Latest Parent Information

  • Weekly Update 17th March

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    Thank you all for your continued patience and understanding as we have had yet another disruptive week at school.  I have never been so grateful for rain!

    We continue to have a busy couple of weeks ahead with some events rescheduled due to missed snow days this week.

    Open Afternoons

    Next week, we will hold our Open Afternoons for all classes.  Classrooms will be open on the dates and times below and parents are welcome to come and view children’s work.  Pupils may be dismissed with parents after the open sessions if you wish. We are hoping to evaluate our profiling at PPS and will be looking to gather you views on this during Open Sessions and afterwards.

    Primary 3 and Primary 5 Open Day           Monday 20th March         2.30pm

    Primary 1 and Primary 4 Open Day           Tuesday 21st March         2.30pm

    Primary 2 and Primary 7 Open Day           Thursday 23rd March       2.30pm

    P6 Open Day                                               Friday 24th March           11.30am

    Parents Evenings

    Parents evenings will take place on Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th March.  Letters have been sent home asking parents to indicate their preferred date.  Please return these to the school as soon as possible in order for appointments to be arranged.

    Down Syndrome Awareness Day

    Next Tuesday, 21st March, PPS will take part in the World Down Syndrome Awareness Day.  Pupils are encouraged to wear odd socks to raise awareness and show support.

    Passion for Portree Summit

    Our Primary 7 class recently took part in a school based Youth Speaks Competition.  Pupils had prepared team speeches which were presented to their classes and judged by school staff.  The quality and content of these speeches was excellent and as a result of the passionate presentations, we have asked three of our groups to present again in front of invited member of the Portree and Braes Community Council, Portree and Braes Community Trust, Local Councillors and Highlife Highland at our first ever Passion for Portree Summit.  This presentation will take place at 2pm on Thursday 30th March, here at the school and Primary 7 parents are welcome to join us if they wish. 

    New Project with Radio Skye

    As a way of celebrating the vast amount of knowledge across various interests of our pupils, we are collaborating with Radio Skye to host a weekly knowledge showcase slot for our pupils.  Pupils will be given letters and permission forms today, to return if they are interested and each Friday, Mrs Templeman will take a pupil up to Radio Skye where they will pre record their segment. This will then be broadcast each Saturday.  Pupils involved would also be given an opportunity to share their talks with the school at assembly on a Friday, ahead of their visit.

    Skyedance visit to Tigh Na Drocaid

    Classes that have been working with Skyedance in school this term will have the opportunity to visit Tigh Na Drocaid on 27th and 30th March to share their dance routines with the attendees at the centre.  We look forward to be able to share with the community in this way.

    Coding Club

    We are delighted to be working with Dr Craig Stewart from Portree High School to start a new lunchtime coding club.  This club will be open for P6 pupils over the first block and will take place on Tuesdays from 1-1.30pm.  Spaces will be limited and P6 pupils will be given further information about how to sign up for this.  Pupils taking part, will require to take a packed lunch on the dates the club is offered  21st and 28th March

     Instrumental Music Club

    We are delighted that Nan Cleghorn is going to be starting up after school group music sessions on Tuesday afternoons, here at PPS.  The session will start at 3.30 on Tuesdays in the music room.  In the first instance, pupils will be offered the choice of tin whistle or recorder and may then progress onto guitar. If they have their own instrument, they should take this along, however, Nan also has a supply of instruments which can be used by pupils. 

    We hope to be able to start lesson this coming Tuesday and any interested pupils should contact Nan directly by email nancleghorn2@gmail.com

    Nan has run these music session, with great success, over many years and we are delighted that these will be on offer again.

    Raasay Trip

    A reminder that the next instalment of £75 for the P7 Raasay trip is due today.

    Gardening Week

    In order to prepare our allotment and Polytunnel for Spring, the school will be holding a Gardening Week from 27th March where all classes will be involved in visiting the allotment and taking part in gardening activities.  Further information to follow.

    WOW Certificates

    Just a reminder of our WOW certificate system.  In order to recognise wider achievements by pupils and to share successes outside of school, parents are encouraged to complete a WOW certificate and send these into school.  Each certificate is shared with the class, 5 house points are awarded and these are then added to pupil profiles.  A template of certificates is attached above but please also feel free to email class teachers with these good news stories!

    Soccer 7’s

    We are awaiting a new date for the tournament which had to be cancelled last week. Remaining tournament dates are listed below; 

    Saturday 13th May – Kyleakin/Kyle 

    Saturday 27th May – Portree (KGV)

    Saturday 24th June – Broadford 

     Makaton Signs

    This weeks Makaton signs are please, sorry, next and girl.  Graphics are attached to support the use of these.

    Basketball Festivals

    P7 will attend the basketball festival this Tuesday at Portree High School.  P6 will now attend on Tuesday 28th March due to the cancellation this week.  Pupils will require PE kits, water and packed lunches for this event.

    Dynamic Earth

    P6 and P7 will visit the Dynamic Earth exhibit at Portree High School on Thursday 23rd March.  As the P6 slot will run later in the morning after the class swimming session, P6 are asked to take a packed lunch with them.

    Fluoride Varnishing

    There has been a change of dates to this and P5-6 Fluoride Varnishing will now take place on Tuesday 21st March with P7 being completed on Tuesday 27th March.

    Highland Council Holiday for the Coronation

    The Council have now approved Monday 8th of May as a public holiday.  Schools will be closed in respect of the Coronation. 

