Author: Karen Faulds, SCILT
We are thrilled to announce that all schools involved in the Professional Learning Partnership (PLP) with Save the Children have completed their parental engagement activities, despite the restrictions and challenges faced by schools as a result of the pandemic. This has been a much longer journey than planned and reaching this stage is a testament to the commitment, resilience and sheer determination of the staff from the participating authorities across the Forth Valley and West Lothian RIC.
Although schools were unable to carry out activities in-school, teachers developed a series of online sessions where pupils and families could engage in language and cultural activities relating to the chosen language and country. Westfield Primary in West Lothian, led by Sharon Agini, developed after-school sessions which focused on French language and culture. Kahoot games proved to be very popular with parents and pupils alike and a cooking session, where families created a French omelette, was a huge success!
Cowie Primary in Stirling also focused on French, with their activities led by Rebecca Ogg. P5 pupils and their parents had the opportunity to learn about France through games and other fun interactive activities. Parents and pupils commented favourably on the language-based activities organised by the school.
In Clackmannanshire, Gayle Penman (Fishcross Primary) and Hayley Welsh (Sauchie Nursery) led the project with younger pupils. Fun and simple Spanish activities were incorporated into their co-ordinated transition programmes, which included games, songs, stories and rhymes.
The activities at St Bernadette’s Primary in Falkirk also focused on Spanish language and culture. These were led by Lauren Edwards. P6 pupils and families learned about Spanish culture, cuisine and festivals, and parents even created a presentation about a place in Spain!
Well done to everyone involved in making this partnership a success, including 1+2 Development Officers Zoe Gordon and Laura McEwan.
Schools have completed and evaluated their events and activities, and a case study will soon be published on the SCILT website. Keep an eye on the weekly SCILT e-bulletin for more information.