Category: Uncategorized

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.

Dear parents/carers,

Please see our weekly update below.

Scholastic Bookfair

Thank you to all families for their support with our bookfair.  It was a very successful event, and with sales in excess of £1200 we have made a very health commission which will be used to improve the quality and quantity of reading materials across the school.

Some children unfortunately missed out on their book of choice, however these have now arrived in the school and should be going home with your child today.  Please let me know if there are any issues with your child’s order.

A very small number of books were not available from Scholastic due to being out of stock in their warehouse.  I will arrange a refund or an alternative for these.

STEM Workshops – UHI

This week our P4-7 classes enjoyed a visit from Lucy Downie of UHI, who led various Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) sessions.

P4 and P5 enjoyed ‘plant labs’ – a session on how plants survive and grow.

P6 had ‘marine labs’ – a session on habitats of marine life and how marine life adapts to survive.

P7 thoroughly enjoyed their session on electricity – looking at electrical circuits and building batteries.

Flu Vaccinations

Parents please note that flu vaccinations will take place next week (Thursday 2^nd October).  These were due to take place in November, however we have been asked to bring these forward to next week.

Swimming Lessons P3-7

You may have noticed some disruption to planned swimming lessons over the past few weeks.  This is due to availability of staff at the pool, and in the case of P3 yesterday, due to a technical issue at the pool.  I know that this causes disruption to routines, but could I ask that you keep sending your children in with their swimming kit on their assigned swimming day?  It is better to have a kit and not need it, than to not have one when they do need it!

I understand that the swimming pool are hopeful of recruiting new staff soon, so future disruption to our lessons should be minimal.

Finally, I would also ask that if your child is not swimming, please let the teacher know.  The swimming lessons are an important part of our Health & Wellbeing curriculum, and our expectation is that pupils will be participating – unless there is a medical reason for not doing so.

Case of Threadworms in the school

We have a known case of a threadworm infection in the school.  This is an easily spread infection, so I would ask parents to be on the lookout for symptoms in their child, and to remind children of good hygiene principles such as handwashing.

We will continue to encourage good hygiene in school – including handwashing after using toilet and before eating.

More information on this can be found at this link: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/stomach-liver-and-gastrointestinal-tract/threadworms/

Blythswood Shoebox Appeal

Our school will once again be taking part in Blythswood’s Shoebox Appeal.  Please see attached a letter from the P2/3 class, who will be leading this.

Soccer 7s

A reminder that Soccer 7s takes place today (Friday 26^th) from 3.30pm onwards (4pm start).  All pupils who signed up were sent an information letter yesterday.

Open Afternoon/Meet the Teacher

A reminder that we will host an open afternoon/meet the teacher event next Tuesday 30^th September (from 2.30pm).  This is a good opportunity to see some of the work your child has been doing this term.

Communication with School

Could I ask that all communication with the school office or class teachers regarding pupil absences/appointments/travel arrangements/etc. is also Cc’d to our school email address (Portree.primary@highland.gov.uk).  This helps us ensure that important messages get to the right place.  There have been occasions where emails have been sent only to a specific member of staff, and that member of staff has not been in school, so the message has not been dealt with.  The Portree.primary@highland.gov email address is always monitored by either school office or Head Teacher.

Job Vacancies in the school

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

Current After school clubs

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
Friday 26th September	Soccer 7s – 3.30pm start at Portree High School Astro.
Monday 29th September	P6 & P7 at Portree High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Roadshow from BAE Systems in partnership with Royal Air Force and Royal Navy
Tuesday 30th September	Open afternoon/meet the teacher.  2.30pm
Thursday 2nd October	Flu Vaccinations
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.

Dear parents/carers,

Please see our weekly update below.

Permanent Head Teacher Position

The permanent Head Teacher position at the school was advertised this week with a closing date of 29^th September.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Acting Head Teacher, a role that I’ve done since February 2024.  However, after giving it a great deal of thought, I have decided that I do not wish to continue in the role on a permanent basis, therefore will not be putting myself forward for consideration.

