As we approach the end of this first term, I would like to remind you that we break for the October week on Friday 15th at the usual time and will resume again on Tuesday 26th October.
Parent-Teacher Consultations will again be held virtually via Parents-Booking.co.uk on Thursday 4th November from 4pm and Friday 5th November from 1pm. Details of how to book your appointment will be sent out separately.
Once again we thank you for your continued patience and understanding this term. Like many other schools and businesses, we have had numerous unavoidable absences across our staff team. We appreciate the impact and frustration disruptions like this can bring and want you to know that we will continue to do our very best for our pupils and their families during this time. Please bear with us if some tasks take a little longer!
You will appreciate that our wonderful parent council are unable to run the Halloween Disco again this year due to ongoing restrictions. We know how much some children enjoy dressing up so are happy if they choose to wear something Halloween themed on Friday 29th October. I would ask that parents use their judgment about what pupils bring to school and request that no overly gory or frightening masks or props are brought in.
Thank you to everyone who responded to our text alerts about the Foodbank and about the P5-P7 ski trip. We will be in touch after the October break with further information about both.
On Friday, we will release the first edition of the pupil-led School Newsletter on Sway. Each edition will be sent out at the end of each term and will focus on two of the Wellbeing Indicators [Safe, Healthy, Achieving, Nurtured, Active, Respected, Responsible, Included]. The first edition will focus on the themes of Health and Safety.
From next term, there will be a weekly Head Teacher update on the school website to keep parents and carers more regularly informed about events in school.
I would like to wish you all a restful October week next week and look forward to welcoming our young people back on Tuesday 26th October.
Ruth has been a super star this week! She has worked so hard every day and has loved the challenge of new learning. She has also been a very helpful and considerate classmate. Thank you, Ruth!
Bhodi
Primary 1a
Bhodi has been working incredibly hard this week in all areas. He shows brilliant perseverance and takes great pride in his work. Well done Bhodi!
Elijah
Primary 1b
Elijah has been practising our school values this week by showing he is very resilient. He has been building some fantastic sculptures which have taken a lot of time and effort. He has even managed to fix them whenever they have fallen down! Well done Elijah!
Max
Primary 2
There were tears and some moments when he thought it couldn’t be done, but with support from his classmates and a lot of perseverance and determination, Max completed an ‘impossible’ STEM challenge.
Henry
Primary 3a
Henry has been working hard on his phonics and reading this week and has been a super contributor to class discussions.
Muslim
Primary 3b
Muslim shows perseverance and readiness at all times. He is a very helpful, kind boy in the class and always tries his best in all he does. Well done Muslim!
Megan
Primary 4a
Megan has been asking excellent questions during reading, she is reflecting on her book and showing a good level of understanding. Great job Megan keep it up.
Anya
Primary 4b
Anya, for her fantastic listening and contribution in class and group discussion. She frequently shares careful and considered thinking, demonstrating her astute observations and knowledge of what she has been learning. Amazing Anya!
Antoni
Primary 5a
Antoni is always ready to learn and enjoys a challenge. He has done some fantastic research work in our Space topic.
Rory
Primary 5b
For his imagination and use of superb technical language in his Nat Geo Kids space article.
Lucy
Primary 6
Lucy is a true Leither who always perseveres, tries her best and works really hard. She is also helpful in class and kind to others.
Ben
Primary 7a
Ben has tried hard this week in Maths, engaging in all lessons well and wanting to challenge himself. Well done Ben! 🙂
Tabitha is an incredibly kind, hard-working and respectful member of our class and sets a wonderful example to all her peers. Tabitha is a friend to all in P1/2 and she should be very proud of herself.
Stanley
Primary 1a
Stanley has been working extra hard this week on using kind words and good manners with everyone in the school. Well done Stanley!
Korra
Primary 1b
Korra is a very responsible member of our class. She is a super listener and demonstrates how to sit beautifully during carpet time every day. Keep up the fantastic work, Korra!
