Learn about Building Bridges and Maths week in the October newsletter.
Welcome back! Here is our September 2016 newsletter!
Read about Grandparents’ Day and Intercultural week here.
Click here to see our Easter newsletter!
You can read our Spring newsletter here
Read our Christmas newsletter here.
September 2015
Welcome back to another school year, and a very big welcome to our new Junior Infants, also a big welcome to our new staff members Ms Naomi Brennan, Ms Triona Byrne, Ms Carina Byrne, Ms Joni Conlan, and returning after a 3 year career break Ms Sinead McCabe.
It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as Principal of Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa, Bettystown.
Some of you may know me from my previous employment as a teacher in Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh.
I taught there for 11 happy years both in mainstream and learning support teaching positions.
I look forward to leading Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa with enthusiasm, to working with the parents, the staff and the wider community in providing a safe, stimulating learning environment for the pupils of Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa. Most importantly I look forward to getting to know each child individually and to ensuring they reach their full potential academically, emotionally, socially, morally and spiritually. Thank you all for the warm welcome I have received in my first few days.
Laytown Races
A reminder that the school will close at 12noon on 10th September 2015 due to the Laytown Races for the safety of the children as a large volume of traffic will be in the area on the day.
Uniforms
If any parent has any part of a uniform for our school which they no longer require, we would appreciate it if you could donate it to the school please.
Dates for your Diary
Thursday 10th September Laytown Races – school closes 12noon
Monday 26th – 30th October inclusive Mid – term break.
Monday 2nd November Return to school
Tuesday 22nd December School closes for Christmas holidays at 12noon
Monday 15th Feb – Friday 19th Feb Mid-term break
Wednesday 16th Mar – Mon 4th April St Patrick’s Day & Easter Holidays
Monday 2nd May – 6th May May Bank holiday & Mid term break
Monday 6th June June Bank holiday
Thursday 30th June Summer holidays
__________________________
Maria White
Principal
May 2015 Newsletter
Well done to all our children in Second Class who received their First Holy Communion on Saturday 9th May. The ceremony was memorable and the first class children who made up our choir sang beautifully. First Holy Communion
Well done to Fr McNelis, all the teachers involved and the ‘Do This in Memory’ Committee of parents who helped make it a special day. Our thanks also to the Parents’ Association for providing refreshments in the school hall. Photographs and videos will be delivered soon.
School Walk
Our first school walk organised by the Parents’ Association and supported by staff was a huge success and enjoyed by all. Our Junior & Senior Infants and children from Loughcrew enjoyed a healthy walk around the school grounds. Our 1st & 2nd classes along with parents & grandparents had a refreshing walk along the beach – it was a lovely community event. Thank you to all who joined in and for the generous donations which will be used for school resources. The Parents’ Association will update you on the amount collected and how they propose to use same.
Book Fair
Our recent Book Fair proved very successful. Thank you to
Ms Mulholland – Co-ordinator, all the teachers and Parents’ Association who helped to organise this enjoyable event. Just over €3,000 was spent on books – 60% of this amount is returned to the school in books for our school library. So we look forward to stocking our library with some lovely new books.
Intercultural Week
Grandparents’ AssemblyThe Intercultural week co-ordinated by Mr Deering and Mr Gavin was another very productive, interesting and enjoyable week. The children’s projects displayed in the hall outlining the culture, traditions, art, music, language, history of various countries throughout the world were all very impressive and informative. Many thanks to all the parents who joined us in the classroom to read stories in different languages, which the children enjoyed. Your time and support is very much appreciated.
Many thanks to all the Grandparents who attended the assembly. The children enjoyed performing for you and we hope you enjoyed visiting the classrooms and looking around the facilities in our beautiful school.
Charity Event
Staff held a coffee morning recently to raise some funds for Maria’s family (almost €300), co-ordinated by Ms O’Donnell. Maria is receiving great specialist care and is improving. She is always in the thoughts and prayers of staff and children
World Vision
Please continue to send in your small change for the sponsorship of Zubeda in Tanzania, whose progress the children follow with interest.
Road Safety
During this week a R.S.A. facilitator presented a very informative story/workshop to each class highlighting safety issues. Please discuss with your child to re-inforce safety rules. Parents please remember to use the pedestrian gate when entering and exiting the school grounds.
Loughcrew
Staff and children in Loughcrew took part in the Boyne 10K race recently and raised €2,321. This money is being used for horse riding lessons for all the children which they are enjoying.
