wish to attend please return your tickets to the school.  If you require more than two tickets, please contact the school office and we will put you on a waiting list.

Community Panto Visit P4 & 5

The Primary 4 and 5 classes will be going to a performance of the Community Panto on Thursday 11^th December.  They will be treated to a performance of ‘The Grinch’.  This will take place during school hours from 11am onwards.  Thank you to the Parent Council for funding this for us.

Community Panto

We know that several of our children have parts in the Community Panto next week, and we wish them all the very best with this.  Parents of performers should be aware that we do expect them in school on Friday 12^th (though we understand that they will be tired from the night before).  Friday 12^th is an important day for us as we will be rehearsing for our own Christmas performance – so it’s really important that the children are in school for this.  Parents should note that all children will be walking to Portree High School on the morning of Friday 12^th for a rehearsal at the venue, this will also be the case on the morning of Monday 15^th.  We will leave the school at 9.15am both days, so any children arriving late those days should be brought directly to Portree High School to meet their class there.

Christmas Jumper Day

Please note that we are encouraging children to wear their festive jumpers next Friday 12^th December.

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Lego Club	Tuesdays 3.30-4.15pm	School (P6 classroom)	Limited numbers

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Tuesday 9th December	Primary 6 at  Dance Festival at Portree High School.  10am-12pm
Thursday 11th December	P4 & P5 out at Community Panto.  11.15am at Community Centre (packed lunch required)
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day Christmas Show Rehearsal 9.30am at The Venue Portree High School
Monday 15th December	Christmas Show Rehearsal 9.30am at The Venue Portree High School School Christmas Show – 6pm at the Venue, Portree High School.
Tuesday 16th December	Primary 7 at  Dance Festival at Portree High School.  10am-12pm
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk

Dear Parents/Carers,

Please see a short weekly update below.

School Meals w/c 1^st December

The difficulties in canteen staffing are due to improve beginning next week.  Monday and Tuesday will be a one choice menu, but the menu will be back to normal by Wednesday (week 2 choices).  Thank you for your patience and understanding with this over the last few weeks.

Monday 1^st – Spaghetti Bolognaise

Tuesday 2^nd – Veggie Sausage Roll with Diced Potato

Wednesday 3^rd – Salmon Fish Fingers & Chips or Cheese and Tomato Pizza

Thursday 4^th – Roast beef & Mash or Soup & Cheese Wheel

Friday 5^th – Usual Grab & Go choices.

Footwear and Change of Clothes

With the snow and ice last week and the wet weather this week, we’ve had a lots of children with wet feet!

It would be really useful for kids to always have a change of footwear/wellies, and also a change of socks.  We try and encourage outdoor play as much as possible and only keep the children inside when conditions are extremely poor, so being dressed for conditions is essential.

Cookery Club Last Session Today

Parents of children who attend Friday cookery club please note that the last session of this is today.  The was trialled as a 4-week block, which has now come to an end.  We are looking at options for running another block of cooking club in the New Year.

A special thank you to the P7 young leaders who have organised and run the club.  I have been so impressed by Alisha, Bella, Caterina, Margaret and Lily, who have been brilliantly organised, and so patient with the younger children in the group.  Well done!

UHI Speak Gaelic Courses

Please see message below regarding upcoming Speak Gaelic courses at UHI:

We would be grateful if you would advertise the following with Parents and staff. The Monday evening course is F2F

SpeakGaelic – A2 – Portree – Mondays Tickets, Mon, Jan 19, 2026 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

SpeakGaelic – A1 – Online – Tuesdays and Thursdays Tickets, Tue, Feb 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

Fee waivers are available for UHI, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Highland Council, NHS Western Isles and NHS Highland staff, as well as parents and carers of children in Gaelic Medium Education.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Maggie

Maggie MacDonald| Magaidh NicDhòmhnaill
Centre and Engagement lead / Stiùiriche Ionaid agus ceangalan gnothachais

Normal working hours Mon -Wed 09.00-17.00, Thursday OFF,  Friday 9.00-12.00

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Cookery Club	Fridays at 1.15pm.  First session Fri 7th Nov.	School	P5-7 (limited numbers)
Lego Club	Tuesdays 3.30-4.15pm	School (P6 classroom)	Limited numbers

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Tuesday 9th December	Primary 6 at  Dance Festival at Portree High School.  10am-12pm
Thursday 11th December	P4 & P5 out at Community Panto.  11.15am at Community Centre (packed lunch required)
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day
Monday 15th December	School Christmas Show – 6pm at the Venue, Portree High School.
Tuesday 16th December	Primary 7 at  Dance Festival at Portree High School.  10am-12pm
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk.