    Parking around the school

    Parents are reminded, please, to be aware when collecting pupils to be mindful that local driveways are not blocked on either side of the road.  Wherever possible the drop off zone at Portree Community Centre should be used for dropping off and collecting pupils.

    The School Car Park is solely for staff use and should not be used for dropping pupils off

    We thank you for your cooperation in this.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 17th March                         Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                       P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                       P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                           Fluoride Varnishing P5-6

                                                           World Down Syndrome Day

                                                           Basketball Festival  P7

    Thursday 23rd March                    P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

                                                          P6 & P7 Dynamic Earth visit PHS

    Friday 24th March                        P6 Open Morning

                                                          P1 & P3 Community Cafe

    Tuesday 28th March                      P7 Fluoride Varnishing

                                                          Basketball Festival P6

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March             Parents Evening Appointments

    Thursday 30th March                    Passion for Portree Summit

    Current After School Activities

    In addition to the After School activities run by Highlife Highland, Skyedance etc. the following activities are taking place for PPS pupils.  Please contact the school for further information.

    Anyone wishing to help out with offering further activities is also asked to get in touch.  These could be activities that just run for 3-4 weeks at a time.  We would love to be able to extend these opportunities further.

     Monday              Running Club                                                 3.30-4.30 Portree Primary School Gym

    Tuesday               Instrumental Music Club with Nan                 3.30     Portree Primary Music Room

    Wednesday        P1/2 Shinty                                                      5-6pm  Portree High School Gym

                              P3/4 Shinty                                                      6-7pm  Portree High School Gym

                              P5-7 Shinty                                                       6-7pm  Portree High School Games Hall

    Thursday           P4-7 Singing Club                                            3.30-4.15  Portree Primary Music Room

    Please be in touch with any queries you may have.

    Regards

    Sara

    Sara Matheson

    Head Teacher

    Portree Primary School

    Blaven Road Portree

    Isle of Skye IV51 9PH

    01478613130

  • Weekly Update 3rd March

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    There are several pieces of information that I wish to bring to your attention this week.  We have a very busy few weeks coming up between now and Easter and will endeavour to keep you updated with further information about upcoming events.

    Coding Club

    We are delighted to be working with Dr Craig Stewart from Portree High School to start a new lunchtime coding club.  This club will be open for P6 pupils over the first block and will take place on Tuesdays from 1-1.30pm.  Spaces will be limited and P6 pupils will be given further information about how to sign up for this.  Pupils taking part, will require to take a packed lunch on the dates the club is offered; 7th, 21st and 28th March

    Instrumental Music Club

    We are delighted that Nan Cleghorn is going to be starting up after school group music sessions on Tuesday afternoons, here at PPS.  The session will start at 3.30 on Tuesdays in the music room.  In the first instance, pupils will be offered the choice of tin whistle or recorder and may then progress onto guitar. If they have their own instrument, they should take this along, however, Nan also has a supply of instruments which can be used by pupils. 

    The sessions will start on Tuesday 7th March and any interested pupils should contact Nan directly by email nancleghorn2@gmail.com

    Nan has run these music sessions, with great success, over many years, and we are delighted that these will be on offer again.

    Breakfast Club

    Due to a very generous community donation, we will be offering breakfast snacks each morning from 6th March.  These snacks will be available from the Cookery room and any pupil wishing to use have these will be able to come in before the bell and take a snack outside with them.

    Fun, Exciting Maths Sessions for P4 parents

    Primary 4 are inviting their families to their “Fun, Exciting maths session” during the afternoon of Thursday 9th March.  This is a family learning event for pupils to show their parents some of the problem solving maths activities they have been working on in class.  Invitations and further information will follow and some pictures of pupils working with the materials are attached above.

    Growth Mindset Workshops

    These have begun this week for P6 pupils and all P6 pupils will be involved in a 5 week block between now and May. These sessions are led by Maggie Cowie and Julie Maclean from the Childrens Service Worker service.

    After School Shinty

    Shinty will begin again next week, Wednesday 8th March, at the new times and locations.  Again, any parents able to be an extra pair of hands at these sessions should get in touch with the school.

    All shinty sessions will now be held at Portree High School on Wednesday evenings

    Primary 1,2         Small Gym          5-6pm

    Primary 3,4         Small Gym          6-7pm

    Primary 5-7        Games Hall         6-7pm

    Family Reading Sessions

    These sessions continue today with Primary 1 families invited to join us at 12.15 and Primary 2 families invited next week.

    Gardening Week

    In order to prepare our allotment and Polytunnel for Spring, the school will be holding a Gardening Week from 27th March where all classes will be involved in visiting the allotment and taking part in gardening activities.  Further information to follow.

    Bikeability

    Primary 7 pupils are asked to take their bikes to school on Monday 6th March.  In preparation for upcoming Bikeability sessions, Andrew Shaw, will talk with pupils on Monday afternoon and check over bikes to ensure they are safe to take part.

    WOW Certificates

    Just a reminder of our WOW certificate system.  In order to recognise wider achievements by pupils and to share successes outside of school, parents are encouraged to complete a WOW certificate and send these into school.  Each certificate is shared with the class, 5 house points are awarded and these are then added to pupil profiles.  A template of certificates is attached above but please also feel free to email class teachers with these good news stories!