Equine assisted therapy is proven to improve behaviour and anxiety in children with Autism and Asperger’s as well as improving their social interaction. The rhythmic motion of riding a horse causes children to focus on the movement – which is slow, deliberate and relaxing. This motion has a calming effect on the child.
School Tours
Junior Infants and some children from Loughcrew enjoyed a lovely day at Newbridge Farm.
Senior Infants spent an enjoyable day at Ardgillan Castle park and playground.
Our 1st classes will be going to Footee/Footgolf and Marley Park next Thursday 28th.
2nd Classes will be visiting the ’Planetarium’ in Armagh on 9th June.
H.S.E. Vaccinations
Some Junior Infants had their vaccinations during the week administered by H.S.E. doctors and nurses, who commended them on their very good behaviour. Our thanks to the Parents’ Association also for helping with the organisation.
Confirmation
Congratulations to all the children in Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh who are being confirmed by Bishop Smith.
Lost and Found
Please check box in school foyer. We also have 2 pairs of glasses in the office and a First Communion Cross and Rosary Beads.
Dates for your Diary
Fri 22nd May School closed – Referendum Voting Station
Thurs 28th May 1st class tour
Fri. 29th May Clean up Day – An Taisce & Green Team
Mon 1st June June Bank Holiday
Wed 3rd June 1st & 2nd classes Sports Day
Thurs. 4th June Junior & Senior Infants Sports Day
Mon. 8th June New Junior Infant orientation meeting 2pm
Tues 9th June 2nd class tour to Planetarium – Armagh
Wed 10th Book Haven and the Children’s shop 1-3pm school hall
Sat. 13th June Family Fun Day 2-5pm
Tues 23rd June Graduation Assembly 2nd classes – 11.30am
Fri 26th June at 12 noon Summer Holidays – School closes 12noon.
| Thought for the month
‘What we learn with pleasure, we never forget’ Alfred Mercier |
Slán go foíll
_________________________
Denise Kelleher – Principal
Spring Newsletter 2015
Dear Parents/Guardians
What a busy term! There has been a great number of events and activities taking place in the school. Well done to all our children and staff who have worked so hard.
The Diocesan Advisors
The Diocesan Advisors visited each class on Tuesday (representing Bishop Smith – religious instruction in schools). They commended the children and teachers highly and enjoyed the songs/hymns, art work and prayers shared with them.
| Parents’ Association |
Our thanks to the team for their on-going work and support. The children all enjoyed planting potatoes/herbs and painting the bird boxes. The polytunnel is nearly finished and the new shed is in place now. The daffodil bulbs that the children planted last Autumn are now ready and will be cut on Friday and distributed to Junior Infant classes to take home. If you are free to help please contact Fergal on 086-3272265.
World Book Day
The children all enjoyed dressing up as their favourite book character and engaging in book related activities. Please call to your local book store with your book token if you have not done so already.
Seachtain na Gaeilge
We celebrated Seachtain na Gaeilge with lots of activities ‘as gaeilge’ and children who spoke Irish at yard time were awarded various prizes. We finished with a ‘Ceílí Mór’ on Friday with Orla which was enjoyed by all and well done to all the parents who took part.
WSE
A report on our recent Whole School Evaluation is now available on the Department of Education and Skills website www.departmentofeducationandskills.ie/inspectionreports. Please have a look.
Primary Online Database Forms
Thank you to all who have returned the completed forms. Just a reminder that you can call into the office to complete one if you have not done so already.
Upcoming Events in Term 3
We have lots of events to look forward to after the Easter break:-
Intercultural Week starts on Monday 20th April with a Parents’ Coffee Morning after drop off – our thanks to the Parents’ Association for facilitating this. Each class is focusing on a particular country and learning about its culture, traditions, language, music, art, history etc. The children’s projects will be displayed in the school hall. Our thanks to Mr Deering and Mr Gavin our E.A.L. teachers who are co-ordinating this event. The week will culminate with Grandparents’ Assembly at 11.30am. Grandparents are free to visit classrooms and visit our book fair after the Assembly. We look forward to welcoming them.
Our Scholastic ‘Book Fair’ will take place during the week of the 20th April in Room 1 (room at North door-bus door). Parents can visit each morning and at collection times. More details after Easter. Children will visit the Book Fair with their teachers and enjoy lots of reading activities and exposure to a variety of books and authors, carefully chosen to reflect all tastes and abilities. The school benefits from a Book Fair too – every book sold helps to get free books for our school library. We are all looking forward to this exciting literacy event and if successful will become another annual school event for our calendar.
School Tours
Teachers arranging suitable school tours for all classes – more details in last term.
