Pupils' prayers ahead of move to high school

Around 700 pupils attended Mass at St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh as they prepare to go to high school later this year.
Two St Peter's pupils with the school banner before Mass at St Mary's Cathedral.
Highlighting the Feast of Annunciation, Archbishop Cushley urged them to imitate Our Lady in following God's will.
Around 700 pupils and staff atteneded the Mass at St Mary's Cathedral.
He said: "Just like Our Lady, have an open heart to all the wonderful opportunities that will be put before you in secondary school. Place yourself in God's hands and be open to His will; do it willingly, openly and cheerfully. God bless you all."
Pupils from St David's Primary, Pilton.
Each year, Primary 7 pupils from across Edinburgh are invited to the Mass as part of their transition to High School.
St Mark's Primary, Edinburgh.
They are also joined by senior pupils from the three local high schools.
Pupils process through the Cathedral showing their school banners and participate in the ministries of the Mass.
Pupils from St Augustine's High School, Edinburgh, outside the Cathedral.

Melissa Gavan, Primary School Advisor for the Archdiocese, said: “It was wonderful to see the P7 pupils coming together to celebrate Mass on the Feast of the Annunciation of the Lord.

"To include this in their transition programme shows dedication to Catholic education and the importance of faith in their educational journey.”

Double delight as St Ninian's awarded for 'excellence'

Pupils and staff at St Ninian's Primary School and Nursery in Livingston are celebrating an excellent report from Education Scotland Inspectors, writes West Lothian News.

The school was awarded the highest rating of 'excellent' in two categories - 'leadership of change' and 'ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion'.

Since 2017, less than one per cent of primary school inspection evaluations have received an 'excellent'.

Headteacher Lisamaria Purdie said: "The whole school community is absolutely delighted to have received such glowing feedback.

"Across both the school and nursery settings, our incredibly talented staff teams work tirelessly to provide a setting where our children are excited to learn and develop.

"The hard work never stops and we will continue to reflect on our approach to ensure that we continue to deliver the best possible learning experience for children and families."

This report reflects the magnificent efforts of all staff, from the schools headteacher and leadership team through to nursery leaders and support staff.

Pupils were noted as eager learners as a result of high-quality teaching provided by staff who continually reflect and develop their practice.

Staff were also praised for their understanding of inclusive practices, specifically around the delivery of purposeful and realistic experiences for children, including those with additional support needs and for the innovative support provided to families.

Archbishop Leo Cushley said: “St Ninian’s has a faith-filled and positive learning environment. Lisamaria Purdie and her staff strive for excellence in teaching so this is a deserved evaluation that will be welcomed by parents and the wider school community.”

The full report can be accessed via the Education Scotland website here.