First day excitement for children starting school in Renfrewshire

80 young children were excited to start school today (Monday 18 August) at St James’ Primary School, Renfrew.

The children held their parents and carers hands as they walked into the playground but quickly shared their excitement with new friends.

Proud parents, grandparents and carers took photos in the playground before waving off their children into the classrooms for the first time.

Teachers Miss McLaughlin, Miss Murphy, Miss McKay and Miss Hughes welcomed the new children into the school alongside head teacher Natalie Fitzsimmons and depute head Calum Healy.

Peter Finnie, dad to Lucas and Rory, said his boys are ready to start school. “I started getting a bit shaky myself this morning, just a lot of anxiety and adrenaline, but the boys are ready to go. They’ll be happy to make new friends and they are pretty good in learning environments, so they’ll enjoy it.”

Kayleigh Docherty, mum to Connie, said her daughter is really excited. “She’s excited about going to the lunch hall and choosing her own lunch. She was in the nursery next door for two years, so she knows the building.”

Karley House, mum to Amira, said she’s nervous and excited at the same time. “My baby has grown up. Amira is fed up with nursery now and just wants to follow in her big brother’s footsteps.”

Nicole Hester, mum to Calla, said her daughter is most excited about homework. “She feels a bit nervous but she’s definitely ready for it. I think she will be shattered by the end of the day.”

Prahask Bhandari, dad to Paridhi, said; “She’s very excited for school.”

More than 1,800 children started primary one in Renfrewshire, and more than 2,000 have moved onto first year at secondary school. 

Renfrewshire has around 27,000 pupils who attend the 63 schools across the area. 

Head Teacher Natalie Fitzsimmons said: “The first day of school is such a special milestone—for our children, their families, and our whole school community. We are absolutely delighted to welcome our new Primary 1s to the St James’ family. Their journey has started with our Pre-5 partners and we can’t wait build on this and to watch them grow, shine, and discover all they’re capable of. At our school, we grow stars—and today, we’re planting the seeds for a bright and exciting future.”

Education convener, Councillor Emma Rodden, said: “Starting school is an exciting and nerve-wracking milestone for young children and their families. Those moving onto secondary school will experience similar nerves and anticipation. I hope everyone has an amazing first day and is ready for the next step in their education.”