    Soccer 7’s

    Permission slips have been given to P5-7 pupils who are interested in taking part in the Soccer 7’s event coming up on 11th March.  Once we know the number of pupils interested, we can make further arrangements.  The number of pupils able to take part will depend on sufficient adult volunteer to coach the teams on the day.  Supervision of pupils at the event will be parental responsibility to enable coaches  to just organise and encourage the teams.  Any parents who are able to help out with coaching are asked to contact the school as soon as possible.

    Saturday 11th March – Portree (Astro)  11-1pm

    Saturday 13th May – Kyleakin/Kyle 

    Saturday 27th May – Portree (KGV)

    Saturday 24th June – Broadford 

    Makaton Signs

    This weeks Makaton signs are tidy up, time, me and when.  Graphics are attached to support the use of these.

    Basketball Festivals

    Basketball Festival for all P6 and 7 pupils, arranged by Active Schools, will take place in March at Portree High School.  Our P6 class will attend on Tuesday 14th March and our Primary 7 class on Tuesday 21st March.  Pupils will require PE kits, water and packed lunches for this event.

    World Book Day

    Each child has been gifted with one of the World Book Day titles to take home.  We are aware that exchanging the book tokens has not always been easy given our location and we are very grateful to the Highland Book Shop in Fort William who have been able to supply the books this year.

    Changes of Dates

    Further Industrial Action is scheduled for Wednesday 15th and Thursday 17th March.  As a result the following changes to dates have been made.  These new dates will remain, regardless of strike actions continuing or being cancelled;

    P1 & P3 Community Café will now take place on Friday 24h March from 11am – noon with all proceeds to Marie Curie

    The Parent Information Session on composite classes will now take place on Monday 13th March at 2.45 in the school gym

    Our dress down day to raise awareness and funds for Young Carers will now take place on Tuesday 14th March

    Red Nose Day

    Friday 17th March is Red Nose Day in support of Comic Relief and while we appreciate there are a lot of fancy dress days upcoming, pupils are encouraged to wear read and to take in a donation if they wish.  The traditional red noses are not available this year.

    Composite Class Information Session

    While we are still a long way off from knowing our class arrangements for next year, I would like to invite anyone with questions or concerns about composite classes to an open information session on Monday 13th  March at 2.45.  This will be held by Mrs Templeman and myself in the gym and will be a very informal chance to hear a bit more about composite classes and to ask any questions you might have.

    Flouride Varnishing

    There has been a change of dates to this and P5-6 Flouride Varnishing will now take place on Tuesday 21st March with P7 being completed on Tuesday 27th March.

    Highland Council Holiday for the Coronation

    The Council have now approved Monday 8th of May as a public holiday.  Schools will be closed in respect of the Coronation.

    Parking around the school

    Parents are reminded, please, to be aware when collecting pupils to be mindful that local driveways are not blocked on either side of the road.  Wherever possible the drop off zone at Portree Community Centre should be used for dropping off and collecting pupils.

    The School Car Park is solely for staff use and should not be used for dropping pupils off

    We thank you for your cooperation in this.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 3rd March                             World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                             P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Thursday 9th March                        P4 Fun Exciting Maths family learning session

    Thursday 9th March                         Feis Visits to P4-7 classes

    Friday 10th March                           P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 13th March                        Composite class information session 2.45pm

    Tuesday 14th March                       Basketball Festival P6

    Friday 17th March                          P1 & P3 Community Cafe

    Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                        P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                        P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                                    Flouride Varnishing P5-6

                                                               World Down Syndrome Day

                                                               Basketball Festival  P7

    Thursday 23rd March                      P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                           P6 Open Morning

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28th March                        P7 Flouride Varnishing

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

    Current After School Activities

    In addition to the After School activities run by Highlife Highland, Skyedance etc. the following activities are taking place for PPS pupils.  Please contact the school for further information.

    Anyone wishing to help out with offering further activities is also asked to get in touch.  These could be activities that just run for 3-4 weeks at a time.  We would love to be able to extend these opportunities further.

    Monday               Running Club                                                     3.30-4.30 Portree Primary School Gym

    Tuesday               Instrumental Music Club with Nan            3.30        Portree Primary Music Room

    Wednesday        P1/2 Shinty                                                         5-6pm  Portree High School Gym

                                    P3/4 Shinty                                                         6-7pm  Portree High School Gym

                                P5-7 Shinty                                                          6-7pm  Portree High School Games Hall

    Thursday             P4-7 Singing Club                                             3.30-4.15  Portree Primary Music Room

    Please be in touch with any queries you may have.

    Regards,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 24th February

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    Although it has been a short week, there are still a number of pieces of information to bring to your attention;

    Uniform Swap

    Uniform pieces will be laid out in the corridor outside the gym today from 12.15 next Friday for anyone who requires them.

    Coding Club

    We are delighted to be working with Dr Craig Stewart from Portree High School to start a new lunchtime coding club.  This club will be open for P6 pupils over the first block and will take place on Tuesdays from 1-1.30pm.  Spaces will be limited and P6 pupils will be given further information about how to sign up for this.  Pupils taking part, will require to take a packed lunch on the dates the club is offered; 7th, 21st and 28th March

    Singing Club

    From Thursday 2nd March an after school singing club will be offered at the school for pupils in P4-7.  Singing club will be led by myself and will take place in the music room from 3.30 – 4.15 each Thursday.  Interested pupils have been given a permission form which should be returned at the first session.

    Breakfast Club

    Due to a very generous community donation, we will be offering breakfast snacks each morning from 6th March.  These snacks will be available from the Cookery room and any pupil wishing to use have these will be able to come in before the bell and take a snack outside with them.

