A TRANENT primary school has been recognised at the Generations Working Together Scottish Recognition Awards.

Sanderson’s Wynd Primary School was Highly Commended in the Raising Attainment and Achievement section, coming second to first-prize winners the Care Inspectorate.

Lynsey Blair, headteacher of the school said: “The children have forged close links with Crookston Care Home, where they started off by taking newspaper orders every morning. They had to purchase the correct newspapers, work out the total cost of the papers and what change they would get. This then progressed to them delivering the newspapers personally to the residents and helping out with the afternoon entertainment.”

The scheme was the brainchild of Ashleigh Pitt, the principal teacher who initially started the project as an idea to teach the children life skills and how to contribute to their community.

Ms Blair added: “I asked a child what he had learned from the project and he said that he had ‘learned to be patient and that conversations with the older generations are really important’.

“The children have all gained in confidence in interacting with people and have also been able to use their numeracy skills in a real life context.”

The school is hoping to continue the project next year with the current P6s.

“The P6s are already looking forward to it,” added Ms Blair.

“I am really proud of the contribution that this class has made to the local community and to the commitment they have shown to keep it running all year.

“Through the children’s enthusiasm and dedication, they have established a really strong link that I am hoping will continue for the years to come.”

The award was collected by Loreen Pardoe, the East Lothian and Midlothian representative for Generations Working Together.