Charity Event:
Our recent ‘Colour Day’ for ‘Aoibheann’s Pink Tie’ – Crumlin Medical Research Foundation raised almost €400. Our thanks to all for your generous donations & to Ms Darby and her class who helped co-ordinate this event.
World Vision:
Please continue to send in your small change for the sponsorship of Zubeda in Tanzania, whose progress the children follow with interest.
Trócaire Boxes:
These can be returned to Laytown church during the Easter holidays. The children have been learning about Mahlet (child featured on Trócaire box) and Ethiopia at assembly and how we can help.
Thank you all for your support and co-operation. Have a lovely Easter break.
Slán go foíll
| Quote for the Month“The mediocre teacher tells
The good teacher explains The superior teacher demonstrates The great teacher inspires” |
_________________________
Denise Kelleher – Principal
Dates for your Diary
Fri. 27th March at 12 noon Easter Holidays School closes 12noon
Mon. 13th April Return to school
Mon. 20th – Fri. 24th Intercultural Week and Book Fair
Fri. 24th April Grandparents’ Assembly 11.30am
Wed. 29th April School Photos
Fri. 1st May School Walk – Fundraising event Parents’ Association
Mon 4th May May Bank Holiday
Sat 9th May First Holy Communion 2nd classes at 11am
Mon 1st June June Bank Holiday
Fri. 22nd May Election Day – No school
Fri. 29th May Clean up Day – An Taisce & Green Team
Wed 3rd & Thurs. 4th June Sports Days
Sat. 13th June Family Fun Day
Fri 26th June at 12 noon Summer Holidays School closes 12noon.
January/February Newsletter
Dear Parents/Guardians
Well done to all our children and staff who have worked so hard during the last few weeks with so much illness and poor weather conditions. Thank you parents for your support on wet mornings and afternoons.
First Penance Ceremony
This was held last Wednesday 4th – our thanks to all involved especially
Fr McNelis, the 2nd class teachers and well done to all the children who received this Sacrament. The 1st class children sang beautifully – well done to Mr Harrington and the 1st class teachers also.
Parents’ Association
Our thanks to the Parents’ Association for their ongoing work and support. Our 1st and 2nd class children are looking forward to the ’Valentines’ Disco on Thursday 12th.
They are also focusing on getting the garden and polytunnel ready for planting.
Any parents/grandparents who are free to help, please contact Fergal.
Reminders
Please remember to write an absence note for your child. Please send in any outstanding “Jack and the Beanstalk”, Irish dancing or Art & Craft money – Thank you.
This week we are celebrating Chinese New Year throughout the school – thanks to Mr Deering & Mr Gavin who have prepared lots of activities and a table tennis challenge (one of the favourite sports in China). Chinese New Year is on Thursday 19th February and it will be The Year of the Goat.
Lent
Lent starts on Wednesday 18th February – Ash Wednesday. The theme of this year’s Trocaire pack for primary schools is ‘Climate Change and Climate Justice’. After the break the children will be learning how climate change affects people.
We have lots to look forward to after the mid-term break – World Book Day, National Tree Week, Seachtain na Gaeilge – our annual céilí on Friday 13th March (details later).
Please check our website for regular updates – www.scoiloilibheirnaofa.scoiltel.ie
Congratulations to Mrs Browne on the birth of baby Lucy.
Welcome to Ms Savage – 2nd class teacher – Mr Gavin E.A.L. Teacher and Mr Dunne Resource Teacher
W.S.E.
A draft report on our recent Whole School Evaluation has been sent to the school for staff, Board of Management and Parents’ Association perusal. It will be available on the Dept. of Education & Skills website shortly for all to read in detail. To summarise, the team of inspectors commended highly the quality of teaching, learning and pupil achievement, our school planning and management and the support provided for all our pupils. We are all very pleased with the report which acknowledges the high standard of preparation and teaching in our school. The children’s behaviour is referred to in the report as excellent and it is also mentioned how happy they are in their learning – so well done to all. There are always some recommendations in the process, and we will take these on board. However I would like to point out that as a staff we have been engaged in ongoing self-evaluation of procedures, practices and protocols and the whole process (internal and external evaluation), has proved very productive and beneficial for your children and the management of the school.
Thank you for your support and co-operation. Enjoy the mid-term break.
Slán go fóill
Denise Kelleher – Principal
November / December Newsletter
Dear Parents/Guardians
Well done to all on another very busy productive month – we had Science week, Anti-Bullying / Friendship week and of course the week of our Whole School Evaluation – W.S.E., which went very well and was a very positive experience for all.
