FIVE Inverness primary schools, including Merkinch, took part in the inaugural primary school six-a-side shinty tournament on Saturday 23rd June. Although Central Primary took the honours with North Kessock coming second, the focus was very much on participation, and the Merkinch team did well. Shinty sessions will resume after the school holidays. The tournament was a great success and it seems likely that it will become an annual event.

STAFF changes at Merkinch Primary - everyone was sad to say goodbye to Mrs Cumming when she retired in May. She had been a teacher at Merkinch for 12 years and will be greatly missed. A warm welcome to Mrs Broadley, the new Senior Teacher for Learning Support, and Mrs Tracey who is also part of the Learning Support team.

THE school is saying a big thank you to all those who have donated flowerpots, bulbs and information about possible sources of cheap or even free stock. Work will begin after the summer holidays to let trees and shrubs have the best chance to get established. P6/7K and P7B are gearing up for their enterprise involving plants. A local gardener, Janet MacDonald, came to school to advise the classes about sowing seeds, while local businessman Ray Owens spoke to pupils about what is involved in setting up an enterprise.

THE school had two sports days - Wednesday 13th June for the older classes and Thursday 21st for the younger ones. Both enjoyed fair weather, though it was a little breezy on the second day.