New Milne’s pupils enjoying a summer transition to the big school

A TRANSITION PROGRAMME is helping to prepare pupils for secondary education at Milne’s High School in Fochabers this summer.

Running during the summer holidays, the programme is offering challenging activities – all of which are aimed at building confidence and team-building for those stepping up from primary education.

Included are team-building and communication skills sessions under the guidance of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. They will also take part in ‘Coasteering’ at Porknockie and more outdoor activities at Roseisle with the support of Duke of Edinburgh Awards staff.

The Milne’s Summer Transition Programme is coordinated by Moray Council’s Engagement Team, with funding from the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation.

Leading the programme is Gail Buckley, Home School Link Worker in Milne’s, who said the different activities will help build confidence: “Moving from primary to secondary school can be quite daunting for some young people, so these activities will help form friendships and boost confidence before they take their first steps into new classrooms.

“Supporting the new students in the programme are adults that will become familiar faces in the High School, such as home school link and youth workers, school librarian and school nurse. These are all people that can offer support and advice throughout their school career.”

The first of two Coasteering sessions took place at Portknockie on July 27, with the next coming up this week on August 3.

Kay Jackson, manager of the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation, said the programme will help young primary pupils successfully make the transition to the new school.

She said: “The Foundation has supported similar youth projects in recent times and it is satisfying to receive positive reports on their overall success.

“After taking part in these activities, youngsters begin to develop positive attitudes, build supportive relationships and learn how to identify and manage risks.”