During our post-evaluation meeting the team of inspectors commended highly the quality of teaching, learning and pupil achievement, our school planning and management and the support provided for all our pupils. The continued work of the Board of Management and the Parents’ Association was acknowledged. Our thanks to those parents who completed the parent questionnaires – a summary analysis of the ‘Parent Data’ is attached showing a positive result in all areas. The written report should be available soon and will be available online in term two.
Christmas Concerts
| Children and staff are busy practising for our annual concerts in the school hall, which we know will be enjoyed by all. Please note the time to make sure you are present for this special occasion. |
| · Loughcrew concert Wednesday 17th Dec at 9.30am· Junior & Senior Infants concert Wednesday 17th Dec at 10.30am· First & Second classes concert Wednesday 17th Dec at 12noon |
Parents may take their children home after the concert. Junior & Senior Infant teachers will look after children who have siblings in 1st & 2nd classes, while parents attend the concert (The children will have already seen the concert on Monday). We are requesting parents with buggies to use the bus door/ north door (the door beside ‘When the Wind Blows’) and to leave your buggy under the stairs or in Room 1, unless necessary. Thank you for your co-operation as the hall will be very busy. The Parents’ Association will provide light refreshments.
Science Week
We had a very successful Science week which Ms Regan co-ordinated. Children engaged in lots of active science and were encouraged to explore, predict and discuss – to develop their independent enquiry and creative action.
| This was followed by Anti-Bullying / Friendship week. This was a very positive initiative. Each class had ‘Circle Time’ – where we read and discussed a story, which identified ‘Bullying’ in a child’s world and proposed ways to resolve an issue. |
Setanta Book Club
Thanks to all who purchased books online. We appreciate Ms Mullen’s
time co-ordinating this initiative. The amount raised for the school was
€268 – 90 books have been ordered and will be delivered to our school library soon.
| G.A.A. First and Second classchildren continue to enjoy theG.A.A. sessions organised bySt Colmcille’s Club. Our thanksto the coaches for their time and |
expertise.
| Green Team Well done to all who continue to recycle so diligently and a reminder to recycle during the Christmas season, especially wrapper, stamps, cards and mobiles. |
| Parents’ Association |
We really appreciate all the work, time and effort of the Parents’ Association. The 2nd year of our Christmas Card project has seen it grow even more. Thanks to all who participated.
The new fence and ‘Winter Garden’ are a great addition. We look forward to further developing in the spring term. Please contact Fergal Collins or any member of the P/A if you wish to help.
Irish Dancing
Junior & Senior Infants and Loughcrew children have enjoyed their Irish dancing classes with Orla. First & Second classes will have Irish Dancing in Term 2 and we will have our annual céilí around St Patrick’s weekend. The cost will be €10 for 10 classes.
| Christmas Cake Sale and Raffle |
The staff and Parents’ Association are jointly organising a Christmas Cake Sale and
raffle in the school hall on Thursday 11th December from 1.30pm – 3pm to raise funds
for additional resources and books. All donations can be dropped into the hall from 9am.
Please drop in and have a cup of tea/coffee and a Christmas treat – your support is much appreciated.
Charity Work
The local branch of the St Vincent de Paul are overwhelmed by the huge response to their Christmas Hamper appeal. They are very appreciative of the use of a room in our school to pack the hampers, which are being distributed to the community. Thanks to all for your contribution.
Many thanks also for your continued support for the sponsorship of Zubeda in Tanzania by sending in your small change.
Enrolments 2015
If you have a child who is due to commence school next September 2015, or know someone who does, please ensure that you have an enrolment application completed. These will be processed early in the New Year.
Courses and Conferences
Staff attended a number of upskilling and training courses / conferences this term in the following areas: Literacy, Numeracy, Anti-Bullying, Early Intervention, Down Syndrome, Language & Communication, Diabetes training, Mentoring & various workshops for newly qualified teachers.
Website
Please remember to visit our website at scoiloilibheirnaofa@scoilnet.com for school news and updates.
Thank you for your continued support during the year.
Thought for the Month
| Mankind is a great – animmense family. This is provedby what we feel in our hearts atChristmasPope John XX III |
The children and staff have worked very hard and all are
looking forward to a rest over the break. On behalf of us
all working at Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa, may we wish you a
happy and peaceful Christmas
Denise Kelleher Principal
Halloween Newsletter
Date: 24th October 2014
Dear Parents/Guardians
Well done to all our pupils, teachers and parents on a great half term’s work. Everyone has worked very hard with lots of great activities going on in the classrooms and around the school.