Head Teacher Handover

Further to confirmation sent last week that Jennifer Tyronney will be taking up the Head Teacher position at the school, I can now confirm that her start date as Head Teacher will be Monday 8^th December.  Jennifer and I will be working on handover meetings the week prior to this to ensure that the change will go smoothly.

Light Up Portree Event – Cancelled

The Light-up Portree Event this evening has been cancelled.  Thank you to the children who had volunteered to represent the school in singing Calypso Carol at this event, I’m sure they will have plenty more opportunities to perform in the weeks ahead.

Adverse Weather

A reminder that information on school closures and late openings can be found at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/schoolclosures .  This is updated as soon as the decision to close the school is made, and is the most reliable way of getting this information.  We also endeavour to send out an email to parents and to update the school’s Facebook page with further information.

School Meals w/c 24^th November

There will be continued disruption to the school canteen.  The Menu choice for next week is:

Monday 24^th – Baked Potato with cheese

Tuesday 25^th – Macaroni cheese

Wednesday 26^h – Chicken nuggets with wedges

Thursday 27^th – Fish fingers with diced potatoes

Friday 28^th – Usual Grab & Go sandwiches

Dyslexia Scotland Event (Assistive Technology in School) – 25^th November

Please see information below on an event organised by the local Dyslexia Scotland branch on assistive technology in school.

Free online event on assistive technology in school

Not sure what assistive technology is available on Chromebooks? Dyslexia Scotland has organised a free Zoom event with Sandra Matheson, Assistive Technology Teacher at Highland Council. Sandra will give an overview of how technology can benefit a wide group of learners, not just those with dyslexia. Pupils, families, adults and educators are all welcome to attend. Topics will include the Read & Write extension, useful information from Everway (the new name for Texthelp) and Google’s NotebookLM, an AI-powered research assistant.

This event is being hosted on behalf of Dyslexia Scotland’s volunteer-led branches in Skye and Lochalsh, Lochaber, Caithness and Inverness. It takes place on Tuesday 25 November, 7:00 pm – 8:15 pm. Book your free place through the Events page on Dyslexia Scotland’s website or log in to Ticket Tailor.

UHI Speak Gaelic Courses

Please see message below regarding upcoming Speak Gaelic courses at UHI:

We would be grateful if you would advertise the following with Parents and staff. The Monday evening course is F2F

SpeakGaelic – A2 – Portree – Mondays Tickets, Mon, Jan 19, 2026 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

SpeakGaelic – A1 – Online – Tuesdays and Thursdays Tickets, Tue, Feb 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

Fee waivers are available for UHI, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Highland Council, NHS Western Isles and NHS Highland staff, as well as parents and carers of children in Gaelic Medium Education.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Maggie

Maggie MacDonald| Magaidh NicDhòmhnaill
Centre and Engagement lead / Stiùiriche Ionaid agus ceangalan gnothachais

Normal working hours Mon -Wed 09.00-17.00, Thursday OFF,  Friday 9.00-12.00

Job Vacancies in the school

Pupil Escort – https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/escort-1-10hpw-fixed-term-until-02-july-2026-portree-primary-school-433113

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Cookery Club	Fridays at 1.15pm.  First session Fri 7th Nov.	School	P5-7 (limited numbers)
Lego Club	Tuesdays 3.30-4.15pm	School (P6 classroom)	Limited numbers

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Tuesday 25th November	Assistive Technologies in School – Zoom session organised by Dyslexia Scotland. 7pm.
Tuesday 9th December	Primary 6 at  Dance Festival at Portree High School.  10am-12pm
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day
Monday 15th December	School Christmas Show – 6pm at the Venue, Portree High School.
Tuesday 16th December	Primary 7 at  Dance Festival at Portree High School.  10am-12pm
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk.

School Meals w/c 17^th November

A note from the school canteen that the menu choice next week will be different, with only a single choice available each day.  This is due to a staffing issue in the area.