    Fun, Exciting Maths Sessions for P4 parents

    Primary 4 are inviting their families to their “Fun, Exciting maths session” during the afternoon of Thursday 9th March.  This is a family learning event for pupils to show their parents some of the problem solving maths activities they have been working on in class.  Invitations and further information will follow and some pictures of pupils working with the materials are attached above.

    Growth Mindset Workshops

    All P6 pupils will be involved in a 5 week block of Growth Mindset Workshops as part of our Health and Wellbeing programme at the school.  The worskhops will be run in groups of 7-8 pupils and will be led by Julie MacLean and Maggie Cowie, Childrens Service Workers.  Further information will follow for P6 parents.

    After School Shinty

    There will be no shinty for the next two weeks due to the holiday and industrial action.  From Wednesday 8th March, our location and times will change to the following;

    All shinty sessions will now be held at Portree High School on Wednesday evenings

    Primary 1,2         Small Gym          5-6pm

    Primary 3,4         Small Gym          6-7pm

    Primary 5-7        Games Hall         6-7pm

    Family Reading Sessions

    These sessions continue today with Primary 3 families invited to join us at 12.15 and Primary 1 families invited next week.

    Gardening Week

    In order to prepare our allotment and Polytunnel for Spring, the school will be holding a Gardening Week from 27th March where all classes will be involved in visiting the allotment and taking part in gardening activities.  Further information to follow.

    Bikeability

    Cycling Proficiency for P7 pupils will take place over the coming few weeks and further information will be sent home to parents regarding what is required for these sessions.

    WOW Certificates

    Just a reminder of our WOW certificate system.  In order to recognise wider achievements by pupils and to share successes outside of school, parents are encouraged to complete a WOW certificate and send these into school.  Each certificate is shared with the class, 5 house points are awarded and these are then added to pupil profiles.  A template of certificates is attached above but please also feel free to email class teachers with these good news stories!

    Soccer 7’s

    Please note a change to the date of the second Soccer 7’s date below.  The first two dates will be run as festival by Active Schools.  Further information was sent out earlier this week for pupils to register online to participate in this weekend’s event. 

    Saturday 25th February – Plockton (Astro) 12-2pm

    Saturday 11th March – Portree (Astro)  11-1pm

    Saturday 13th May – Kyleakin/Kyle 

    Saturday 27th May – Portree (KGV)

    Saturday 24th June – Broadford 

    Makaton Signs

    Due to the Community Café today, we will not be having our usual Friday assembly where Makaton signs are introduced.  For this reason, there are no new signs this week and we will have 3 new ones next week.

    Basketball Festivals

    Basketball Festival for all P6 and 7 pupils, arranged by Active Schools, will take place in March at Portree High School.  Our P6 class will attend on Tuesday 14th March and our Primary 7 class on Tuesday 21st March.  Pupils will require PE kits, water and packed lunches for this event.

    World Book Day

    World Book Day takes place on Thursday 2nd March, however, we will be marking this on Friday 3rd March to avoid pupils having to worry about changing from costumes into swimming and PE gear.  On Friday 3rd March, pupils are invited to dress as their favourite book character or to wear the jammies to help us mark the day.

    We intend to hold a book swap for all classes on Friday 3rd March as part of our World Book Day celebrations.  Pupils are invited to take a book from home that they no longer need and will have the opportunity to choose a book from the book swap.

    Instead of the book tokens this year, each child will also be gifted with one of the World Book Day titles to take home.  We are aware that exchanging the book tokens has not always been easy given our location and we are very grateful to the Highland Book Shop in Fort William who have been able to supply the books this year.

    Young Carers Awareness Day

    This will take place on Wednesday 15th March.  Pupils will be invited to pay £1 to dress down for the day to raise money for this very worthwhile cause which benefits many of our pupils.

    Red Nose Day

    Friday 15th March is Red Nose Day in support of Comic Relief an while we appreciate there are a lot of fancy dress days upcoming, pupils are encouraged to wear read and to take in a donation if they wish.  The traditional red noses are not available this year.

    Composite Class Information Session

    While we are still a long way off from knowing our class arrangements for next year, I would like to invite anyone with questions or concerns about composite classes to an open information session on Thursday 16th March at 2.45.  This will be held by Mrs Templeman and myself in the gym and will be a very informal chance to hear a bit more about composite classes and to ask any questions you might have.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 24th February                       P7 Community Café

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                               Uniform Swap

    February 28 & March 1st                Planned Industrial Action

    Friday 3rd March                             World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                              P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Thursday 8th March                         P4 Fun Exciting Maths family learning session

    Friday 10th March                            P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 14th March                        Basketball Festival P6

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

                                                               Young Carers Awareness Day

    Thursday 16th March                       Composite class information session 2.45pm

    Friday 17th March                           Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                        P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                        P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                               World Down Syndrome Day

                                                               Basketball Festival  P7

    Thursday 23rd March                      P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                           P6 Open Morning

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

    Please be in touch with any queries you may have.

    Regards,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 17th February

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    Please find below, several items of news for your attention this week;

    Community Café

    We very much look forward to running our Community Café again next week.  Primary 7 have been busy preparing for this event which will run on Friday 24th February from 11am until noon.  There will be music, a creche, lovely home baking and service with a smile!  All are most welcome to join us and all proceeds will go towards the Syria & Turkey Earthquake Appeal.