I will remain in post for the time being until a new HT is appointed, which will be some time after the October holidays.

Scholastic Bookfair

All children have had the chance to visit the bookfair this week, and will be able to purchase books today from 12pm.  I hope you have had the chance to discuss your child’s ‘Wishlist’ with them.

Parents may visit the bookfair today from 12pm, if you do visit we will arrange for your child to come out of class so that you can see/buy the books together.

For any books that sell-out, your child can make payment and this will be ordered to arrive at the school next week.  Due to the size of our school, we are only sent two copies of each title, so it is not unusual for popular books to sell out.

https://bookfairs.scholastic.co.uk/parents

Communication with School

Could I ask that all communication with the school office or class teachers regarding pupil absences/appointments/travel arrangements/etc. is also Cc’d to our school email address (Portree.primary@highland.gov.uk).  This helps us ensure that important messages get to the right place.  There have been occasions where emails have been sent only to a specific member of staff, and that member of staff has not been in school, so the message has not been dealt with.  The Portree.primary@highland.gov email address is always monitored by either school office or Head Teacher.

Christmas Design Project – Cauliflower Cards

All classes will be taking part in a Christmas design project run by Cauliflower Cards.  Please see the invitation letter attached to this email for more details.

Soccer 7s

We’ve had a large number of sign-up’s to soccer 7s meaning that we are expecting to send 4 teams.  An information letter with full details will be sent to signed up pupils next week.  A reminder that the tournament take place on Friday 26^th September – 3.30-6pm in Portree.

Open Afternoon/Meet the Teacher

We would like to invite you to visit your child’s class on Tuesday 30^th September (from 2.30pm) for an open afternoon/meet the teacher event.  You will have the opportunity to see some of the work your child has been doing this term.

Job Vacancies in the school

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

Current After school clubs

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
Wednesday 17th– Friday 19th September	Scholastic Bookfair
Wednesday 24th September	UHI Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) workshops
Friday 26th September	Soccer 7s – 3.30pm start at Portree High School Astro.
Monday 29th September	P6 & P7 at Portree High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Roadshow from BAE Systems in partnership with Royal Air Force and Royal Navy
Tuesday 30th September	Open afternoon/meet the teacher.  2.30pm
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Dear parents/carers,

Please note that the school will be closed on Monday and Tuesday next week.  This is due to staff in-service.  We look forward to seeing pupils back in school on Wednesday 17^th and hope that everyone enjoys a nice long weekend.

Please see our weekly update below.

Scholastic Bookfair

Next week we will be holding a bookfair.  We did this last year for the first time in many years, and it was very well received.

Books will be displayed from Wednesday to Friday next week, and each class will have a chance to visit and look at what is available.  All children will be given a ‘Wishlist’ that they can use to note any books that they would like to buy.  They should take this home and discuss with parents.  On Friday 19^th September, the bookfair will be open for business between 12 noon and 1pm.  Pupils may bring money to buy a book, they can do this on their own or parents can attend with their child.

We can accept the following payment methods:

• Cash
• Gift vouchers – You can purchase these from the link below.

Attached to this email is an invitation which shows some of the highlights of the books available.  More information can be found at this link:  https://bookfairs.scholastic.co.uk/parents

Bookfair is a great way to excite and encourage our pupils in reading, and also helps to support the school as we receive a generous commission on sales which is then used to buy stock for our school and classroom libraries.

Soccer 7s

The first Soccer 7s tournament of the season will take place on Friday 26^th September – 3.30-6pm in Portree.

Interested pupils received a letter about this yesterday – please return the consent as soon as possible and no later than Thursday 18^th September.  Consents can be returned on paper or completed online using this link: https://forms.office.com/e/ZKjw53HZd4

This is open to children in P4-7.

Job Vacancies in the school

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 – we have recently advertised for a pupil escort (10 hours per week) but have not been successful in appointing anyone.  This role involves supporting one of our learners in transport between home and school.  This position will be readvertised soon, however in the meantime please let me know if you have any interest in the role.