Parents’ Association
Many thanks to the P.A. for their ongoing work and support for our school. Both 1st and 2nd class children had great fun at the Hallowe’en Disco and €660 was raised for school resources/garden project etc.
Garden
On Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th November all children will be planting spring bulbs in our garden – which is a great outdoor learning space for all. Please meet any Monday at 9.05am if you would like to help with our garden project.
Maths Week
Last week we had a very successful Maths week with lots of activities taking place. We had a particular emphasis on ‘Maths Trails’. The children enjoyed the activities inside and outside and it was very beneficial. Please continue the suggested Maths activities at home during the holidays.
Anti-Bullying Week
As outlined in our last newsletter we will have a focus on continuing to create a safe and positive school environment. We will work on building good peer relationships at all levels during the week from 17th to 21st November. Our 2nd class children have already completed our anti-bullying survey. Teachers will have further training in term 2 with Seán Fallon, an expert in this area. Please refer to our website for our Anti-Bullying Policy.
Art & Craft / Insurance / Resources
Many thanks to all those who have paid in full to date.
| Parent/Teacher MeetingsThe Parent / Teacher Meetings will take place on 2nd and 4th December. Please refer to the school calendar in the last newsletter or on the website. |
Please check our website regularly for the latest news, photographs and updates. Many of our school policies are available for your perusal – eg. Enrolment, First Aid, Child Protection, RSE (Relationships and Sexuality Education), Anti-Bullying, Positive Behaviour, Homework, Healthy Lunches, Attendance.
Whole School Evaluation
During the week 3rd – 7th November, as outlined in our last newsletter – Inspectors from the Department of Education and Skills are conducting a Whole School Evaluation in our school. The school is well prepared for this evaluation and we welcome this initiative as it is a great opportunity to affirm positive aspects of the school’s work and to identify and suggest areas for continuing positive development. The inspectors have already had a pre-evaluation meeting with the staff, Parents’ Association and Board of Management. Just over fifty percent of you will receive a survey from the DES with this newsletter, which you are requested to complete and return in the sealed envelope to the school on Monday 3rd November. Many thanks for your co-operation.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Flanagan-Healy family on the sad passing of William Healy. May he rest in peace.
Ms Barry had a baby girl Clodagh on 20th October. All well, Thank God.
Dogs and Safety
For health and safety reasons just a reminder that no dogs are allowed on the school grounds.
Wishing you all a very enjoyable and safe Halloween break.
Slán go fóill
| Thought for the monthTeaching is more than imparting knowledge,it is inspiring change. |
Learning is more than absorbing facts,
it is acquiring understanding.
Denise Kelleher
Principal
October 2014 School Newsletter
Dear Parents
A big welcome to all of our 95 new Junior Infants, new students in other classes and ‘Loughcrew’ our ASD unit and to all new parents. Well done to all our students who have settled into this school so well and enjoying school life at S.O.N.
A very warm welcome to our new staff members – Ms Sarah-Jane Burns, Ms Aveen Rooney and Ms Darerca Egan. SNA’s Ms Elaine Treanor, Ms Aisling Dawson and Ms Catherine McCormick.
Best wishes to Ms Carroll, Mr Deering and Fiona Bapamah (SNA) on the birth of their new babies during the summer and hope all goes well for Ms Barry over the next few weeks. Ms Burke is on sick leave and we wish her a speedy recovery. Congratulations to Ms Boylan, Ms Darby and Mr Harrington who all got married recently.
Parents’ Association
Many thanks to the P/A for their ongoing work and support for our school. They are involved with many projects, fundraising events and activities throughout the school year. This term they are focusing on our garden and getting it ready for the children to plant spring bulbs etc. Please meet at the garden at 9:05am on Mondays if you would like to help with this project.
Michelle Mooney was elected new Chairperson at the recent A.G.M. Many thanks to Clare Neurohr for all her time, work and support as Chairperson. Clare is now a Parents’ Representative on the Board of Management, as is Fergal Collins – so please discuss any ideas, suggestions etc. with them.
Junior Infant Parent Meetings:
Last week we held information meetings with our four Junior Infant class parents. Thanks to all the parents who attended and we hope you found them informative and useful.
Contributions
Many thanks to all those who contributed to Tesco’s initiative re support for our S.N.U ‘Loughcrew’. We received a cheque for €243.14.
Many thanks also to the parent in Loughcrew who raised €1,050 with a fundraising golf classic. This money is being spent on I-pads for the children in Loughcrew.
