World Book Day was a success again in Blackness. All pupils were encouraged to, where possible, make costumes by recycling, repuropsing or reusing materials or old costumes. The results were spelndid with many Harry Potters, Matildas, Where's Wallys and a myriad of other book characters strutting their stuff around the school. Pupils were also encouraged to bring the book featuring their character in with them. There were many activities in classes to encourage pupils to access a variety of texts as well.

Once again this December, it was time for the annual school show which, this year, told the story of Dick Whittington and his Cat.  Pupils from Primaries 5-7 have spent a lot of time this term learning the songs, both during lunchtimes and at home, as well as learning lines and choreography.  We asked some of the cast about their experiences of being in the show.  James Coull (P7) said, “I really enjoyed it, I would definitely do it again because it was fun and it helped me with speaking in front of an audience.”

Jess Anderson (P6) who played Puss told us, “it was fun, but I was kind of nervous because there were a lot of people watching, but I think I did really well.”  Hannah Gibson (P7) who played the Queen said, “ I enjoyed it and would do it again because it was a great experience.

It got me out of my comfort zone and helped build my confidence.  Evie Young (P7/6) told us, “ I enjoyed it and it was fun.  I really liked having a bigger part with speaking and solo singing.  I was a bit nervous but when I was on stage I just pretended that I was on my own.”  We are really proud of the effort that the entire cast put into our production this year to make it what it was, and we would like to extend our thanks to all those who purchased tickets and came along to support the show.

The link below will take you to an arcticle on the Abertay Website recognising Blackness Primary School as the first in Scotland to have it's membership to the Children's University formally recognised.

This December saw another very successful nativity performed by the primary one pupils at Blackness Primary. The pupils and staff worked very hard to produce a slick and entertaining performance which was enjoyed by pupils, staff and parents. The two shows were well attednded and full houses were enjoyed for each. Below are some of the pictures from the rehearsals in school.

Our Primary 3 class were excited to be visiting the Al-Makhtoum Mosque as part of there investigation of the Muslim faith and related celebrations. They enjoyed their visit very much. For some it was a chance to see inside a mosque for the first time and expand their knowledge of other world religions. For others it was an opportunity to share their experiences with their classmates and talk about how they celebrate their faith. All pupils found the experience interesting.

Another splendid week at Dalguise was had by some our Primary 7 pupils. Meeting all the challenges thrown at them, as well as a mighty lack of sleep, meant that all pupils came away with experiences they will be able to talk about for years to come. Some of the challenges included the Giant Swing, Tree Climb, Jacobs Ladder and Raft Building.

Some of the primary 7 pupils attended their Community Week activities, taking part in a number of exciting and interesting events including print making at the DCA and McManus Galleries, making pizza, a visit to the gym, a visit to the Verdant Works and an insightful presentaion on habitats and plants at the Dundee Botantic Gardens. One of the highlights was rescuing a stick insect (an unfortunate pest) from the botanic garden greenhouse. Eddie is now an honourary member of the P7 team and became an unofficial mascot of Community Week.

It was a successful world book day with all classes taking part. Many children dressed up as their favourite character. These included everything from Horrid Henrys to hairy Gruffaloes and pouting princesses to posing pirates.

Below are a selection of pictures from P1s efforts.

P5 had a wonderful time performing their short play at the REP. They devised the play themselves using a suitcase full of props given to them by another school. P5 also filled a suitcase with interesting items and gave it to another school. With two other performances to watch on the night, it was great fun to see how the other schools had used their props.

This week Primary 7 pupils from across the Harris cluster have been invited to take part in a morning or afternoon of European themed modern language games. The event, hosted by the Modern Language department at Harris, took place in Menzieshill Community Center. Our Primary 7 pupils enjoyed all the activities on offer, and two were even part of the winning team and received trophies for their efforts.

Being part of mixed groups was really beneficial to all the pupils involved. They have made some new friends and spoken to pupils from other schools that will potentially be in their classes next year. There will also be an opportunity to expand on this when we have an informal cluster gathering in Victoria Park next month.