Volunteering with Active Schools

Please see letter below from our Active Schools Co-ordinator Sarah Ross:

⭐️VOLUNTEERING WITH ACTIVE SCHOOLS! ⭐️
For those who don’t know me my name is Sarah Ross and I have been the Portree High School ASG Active Schools Co-ordinator for 20 years, creating opportunities for our young people to take part in sport and physical activity before school, during lunchtime and after school, and to develop effective pathways between schools and sports clubs in the local community.🙋‍♀️

Things have certainly changed in those 20 years, but one thing that has remained the same is the amazing children, schools, High school, Sports leaders, parents, community members and volunteers that we have locally, who have dedicated their time to volunteering, leading and supporting our Active Schools program in Skye.

We are on are on the hunt for more passionate VOLUNTEERS to help us deliver fun, inclusive activities for children and young people in our community.
Whether you’re into sport, dance, mentoring, or just love making a difference—we’d love to have you on board!

Some of the activities we have running are Badminton, Hockey, Football, Shinty and multisports clubs, so whether you would like to be involved in these current activities or an interest to start something new in your local school then it would be great to hear from you!

💻Get in touch with sarah.ross@highlifehighland.com or
message through the Portree Active Schools Facebook page if you would like to find out more.

🤩Volunteering with us means:
✅Gaining new skills and experience
✅Boosting confidence in young people
✅Creating opportunities for all
✅Being part of something truly rewarding

Current After school clubs

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 15th and Tuesday 16th September	School closed for in-service
Wednesday 17th-Friday 19th September	Scholastic Bookfair
Wednesday 24th September	UHI Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) workshops
Friday 26th September	Soccer 7s – 3.30pm start at Portree High School Astro.
Monday 29th September	P6 & P7 at Portree High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Roadshow from BAE Systems in partnership with Royal Air Force and Royal Navy
Tuesday 30th September	Open afternoon/meet the teacher at 2.30pm.
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Dear parents/carers,

Please see our weekly update below.

Andy McKechnie Visit

We were delighted to welcome Andy McKechnie to the school on Wednesday for sessions with our pupils.  He led a whole school assembly in the morning linked to children’s rights and our Rights Respecting Schools agenda.  Andy’s sessions are always full of energy, and the children really enjoyed the opportunity to be active.

Our P5, P6 and P7 classes then had an individual workshop from Andy on developing their confidence and leadership skills.  Our pupils enjoyed this and gave very positive feedback.  Many thanks Andy for the visit.

Parent Council Meeting – AGM

Parent Council held their AGM last night, where the following were elected as Office Bearers:

Chair: Tamara Hunter

Treasurer: Cassandra Bethune

Secretary: Amanda MacLeod

I look forward to working with the Parent Council again this year, and would ask that all parents consider lending your support to their activities.  The work they do in supporting the school is a vitally important to us. 

Current After school clubs

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 15th and Tuesday 16th September	School closed for in-service
Wednesday 17th-Friday 19th September	Scholastic Bookfair
Wednesday 24th September	UHI Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) workshops
Monday 29th September	P6 & P7 at Portree High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Roadshow from BAE Systems in partnership with Royal Air Force and Royal Navy
w/c 29th September	Open afternoon/meet the teacher.  Date and time tbc.
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Welcome back to PPS.  It’s been great to see the pupils happy to be back at school and settling into their new classes.  The focus for learning this week has very much been on settling in and getting used to new routines.

Consent Forms – Data and Flu Vaccine

Your child will soon be sent home with a data consent form and flu vaccine consent form.  Please sign and return these to school ASAP.

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons for P3-7 will begin next week.  P4 and P6 will swim on Wednesday, P3, P5, P7 will swim on Thursday.

Between next week and October holidays our classes will walk to the pool.  After the holidays they will be transported by bus – thank you to Stagecoach for their ongoing support with this.

Running Club P5-7

We will be starting a weekly after school running club on Thursdays 3.30-4.15pm.  This will be organised and supervised by Miss Deplano.  Interested pupils will be given a letter home today, please sign and return if you would like your child to participate.  Note that numbers are limited for this.

