HOWDENBURN PRIMARY SCHOOL

'We are strong together'

We are lucky to have a spacious School in such a beautiful setting with magnificent views over the hills and the historic town of Jedburgh. Our extensive playing fields are an integral part of the School and give all our pupils, including Nursery, the chance to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors. At Howdenburn we pride ourselves in the fact that almost every visitor remarks upon the friendly, purposeful ethos of the School, the helpfulness of the Staff and the good manners of the children.

Our vision is to seek excellence in attainment and achievement, develop partnerships with parents, ensure fairness and justice for everyone and to give opportunities for pupils to participate in their learning and school life.   In each of our six learning and teaching blocks per session, we invite Parents and Carers to our open mornings and we are always pleased to see them at our weekly assemblies.

Our Pupil Council is made up of eight elected pupil representatives and assisted by two members of staff.   They meet regularly to discuss current issues with a view to making the School an even better place to be for all.   All pupils have the opportunity to contribute items to their agenda, and feedback on progress is given at assembly.

We have an Eco Council, the 'Green Team', which is made up of Pupils and Staff and we aim  to take on initiatives to benefit our community and its environment.  We are proud to have been awarded the highest accolade of the Green Flag for our efforts.  Everyone is included in trying to take care of ourselves, others and our world.

Each year, we take part in events within the Town such as the Flower Show, the Callant’s Festival and the Ferniehirst Competition. Within the School, each family is assigned to one of our Houses – Brock, Tod and Hoolit, Scots words for Badger, Fox and Owl. Our senior pupils are encouraged to be responsible citizens by taking positions such as Council members, House Captains, Playground Buddies, Librarians, Gardeners and giving time and commitment to younger children.

Our active Parent Council is a great support to the School and raises funds each year to finance many initiatives for the pupils such as Edinburgh Science Festival visits for each class, trips and outings and books for the library.  We appreciate your generosity in attending these fund-raisers and always welcome new members.

For more detailed information about the School, please see our copy of the Handbook also in 'Key information' or pick up a copy at the office.   Those interested in enrolling children are very welcome to arrange a time to come and visit, tour the School, talk to members of Staff and sample the life of Howdenburn Primary for themselves.