Monday 17^th – Fish & Chips (Vegan option available)

Tuesday 18^th – Sausage and diced potatoes (Vegan sausage available)

Wednesday 19^th – Tomato Pasta

Thursday 20^th – Pizza

Friday 21^st – Usual Grab & Go sandwiches

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal

Thank you to everyone who dated shoeboxes and items.  I dropped off a pile of filled shoeboxes last Friday, so these will now be making their way to people in need.

P6 Tigh na Drochaid Visit

The Primary 6 class visited Tigh na Drochaid on Wednesday this week to socialise with the service users there.  They had a great time having a chat, and playing some board games (it was quite competitive at times!).  It was lovely to see just how mature and confident the class were in their interactions with others.  They did themselves proud, and have been invited to return next week for some re-matches!

Skyedance Autumn Show

We have a large number of pupils  taking part in the Skyedance Autum Show tonight.  I know how hard they have all been working in rehearsals and I wish them all the best.

Parents’ Evening

It was nice to see so many of you visiting on Tuesday and Wednesday night for appointments with your child’s teacher.  Thank you for taking the time.

Cauliflower Cards Orders

For parents who are waiting on items from Cauliflower Cards, these have now been dispatched and we expect them to arrive with us soon.  We will get the items sent home as soon as possible.

Children in Need – Friday 14^th November

Well done to the Primary 6 class for organising fundraising for Children in Need.  Our dress down day was a great success, with lots of bright colours on display (thank you to parents who were able to make a donation).  The class also ran a very successful raffle, which had a brilliant range of prizes available (again – many thanks for the donations towards this from our P6 parents).  An anonymous donation was made so that every child in the school was bought a raffle ticket, this allowed everyone the chance to win something.

All money raised today through donations and raffle sales will be passed on to Children in Need.

Remembrance

Thank you to the Primary 7 class for leading the school in Remembrance activities last week.  The school stopped for two minutes silence in classrooms at 11am on Tuesday, whilst the P7 class observed the silence at the War Memorial in the Square.

Thank you also to the P7 pupils (Alisha, Caylen, Ceitlin, Marcus, and Skye) who represented the school in the Remembrance parade on Sunday, and to Skye for laying our wreath.

Dyslexia Scotland Event (Assistive Technology in School) – 25^th November

Please see information below on an event organised by the local Dyslexia Scotland branch on assistive technology in school.

Free online event on assistive technology in school

Not sure what assistive technology is available on Chromebooks? Dyslexia Scotland has organised a free Zoom event with Sandra Matheson, Assistive Technology Teacher at Highland Council. Sandra will give an overview of how technology can benefit a wide group of learners, not just those with dyslexia. Pupils, families, adults and educators are all welcome to attend. Topics will include the Read & Write extension, useful information from Everway (the new name for Texthelp) and Google’s NotebookLM, an AI-powered research assistant.

This event is being hosted on behalf of Dyslexia Scotland’s volunteer-led branches in Skye and Lochalsh, Lochaber, Caithness and Inverness. It takes place on Tuesday 25 November, 7:00 pm – 8:15 pm. Book your free place through the Events page on Dyslexia Scotland’s website or log in to Ticket Tailor.

Lego Club

Our Lego Club will start next week.  Pupils who have a place in this club have been told, and we’ll send an email to parents to confirm this early next week.  If you don’t receive email confirmation this means that your child did not get a place this time (sorry we have had more interest than spaces available.)

UHI STEM visits

Lucy Downie from UHI visited the school again this week.  P7 class enjoyed a session on electricity, whilst the P5 class were treated to a workshop on marine habitats.  The plan had been for Lucy to work with the P6 class instead of P5, but due to an unexpected calendar clash, P6 were busy at the time, so P5 benefited from a bonus session.

Thank you Lucy for visiting again.

Job Vacancies in the school

Pupil Escort – https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/escort-1-10hpw-fixed-term-until-02-july-2026-portree-primary-school-433113

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Cookery Club	Fridays at 1.15pm.  First session Fri 7th Nov.	School	P5-7 (limited numbers)
Lego Club	Tuesdays 3.30-4.15pm	School (P6 classroom)	Limited numbers

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Friday 14th November	Skyedance Autumn Show (evening)
Tuesday 25th November	Assistive Technologies in School – Zoom session organised by Dyslexia Scotland. 7pm.
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day
Monday 15th December	School Christmas Show – 6pm at the Venue, Portree High School.
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk.

