Latest Parent Information

Dear Parents/Carers,

Please see this week’s update below.

Upcoming visit from Education Scotland

On Wednesday, we received notification that HM Inspectors will be visiting PPS the week beginning 30^th October and we look forward to welcoming them.

Today is the final day to for surveys to be completed by parents and this can be done at Parents / Carers (Primary).  Please let us know if you would like to use a device at school to complete these or if we can support in any other way.  Your views are very important in this process.

If you would like further information please visit Inspection and review documentation

Skyedance Showcase

Skyedance will be holding their 20^th Anniversary Showcase on Saturday 28^th October at 6.30pm.  Our pupils will be given the opportunity to perform the piece they have been working on with Skyedance, at the Showcase.  Permission forms have been sent out to pupils involved.

School Photographer

The school photographer will visit the school on Tuesday 7^th November for individual and family photos.  Permission forms will be sent home after the October holidays. Class photos will be taken later in the year.

P1-3 Games Club

Together with Active Schools, we are hoping to run an after school games club for our P1-3 pupils for an initial 4 week block before Christmas.  In order to do this, we require parent helpers who would be happy to help out on a rota basis.  Sarah Ross, Active Schools Coordinator, is planning a training session for interested parents which will take place on 15^th November from 4-6pm.  Any interested parents should contact me directly, as we currently do not have enough numbers to run the training session and the pupil sessions.

Disney Playmakers Football for P1-3 girls

Due to a lack of numbers, this session did not go ahead yesterday, as planned.  We hope to run this for a block of lessons starting after the October holidays on Thursdays straight after school.  The Disney Princess themed sessions are to encourage P1-3 girls into football and the sessions will be run by Sarah Ross of Active Schools and Mrs Martin, our P2/3 Teacher.  Further information to follow.

Date for your diary

David Rex of Health Promoting Schools is going to offer a virtual parent workshop, Food, Mood and Behaviour, on Tuesday 6^th February in the evening.  Anyone who has attended this workshop in the past has been very inspired by Dave’s presentation and we are very grateful that he is able to offer this to our school.  Further details to follow.

New Menus

New menus will be in place from the October holidays and these can be found on the link

https://www.highland.gov.uk/downloads/file/22864/primary_and_early_years_2-choice_grab_n_go_menu

Dates for Next Term

We have booked he venue at Portree High School for the evening of 12^th December for our Christmas Concert and will share further details as they are confirmed.

Our Open Sessions next term will be class by class and will take place on the dates indicated at the bottom of this week’s newsletter.  Parents with children across different classes are welcome to visit on one session and we will provide space for you to view more than one child’s work, at the same time.

Parents Evening appointments will take place on Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December with some additional daytime slots available on Monday 4^th December for our large P5 class and Friday 1^st December for our large P7 class.  Further information will be provided next term.

Soccer 7’s

Dates for Future Soccer 7’s events

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Makaton Sign of the Week

We will introduce the word “when” in the first week back after the holidays

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment.

For further information see: http://www.nits.net/bugbustinghttp://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk – search on head lice.

Other Known upcoming dates;

Friday 27^th October                                                    Skyedance Rehearsals

Saturday 28^th October                                               Skyedance Showcase

Week beginning 30^th October                                   Education Scotland Inspection visit

Friday 3^rd November                                                  P1-3 Community Café

Tuesday 7^th November                                              School Photographer

Friday 10^th November                                                P-3 Family Reading Session

Tuesday November 14^th                                            P1 Vision Screening

Wednesday 15^th November                                      Games Club Training session for P1-3 parents

Monday 20^th November                                            P5 and P2/3 open afternoon 2.30pm

Tuesday 21^st November                                             P6 open afternoon 2.30pm

Wednesday 22^nd November                                      P4 and P2 open afternoon 2.30pm

Friday 24^th November                                                P7 Open Morning 11.45am

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Tuesday 12^th December                                           Christmas Concert

Tuesday 6^th February                                                 Food, Mood and Behaviour seminar for parents

We wish you all a fantastic October break and look forward to seeing you back on Monday 23^rd October.

Sara

Dear Parents/Carers,

Please see this week’s update below.

Upcoming visit from Education Scotland

On Wednesday, we received notification that HM Inspectors will be visiting PPS the week beginning 30^th October and we look forward to welcoming them.  I am aware that the link to further information which was included in the email in not working.  If you would like further information please visit Inspection and review documentation

We very much welcome your participation in the inspection process and are grateful to those of you who are able to complete the pre-inspection parent/carer survey that was shared last week. If we can be of any assistance in helping you complete that, either by providing internet and a device in the school to use, please let us know.

