Findochty Primary School pupils celebrate gold reading award celebration
Findochty Primary School is celebrating after once again achieving Gold status in the Reading Schools accreditation programme.
The school has successfully completed its Gold reaccreditation, recognising its continued commitment to creating a strong culture of reading across the whole school community. The school’s reaccreditation will remain in place for three years.
Feedback from the Scottish Book Trust’s Reading Schools programme described Findochty Primary as "small, but mighty" and its reading culture as "truly spectacular".
Findochty Primary first achieved Gold status in 2022/23, going straight to the highest level of the Reading Schools programme with its first submission.
Its latest assessment praised pupils for taking the lead in promoting reading, supporting their classmates and developing activities which encourage others to enjoy books.
Staff were also recognised for continuing to develop their knowledge of reading and children's literature, as well as working with colleagues across Moray to share good practice.
The school's work to involve families and the wider Findochty community was another highlight. This includes building community partnerships, creating connections between generations and celebrating the local dialect through reading.
Findochty Primary School Head Teacher, Dawn Thomson, said: “We are absolutely delighted to achieve Gold accreditation again. Reading is a huge part of life at Findochty Primary and this award reflects the enthusiasm and hard work of our pupils, staff and families.
“I'm particularly proud that our children are at the heart of what we do. They encourage one another to read, share their ideas and help us find new ways to make reading enjoyable for everyone.
“As a small school, our links with families and the wider community are incredibly important to us, so it is fantastic to see those partnerships recognised too.”
Chair of Moray Council's Education, Children's and Leisure Services Committee, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, also commented: “Congratulations to everyone at Findochty Primary School on this fantastic achievement. Securing Gold status once is something to be proud of, but achieving Gold reaccreditation demonstrates the school's lasting commitment to making reading an important and enjoyable part of children's learning.
“It is particularly encouraging to see pupils playing such an active role, alongside staff, families and members of the community. The school's work to celebrate local connections and dialect is also a wonderful example of how reading can bring people and generations together.”