School Photographer

The school photographer was in this week.  Your child was issued with a slip containing details on how to access these online.  Photos should be ready to view early next week.

Term 2 Parents’ Evening

Final reminder that Parents’ Evening will take place next Tuesday/Wednesday (11^th/12^th).  If you require an appointment then please book through this link by the end of the day on Monday: https://parents-booking.co.uk/portreeprimary

Remembrance – Poppy Appeal

Well done to the Primary 7 class who led fundraising for the Poppy Appeal this week.  Several pupils in the class did a fantastic job speaking to the whole school at assembly about the meaning of poppies and why we have Remembrance.

Some Primary 7s will be representing the school at this Sunday’s Remembrance parade.  They should meet me at the Gathering Hall at 10.15am, wearing school uniform and a poppy.

Shinty Success and Parent Volunteers

A huge congratulations to Ben (P6) and Rhys (P7) who were part of the Skye Shinty Academy U12s team that beat Oban Youth in the CA Cup final in Newtonmore.  

It’s great to see the continued success in shinty that our school has been having.  This is down in no small part to parent volunteers who have given their time so freely to support our shinty players at weekly coaching sessions and in competitions.   A thank you once again to them for all their efforts, and a reminder to all parents that clubs and activities like this are dependent on volunteers, and we value all the help that we can get with this.  Please be in touch if you are willing to support us with extra-curricular activities.

Children in Need – Friday 14^th November

Next Friday 14^th November is Children in Need.  We will be having a non-uniform day (with a theme of ‘bright colours and/or something spotty’), with a suggested donation of £1.  The Primary 6 class will also be organising a raffle, for which they will be selling tickets throughout next week.

Job Vacancies in the school

Pupil Escort – https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/escort-1-10hpw-fixed-term-until-02-july-2026-portree-primary-school-433113

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Cookery Club	Fridays at 1.15pm.  First session Fri 7th Nov.	School	P5-7 (limited numbers)

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th November	Parents’ Evening
Wednesday 12th November	Lucy Downie STEM sessions with P6 and P7.
Friday 14th November	Children in Need fundraising
Friday 14th November	Skyedance Autumn Show (evening)
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day
Monday 15th December	School Christmas Show – 6pm at the Venue, Portree High School.
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk.

It has been nice to welcome everyone back this week for the beginning of term 2.  Please see our weekly update below.

School Photographer

The school photographer will visit next Wednesday 5^th November for individual pupil photos.  If you would like a family photo please complete the form at the link below so that we know who to expect.  Family photos will take place from 9.15am, followed by P6 and P4 photos (so that they are done before classes go swimming). 

School Photographer Family Photos 2025 – Fill in form

Term 2 Parents’ Evening

Appointment bookings are now open for our Parents’ Evening on Tuesday 11^th and Wednesday 12^th November.  Appointments with teachers can be booked using this link https://parents-booking.co.uk/portreeprimary

If you have any issues accessing this system then please contact the school office.

P7 parents please note that there are also appointments available for this class on Monday 10^th.

Transport for Swimming Lessons

Stagecoach have been in touch to let us know that they are unable to continue providing transport for our P3-7 classes to and from the swimming pool.  We had been receiving this service free of charge for quite some time, and we are most grateful for all of the support that Stagecoach have given us.

From now on our classes will walk to their swimming lessons, so pupils should come prepared for the weather.

Halloween Disco

I hope everyone who attended last night’s Halloween Disco enjoyed the event.  It was very well attended and there some amazing costumes on show.

Thank you to our Parent Council for organising the event, and thank you to all of the volunteers who gave up their time to supervise.

Remembrance – Poppy Appeal

Our P7 class will be selling poppies in the school next week.  On Friday 7^th November instead of selling toast at breaktime they will be selling special poppy cakes for 30p.  All money raised will go towards Poppy Scotland.

Christmas Show – 15/12/25

Advanced notice that our school Christmas Show will take place on Monday 15^th December from 6pm at The Venue, Portree High School.  We look forward to see you there.