Community Café

Our first Community Café of this session will be held next Friday, 6^th October at 11am until noon, here in the school gym.  The Café will be hosted by our Primary 4 class who will be raising funds to support the preschool at Portree Nursery.  Please join us if you are able for talk, food and friends!

.

The next Community Café will take place on Friday 3^rd November, hosted by P1-3 in support of the Blythswood Shoebox Appeal which they are organising for the school this year.

Information from P1-3 about Blythswood boxes has been sent out separately

Skyedance Showcase

Skyedance will be holding their 25^th Anniversary Showcase on Saturday 28^th October at 6.30pm.  Our pupils will be given the opportunity to perform the piece they have been working on with Skyedance, at the Showcase.  Permission forms will be sent out next week.

Kid Experts

We are excited to continue our work with Radio Skye, featuring interviews with “Kid Experts” and hosted by our very own Joni as part of her kids broadcast. Permission forms were given out last week to interested pupils and these should be completed and returned to the school.

P1-3 Games Club

Together with Active Schools, we are hoping to run an after school games club for our P1-3 pupils for an initial 4 week block before Christmas.  In order to do this, we require parent helpers who would be happy to help out on a rota basis.  Sarah Ross, Active Schools Coordinator, is planning a training session for interested parents which will take place on 15^th November from 4-6pm.  Any interested parents should contact me directly so that we ensure we have enough numbers to run the training session and the pupil sessions.

Canteen Staff

There continue to be several vacancies within the catering department of the council which is having an effect on the provision of school meals.   Anyone interested in any of these positions should contact Kevin Fraser, Catering Services Officer, directly on 07769 880364 or 01349 781121, email kevin.fraser@highland.gov.uk

Dates for Next Term

We have booked the Venue at Portree High School for the evening of 12^th December for our Christmas Concert and will share further details as they are confirmed.

Our Open Sessions next term will be class by class and will take place on the following dates;

Monday 20^th November at 2.30pm           P5 and P2/3

Tuesday 21^st November at 2.30pm           P6

Wednesday 22^nd November at 2.30pm    P4 and P1/2

Friday 24^th November at 11.45am            P7

Parents with children across different classes are welcome to visit on one session and we will provide space for you to view more than one child’s work, at the same time.

Parents Evening appointments will take place on Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December with some additional daytime slots available on Monday 4^th December for our large P5 class and Friday 1^st December for our large P7 class.  Further information will be provided next term.

Soccer 7’s

Dates for Future Soccer 7’s events

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Makaton Sign of the Week

Our Makaton sign of the week, beginning on Monday, will be “what”

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment.

For further information see: http://www.nits.net/bugbustinghttp://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk – search on head lice.

Other Known upcoming dates;

26^th – 28^th September                                                School closed to pupils due to Industrial Action

Friday 6^th October                                                       P4 Community Café

Friday 2^nd November                                                  P1-3 Community Café

Saturday 28^th October                                               Skyedance Showcase

Wednesday 15^th November                                      Games Club Training session for P1-3 parents

Week of November 20^th                                            Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Tuesday 12^th December                                           Christmas Concert

Dear Parents/Carers,

There are a few new items as well as some reminders for your information this week;

Skyedance Showcase

Skyedance will be holding their 25^th Anniversary Showcase on Saturday 28^th October at 6.30pm.  Our pupils will be given the opportunity to perform the piece they have been working on with Skyedance, at the Showcase.  Further information and permission forms will be sent out ahead of the October holidays.

School closures due to industrial action

As you will be aware the school will be closed to pupils next Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  Daily learning activities will be issued each day on Google Classrooms and further information about this can be found it the attachment above.  Please check that you are able to access Google Classroom for your child and get in touch with any issues as soon as possible.

Kid Experts

We are excited to continue our work with Radio Skye, featuring interviews with “Kid Experts” and hosted by our very own Joni as part of her kids broadcast. Permission forms will be given out today to interested pupils and these should be completed and returned to the school, even if once has been filled out previously to ensure we have an updated list of pupils keen to participate.

