Friday 19 September 2014

Pupil Engagement

This week, our teachers have been focusing on pupil engagement. We all had an opportunity to watch a few videos of some of our teachers in action and discussed the strategies they had used to ensure their pupils were engaged in their learning. It was amazing to see our Reception children enjoying their first ever phonics session. They were making silly soup with words that started with the 's' sound. Great fun!

I have also enjoyed seeing our new 3rd teacher groups in action. These small group sessions, which have been set up in our new learning zones in the ICT suite, are taught by our experienced part time teachers. They run in the morning and focus on maths and literacy. The children get taught exactly the same lesson as their peers in their class but in a smaller setting. This picture shows a Year 6 writing session with Mrs Inglis. They were thoroughly enjoying their learning.


I have also seen examples of excellent learning in the pupils' books. One of the benefits of being the Head of School is that children regularly come down to my office to show me their wonderful work. Here is a picture of Max and Maryam from 5H who came to show me the excellent work they had completed on addition in maths. Well done to both of them.



I hope everyone has a lovely weekend and let's hope the sun continues to shine.

Many thanks,

Rona Mackie
Head of School

Friday 12 September 2014

What a great start!

I have been really impressed with the excellent start our pupils have made to the new school year. They are already engaged in their learning and looking so smart in their school uniform. This week, I have spoken to the children about the one rule we have for our school community and that everyone will be polite, respectful and considerate to others at all times. We have seen evidence of this rule in action all week. This has been particularly clear in the way our pupils welcome new children into their class. They always ensure that they are happy and know where everything is around our school.

Today, I spent some time in the dining hall and on the playground. It was lovely to talk to some Year 3 and 4 children while we ate our lunch. They had really enjoyed their group reading that morning. Out on the playground, I played some circle games with a group of Year 4, 5 and 6 children. We had a fantastic time in the sun as other children played hockey, ran after bubbles, skipped and played giant Connect 4.

Over the next few weeks, I will be adding photos on my blog to show you more excellent examples of the great work that is going on in our school.

Next time, I will be sharing with you a great example of a group of pupils fully engaged in their learning.

Many thanks,

Rona Mackie
Head of School




Wednesday 27 August 2014

Welcome to the Guildford Grove Primary School Blog

Welcome to our blog. Follow us to keep up to date with the events happening around our school.