Uniform
The children all look lovely in their school uniforms. Please remember 1st and 2nd classes tracksuits and runners should only be worn on P.E. and GAA days.
Irish Dancing
Irish dancing classes have already started for Junior & Senior Infants with Orla Nic Conuladh. Please remember to put €10 in an envelope with your child’s name and class.
1st & 2nd classes will have Irish dancing classes in Term 2 with our annual Céilí around St Patrick’s weekend.
G.A.A.
Many thanks to our local club St Colmcille’s and their coaches who have started football training sessions for our 1st & 2nd classes. This is given on a voluntary basis and we very much appreciate the time, interest and enthusiasm of all concerned. Our children benefit hugely from this initiative.
Art & Craft/Insurance/Resources
Please check if you have paid your contribution of €75. This covers your child’s insurance, art and craft materials, pencils/copies/notebooks, homework journals, photocopying, reading folders, report cards, assessment files etc. for the entire year. Please note that the insurance covers your child all year round – inside or outside school.
| First CommunionFirst Communion will be on Saturday 9th May 2015 at 11am. Fr McNelis and the ‘Do this in Memory’ committee have already started planning and preparing for this special event. First Penance – Wednesday 4th February 2015 at 7pm. |
Absences
Please make sure you write a note to your child’s class teacher if he/she is absent within 2 days. It is incumbent on us to inform the Education Welfare Board if a child is absent for more than 20 days in the school year. We encourage good attendance and children receive certificates at the end of each month for full attendance.
Traffic
Well done to everyone who has made a big effort in easing the traffic congestion by walking / cycling / arriving early and following the parking restrictions. Please do not park in the bus bay or on the footpath. We appreciate the use of Coláiste na hInse’s car park for parking and turning cars. The traffic management committee meets regularly with the County Council, the aim being to establish the much needed through road.
World Vision
We sponsor a child, Zubeda in Tanzania through ‘World Vision’. Please send in small change, there is a box in each classroom. This is a great initiative which helps our children gain insight into children living in different environments.
Anti – Bullying Week
During the week of 17th – 21st November we will engage in anti-bullying activities. There will be a focus on continuing to create a safe and positive school environment and building on good peer relationships at all levels.
Maths Week
Maths week 11th – 19th October. Please make a special effort to do some maths activities at home during this week.
Courses for Parents
Please see the notice board for courses available in the
- Alpha Learning Centre (beside Coláiste). Internet Safety for Parents / Family Learning Programmes / Helping parents to help their children learn / Preparing your child for second level.
- Navan Education Centre ‘Aistear’ Programme for Parents.
- Middletown Centre for Autism Parent Training courses. parenttraining@middletownautism.com
Whole School Evaluation
During the week 3rd – 7th November Inspectors from the Department of Education and Skills are conducting a whole school evaluation. This usually occurs every 5 years, but as S.O.N. is a new school-this is the first WSE. The process is designed to evaluate key aspects of the work of the school and to promote school improvement in areas which are identified. Whole School Evaluation is a collaborative process involving the evaluation team, the teaching staff, the management of the school, parents and pupils. We welcome this initiative and it is a great opportunity to affirm positive aspects of the school’s work and to identify & suggest areas for development.
Questionnaires will be sent by the DES to 50% of our parents (different languages are available), details later on this. The report is issued to the school and will be published on the website of the Department of Education and Skills.
| Thurs 9th Oct. Loughcrew Parents’ meeting 2pmSat 11th – 19th Oct Maths WeekWed 22nd Oct. G.A.A. 1st & 2nd ClassesP/A Disco for Halloween 1st & 2nd classes (details later) |
Mon 27th Oct. –Fri. 31st inclusive Mid-term Break
Mon 3rd Nov Return to school
Mon 3rd Nov – Fri 7th Nov Whole School Evaluation week – Dept. of Ed & Skills
Mon 17th Nov – 21st Nov Anti Bullying Week
Wed 19th Nov G.A.A. 1st & 2nd Classes
Tues 2nd & Thurs 4th Dec Parent/Teacher meetings
Mon 8th Dec Irish Blood Transfusion Board
Wed 10th Dec G.A.A. 1st & 2nd Classes
Wed 17th Dec Christmas concerts –details later.