P1-3 Games Club

Together with Active Schools, we are hoping to run an after school games club for our P1-3 pupils for an initial 4 week block before Christmas.  In order to do this, we require parent helpers who would be happy to help out on a rota basis.  Sarah Ross, Active Schools Coordinator, is planning a training session for interested parents which will take place on 15^th November from 4-6pm.  Any interested parents should contact me directly so that we ensure we have enough numbers to run the training session and the pupil sessions.

Canteen Staff

There continue to be several vacancies within the catering department of the council which is having an effect on the provision of school meals.   Anyone interested in any of these positions should contact Kevin Fraser, Catering Services Officer, directly on 07769 880364 or 01349 781121, email kevin.fraser@highland.gov.uk

Soccer 7’s

The next Soccer 7’s event of this session will take place on Saturday.  This event is being run by Active Schools and will follow a festival type format.  Pupils wishing to take part, please see information sent out earlier with week with details about how to register online.

Dates for Future Soccer 7’s events

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Makaton Sign of the Week

Our Makaton sign of the week, beginning on Monday, will be “where”

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment.

For further information see: http://www.nits.net/bugbustinghttp://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk – search on head lice.

Other Known upcoming dates;

26^th – 28^th September                                                School closed to pupils due to Industrial Action

Friday 6^th October                                                       P4 Community Café

Friday 2^nd November                                                  P1-3 Community Café

Saturday 28^th October                                               Skyedance Showcase

Wednesday 15^th November                                      Games Club Training session for P1-3 parents

Week of November 20^th                                            Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Tuesday 12^th December                                           Christmas Concert

Dear Parents/Carers,

There are a few new items as well as some reminders for your information this week;

Bus Pupils

From now, all pupils taking the bus are required to show their Young Scot National Entitlement card to the driver each time they board.  Please ensure that pupils have their cards with them and if they do not have a card, these should be applied for as soon as possible at https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/1526/public_and_community_transport/120/bus_pass_and_travel_discounts

Community Café

Each class in the school look forward to hosting a Community Café over the course of the year and we are pleased to let you know that our first Community Café, hosted by Primary 4, will take place on Friday 6^th October at 11am, followed by a Community Café hosted by P1-3 on Friday 2^nd November.  Further information to follow.

Kid Experts

We are excited to continue our work with Radio Skye, featuring  interviews with “Kid Experts” and hosted by our very own Joni as part of her kids broadcast. Permission forms will be given out today to interested pupils and these should be completed and returned to the school, even if once has been filled out previously to ensure we have an updated list of pupils keen to participate.

Canteen Staff

There are currently several vacancies within the catering department of the council which is having an effect on the provision of school meals.  Please see a list of the current vacancies below. Anyone interested in any of these positions should contact Kevin Fraser, Catering Services Officer, directly on 07769 880364 or 01349 781121, email kevin.fraser@highland.gov.uk

Cook 4 at Portree High School, 32.50 hours per week

https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/cook-4-325-hpw-portree-high-school-321930

Area Cook 3 based at Portree High School, 25 hours per week (2 posts available)

https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/area-cook-3-25-hpw-base-portree-high-school-321938

Area Cook 3 based at Plockton High School, 25 hours per week

https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/area-cook-3-25-hpw-plockton-high-school-337012

Cook 1 at Portree High School, 25 hours per week (Fixed Term until June 2024)

https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/cook-1-25-hpw-fixed-term-until-june-2024-portree-high-school-347900

Cook 1 at Broadford Primary. 21.50 hours per week (Fixed Term until June 2024)

https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/highland-council/jobs/cook-1-215-hpw-fixed-term-until-28-june-2024-broadford-primary-school-isle-skye-339342

Cook 1 at Edinbane Primary, 11 hours per week – this post is due to be advertised shortly.

Cook 1 at Portree Primary, 22 hours per week – this post is due to be advertised shortly.

Soccer 7’s

The next Soccer 7’s event of this session will take place in Portree next Saturday 23^rd September.  Permission forms have been given out to interested pupils in P4-7 and should be returned by Monday at the latest.

Dates for Future Soccer 7’s events

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Flu Immunisation

The School Nursing team will visit the school on 19^th September to collect any permission forms for immunisations.  If all outstanding permission forms could please be returned to the school by then.

Makaton Sign of the Week

From Monday, we will be introducing our Makaton Sign of the Week to all classes.  This term we will focus on question words and next week’s sign will be “who”

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment.

For further information see: http://www.nits.net/bugbusting http://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk – search on head lice.