Job Vacancies in the school

Pupil Escort – https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/escort-1-10hpw-fixed-term-until-02-july-2026-portree-primary-school-433113

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Cookery Club	Fridays at 1.15pm.  First session Fri 7th Nov.	School	P5-7 (limited numbers)

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Wednesday 5th November	Photographer in for school photos
Wednesday 6th November	Childsmile Fluoride Varnishing
Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th November	Parents’ Evening
Wednesday 12th November	Lucy Downie STEM sessions with P6 and P7.
Friday 14th November	Children in Need fundraising
Friday 14th November	Skyedance Autumn Show (evening)
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day
Monday 15th December	School Christmas Show – 6pm at the Venue, Portree High School.
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk.

Please see a short weekly update below.  The school will be closed for the next two weeks for our October Holidays.  I hope you all have a restful break, and look forward to seeing everyone back on Monday 27^th October.

Fluoride Varnishing

Our fluoride varnishing was cancelled this week due to staff absence in the Childsmile Team.  Rescheduled dates are Wednesday 29^th October, and Thursday 6^th November.

School Photographer

The school photographer will visit on Wednesday 5^th November for individual photos.

P6 Field Trip

The Primary 6 class were lucky enough to visit Waternish Farm this week to explore a rare section of Atlantic Rainforest, and to learn about habitats and tree conservation.  The class enjoyed spending a good chunk of the day learning outdoors, despite the very wet weather.

Thank you to Lucy at Waternish Farm for leading this really interesting session. Parents can find more information about the farm at: https://www.waternishfarm.com/

Term 2 Parents’ Evening

Advance notice that our parents’ evening will take place on Tuesday 11^th and Wednesday 12^th November.  Appointments with teachers can be booked through our online booking system which will open for bookings on Tuesday 28^th October.  https://parents-booking.co.uk/portreeprimary

Parents will be sent an email with a link and instructions on how to book appointments.  These emails are auto-generated based on the details we hold for you.  Please inform the school office if your email address has changed.

Job Vacancies in the school

We still have vacancies in the school kitchen and on school transport.  See details below.

School kitchen – is currently recruiting for a cook (10 hours per week).  Vacancy details can be found at this link: https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/cook-1-10-hpw-fixed-term-until-25-december-2025-portree-primary-school-421128

We would also like to hear from anyone who would like to be added to the ‘bank’ of names for short-term/casual cover in the kitchen.  If you would be interested in this then please contact Kevin Fraser, Catering Services Officer (kevin.fraser@highland.gov.uk 07769880364).

Pupil Escort – https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/escort-1-10hpw-fixed-term-until-02-july-2026-portree-primary-school-433113

Term 2 After School Clubs

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Music Group	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School	P5-7 who can play an instrument
Cookery Club	Tbc Fridays at 1.15pm.  First session Fri 7th Nov.	School	P5-7 (limited numbers)

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 1 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Monday 27th October	School opens for first day of Term 2.
Wednesday 29th October	Childsmile Fluoride Varnishing
Thursday 30th October	Parent Council Halloween Disco (evening)
Wednesday 5th November	Photographer in for school photos
Wednesday 6th November	Childsmile Fluoride Varnishing
Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th November	Parents’ Evening
Wednesday 12th November	Lucy Downie STEM sessions with P6 and P7.
Friday 14th November	Children in Need fundraising
Friday 14th November	Skyedance Autumn Show (evening)
Friday 12th December	Christmas Jumper Day
Tuesday 16th December	P1-3 School Christmas Party (PM)
Wednesday 17th December	P4 & P5 School Christmas Party (PM)
Thursday 18th December	P6 & P7 School Christmas Party (PM)
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.  Festive Walk.

Dear parents/carers,

Please see our weekly update below.

Shinty

Very well done to our school shinty team who took part in the Shinty World Cup tournament at Bught Park in Inverness on Tuesday.  The team performed very strongly, narrowly missing out on semi-finals.

It was a long day for everyone – leaving at 7.30am, and returning 12 hours later – but it was great to see everyone back in school the next day to hear about their exploits.

Thank you to the small team of parent volunteers who supported us with transport and supervision – we can’t make these kind of things happen without this support.

P6 & P7 STEM Event

P6 and P7s classes visited the Venue at Portree High School this week for a STEM roadshow which explored the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), internet safety, and robotics.  A great time was had by all, with a demonstration of an autonomous robotic dog being a particular hit!