    After School Shinty

    There will be no shinty for the next two weeks due to the holiday and industrial action.  From Wednesday 8th March, our location and times will change to the following;

    All shinty sessions will now be held at Portree High School on Wednesday evenings

    Primary 1,2         Small Gym          5-6pm

    Primary 3,4         Small Gym          6-7pm

    Primary 5-7        Games Hall         6-7pm

    Uniform Swap

    Uniform pieces will be laid out in the corridor outside the gym from 12.15 next Friday for anyone who requires them.

    Staffing

    Following interviews earlier this week, we have appointed Fiona MacDonald to the post of Clerical at Portree Primary School.  Fiona will begin with us on 6th March and joins us with experience from several years as clerical at Portree High School. 

    Family Reading Sessions

    These sessions continue today with Primary 2  families invited to join us at 12.15 and Primary 3 families invited next week.

    WOW Certificates

    Just a reminder of our WOW certificate system.  In order to recognise wider achievements by pupils and to share successes outside of school, parents are encouraged to complete a WOW certificate and send these in to school.  Each certificate is shared with the class, 5 house points are awarded and these are then added to pupil profiles.  A template of certificates is attached above but please also feel free to email class teachers with these good news stories!

    P7 Raasay Trip

    Our P7 Raasay trip has now been confirmed as 13th – 16th June. The next instalment of £75, payable to Portree Primary School is due today.

    Soccer 7’s

    Please note a change to the date of the second Soccer 7’s date below.  The first two dates will be run as festival by Active Schools.  Further information was sent out earlier this week for pupils to register online to participate in this weekends event. 

    Saturday 25th February – Plockton (Astro) 12-2pm

    Saturday 11th March – Portree (Astro)  11-1pm

    Saturday 13th May – Kyleakin/Kyle 

    Saturday 27th May – Portree (KGV)

    Saturday 24th June – Broadford 

    Makaton Signs

    The Makaton signs for this are please, sorry, next, girl.  Graphics for these are attached above.

    Basketball Festivals

    Basketball Festival for all P6 and 7 pupils, arranged by Active Schools, will take place in March at Portree High School.  Our P6 class will attend on Tuesday 14th March and our Primary 7 class on Tuesday 21st March.  Pupils will require PE kits, water and packed lunches for this event.

    World Book Day

    World Book Day takes place on Thursday 2nd March, however, we will be marking this on Friday 3rd March to avoid pupils having to worry about changing from costumes into swimming and PE gear.  On Friday 3rd March, pupils are invited to dress as their favourite book character or to wear the jammies to help us mark the day.

    Young Carers Awareness Day

    This will take place on Wednesday 15th March.  Pupils will be invited to pay £1 to dress down for the day to raise money for this very worthwhile cause which benefits many of our pupils.

    Red Nose Day

    Friday 15th March is Red Nose Day in support of Comic Relief an while we appreciate there are a lot of fancy dress days upcoming, pupils are encouraged to wear read and to take in a donation if they wish.  The traditional red noses are not available this year.

    Composite Class Information Session

    While we are still a long way off from knowing our class arrangements for next year, I would like to invite anyone with questions or concerns about composite classes to an open information session on Thursday 16th March at 2.45.  This will be held by Mrs Templeman and myself in the gym and will be a very informal chance to hear a bit more about composite classes and to ask any questions you might have.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 17th February                       P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 20th February                    Mid term holiday

    Tuesday 21st February                    Mid term holiday

    Wednesday 22nd February            Inset Day

    Friday 24th February                       P7 Community Café

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                               Uniform Swap

    February 28 & March 1st                Planned Industrial Action

    Friday 3rd March                             World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                              P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Friday 10th March                            P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 14th March                        Basketball Festival P6

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

                                                               Young Carers Awareness Day

    Thursday 16th March                       Composite class information session 2.45pm

    Friday 17th March                           Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                        P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                        P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                               World Down Syndrome Day

                                                               Basketball Festival  P7

    Thursday 23rd March                      P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                           P6 Open Morning

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

    Just a reminder that the school is closed to pupils next Monday and Tuesday for the holiday and Wednesday for the inset day.  We wish you all a lovely long weekend and look forward to seeing you on Thursday.

    Regards,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 10th February

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    As we approach the end of another busy week at PPS, please see information for your attention below;

    WOW Certificates

    Just a reminder of our WOW certificate system.  In order to recognise wider achievements by pupils and to share successes outside of school, parents are encouraged to complete a WOW certificate and send these in to school.  Each certificate is shared with the class, 5 house points are awarded and these are then added to pupil profiles.  A template of certificates is attached above but please also feel free to email class teachers with these good news stories!

    Family Reading Sessions

    These sessions continue today with Primary 1  families invited to join us at 12.15 and Primary 2 families invited next week.

    How We Learn Best at PPS

    In all classes and through our Pupil Voice Committee, we have been working on reviewing our Teaching and Learning Policy.  A copy of the policy is attached above, in poster format which children are becoming familiar with.

    P7 Raasay Trip

    Our P7 Raasay trip has now been confirmed as 13th – 16th June. The next instalment of £75, payable to Portree Primary School is due next Friday 17th February.

    After School Clubs

    Sarah Ross, Active Schools Coordinator, has arranged training for anyone wishing to become a Bikeability Scotland Instructor, on Saturday the 4th of March at Portree High School from 9am- 5.45pm, with Cycling Scotland. The training will allow participants to run both level 1 and 2 within the school setting.  To become a BSI you should be a competent rider and must be a minimum of 16 years old or 18 where working independently. I would be willing to support any volunteers following the training if required.