Other Known upcoming dates;

Friday 29^th September                                               Active Schools Choreography Competition

Friday 6^th October                                                     P4 Community Café

Friday 2^nd November                                                P1-3 Community Café

Week of November 20^th                                           Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Tuesday 12^th December                                           Christmas Concert (TBC)

Dear Parents/Carers,

Thank you all again for your patience and understanding this week whilst the electrical fault was sorted at the school. As a reminder, email and our Facebook page will always be updated first in terms of school closures.  The Highland Council School Closures page is also updated, however, this is handled through a call centre and can take time to upload.  The school closures telephone line is also update and this can be reached at  0800 564 2272   PIN 042810

Please remember to inform the school first thing each morning if your child is going to be absent.  This can be done by email, either to class teachers directly or to portree.primary@highland.gov.uk   We are required to identify the reason for each absence and to follow up on unexplained absences.

Bus Pupils

From now, all pupils taking the bus are required to show their Young Scot National Entitlement card to the driver each time they board.  Please ensure that pupils have their cards with them and if they do not have a card, these should be applied for as soon as possible at https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/1526/public_and_community_transport/120/bus_pass_and_travel_discounts

Changes to Swimming next week

Due to the swimming pool being short staffed next week, they are unable to open before noon on Thursday which means school swimming lessons will not take place that day.

Soccer 7’s

Information and strips for this week’s event in Broadford have been given out to pupils involved.

Further Soccer 7’s dates (TBC)

23/09 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Sarah Ross/Active Schools

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment.

For further information see: http://www.nits.net/bugbusting http://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk – search on head lice.

Staffing

I have been appointed to the post of Education Support Officer for the West Area Management Team on an 18 month secondment which will begin as soon as an Acting HT has been appointed to the school, until May 2025.  The HT post was advertised earlier this week and I will keep you updated as this develops.

Other Known upcoming dates;

27^th and 28^th September                                        Fluoride Varnishing

Monday 11^th and Tuesday 12^th September            Inset Days, school closed for pupils

Friday 29^th September                                           Active Schools Choreography Competition

Week of November 20^th                                        Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Dear Parents/Carers,

Please see some reminders and new pieces of information for your attention this week;

Administration of Medications

A reminder that medications can only be given or taken in school with correct forms completed.  This is the case whether staff are asked to administer medication or if pupils are administering it themselves.  Forms are required to completed each year and are available from the office should you require one.

In line with school policy, only prescribed medications can be administered in school.  Medications such as Calpol, etc cannot be given in school without a prescription.

After School Activities

We are keen to expand our offerings of After School activities and would be very interested in hearing from any parents/community members etc who may be able to share their interests with our pupils,  This can be done in shorter 3-4 week blocks rather than committing to a whole term.  Please get in touch with any suggestions.

Active Schools Saturday football will begin again from this Saturday the 2nd of September for P1-4 at the Fingal Centre. Join our volunteer parents for a fun football session!

P1 Session will run from 9.30am-10.15am
P2/3 Session will run from 10.30-11.30 am
P4 Session will run from 11.30- 12.30 am

Active Schools are looking for any additional parents/volunteers who can support the running of these session, so if your child is coming along it would be great to have your help too! You do not need to have any coaching experience!   To attend you must book your child on through the Highlife Highland website at https://booking.highlifehighland.com/  You do not require to be a member but you will need create an account to register with activities as a pay as you go member.   If you have any difficulties getting booked on please contact Sarah Ross.

Flower and Produce Show

The Flower and Produce Show takes place this  Saturday 2nd September at the Venue , Fingal Centre 

Entries should be to the venue between 10-30 and 12.15.  Refreshments available form 11am with Tombola, Raffle and Plant Stall.

Mrs Strachan and  her husband will be hosting a Family Gardening workshop in the library from 10.30 -12 .All children must be accompanied by an adult to attend.

The show is open to the general public at 1.30 with a prizegiving will at 3pm.

Changes to Swimming next week

Due to the swimming pool being short staffed next week, they are unable to open before noon on Tuesday and Thursday which means school swimming lessons will  not take place those days.

Meet the Teacher

Classrooms will be open on Wednesday 6^th September from 3.30 – 4.15pm for parents who wish to view classrooms and meet teaching staff.  We look forward to seeing you then!

Soccer 7’s

Soccer 7s begin again this term with the first event in Kyleakin on Saturday 9^th September at 10.30am.  Pupils participating will be issued with strips and further information ahead of the event.  We are very grateful to parents who have volunteered to help with this event.