P6 School Trip

Our P6 class are looking forward to a field trip to Waternish Farm next Monday (6^th).  The class will have guided activities on the topics of biodiversity, conservation, and tree management.  This trip ties in nicely to the P6 class science topic, and also fits one of our school priorities for this year – outdoor learning.

Soccer 7s

Well done to all P4-7 children who took part in last week’s Soccer 7s.  I was really impressed with the conduct and effort of all participants.  It was particularly pleasing to see the confidence of our girls team (Portree Leopards), which has grown steadily over the last few tournaments.  A well done to all of our new P4 players as well – the first one is often a daunting experience! 

Finally, a special mention to our P6 team (Portree Pumas) who went undefeated on the day – well done!

Open Afternoon/Meet the Teacher

Thank you to all parents and families who visited the school on Tuesday this week for our Open Afternoon.  Your children really value the opportunity to show you their hard work, and I hope it was a positive experience for you.

Wet weather clothing and footwear

If possible could you send your children with a change of footwear and clothing for wet weather?  Wellies are really helpful as our playground accumulates lots of puddles.  Our pupils all have ‘cubbies’ in the cloakroom so spare shoes/wellies can be safely stored in school.

We try to encourage outdoor play at break and lunchtimes where possible, and would only keep kids in during the very worst weather.

Job Vacancies in the school

We still have vacancies in the school kitchen and on school transport.  See details below.

School kitchen – is currently recruiting for a cook (10 hours per week).  Vacancy details can be found at this link: https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/cook-1-10-hpw-fixed-term-until-25-december-2025-portree-primary-school-421128

We would also like to hear from anyone who would like to be added to the ‘bank’ of names for short-term/casual cover in the kitchen.  If you would be interested in this then please contact Kevin Fraser, Catering Services Officer (kevin.fraser@highland.gov.uk 07769880364).

Pupil Escort – https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/escort-1-10hpw-fixed-term-until-02-july-2026-portree-primary-school-433113

Term 2 Parents’ Evening

Advance notice that our parents’ evening will take place on Tuesday 11^th and Wednesday 12^th November.  Appointments with teachers can be booked through our online booking system which will open for bookings on Tuesday 28^th October.  More information on this will be sent just before bookings open.

Current After school clubs

Next week will be the last week for Computer Club and Running Club.  We do not intend to run these in Term 2.  There will be a new music group which will take place after school on a Thursday.  More details of this to follow.

Club	When	Where	Who
Shinty	Tuesdays at 6pm	Fingal Centre	P2-P7
Computer Club	Tuesdays at 3.30-4/30pm	School music room	P1-7 welcome, but more suited to older children
Running Club	Thursdays at 3.30-4.15pm	School (running in village)	P5-7

Drop-off and Collection of Pupils

A reminder that we have a designated pupil pick-up/drop-off point at the Camanachd Square car park (near Community Centre and Portree Nursery), and a crossing patrol on Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.  It would be very helpful if families could use this area as much as possible to reduce traffic around the school.  Please also respect our neighbours around the school by not blocking driveways, and also be aware that Marsco Place and Glamaig Place are unadopted roads, meaning it is the residents of these streets that are responsible for them rather than Highland Council.

Thank you for your support with this.

Important – Pupils taking bus

A reminder for pupils who take the bus to school:

Pupils who take the bus to school but who are not eligible for free school transport must be in possession of their Young Scot/National Entitlement card. 

If you are unsure about whether your child is entitled to free school transport, you can check eligibility at this link: https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/878/schools/12/school_transport or be in touch with the school and we’ll let you know.

If your child does not have a Young Scot/National Entitlement card you can apply for one at this link: https://young.scot/get-informed/young-persons-free-bus-travel/

Known Important Dates for Term 1 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Monday 6th October	P6 School Trip to Waternish Farm
Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th September	Childsmile Fluoride Varnishing
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Known Important Dates for Term 2 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Monday 27th October	School opens for first day of Term 2.
Wednesday 29th October	Childsmile Fluoride Varnishing
Wednesday 5th November	Photographer in for school photos
Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th November	Parents’ Evening
Wednesday 12th November	Lucy Downie STEM sessions with P6 and P7
Tuesday 23rd December	Last day of Term 3.