Fri. Dec. 19th at 12 noonclose Christmas Holidays
Mon 5th Jan Return to school
Wed 4th Feb G.A.A. 1st & 2nd Classes
First Penance 2nd classes 7pm
Mon 16th – Fri. 20th Feb inclusive Mid-term break
Wed 25th Feb G.A.A. 1st & 2nd Classes
Mon 16th & Tues 17th March St. Patrick’s Weekend
Fri. 27th March at 12 noon Easter Holidays School closes 12 noon
Mon. 13th April Return to school
Mon 4th May May Bank Holiday
Sat 9th May First Communion 2nd classes at 11am
Mon 1st June June Bank Holiday
Fri 26th June at 12 noon Summer Holidays – School closes at12noon.
Dates for your Diary
| School MottoHand in Handwe Learn TogetherAr scáth a chéile a ghlacaimid an fhoghlaim |
Thank you for your support and co-operation.
Slán go fóill
Denise Kelleher
(Principal)
School Website: www.scoiloilibhéirnaofa.scoilnet.ie – Please check regularly for updates.
We would like to offer our school newsletter in different languages, if you would like to help in translating the newsletter into your home language, please contact us.
 |
Click the following January February Newsletter to read our latest newsletter.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER NEWSLETTER
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Well done to all for a productive and enjoyable half term. It was great to see so many of you at our recent Parent/Teacher meetings and thanks to the Parents’ Association for organising the refreshments. Thanks for your positive comments and useful suggestions which are much appreciated by all the teachers and will help us to continue in our work.
Christmas Concerts
The children and staff are busy practising for our annual concerts in the school hall, which we know will be enjoyed by all. Please note the time to make sure you are present for this special occasion.
• Loughcrew concert – Tuesday 17th December at 10.00a.m
• Junior & Senior Infants – Wednesday 18th December at 11.00a.m
• 1st & 2nd Classes – Wednesday 18th December at 12.00a.m
Parents may take their children home after the concert . Junior & Senior Infant teachers will look after children who have siblings in 1st & 2nd classes, while parents attend the concert. (The children will have already seen the concert on Tuesday). Thanks for your co-operation as the hall will be quite busy.
CHARITY WORK
We raised almost €900 on “Colour Day” for The Irish Red Cross to help families in the Philippines. Many thanks for your kind donations.
The local branch of the St Vincent de Paul are overwhelmed by the huge response to their Christmas Hamper appeal. They were very appreciative of the use of a room in our school to pack the hampers, which have been distributed to the community. Thanks to all for your contribution.
Many thanks also for your continued support for the sponsorship of Zubeda in Tanzania by sending in your small change.
PARENTS ASSOCIATION
We really appreciate all the work, time & effort of the Parents’ Association. The Christmas Card project has been a huge success and was enjoyed by the children and the staff. Please support the Christmas raffle also which will be held on Thursday 19th at our whole school assembly. Fergal Collins has now been elected to the Board of Management as father representative and Clare Neurohr is taking over as Chairperson of the Parents’ Council. We wish them both every success in their new roles.
IRISH DANCING
Junior & Senior Infants and our Loughcrew children have enjoyed their Irish dancing classes with Orla.( Please send in €10 if you have not done so already). First & Second classes will have Irish dancing in term 2 and we will have our annual céilí around St. Patrick’s Day.
SETANTA BOOK CLUB
Thanks to all who purchased books on line. The school will receive many free books as a result. We appreciate Ms Mullen’s time co-ordinating this initiative.
GREEN TEAM
Well done to all our children who continue to recycle so diligently and a reminder to recycle during the Christmas season especially wrapper, stamps, cards & mobiles etc. Thanks to Ms Burke and the Green Team, great progress is being made with ‘travel’ related projects and activities.
G.A.A
First & Second class children continue to enjoy the G.A.A sessions organised by St.Colmcille’s Club. Our thanks to the coaches for their time and expertise.
Crib
Our Thanks to Robert for designing and constructing our new crib, which the children enjoy visiting.
Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and Best Wishes to all for 2014 – Denise Kelleher (Principal) & Staff
October 2013 Newsletter
Dear Parents/Guardians,
A big welcome to all of our 122 new Junior Infants, new students in other classes and ‘Loughcrew’ our ASD unit and to all new parents. Well done to all our students who have settled into this school year so well and enjoying school life at S.O.N.
Loughcrew:
We are delighted that our second class, an ‘Early Intervention’ class for children aged 3+ has opened in Loughcrew. Thanks to the diligent work of Catherine Devlin and the SNA team, our six little children have made a great start together on their school journey.
Parents’ Association:
Many thanks to the Parents’ Association for their on-going work and support for our school. They are involved with many projects, fundraising events and activities throughout the school year. They will be working with our Green Schools Committee this year as we work towards achieving our fourth Green flag- the ‘Travel Flag’.