Further Soccer 7’s dates (TBC)

23/09 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Sarah Ross/Active Schools

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment.

For further information see: http://www.nits.net/bugbusting http://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk – search on head lice

Other Known upcoming dates;

Monday 4^th September                                          PoppyScotland Bud Visits at PHS P4-7 classes

6,7,27 and 28^th September                                     Flouride Varnishing

Monday 11^th and Tuesday 12^th September            Inset Days, school closed for pupils

Friday 29^th September                                           Active Schools Choreography Competition

Week of November 20^th                                        Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Dear Parents/Carers,

Please see some reminders and new pieces of information for you attention this week;

Clothing for wet weather

With the return of the wet weather, can we remind parents that children will have their break outdoors wherever possible, even in wet weather. If the weather is extremely wet, playtimes will be held inside, however, for health and wellbeing, there is a focus of getting outdoors as much as possible. It is essential that all children have appropriate jackets and footwear with them each day.

Attendance

Please remember to inform the school first thing each morning if your child is going to be absent.  This can be done by email, either to class teachers directly or to portree.primary@highland.gov.uk

We are required to identify the reason for each absence and to follow up on unexplained absences.

Parent Correspondence

Permission forms for Fluoride Varnishing and Flu Immunisations have been sent home this week as well as our annual data check.  If you have not already, please check school bags and return these items to the school as soon as possible.

After School Activities

After school running club and instrumental music lessons have now started and there are still spaces for new starts. 

Pupils interested in instrumental lessons on Tuesdays after school should contact Nan Cleghorn nancleghorn2@gmail.com

Running Club takes place on Mondays from 3.30 – 4.30 and interested pupils should request a permission form from the office.

Information about extra-curricular activities offered by Skyedance and Active Schools have been shared through email and on our Facebook page.

We are keen to expand our offerings of After School activities and would be very interested in hearing from any parents/community members etc who may be able to share their interests with our pupils,  This can be done in shorter 3-4 week blocks rather than committing to a whole term.  Please get in touch with any suggestions.

Meet the Teacher

Classrooms will be open on Wednesday 6^th September from 3.30 – 4.15pm for parents who wish to view classrooms and meet teaching staff.  We look forward to seeing you then!

Cycling to School

Pupils who are cycling to school are reminded that once the enter the school car park, they must walk their bikes to the bike shelter at the back, rather than cycling through the school car park which can be busy with vehicles at that time.

Soccer 7’s

Soccer 7s begin again this term with the first event in Kyleakin on Saturday 9^th September at 10.30am.  The closing date for entries has now passed and pupils participating will be issued with strips and further information ahead of the event.  We are very grateful to parents who have volunteered to help with this event.

Further Soccer 7’s dates (TBC)

23/09 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Sarah Ross/Active Schools

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

28/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1 (Please note this date has changed from the initial date of 18/5)

Other Known upcoming dates;

Wednesday 30^th August                                            Blythswood Shoebox Visit – Whole School 1.30pm

Monday 4^th September                                              PoppyScotland Bud Visits at PHS P4-7 classes

6,7,27 and 28^th September                                       Flouride Varnishing

Monday 11^th and Tuesday 12^th September            Inset Days, school closed for pupils

Friday 29^th September                                               Active Schools Choreography Competition

Week of November 20^th                                            Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Dear Parents/Carers,

What a great week it has been welcoming all of our new and previous pupils back to school!  They have all settled back into school routines so well!

There are many bits of information to make you aware of at the start of session;

National Galleries of Scotland

Many of our pupil artwork is currently on exhibit at the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh as part of their “Your Art World” display.  The artwork of one of our P3 pupils is being used in the promotion of the exhibit and photos of last year’s P1 class with “Bob” is also available on the National Galleries Facebook page

Attendance

Please remember to inform the school first thing each morning if your child is going to be absent.  This can be done by email, either to class teachers directly or to portree.primary@highland.gov.uk  We are required to identify the reason for each absence and to follow up on unexplained absences.

Administration of Medications

Permission forms are required for all medications to be taken in school, whether they are administered by staff or pupils themselves.  We are only able to have prescription medications administered and unable to administer over the counter medication.  These permissions are required to be completed every year.    If your child requires medication to be administered in school, please contact the school office for the correct forms.