    In order to book a place then please follow the link below.

    https://www.cyclinghub.scot/class-details/7358

    The code for the course is: bike23 people will need this to book on the course

    Soccer 7’s

    Please note a change to the date of the second Soccer 7’s date below.  The first two dates will be run as festival by Active Schools and further information is to follow.

    Saturday 25th February – Plockton (Astro) 12-2pm

    Saturday 11th March – Portree (Astro)  11-1pm

    Saturday 13th May – Kyleakin/Kyle 

    Saturday 27th May – Portree (KGV)

    Saturday 24th June – Broadford 

    Makaton Signs

    The Makaton signs for this are good morning, good afternoon, thank you and boy.  Graphics for these are attached above.

    Basketball Festivals

    Basketball Festival for all P6 and 7 pupils, arranged by Active Schools, will take place in March at Portree High School.  Our P6 class will attend on Tuesday 14th March and our Primary 7 class on Tuesday 21st March.  Pupils will require PE kits, water and packed lunches for this event.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 10th February                       P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 11th February                  P5 and under & girls shinty tournaments TBC

    Tuesday 14th February                   Shinty Taster Sessions

    Wednesday 15th February             Youth Speaks @ LAS  Primary 7

    Thursday 16th February                  Jammin Fitness Visit

    Friday 17th February                       P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 20th February                    Mid term holiday

    Tuesday 21st February                    Mid term holiday

    Wednesday 22nd February            Inset Day

    Friday 24th February                       P7 Community Café

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                               Uniform Swap

    Thursday 2nd March                         World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                              P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Friday 10th March                            P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 14th March                         Basketball Festival P6

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

    Friday 17th March                            Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                        P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                        P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                                    World Down Syndrome Day

                                                                    Basketball Festival  P7

    Thursday 23rd March                      P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                          P6 Open Morning

                                                               P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

    As always, please be in touch with any questions you may have.

    Regards,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 3rd February

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    Please see below, some important bits of information for you your attention this week.

    Family Reading Sessions

    These sessions continue today with Primary3  families invited to join us at 12.15 and Primary 1 families invited next week.

    Changes of dates

    Our visit from Jammin’ Fitness will now take place on 16th February instead of 28th February

    Primary 6 Parents Evening

    Parents  appointments for Primary 6 parents will take place through the school day on Friday 10th February.  Sign up slips should be returned as soon as possible.

    After School Clubs

    Coaches hope to take Running Club pupils down to the Nature Walk for upcoming sessions.  Could you please ensure that pupils have shoes that they don’t mind getting muddy.

    Sarah Ross, Active Schools Coordinator, has arranged training for anyone wishing to become a Bikeability Scotland Instructor, on Saturday the 4th of March at Portree High School from 9am- 5.45pm, with Cycling Scotland. The training will allow participants to run both level 1 and 2 within the school setting.  To become a BSI you should be a competent rider and must be a minimum of 16 years old or 18 where working independently. I would be willing to support any volunteers following the training if required.

    In order to book a place then please follow the link below.

    https://www.cyclinghub.scot/class-details/7358

    The code for the course is: bike23 people will need this to book on the course

    Soccer 7’s

    Please note a change to the date of the second Soccer 7’s date below.  The first two dates will be run as festival by Active Schools and further information is to follow.

    Saturday 25th February – Plockton (Astro) 12-2pm

    Saturday 11th March – Portree (Astro)  11-1pm

    Saturday 13th May – Kyleakin/Kyle 

    Saturday 27th May – Portree (KGV)

    Saturday 24th June – Broadford 

    Makaton Signs

    The Makaton signs for this week play, sing, book/story, friend.  Graphics for these signs are shown below.

    Shinty Taster Sessions

    Ruth Gordon, our new Shinty Officer, will visit the school on Tuesday 7th February and Tuesday 14th February to deliver shinty taster sessions to all pupils.  Each class will have a session on one of these dates and should ensure that they have PE kits with them.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 3rd February                          P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 4th February                     P7 and under & P3 and under shinty tournament  – pupils involved have received permission forms

    Tuesday 7th February                      Flouride Varnishing P5-7

    Wednesday 8th February               P1 Health Check (rescheduled from 30.1.23)

    Friday 10th February                       P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 11th February                  P5 and under & girls shinty tournaments TBC

    Wednesday 15th February            Youth Speaks @ LAS  Primary 7

    Friday 17th February                       P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 20th February                    Mid term holiday

    Tuesday 21st February                    Mid term holiday

    Wednesday 22nd February            Inset Day

    Friday 24th February                       P7 Community Café

                                                            P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                            Uniform Swap

    Tuesday 28th February                   Jammin Fitness visit – whole school

    Thursday 2nd March                        World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                              P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Friday 10th March                            P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

    Friday 17th March                            Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                         P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                         P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                             World Down Syndrome Day

    Thursday 23rd March                      P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                           P6 Open Morning

                                                             P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

    As always, please be in touch with any questions or concerns you may have.

    Regards,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 27th January 2023

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    Just a brief update for you this week with a few items to bring to your attention;

    Changes of dates

    • P1 health checks, originally scheduled for 30th January have been rescheduled for Wednesday 8th February
    • Flouride varnishing took place for P1-4 and some of P5 this week.  The dental team will visit again on Tuesday 7th March to complete the varnishing.

    Primary 6 Parents Evening

    Parents  appointments for Primary 6 parents will take place through the school day on Friday 10th February.  Sign up slips will be sent home at the start of next week.

