Lockerbie Old School is launching two pilot programmes designed to support children’s wellbeing, confidence and learning ahead of the opening of our new community hub. These small-group sessions offer nurturing, family-friendly experiences where children can develop key skills through reading, creativity, movement and mindfulness.
Both programmes are free for families', parents and carers, and funded by Annandale and Nithsdale Community Benefit Company, administered by Foundation Scotland. As pilot courses, families will be invited to complete short feedback forms during the programme to help shape our future services.
Places are limited to ensure a calm, supportive environment where every child can thrive.
Lockerbie Old School Children’s Book Club
These sessions are funded by Annandale and Nithsdale Community Benefit Company, administered by Foundation Scotland.
The Lockerbie Old School Children’s Book Club is a warm, welcoming small-group programme designed to help children discover a love of reading while building confidence, creativity and enjoyment.
Aimed at children aged 4–8 years, the Book Club brings together up to six children and their parent or carer each week at Lockerbie Town Hall for an engaging, interactive session. Each week includes:
- A new book for each child to keep (free of charge)
- Guided reading to build confidence in reading aloud
- A themed craft activity linked to the story
- A take-home literacy pack for families to enjoy together
Our sessions are friendly, relaxed and ideal for children who may benefit from a little extra encouragement with reading in a positive, low-pressure environment.
Intended Outcomes
- Improved literacy, comprehension and expressive language
- Increased confidence and enjoyment in reading
- Stronger parent–child relationships through shared learning
- Creative expression and social connection
BOOK HERE
Lockerbie Old School Wellbeing Sessions
The Lockerbie Old School Wellbeing Sessions provide a calm, nurturing space where children can explore their emotions, build confidence and develop healthy coping strategies.
Designed for small groups of children from Primary 1 to Primary 7, these sessions are ideal for those who may benefit from extra support with emotional regulation, self-esteem or focus.
Each session incorporates a blend of gentle, holistic and creative activities, including:
- Child-friendly breathing and relaxation techniques
- Yoga and mindful movement to support focus and body awareness
- Sound bath (TBC) or other calming sensory experiences
- Arts and crafts for emotional expression
- Sensory play for grounding, regulation and mindfulness
Children will also receive a wellbeing pack to use at home, which may include grounding exercises, journals, mindful colouring, affirmation cards, small sensory tools and family reflection prompts.
Our sessions are inclusive, reassuring and centred around helping children feel more settled, confident and emotionally aware.
Intended Outcomes
- Improved emotional awareness and self-regulation
- Enhanced focus and readiness to learn
- Increased confidence and resilience
- Strengthened relationships with trusted adults
- Practical wellbeing strategies for home and school
BOOK HERE
How to Attend
These pilot sessions are running ahead of the opening of the new Lockerbie Old School Hub and families taking part will be asked to complete a short feedback form in Week 1, mid-way through and at the final session. This helps us shape and improve future programmes for local children and families.
All sessions are parent-and-child programmes, so a parent or carer must attend with their young person throughout.
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for reading, floor-based activities, crafts, gentle movement or relaxation exercises, depending on the session. All materials, resources and take-home packs are provided free of charge.
Group sizes are deliberately small to ensure a calm, friendly and supportive environment where every child can participate fully and confidently.