Scarlett
Primary 2
In her writing this week Scarlett applied what she had learnt, and didn’t give up when it was challenging. She should be proud of her perseverance.
Robert
Primary 3a
Robert has been working hard this week in numeracy. I have been really impressed with his enthusiasm and perseverance. He is making great progress, keep it up Robert!
Sophie
Primary 3b
Sophie had been very kind, considerate and helpful all week. Thank you!
Andrew
Primary 4a
Andrew always works hard and participates in all lessons. He can work with any partner and is a positive, valued and responsible member of P4a. Well done Andrew 🙂
Amos
Primary 4b
Amos has challenged himself and put in a huge effort to pick up the pace with his work and contribute more of his great ideas during discussions. Well done Amos! Ms Harris
Stanley
Primary 5a
Stanley is a responsible and hardworking member of our class and a great role model. Thank you Stanley!
Rikki-Leigh and Vivaan
Primary 5b
Both nominated for their effort in our planet design task.
Ayla
Primary 6
Ayla is a Leither who always perseveres. She is a resilient learner who never gives up in the face of a challenge. Well done Ayla!!
Lily
Primary 7a
Lily is a fantastic role model for the class. She shares her ideas readily and consistently tries her best. Well done Lily!
Nadia
Primary 7a
Nadia has shown resilience and growth mindset towards our work in Maths. She doesn’t easily give up! Well done Nadia :).
Heidi
Primary 7b
For her detailed and accurate summary of her novel in our literature circle. Heidi identified all the main parts of what she had read and could discuss them confidently. Well done Heidi!
Daisy
Primary 7b
Daisy wrote an excellent diary entry showing the impact of the Jim Crow laws. She included lots of details showing their unfairness and the emotional impact that would have had on people affected. It really transported the reader. Well done!
Omer values the importance of being kind and everyday he goes out of his way to show this to his classmates. I’ve been particularly impressed with how he supports his friends in class and the way he cares for others. Thank you for being you, Omer!
Emma
Primary 1a
Emma is such a kind and helpful member of our class. She is very mature and responsible and takes every opportunity to help both friends and adults in the class and playground.
Cormac
Primary 1b
Cormac has been showing fantastic manners to everyone in the school and is very respectful. He always shows he is ready to learn and enjoys sharing his ideas in class. Well done Cormac!
Gloria
Primary 3a
Gloria is an all round super star – she is kind and helpful, she works hard on her tasks, she is enthusiastic and is always ready to learn.
Mati
Primary 3b
For always being enthuasiastic in his work and being a kind, caring and helpful pupil. Well done!
Leland
Primary 4a
Leland has worked very hard this week, he has tried his best and been extra helpful around the classroom. Keep up the good work Leland.
Alexander
Primary 5a
Alexander is a responsible member of our class, ready to learn and working hard. Keep up the great efforts Alexander!
Kai
Primary 6
Kai overcame a real difficulty this week. He showed resilience, by continuing to work hard and by taking part in in all activities, determined to do his best. Well done Kai!
Isla
Primary 7b
For her excellent research on Abraham Lincoln which she then used to create a bright, colourful and informative poster. Also for her enthusiasm and hard work as a prefect! Well done Isla!
Friday 10th September
Louise
Primary 1/2
Louise has worked incredibly hard this week and always has a positive attitude towards her learning. She listens attentively and enjoys being challenged with new concepts! Well done, Louise. We are very proud of you!
Sam
Primary 1a
Sam has been trying very hard this week to listen to instructions. He has also been playing with lots of different friends and shows excellent manners towards everyone in school. Well done Sam!
Jayden
Primary 1b
Jayden has been a fantastic helper in the class. He always goes above and beyond when tidying up and comes to check on other class members when they are feeling sad. We are very lucky to have you in our class, Jayden! Well done!
Darcy
Primary 3a
Darcy is making great progress this term. She gets stuck into challenges and games and is always ready to help others with their learning.