    School Closure

    Further to the letter issued by Nicky Grant last week, the school will be closed to pupils on Tuesday 31st January due to planned industrial action.

    Family Reading Sessions

    We had a great turn out for the first of this year’s Family reading sessions last week for Primary 1 families.  These sessions continue today with Primary 2 families invited to join us at 12.15 and Primary 3 families invited next week.

    After School Clubs

    Shinty and running clubs resumed this week with great attendance.  It is not too late to join either of these clubs and any pupils wishing to start should bring a completed permission form along to their first session.

    Makaton Signs

    The Makaton signs for this week are finished, lunch, walk and go.  Graphics for these signs are attached below.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 27th January                          Uniform Swap

                                                                P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 31st January                      School closed to pupils

    Friday 3rd February                          P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 4th February                     P7 and under & P3 and under shinty tournament TBC

    Tuesday 7th February                      Flouride Varnishing P5-7

    Wednesday 8th February               P1 Health Check (rescheduled from 30.1.23)

    Friday 10th February                       P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 11th February                  P5 and under & girls shinty tournaments TBC

    Wednesday 15th February            Youth Speaks @ LAS  Primary 7

    Friday 17th February                       P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 20th February                    Mid term holiday

    Tuesday 21st February                    Mid term holiday

    Wednesday 22nd February            Inset Day

    Friday 24th February                        P7 Community Café

                                                              P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                              Uniform Swap

    Tuesday 28th February                   Jammin Fitness visit – whole school

    Thursday 2nd March                        World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                             P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Friday 10th March                           P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

    Friday 17th March                           Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                        P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                        P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                                    World Down Syndrome Day

    Thursday 23rd March                      P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                          P6 Open Morning

                                                             P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

    As always, please get in touch with any questions or concerns.

    Wishing you all a lovely weekend,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 20th January 2023

    Dear Parents/Carers,

    At the end of a very unusual week of winter disruptions, we wish to thank you all again for your continued understanding.  We don’t underestimate the difficulties that school closures cause and appreciate your patience while we have navigated a difficult week of weather!

    Family Reading Sessions

    A reminder that Family Reading Sessions begin again today for Primary 1 families at 12.15.  Further dates for infant classes are listed below.  We look forward to seeing you at these sessions, if you are able to attend.

    Staffing

    Our school Clerical post is currently advertised with a closing date of 23rd January.  Applications are being accepted through My Job Scotland

    https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/clerical-assistant-2-28hpw-portree-primary-school-312553

    The supply list for non-teaching staff is also currently open to applications on My Job Scotland

    https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/non-teaching-casual-posts-west-area-wester-ross-skye-lochaber-248718

    After School Shinty Sessions

    A reminder that after school shinty sessions have resumed and a timetable for these is below.  Pupils wishing to attend should return their permission forms at their first session.

    P1-2      Tuesdays 3.30-4.30pm    PPS School Gym

    P3-4       Thursdays 3.30-4.30pm  PPS School Gym

    P5-7       Wednesdays 6-7pm       PHS Games Hall

    Please also see below, a poster from the Camanachd Association regarding upcoming shinty coaching training for anyone that might be interested.

    PPS Running Club

    We are very grateful to Scott Templeman, Parent Volunteer, who will be leading a running club for our P5-7 pupils starting next Monday.  The club will run on Mondays from 3.30 – 4.30.  Pupils wishing to take part will require PE kit, warm jacket and water.  Permission forms have been distributed to P5-7 pupils and those wishing to attend should take completed forms along with them to the first session.

    Science Skills Roadshow

    Our Primary 6 class will visit the Science Skills Roadshow and pop up Newton Room at Portree Community Centre on Wednesday 25th January from 9.30-2.30.  Primary 7 will attend on Thursday 26th January.  All P6 and P7 pupils will require packed lunches on these days.

    Soccer 7s

    We are still in need of volunteers to help coach teams at the upcoming Soccer 7s events as listed below.  Parents will be responsible for the supervision of their children at these events and volunteers will only be acting in the capacity of coaching and encouraging players.  We have a large number of pupils wishing to take part but this is only going to be possible with enough volunteers.  Please get in touch if you are able to help at any of the sessions.  There is no requirement to help at all of them, even just one would be a huge help.

    Makaton

    Our Makaton words this week are; look, help, get up, again. These were introduced at assembly today and graphics for these signs are below for going over at home.

    Please note the updated list of known dates for this term as there have been some additions made this week.  These are highlighted in red.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Friday 20th January                         P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 24th January                     Flouride Varnishing

    Treoir (Lost Songs Project) to visit P6 (continuing for 4 weeks)

    Wednesday 25th January               P7 at Science Skills workshop

    Thursday 26th January                    P6 at Science Skills Workshop

    Friday 27th January                          Uniform Swap

                                                               P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 30th January                      P1 Health Check

    Tuesday 31st January                        Planned Industrial Action – School closed to pupils

    Friday 3rd February                          P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 4th February                     P7 and under & P3 and under shinty tournament TBC

    Friday 10th February                        P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 11th February                   P5 and under & girls shinty tournaments TBC

    Wednesday 15th February              Youth Speaks @ LAS  Primary 7

    Friday 17th February                        P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 20th February                    Mid term holiday

    Tuesday 21st February                    Mid term holiday

    Wednesday 22nd February             Inset Day

    Friday 24th February                        P7 Community Café

                                                                P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                                Uniform Swap

    Tuesday 28th February                    Jammin Fitness visit – whole school

    Thursday 2nd March                          World Book Day

    Friday 3rd March                               P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Friday 10th March                             P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

    Friday 17th March                             Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                         P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                         P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

                                                                     World Down Syndrome Day

    Thursday 23rd March                       P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                            P6 Open Morning

                                                                P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March               Parents Evening Appointments

    Please get in touch with any questions for queries you may have.

