Dairsie Primary School is celebrating a series of significant national and regional achievements, reflecting the school’s strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, pupil leadership and high-quality learning experiences.

Most recently, Shannon Smith, a teacher at Dairsie Primary School, has been shortlisted for a Primary Science Teacher Award by the Primary Science Teaching Trust (PSTT).

The award recognises excellence in primary science teaching across the UK.

As part of the final stage, PSTT assessors will visit the school to observe a science lesson and explore the wider impact of Shannon’s work. Being shortlisted alone is regarded as a major national professional achievement.

Sarah Donald, Headteacher, said: “We are incredibly proud of Shannon. This recognition reflects her passion for science, her creativity in the classroom and the way she inspires our learners to see themselves as scientists.”

In further positive news, Sarah Donald has also been selected to take part in the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme, held at Westminster this week.

The highly competitive programme brings together 65 teachers from across the UK to deepen their understanding of democracy and Parliament.

Participants will observe debates in the House of Commons and House of Lords and work closely with Parliament’s Education and Engagement Team, with learning shared back in school to strengthen pupil voice, leadership and active citizenship.

Reflecting on the appointment, Sarah said: “This opportunity will help us further develop meaningful experiences for our pupils around democracy, leadership and having a voice.

“It’s about helping children understand that their views matter and that they can make a difference.”

These achievements build on Dairsie Primary School’s recent national successes.

In 2024, the school was accredited as the Most Enterprising School in Scotland, recognising its innovative approach to learning and strong community links.

The school also won the Regional Primary Award for Green Education in School for Scotland and Northern Ireland in June 2024, celebrating its leadership in sustainability and climate education.

Together, these recognitions highlight Dairsie Primary School’s ongoing commitment to empowering young people, nurturing curiosity and responsibility, and preparing learners to shape a positive future.

Our photo shows Sarah Donald (left) and Shannon Smith (right).