Annabelle
Primary 3b
For being kind and thoughtful to a classmate when they needed help. Well done!
Maya
Primary 4a
Maya has shown kindness to all to week. She has been extra helpful to her peers and to adults. She has set a great example for all to follow. Well done Maya!
Christopher
Primary 5a
Christopher has shown a responsible and hard working attitude to his learning this week, Keep up the good work Christopher!
River
Primary 5b
For completing our problem solver starter first!
Ella
Primary 6
Ella has been a kind and helpful class member this week. She never hesitates to step in when jobs need to be done. She is happy to offer her support to any pupil who needs it and she approaches almost every task with enthusiasm.
Summer
Primary 7a
Summer produced a beautiful piece of writing this week. She wrote a diary entry using paragraphs and lots of emotive language. Well done Summer!
Kade
Primary 7b
For his great work as Word finder in his literature circle. Kade chose interesting words and offered great definitions. He was also able to answer questions about the text and discuss his answers and provide evidence for them. Well done Kade!
Nathan has had a fantastic start to P1 and is always ready to learn. He listens carefully at the carpet and enjoys sharing his ideas with the class. Well done Nathan, you are a star!
Arron
Primary 1a
Arron goes out of his way to be kind and helpful to others, often offering help before he has even been asked. Well done Arron!
Ariana
Primary 1b
Ariana has been a super listener and always sits beautifully on the carpet. She has also been very quick at tidying and sets a fantastic example for the rest of P1b. Well done Ariana!
Logan
Primary 3a
Logan has worked hard this week on being on the carpet ready to learn. He has excelled in our maths challenges and has helped others with their learning. Well done!
Kaleb
Primary 3b
After Kaleb had accidentally bumped into someone in the playground, he was very apologetic and helped to pick the boy up. He then asked if the boy was ok and made sure he had someone with him. He showed real responsibility and kindness.
Coryn
Primary 4a
Coryn works hard and tries her best at all times. She shows kindness and consideration to all and is very helpful to her classmates.
Zara
Primary 5a
Well done Zara for the outstanding neat layout and presentation of your written literacy work. Keep it up!
Wedgdan
Primary 5b
Wegdan remembers the lunch crate before and after lunch every day, it’s a small job that makes a big difference. Thanks!
Charlie
Primary 6
Charlie has been very responsible and reliable in P6 when carrying out his classroom responsibilities. He also always ensures that his work is done to the best of his ability. Well done Charlie!
Noel
Primary 7a
Noel is a fantastic team player and supports his classmates well across the board. He tries his best and acts responsibly. He has also been sharing his knowledge on football with the class which has been lovely to see!
Louis S
Primary 7b
For his great selection of words as word finder in his group’s first literature circle. He also had great definition explanations.
Do you feel confused by health and nutrition advice?
Would you like to know more?
This informative and useful course is packed with clearly delivered information that aims to cut through all the mixed messages about nutrition. It is designed for anyone with an interest in food and for those who work with food in any capacity, including: carers, home-helps, nursery staff, café staff/caterers and those whose voluntary involves food preparation or handling. It is also highly relevant for anyone who cooks at home.
What do you get out of it?
Gain a clear understanding of general nutrition
Gain practically applicable knowledge for the workplace and the home
Understand the consequences of eating habits on health and disease
Discuss the roles of carbohydrates, protein, fruit & vegetables, fat and fibre
Understand the role of vitamins, minerals and trace elements
Gain insight into maintaining a healthy weight
Identify different ways of preparing and cooking foods for a healthy diet
Brooke has had a brilliant first full week in P1! She has been showing fantastic manners to everyone and is always ready to learn. We feel lucky to have her in P1a! Well done Brooke.
Damon
Primary 1b
Damon has settled really well into P1. He has been super at keeping our class tidy and helping others tidy up. He has also been using his imagination to make lots of fantastic things using the cubes such as ice cream and chocolate!