    Regards,

    Sara

  • Weekly Update 13th January 2023

    Dear Parents/Carers,

    As we end our first week of the new term, I would like to bring a few items of information to your attention and also to give you a draft outline of dates for this coming term.  This is by no means a complete list and dates will be added as further information becomes available.

    Family Reading Sessions

    We are delighted to be able to offer Family Reading Sessions again this term for Primary 1 – 3.  Further information is included in a letter attached to this email.  We very much look forward to this starting again!

    After School Shinty Sessions

    From Tuesday 17th January, we are delighted to be able of offer PPS indoor shinty training for an initial block of sessions up until the February break. We are very grateful to  Mr Iain Murray, who will  run the sessions indicated below. Pupils are taking home permission slips today and we ask that those are completed and taken along to the first session for those wishing to take part.

    P1-2      Tuesdays 3.30-4.30pm    PPS School Gym

    P3-4       Thursdays 3.30-4.30pm  PPS School Gym

    P5-7       Wednesdays 6-7pm       PHS Games Hall

    Staffing

    As intimated earlier in the week the Clerical post has now been advertised with a closing date of 23rd January.

    Parent Survey Results

    Thank you to those of you who were able to complete our parental survey in December.  Attached to this email you will see collated responses and the Action Plans discussed with staff in follow up to the survey.  Please be in touch with any questions you may have about this.

    https://portreeprimaryschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/parent-update-of-survey-results-and-action-plan-2022-2023.docx

    Soccer 7s

    We are still in need of volunteers to help coach teams at the upcoming Soccer 7s events as listed below.  Parents will be responsible for the supervision of their children at these events and volunteers will only be acting in the capacity of coaching and encouraging players.  We have a large number of pupils wishing to take part but this is only going to be possible with enough volunteers.  Please get in touch if you are able to help at any of the sessions.  There is no requirement to help at all of them, even just one would be a huge help.

    School Photographs

    School photos ordered before Christmas have now arrived and will be sent home with pupils today.  Please have a look in school bags for these.

    Makaton

    From next week, we will hold our weekly whole school assemblies each Friday morning.  These assemblies involve sharing successes, singing, discussion of current school events etc.  Each week we will continue to focus on 3 Makaton signs as part of our assemblies and these will be shared with parents in our weekly updates.

    Known dates for this term (further dates TBC)

    Monday 16th of January                 Feis visits to P5 (continuing for 5 weeks)

    Tuesday 17and 24th  January       Flouride Varnishing

    Friday 20th January                          P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 24th January                      Treoir (Lost Songs Project) to visit P6 (continuing for 4 weeks)

    Wednesday 25th January               P6 at Science Skills workshop

    Thursday 26th January                    P7 at Science Skills Workshop

    Friday 27th January                          Uniform Swap

                                                                    P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 30th January                      P1 Health Check

    Friday 3rd February                          P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 4th February                     P7 and under & P3 and under shinty tournament TBC

    Friday 10th February                        P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Saturday 11th February                  P5 and under & girls shinty tournaments TBC

    Friday 17th February                        P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Monday 20th February                    Mid term holiday

    Tuesday 21st February                    Mid term holiday

    Wednesday 22nd February            Inset Day

    Friday 24th February                        P7 Community Café

                                                             P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

                                                             Uniform Swap

    Tuesday 28th February                   Jammin Fitness visit – whole school

    Friday 3rd March                               P1 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Friday 10th March                             P2 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Wednesday 15th March                  P1 & P3 Community Café

    Friday 17th March                           Comic Relief

    Monday 20th March                         P3 & P5 Open Afternoon

    Tuesday 21st March                         P1 & P4  Open Afternoon

    Thursday 23rd March                       P2 & P7 Open Afternoon

    Friday 24th March                             P6 Open Morning

                                                              P3 Family Reading session 12.15pm

    Tuesday 28 & 29th March              Parents Evening Appointments

  • Thursday 22nd December

    Dear Parents/Carers,

     After a very busy few weeks at the school, there are just a few things to make you aware of before the holidays.

     School Photographs

    The school photographer has been in touch this morning to apologise that photos have not yet arrived as he had intended.  Due to delivery delays, he only received them back from the lab late last night and was unable to get orders posted out in time.  They will be with us at the start of term.

     Staffing

    One of our long standing canteen staff, Lesley, finishes today after several years at PPS.  We wish her well and thank her for her time with us.

     The catering department are recruiting to the role, which would be on a relief basis, pending the advertisement of the post.  The post for Cook 1 is 18 hours per week and anyone interested is asked ot contact Kevin Fraser on 01349781121.

    We also continue to await the advertisement of our clerical post.

     Parent Survey

    Many thanks to those of you who have completed the Parent Survey issued last week.  The survey will be open until tomorrow when responses will be collated.  A summary of results will be shared and will inform our school improvement plan moving forward. Your views are essential in this and we appreciate your time in completing this.  A link to the survey can be found at the bottom of the email.

     All of us at Portree Primary would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year.  We look forward to seeing you all on the 9th of January.

    Regards,

    Sara