Computer Club

Computer Club will return on Tuesday 2^nd September.  This is led by P7 Pupil Ethan, and supervised by Mr MacLean.  All welcome.

Date: Weekly on Tuesday

Time: 3.30-4.30pm.

 Location: Portree Primary School Music Room.

Labelling Personal Items

Please ensure that you name label your child’s belongings including clothing such as jackets and jumpers, as well as things like water bottles.  We already have a few items in lost property, which can be difficult to return to children without it being labelled.

Water Bottles in Classroom

If your child brings a water bottle for use in class, this should contain only water.  If you would like your child to have juice, then this should be in a separate bottle for drinking at break or lunchtimes.

School Meals

Please see message below from Highland Council regarding payment for school meals.  Parents please be aware that we have a large stock of school meal payment envelopes in the school, should you wish to pay for your child’s meal in cash you can use these envelopes to send the cash payment in to school with your child.  Please pick some of these up from the office, or ask your child to pick some up.  If you chose to pay in cash, please ensure that your child’s envelope is clearly labelled with their name, class, and payment amount.

School Meals Payment – Pupils in Primary 6 and 7

Scottish Government legislation provides universal free school meals for all children from P1 to P5, but this has not yet been rolled out to P6 and 7 pupils. Any meals taken by pupils in P6 / 7, who are not entitled to income based free school meals, should be paid for in advance.  The cost of a primary school meal is £2.40 per meal. Information on how to pay for meals can be found here: Pay for school meals | School meals | The Highland Council.

Some children will still be entitled to income based Free School Meals, if you think this may apply to your children, criteria and application can be found Free school meals and assistance with clothing | Free school meals and assistance with clothing | The Highland Council.

Teaching Arrangements 2025-26

A reminder of our teaching arrangements for this session:

Class	Teacher
P1/2	Mrs Templeman
P2/3	Mrs Murray (2 ½ days) & Mrs Martin (2 ½ days)
P4	Mrs MacAskill
P5	Mr Murray
P6	Miss Hajar (4 days) and Mr MacLean (1 day)
P7	Miss MacKenzie
Class Contact Reduction (CCR)	Miss Deplano (3 days)
Additional Support Needs (ASN)	Mrs Tyronney (3 days)
Pupil Equity Fund (PEF)	Mrs Beaton (1 day)

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
Tuesday 26th August	Skyedance lessons begin for all classes
Wednesday 27th August	Swimming lessons begin for P4 and P6
Thursday 28th August	Swimming lessons begin for P3, P5, P7
Wednesday 3rd September	Andy McKechnie visit – Rights Respecting Schools Assembly for all pupils and workshops for P4-7.
Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th September	School closed for in-service
Wednesday 17th-Friday 19th September	Scholastic Bookfair
Wednesday 24th September	UHI Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) workshops
Monday 29th September	P6 & P7 at Portree High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Roadshow from BAE Systems in partnership with Royal Air Force and Royal Navy
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Dear parents/carers,

I would like to wish you all a happy summer holiday.  Thank you for all of the support you have shown the school this session, and we look forward to seeing everyone back on Tuesday 19^th August.

Last day Arrangements

The school closes today, Thursday 3^rd July, at 12 noon.  We have been advised that our bus will leave at 11.45am.

The school will gather in the playground just before 11.45am to see off the Primary 7s.  Any P7 parents who wish to see this should gather outside the school gate.

P7 Farewell

We wish our departing P7s all the very best for the future.  They have been a pleasure to have in the school, and I’m sure they will have a bright and positive future ahead of them.

I know for many of our P7 parents who have an only child or a youngest child in the school, that your association with Portree Primary has now come to an end – thank you for supporting the school through the years, I hope your child leaves us with positive memories.

Donation to Alzheimer Scotland

Primary 7 class will be handing over a cheque for £435 to Alzheimer Scotland this morning.  This is money raised from both their Community Café, and their enterprise project (selling toast at Friday breaktime).  Well done P7!