Elisha
Primary 7b
For making a brilliant start to P7. Elisha has consistently demonstrated her maturity by showing respect to others and giving her best effort in everything she is asked to do. Fantastic!
Ben
Primary 6
Ben has worked hard to complete all the jobs on his task sheet this week. He is making progress with being polite to adults too. Well done Ben!
Sana
Primary 7a
Sana has come back to school with enthusiasm. She has been helpful, kind and goes out of her way to be a great role model. Well done Sana!
Dash
Primary 4b
Dash has shown fantastic listening since the beginning of term and has had a great attitude to trying new activities. Well done Dash, you’re a star! Ms Harris
Rosa
Primary 5a
Rosa has made a super start to P5 being ready to learn and successfully completing independent activities.
Taylor
Primary 1/2
Taylor has demonstrated what a responsible member of our class she is through her role as timetable monitor this week. She has set an excellent example to her peers and has helped to keep us all organised. Well done, Taylor!
Sharan
Primary 2
Since returning to school Sharan has shown kindness to everyone. He has been unfailingly helpful and polite and should be very proud of himself.
Polly
Primary 3b
Polly has had a great start to P3, showing a kind and helpful attitude at all times. Well done!
Lucia
Primary 3a
Lucia has had a fantastic start to p3. She sits beautifully on the carpet, she works hard on her tasks and treats others with kindness and respect.
Mia
Primary 5b
Concentrated on a tricky place value maths task, completed it very accurately in the end!
Max has been showing great focus and hard work in writing this week. He kept going even when it was tricky and should be really proud of himself. Well done Max!
Martha
Primary 1b
Martha tries her very best everyday and goes out of her way to show kindness and respect to everyone. Thank you Martha for being such a positive role model for our school this year!
Sunny
Primary 2a
Sunny has been a wonderful role model in P2A this week. He has shown kindness and has been a caring friend to everyone. Well done Sunny!
Harry
Primary 2b
Harry has been working hard this week trying to keep our playground tidy! He has been picking up litter, making posters to help keep the playground tidy and made a video to raise awareness! Well done!
Alexander
Primary 3b
Alexander has worked exceptionally hard on his learning this week. He has been extremely focused and determined – particularly when writing detailed setting descriptions.
Dina
Primary 4a
Dina has showed all the school values all year. She is kind, persevering and respectful to both staff and pupils. She always tries her best and works hard. Well done Dina !
Grace
Primary 4b
Grace is kind respectfully contributes to our class activities and discussions and was a great co-operative partner when building a motte and bailey castle.
Mya
Primary 5
Mya always puts 100% in to her work. She has been making particularly good progress in literacy recently.
Yifan
Primary 6a
This week Yifan wrote a fantastic script for a imaginary chat show starring the characters from our class novel.
Isla
Primary 6b
Isla has been a joy to teach from start to finish this year. She tries hard, listens and communicates well, achieves her goals and shows kindness to her peers. Well done Isla.
Rida
Primary 7a
Rida is in the recognition book for always giving 100% effort to each task. She is always polite and well behaved and sets an excellent example to others. Well done Rida!
Haris
Primary 7b
Haris was so helpful in class- tidying up the resources and ensuring that everything was clean and tidy. Well done and thank you!
As we move towards the end of another extraordinary year, I would like to thank you all again for your continued support of the school and the changes we have had to make in the light of so many COVID restrictions. I know that this has been a particularly challenging school year for many but I have been astonished at how resilient and positive the vast majority of our young people have been despite this. That is in no small part a reflection of how well you have supported your children with home learning and keeping them in good spirits during such an uncertain time.
Recovery Plans
We will continue with our recovery plans in August. Those children who do require additional support to manage the impact of lost learning or the trauma of lockdown will have access to ongoing and additional interventions next session.
Infection Control Measures
Class bubbles and staggered starts and finish times will continue after the holidays along with the other infection control measures in place just now. We will of course let you know if there is any change to those plans. Please make sure that we have your most up-to-date phone number and email address in case we need to get in touch before term starts.