Parking in and around the school

Just a reminder about parking when dropping off and collecting pupils from school.  The school car park and bus lane are not permitted to be used by parent vehicles, unless agreed with the school.  The roads around the school, Marsco Place, Glamaig Place etc are not assumed by the Council and should not be used to park when collecting pupils.  Please ensure that residents have clear access to their drives.  The designated drop off zone for the school is at the Community Centre and works are in progress to increase the capacity here.   We appreciate you cooperation in this.

Homework

Our updated Homework Policy  is attached to this email for your information.  Reading homework will be sent home as this becomes appropriate and no other homework will be issued before 4^th September. Details of homework tasks and expectations are included in the homework policy.

Water

Pupils are encouraged to have water bottles with them at all times in school, however, please remember that these she only contain plain water, rather than juices.

School Improvement Plan

Our School Improvement plan this session focuses on three priorities; Literacy, Assessment and Moderation and securing our Green Flag Status. Copies of our School Improvement Plan and Standards and Quality Report are available on our school website.

After School Activities

Our after school activities are beginning to take place.  Running Club for P5-7 pupils will begin on Monday 21^st August from 3.30 – 4.30 pm and permission forms have been distributed to pupils who have expressed an interest.  After School instrumental lessons for all ages begin again on Tuesday 22^nd August from 3.30 – 4.30 pm with Nan Cleghorn at the cost of £3 per session.  Nan currently has space for new beginners.  Any pupils interested should contact Nan directly nancleghorn2@gmail.com

Meet the Teacher

Classrooms will be open on Wednesday 6^th September from 3.30 – 4.15pm for parents who wish to view classrooms and meet teaching staff.  We look forward to seeing you then!

Termly Overviews

In addition to letters which will be coming home from teachers with information about class routines etc, we will also be issuing termly overviews each term to provide parents with some information about curricular focus etc in each class.  These will be issued by mid September.

Soccer 7’s

Soccer 7s begin again this term with the first event in Kyleakin on Saturday 9^th September at 10.30am.  Permission forms have been given out to interested pupils and must be returned by Monday 21^st August in order to confirm our numbers with the organisers.  Unfortunately late entries will not be possible.  As always we are looking for parent volunteers to coach teams on the day.  The supervision and transportation of all participants is parental responsibility which means coaches are just encouraging and organising the teams rather than supervising participants.  If you are able to help, please indicate this on the permission form or contact me directly.

Further Soccer 7’s dates (TBC)

23/09 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Sarah Ross/Active Schools

11/11 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1

2024

10/02 – Portree (Astro) – 10.30-1

02/03 – Plockton (Astro) – 10.30-1 – Run by Danny/Active Schools

27/04 – Portree (Venue TBC) – 10.30-1

25/05 – Kyleakin – 10.30-1

Other Known upcoming dates;

Wednesday 30^th August                                            Blythswood Shoebox Visit – Whole School 1.30pm

Monday 4^th September                                              PoppyScotland Bud Visits at PHS P4-7 classes

6,7,27 and 28^th September                                       Flouride Varnishing

Monday 11^th and Tuesday 12^th September           Inset Days

Friday 29^th September                                               Active Schools Choreography Competition

Week of November 20^th                                            Open Sessions – Class by Class

Tuesday 5^th and Wednesday 6^th December           Parents Night Appointments

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions or concerns you may have.

Regards,

Sara

Dear Parents/Carers,

As the end of term draws close, there are a few updates to make you aware of.

It has been a very busy week at PPS! We have enjoyed welcoming our new Primary 1’s to their transitions days and hope that our P7s have had a great few days at Portree High School.

Last Friday’s Community Café raised an amazing £518 for Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers.  A huge well done to everyone involved.

Our summer picnic took part, in two instalments, this week with a lovely lunch provide by the canteen on Tuesday and an afternoon of fun and games at the KGV yesterday.

Staffing

We appreciate your continued patience as we await final confirmation of staffing, however, we would like to share with you our current expectation.  This could all still change, however, we will proceed with the following staffing arrangement for our transition visits on Monday and Wednesday afternoon;

P1/2      Mrs Templeman

P2/3      Mrs Murray/Mrs Martin

P4          Mrs MacAskill

P5          Mrs Salter

P6          Mr Murray/Miss Deplano

P7         Miss MacKenzie

Any updates or changes to this will be shared as they become available.

Makaton

Our Makaton sign this week is Mother/Mum

Mother/Mum

Transition Arrangements

Our new Primary 1’s and our new Primary 7’s had their transition visits this week.  Transition for our current P1-5 will take place on Monday and Wednesday afternoon next week.

