International Day of Peace
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PUPILS at a village school celebrated International Day of Peace with friends, family and a VIP guest.
Alves Primary marked the annual, worldwide event organised by the United Nations (UN) with song, dance, crafts, discussion and a ceremony.
Moray MP Douglas Ross returned to his former school and was impressed.
He said: "It was obvious how much time and effort the pupils had put into their activities. From the presentations to the display of flags and an excellent dance in the playground, the whole school came together with pupils, staff and families showing how important it is to recognise this event.
"It was a pleasure to join everyone."
The International Day of Peace is dedicated to world peace, specifically the absence of war and violence. The day was first celebrated in 1981, and is still recognised in a number of nations.
ASfL teacher Erin Fraser confirmed Alves Primary's events were held outside in brilliant sunshine.
She said: "In the morning, the pupils participated in a wide range of activities including learning a specially-commissioned peace song and dance, exploring climate change and discussing what peace means to them. They also helped sew a blanket together with community members which will be presented to the school’s chosen charity, Riding for the Disabled Forres, Nairn and District, as a sign of gratitude for the service they offer.
"In the afternoon, the ceremony itself took place in front of the community."
The children talked about the significance of Peace Day to their own lives, and said "may peace prevail" in different languages around a Peace Pole in the playground. The ceremony culminated in an energetic singing and dancing presentation before visitors were invited into the school hall for refreshments.
P1/2 teacher and organiser Mrs Nicola Blair, P1/2 teacher was delighted with how the event turned out.
She said: "Our visitors praised the staff and students for delivering important messages on peace and climate change in a calm and effective manner. The pupils have a clear understanding of their rights and were very enthusiastic about sharing these with the community."
P6 pupil Libby Marsh said: "It was a great day because so many people from the community came to celebrate with us."
Classmate Lucy Fraser added: "The song and dance were great ways of helping people to understand such an important day in a fun way."