School Meals

Please see message below from Highland Council regarding payment for school meals.  Parents please be aware that we have a large stock of school meal payment envelopes in the school, should you wish to pay for your child’s meal in cash you can use these envelopes to send the cash payment in to school with your child.  Please pick some of these up from the office, or ask your child to pick some up.  If you chose to pay in cash, please ensure that your child’s envelope is clearly labelled with their name, class, and payment amount.

School Meals Payment – Pupils in Primary 6 and 7

Scottish Government legislation provides universal free school meals for all children from P1 to P5, but this has not yet been rolled out to P6 and 7 pupils. Any meals taken by pupils in P6 / 7, who are not entitled to income based free school meals, should be paid for in advance.  The cost of a primary school meal is £2.40 per meal. Information on how to pay for meals can be found here: Pay for school meals | School meals | The Highland Council.

Some children will still be entitled to income based Free School Meals, if you think this may apply to your children, criteria and application can be found Free school meals and assistance with clothing | Free school meals and assistance with clothing | The Highland Council.

School Nursing Service – New Website

Highland’s school nursing service have launched a new website.  This can be found at this link: https://www.highlandschoolnursingservice.co.uk/home

Teaching Arrangements 2025-26

Our teaching arrangements for next session will be:

Class	Teacher
P1/2	Mrs Templeman
P2/3	Mrs Murray (2 ½ days) & Mrs Martin (2 ½ days)
P4	Mrs MacAskill
P5	Mr Murray
P6	Miss Hajar (4 days) and Mr MacLean (1 day)
P7	Miss MacKenzie
Class Contact Reduction (CCR)	Miss Deplano (3 days)
Additional Support Needs (ASN)	Mrs Tyronney (3 days)
Pupil Equity Fund (PEF)	Mrs Beaton (1 day)

Important – Pupils taking bus

Our school transport provider Stagecoach has asked me to share the following information with you:

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 Dates for Term 4

Date	Event
Thursday 3rd July	School closes at 12pm for Summer Holiday.

Known Important Dates for Term 1 (2025-26)

Date	Event
Tuesday 19th August	School opens at 9.06am for first day of Term 1.
Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th September	School closed for in-service
Wednesday 17th-Friday 19th September	Scholastic Bookfair
Wednesday 24th September	UHI Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) workshops
Monday 29th September	P6 & P7 at Portree High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Roadshow from BAE Systems in partnership with Royal Air Force and Royal Navy
Friday 10th October	School closes at 12.45pm for last day of Term 1.  Re-opens Monday 27th October.

Dear parents/carers,

It has been a relatively quiet week in the school after the excitement of transitions last week.  I know teachers have enjoyed having their own classes back as we wind down towards the end of term.

Please see our weekly update below.

Staffing and Teaching Arrangements from August 2025

I am now in a position to be able to confirm our staffing arrangements for next session.  Firstly, I am excited to say that Miss Hajar Moujib will be joining our teaching team as a probationer teacher.  Hajar knows the school well, having worked with our current P6 class as a student teacher between November and March.  We look forward to having Hajar on board.

Unfortunately, Miss Fiona Goss will not be working with us next session.  Fiona had been with us once per week as a Class Contact Reduction (CCR) teacher working with both the P5 and P6 classes on a Friday.  It has been great having Fiona with us this year, and we wish her all the very best in the future.

Also, it is with great sadness that we will be saying farewell to Mrs Alice MacVicar.  Alice has worked in Portree Primary School for many years as a CCR teacher, delivering art lessons to all classes one day per week.  We will be very sorry to see Alice go, as she has been redeployed to another school.  All the very best Alice.

Finally, all parents should have received an email this week from Mhairi MacDonald (Area Quality Improvement Manager) to confirm that Sara Matheson will not be returning to the school as Head Teacher.  Sara has been appointed permanently to the position of Education Support Officer, a position which she has held on secondment for some time now.  We wish Sara all the best, and look forward to seeing her at our prizegiving assembly next week to bid her farewell.

The permanent Head Teacher position will be advertised in due course, and I look forward to continuing in my role as Acting Head Teacher in the meantime.

