Kits for kids heading to high school
Read Write Count Moving Up kits have been gifted to every primary seven pupil on Arran to support their transition to secondary school.
The Scottish government initiative, in partnership with Education Scotland and Scottish Book Trust, will provide a kit containing the following items: a reusable water bottle, protractor and ruler set, pen/pencil and rubber set, journal notebook, scientific calculator, pocket dictionary, parent/pupil booklet and a USB stick.
The Moving Up kit was created after consultation with local authorities and ADES (Association of Directors of Education).
Learning professionals, librarians and teachers provided feedback about items that would be helpful for primary seven pupils who are transitioning into secondary school.
Scottish Book Trust will also provide training and support to all the local authorities involved in the pilot scheme, helping to build and enhance current transition programmes between primary and secondary schools.
Exciting time
Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary John Swinney MSP said: ‘The move to high school is a new and exciting time for many pupils and families but it can also bring a degree of uncertainty.
‘These unique packs are a national first and aim to make the transition between primary and secondary a little easier. The kits contain items and advice which will give pupils the best chance at a smooth change and help parents and carers to support their children at this important time.’
The Moving Up kits will be delivered by Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives through reading and writing.
Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: ‘The transition from primary school to secondary school is an exciting time for young people, and our new Read Write Count Moving Up kits give pupils and parents much needed support.’
North Ayrshire, Glasgow, Dundee, West Dunbartonshire, Inverclyde, Clackmannanshire, North Lanarkshire, East Ayrshire and Renfrewshire local authorities will take part in the pilot scheme.