Kinloss Primary pupils write moving farewell song about friendship and change
Pupils at Kinloss Primary have recorded a heartfelt song capturing what it feels like to say goodbye when a friend moves away.
The school sits close to Kinloss Barracks and has a large number of military families, so children here are used to watching classmates come and go - and to navigating the emotions that come with that.
See You Soon was written after the charity Never Such Innocence visited the school for poetry-writing sessions, organised by The Dandelion Project.
In the song, the children reflect on the bonds they’ve built and sing that distance will never change the strength of their friendships.
Michelle Mather, Acting Head of Kinloss Primary, said: “This began as a poetry and art workshop, but evolved into something much bigger.
“The charity was deeply moved by the emotions our pupils experience around constant transitions - and it’s not just our military families. Even our civilian children feel the impact of friends coming and going, and that understanding helped shape the song.”
Katie Salari, Chief Executive Officer from Never Such Innocence added: “We felt that songwriting would help the children express the ‘big feelings’ they experience, and they quickly embraced this idea.
“We are so proud of how openly and honestly they shared their experiences. The song captures not only the sadness of saying goodbye; but also the warmth and hope that define this community.”
The charity drafted in musician Otto Aday to help turn their feelings into song lyrics, and it was recorded at The Music Shed in Inverness.
P7 pupil Ava said: “Other people will feel emotional when they hear our song.”
Otto, from P6, added: “I felt honoured to write and sing a song with my peers.”
Ted, also from P6, remarked: “My favourite part was the recording bit, and I think we might now be on YouTube!”
The finished song is now set to become the school’s Month of the Military Child anthem, representing what it truly means to say goodbye at Kinloss.
Cllr Kathleen Robertson, Chair of Moray Council's Education, Children's and Leisure Services Committee, said: “See You Soon is a wonderful example of how creativity can give children a voice and help them make sense of their experiences. The pupils of Kinloss Primary have produced something truly special, and their maturity, empathy and teamwork shine through.”
Cllr Peter Bloomfield, Moray Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “This song is a powerful reflection of the unique experiences faced by children in our armed forces communities. It captures both the challenges of constant transition and the strength and optimism our young people show every day. The pupils at Kinloss Primary should be immensely proud of what they have created.”
Listen to See You Soon here.