Our teaching arrangements for next session will be:

Class	Teacher
P1/2	Mrs Templeman
P2/3	Mrs Murray (2 ½ days) & Mrs Martin (2 ½ days)
P4	Mrs MacAskill
P5	Mr Murray
P6	Miss Hajar (4 days) and Mr MacLean (1 day)
P7	Miss MacKenzie
Class Contact Reduction (CCR)	Miss Deplano (3 days)
Additional Support Needs (ASN)	Mrs Tyronney (3 days)
Pupil Equity Fund (PEF)	Mrs Beaton (1 day)

P7 Sailing

Half of our P7 class attended a sailing taster session yesterday afternoon, and the other half are due to do the same this morning.  This activity always goes down well with pupils and I know this time has been no different. Thank you to the sailing club for putting these sessions on for us.

Computer Club

Please note that there will be no computer club next Tuesday.  I would like to thank Ethan (P6) for all of his hard work in running the club over the past few months, as well as the other P6 helpers; Caleb, Joni, Fred, Marcus, Bobby (and everyone else who helped).  Computer club has been very popular and I hope that we will be able to continue this next session.

Prizegiving and Leaver’s Assembly

Our end of session Prizegiving and Leaver’s Assembly will take place on Wednesday 2^nd July at 9.30-10.30am.  All parents/carers of Primary 7 children are invited to attend.

Invites were sent out this week to parents of those pupils in P1-6 who have been selected as prize winners.

We are looking forward to celebrating the success of our learners and bidding farewell to our P7 class.  Mrs Sara Matheson will be joining us on the day as our guest of honour, and I know the children will be looking forward to seeing her.

Last day Arrangements

Please note that the last day of term is Thursday 3^rd July, and that the school will close at 12 noon that day.

Important – Pupils taking bus

Our school transport provider Stagecoach has asked me to share the following information with you:

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/

School Uniform Offer

One of our school uniform providers Andrew Hyde, currently have 10% off across their website: https://ahyde.co.uk/collections/portree-primary.  

Use code: AHUNIFORM10 at checkout.

Mountain Warehouse Discount Code

20% off for our school community at Mountain Warehouse until June 2025.

If you would like to take advantage of this, the promo code is: CC202473.  This can be used at: https://www.mountainwarehouse.com

Known Dates for Term 4

Date	Event
Wednesday 2nd July	Prize Giving and Leavers Assembly 9.30-10.30am.
Thursday 3rd July	School closes at 12pm for Summer Holiday.

Please see our weekly update below.

Transition Days

It was nice to see how well all the children got on yesterday afternoon for their first transition visit.  For many it was a new classroom and new teacher, for some it was a familiar classroom and teacher, with some new faces in the class.  Everyone seemed to get on very well, and I’m sure will be looking forward to more of the same today.

I look forward to welcoming back the P7 class from their High School visit next week.  I’m sure they will have had a great time and will be looking forward to August, but hope they will enjoy their last two weeks at Portree Primary.

Out of School Care Pilot Scheme

Please see poster below from Portree Nursery with information on a new Out of School Care scheme that they will be piloting from August.

Prizegiving and Leaver’s Assembly

Our end of session Prizegiving and Leaver’s Assembly will take place on Wednesday 2^nd July at 9.30-10.30am.  All parents/carers of Primary 7 children are invited to attend.

There will also be invitations sent to the parents/carers of some children in other who have been nominated as a prize winner this year.  These invites are due to go out on Monday 23^rd June.

Parking around the school

A reminder that the school’s designated drop-off and pick-up location is Camanachd Square (near Community Centre/Portree Nursery).  Highland Council have recently designated spaces for school drop-off/pick-up only, and have improved signage at these spaces.  We have a crossing patroller at Home Farm Road to help pupils cross safely.

Parents are asked to be respectful of our neighbours by not using the surrounding streets for dropping children off.  Please also be aware that parking on Blaven Road near the bus stop has caused difficulties for our school bus leaving at the end of the day.  There used to be clearly marked zigzags on the road, however these disappeared after re-surfacing last year and have not yet been replaced.  Please see photo below and ensure this area is kept clear.