Soccer 7’s

The final Soccer 7’s event of this session will take place on Saturday 24^th June in Broadford. We are very grateful to Starsky Campbell, Barry Speed and John Urquhart for offering to help out with coaching at this event.  Further information and strips have been given out.  We ask that all strips please be returned to school by Monday 26^th June so that they can be organised and stored away before the end of term.

Prizegiving

Our annual Prizegiving assembly will take place on Wednesday 28^th June at the school at 9.30am.  This is our opportunity to recognise the achievements of the year and to wish our P7’s well as they head off to High School.  Primary 7 parents are welcome to join us for this event and to stay afterwards for tea/coffee and cake.  Parents of prize winners in other classes will also receive an invitation.

End of Term Arrangements

Thursday 29^th of June is our last day of term and the school will close at 11.50am in order to tie in with transport arrangements. 

Dates for this term

Saturday 24^th June           Soccer 7’s Broadford

Tuesday 27^th June            P7 School Trip

Wednesday 28^th June      Prizegiving 9.30am

Thursday 29^th June          Last Day of Term 11.50am finish

Dear Parents/Carers,

With just two weeks to go until the end of term, please find some updates and reminders below.

While this unusual weather has been fantastic for school trips etc. we appreciate that everyone has been finding this week very hot in school, and are doing all we can to keep things cool. We appreciate everyone’s efforts during this very warm spell!

Community Café

Primary 4 and 5 will host our final Community Café of this session today at 11am with all proceeds going to Young Carers. We look forward to seeing you if you are able to attend.

School Picnic

Weather permitting, our school picnic will take place this coming Tuesday afternoon.  Pupils will have their lunches at school and we will then head to the KGV pitch in the afternoon for some games and ice lollies.  As we have done in the past,  we will use this event to support the work of The Community Foodbank, Skye and Lochalsh.  Children will have a non-uniform day but are asked instead of taking in money for this that they please take in a item of non-perishable food to be donated to the foodbank.

Makaton

While we have not had an assembly this week to introduce a new Makaton sign, it seems appropriate to introduce the word “hot”, this week.

Transition Arrangements

Primary 7 will visit Portree High School next Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and further information has been sent out about arrangements for these days.

We had hoped to hold our own transition days next Thursday and Friday, however, due to uncertainties around staffing for next session and staff absence, we are going to do our transition in two stages.

Our new Primary 1’s will visit Mrs Templeman’s class and our new P7’s (current P6 class) will visit Miss MacKenzie’s class on Thursday 22^nd and Friday 23^rd June as originally planned.  P2 – P6 classes will visit their new classes on the afternoons of Monday 26^th June and Wednesday 28^th June, by which point, we hope to have our staffing for next session finalised.  The staffing will dictate our class composition and as soon as we are aware of this information, this will be shared with parents. 

We appreciate that this is very late in the term to be finalising information and while we share your frustration, this is completed at Council level and not shared until it is all finalised.  We hope to be in a position to share this information next week.

Soccer 7’s

The final Soccer 7’s event of this session will take place on Saturday 24^th June in Broadford. We are very grateful to Starsky Campbell, Barry Speed and John Urquhart for offering to help out with coaching at this event.  Further information and strips will be given out on Tuesday ahead of the P7 transition days at PHS.  We ask that all strips please be returned to school by Monday 26^th June so that they can be organised and stored away before the end of term.

Prizegiving

Our annual Prizegiving assembly will take place on Wednesday 28^th June at the school at 9.30am.  This is our opportunity to recognise the achievements of the year and to wish our P7’s well as they head off to High School.  Primary 7 parents are welcome to join us for this event and to stay afterwards for tea/coffee and cake.  Parents of prize winners in other classes will also receive an invitation.

Dates for this term

Tuesday 20^th June            School Picnic

Thursday 21^st June           Tongadale League Shinty Event 5pm Portree- TBC – there is a chance of change to this event

21^st – 23^rd June                 P7 Transition days at Portree High School

22^nd and 23^rd June            PPS Transition Days (new P1 and new P7)

26^th and 28^th June            PPS Transition Days (new P2 – P6 classes)

Saturday 24^th June           Soccer 7’s Broadford

Tuesday 27^th June            P7 School Trip

Wednesday 28^th June      Prizegiving 9.30am

Thursday 29^th June          Last Day of Term 11.50am finish

Please be in touch with any questions or queries.

Regards,

Sara