Lunches
Lunches next session we will return to hot packed meals from our own newly refurbished kitchen. Please make sure you select your child’s meal choices on ParentPay, even if your child is in receipt of Free School Meals. Only lunches that have been selected will be made by the kitchen. If you have not selected your child’s meals, you must send them in with a packed lunch. Thank you for your cooperation with this.
Uniform
We will return to a much stricter expectation of school uniform/colours being worn by all pupils every day next session. Pupils should come to school dressed in an official Leith Primary School sweatshirt or hoodie or navy-blue cardigan or jumper, white or navy polo shirt, blue checked gingham dress dark or bottoms and sturdy school shoes on Monday to Friday. Next session, all pupils will be able to purchase a navy blue school hoodie, not just the P7s. However, only our P7s next year will be able to wear the special royal blue P7 school hoodie.
We ask that all parents/carers earning under £16k apply for Free School Meals, even if their child will not order and eat the lunches, as they will be awarded a clothing grant of up to £200 per year each to help with buying school clothing. We are happy to help you apply for this, just ask the office team.
*We remind parents/carers that all clothing with logos or slogans is not permitted, nor is make-up, fake nails, dangly jewellery, cropped tops or party/beach wear. We continue to be grateful for your support on this matter.
End of Year Reports
Summary end of session reports will be given out to pupils next week.
Friday Finish Times
Pupils will finish at their usual Friday finish times next week. The Primary 7s will be piped out of the playground at around 11.50am onto Leith Links where they can be met by their parents. Children from the other classes will line the playground in a socially distanced way to clap and cheer their P7 friends out. The other children will be dismissed as usual at their normal place and time.
NB: P7 Parents are requested to observe social distancing rules whilst in the Links.
There will be a special P7 leaver’s assembly on Thursday from 2.15pm screened live on MS Teams. Please click here to JOIN the assembly from your phone, tablet or computer. All welcome.
Teachers for Next Session
P1A
Mrs SASHA YOUNG (nee Reid)
P1B
Ms LAUREN KIRKWOOD/ Mrs SHONA BIRRELL (Weds)
P1/2
Ms JENNIFER WILSON
P2
Mr MATTHEW DAVIES (Mrs JO KINNELL from Nov)
P3A
Mrs ANNA HIND
P3B
Mrs KIM WATSON/ Mrs SHONA BIRRELL (Thurs/Fri)
P4A
Ms ANNE KATRINE CHRISTENSEN
P4B
Ms FIONA HARRIS
P5A
Mrs ALANE FRASER
P5B
Mr JOHN MACKENZIE
P6
Mrs DAWN MOLONEY
P7A
Ms AILIE SCOTT DICKINS
P7B
Ms KIRSTEN MACDONALD/ Mrs GILLIAN CLARKSON (Weds)
Support For Learning(Tues-Fri)
Mrs ELLA CIECHANOWICZ
Support For Learning(Tues/Thursday)
Mrs GILLIAN CLARKSON
Reduced Class Contact Cover (Mon/Tues)
Mrs LOUISE SLATTERY
Reduced Class Contact Cover (Mon/Tues)
Ms JACQUELINE MCDONALD
I am delighted that Mr Hugh Stuart will continue with us for the next two years as our Depute Headteacher.
We welcome Mr David Bonas who will take up his post as our new Business Manager from August.
We are also delighted that Ms Clodagh Weir and Ms Patricia De La Cruz will continue on with us as Early Years Practitioners in P1 and P2, next session.
Danni Taylor will return from maternity leave in August to pick up her post as our Citadel Family Support Worker. Liz Johnston, who has been covering Danni’s maternity leave this session, will support the parents of pupils at Leith Academy and will continue supporting young people and parents at The Citadel. I would like to thank Liz for all the support she has given the school this year and wish her well with her new Citadel post.
Believe. Persevere. Achieve. 