Plaque celebrates military children

Midlothian Armed Forces and Veterans Champion Councillor Pauline Winchester unveiled a plaque at Mauricewood Primary School in Penicuik today (Wednesday) to mark the Month of the Military Child.

An important role

Cllr Winchester said, as a military child herself, she was honoured to recognise and celebrate the important role service children have within the military family during April.  

Unique resilience

She said: “It’s fitting that the plaque pays tribute to the unique resilience of military children. Just like the dandelion, which is known as the flower of the military child, we grow almost anywhere and survive in a broad range of climates.

Paying tribute

“The wording on the plaque is very special, acknowledging how military children are well-rounded, culturally aware, tolerant, and extremely resilient.

Strong ties with Glencorse Barracks

“They have learned from an early age that home is where their hearts are, that a good friend can be found in every corner of the world, including at Mauricewood Primary and the wider community of Penicuik which enjoy such strong ties with the Glencorse Barracks, home to the 2 SCOTS regiment."

School to host plaque

Head Teacher Jen Mouat added: “We are delighted to host this plaque in recognition of the important role that military children play in the Penicuik community and within Mauricewood Primary School. 

Valued contributions

“As a school we value the contributions of our military children and their families and are appreciative of their feedback which helps us to shape the work we do in supporting learners at Mauricewood and understanding the lived experiences of military families, in particular. 

A chance to celebrate

“We are enjoying our celebrations of the month of the military child.” 

'Purple Up' Day

As part of the Month of the Military Child, Friday 26 April will be 'Purple Up' day, when everyone is encouraged to wear purple in recognition of the important role military children play in our community.

In the picture

In the picture from left to right are: Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian Harriet Dalrymple, Head Teacher Jen Mouat, Provost Debbi McCall, Midlothian Council’s Armed Forces and Veterans Champion Councillor Pauline Winchester, Lance Corporal Scott Grubis of 2 SCOTS and Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian Rachel Oliphant.