Last Day Arrangements

Please note that the last day of term is Thursday 3^rd July, and that the school will close at 12 noon that day.

Important – Pupils taking bus

Our school transport provider Stagecoach has asked me to share the following information with you:

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/

School Uniform Offer

One of our school uniform providers Andrew Hyde, currently have 10% off across their website: https://ahyde.co.uk/collections/portree-primary.  

Use code: AHUNIFORM10 at checkout.

Mountain Warehouse Discount Code

20% off for our school community at Mountain Warehouse until June 2025.

If you would like to take advantage of this, the promo code is: CC202473.  This can be used at: https://www.mountainwarehouse.com

Known Dates for Term 4

Date	Event
Wednesday 18th-Friday 20th June	P7 at High School for transition days.
Thursday 19th (afternoon) and Friday 20th June	School transitions – pupils spending time in new classes.
Wednesday 2nd July	Prize Giving and Leavers Assembly 9.30-10.30am.
Thursday 3rd July	School closes at 12pm for Summer Holiday.

Dear parents/carers,

Please our weekly update below.

Feedback Request

Thank you to those who have provided feedback on our school improvement plan, it has been nice to read the positive comments and the ideas for improvements.

I will keep the survey open until next week.  See information below from last week’s update.

We are currently evaluating our School Improvement Plan, and planning next steps for session 2025-26.  I would very much appreciate your feedback on this year’s plan, as well as your comments on what you think we are doing well, and what we could be doing better.

Could you please complete the survey at this link: https://forms.office.com/e/7h0072Q7H5

This should only take around 5 minutes to complete.

Open Afternoon

Thank you to everyone who made it in for our open afternoon yesterday.  The children really value the opportunity to show and speak to parents about their profiles and their work.

No Shinty Coaching Tuesday 17^th June

Please note that due to the Fingal Centre closing early on Monday and Tuesday next week, there will be no shinty coaching session on Tuesday.

Transition Days

Next week will be exciting as our P7 class will be visiting Portree High School from Wednesday to Friday.  P7 parents should have received a letter from PHS to outline what their child should do on those days.  Please let us know if you have not received this.

We will be holding our own in school transition days on Thursday 19^th (afternoon) and Friday 20^th June.  This will give all children a chance to sample their expected new class for next session.  We do not have any confirmation of staffing for next session, however the table below shows which class and teacher your child will have for transition days.

Class	New Class	Teacher
Younger half of current P1	P1/2	Mrs Templeman
Older half of current P1	P2/3	Mrs Martin
Current P2	P2/3	Mrs Martin
All Current P3s	P4	Mrs MacAskill
Current P4	P5	Mr Murray
Current P5	P6	Mr MacLean
Current P6	P7	Miss MacKenzie

Prizegiving and Leaver’s Assembly

Our end of session Prizegiving and Leaver’s Assembly will take place on Wednesday 2^nd July at 9.30-10.30am.  All parents/carers of Primary 7 children are invited to attend.

There will also be invitations sent to the parents/carers of some children in other who have been nominated as a prize winner this year.  These invites are due to go out on Monday 23^rd June.

Important – Pupils taking bus

Our school transport provider Stagecoach has asked me to share the following information with you:

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/

School Uniform Offer

One of our school uniform providers Andrew Hyde, currently have 10% off across their website: https://ahyde.co.uk/collections/portree-primary.  

Use code: AHUNIFORM10 at checkout.

Mountain Warehouse Discount Code

20% off for our school community at Mountain Warehouse until June 2025.

If you would like to take advantage of this, the promo code is: CC202473.  This can be used at: https://www.mountainwarehouse.com

Known Dates for Term 4

Date	Event
Wednesday 18th-Friday 20th June	P7 at High School for transition days.
Thursday 19th (afternoon) and Friday 20th June	School transitions – pupils spending time in new classes.
Wednesday 2nd July	Prize Giving and Leavers Assembly 9.30-10.30am.
Thursday 3rd July	School closes at 12pm for Summer Holiday.