Susan Doorley, the ‘An Taisce’ Green Schools Coordinator will give a presentation on a Cycling Skills course for Parents at the Parents’ Association AGM on Tuesday October 15th at 7pm.
All parents are welcome and more are needed for the committee.
Uniform:
The children all look lovely in their school uniforms. Please remember black shoes are required in 1st and 2nd classes and tracksuits and runners are only to be worn on PE days. No earrings or jewellery to be worn to school for safety reasons.
Irish Dancing:
Irish dancing classes will start for Junior and Senior Infants after the Hallowe’en break with Orla Nic Conuladh.
1st and 2nd classes will have Irish dancing classes in Term 2 and we will have our annual ‘Céilí’ around St. Patrick’s weekend.
G.A.A:
Many thanks to our local club St. Colmcille’s and their coaches who have started football training sessions already for our 1st and 2nd classes.
Art & Craft & Insurance:
Please check if you have paid your contribution of €75 for Junior Infants and €70.00 for Senior Infants and 1st and 2nd class.
Thanks to all who have paid.
First Communion:
First Communion will be on Saturday 17th May 2014.
Fr. McNelis and the ‘Do This in Memory’ committee have already started planning and preparing for this special event.
School Website: www.scoiloilibheirnaofa@scoilnet.ie
Please check regularly for updates.
School Garden: Great work has been done thanks to Robert and Fergal during the last school year and the summer holidays and a great yield of healthy vegetables has been produced. We need more helpers, so please call to the garden on Mondays at 9am. The garden is a wonderful teaching and learning resource for our children.
Absences:
Please note it is incumbent on us to inform the National Educational Welfare Board (N.E.W.B) if a child is absent for 20 days in the school year. Please make sure your child attends school unless he/she is ill. Family holidays, if at all possible should be arranged during school holidays.
If your child is absent please provide him/her with a note explaining the absence as we require this for N.E.W.B. Thank You.
Traffic:
Well done to everyone who has made a big effort in easing our traffic congestion by walking/cycling/arriving early and following the parking restrictions. Please do not park in the bus bay or on the footpath.
We appreciate your co-operation and we are working with Coláiste na hÍnse, the County Council and the local Gardaí to try to come to a satisfactory solution regarding the exit/entry road.
Junior Infant Parent Talks:
These informative meetings are being held in your child’s classroom during the weeks of the 7th and 14th of October. Please check your day with the class teacher.
Staff:
A very warm welcome to our new staff members – Ms Suzanne Regan, Ms Danielle Geraghty, Ms Eimear O’Brien and Mr Alan Murphy. Welcome back to Ms Deirdre McLoughlin (Deputy) and best wishes to Ms Lorraine Fitzpatrick who has just started her maternity leave. Our thanks to Pamela in the office for her continued help and support.
World Vision:
We sponsor a child, Zubeda in Tanzania through ‘World Vision’. Please send in small change, there is a box in each classroom. This is a great initiative to help our children gain insight into less fortunate children living in other environments.
Dates for Your Diary:
Tuesday October 15th Parents’ Association AGM 7.30pm School Hall
Thursday October 24th Disco 1st and 2nd classes School Hall (details soon)
Friday October 25th Dress Up Day
Mon. Oct. 28th-Fri. 1st Nov. Mid-Term Break
Monday 4th November Return to School
Tuesday 26th November Parent/Teacher Meetings
Thursday 28th November Parent/Teacher Meetings (details later)
Wednesday 18th December Christmas Concert
Friday December 20th School Closes 12.30pm Christmas Holidays
Monday January 6th Return to School
Monday 17th Feb- 21st Feb School Closed Mid-Term Break
Monday February 24th Return to School
Monday 17th March St.Patrick’s Weekend
Friday 11th April School Closes 12.30pm Easter Holidays
Monday 28th April Return to School
Monday 5th May May Bank Holiday
Saturday 17th May First Holy Communion
Monday 2nd & Tues. 3rd June June Bank Holiday
Friday 27th June School Closes 12.30pm Summer Holidays
Slán go foill Denise Kelleher (Principal)
June 2013 Newsletter
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Another busy, productive, action-packed, happy school year is drawing to a close.
Thank you to staff, parents and children for whatever part you played during this successful school year.
Family Fun Day
Thanks to the commitment and endless work of our Parents’ Association co-ordinated by Fergal Collins. The annual Family Fun day was a huge success.
The sun shone. Families had a lovely day out and over €900 was raised for school resources. Thanks to all for your help and support!
Grandparents’ Assembly/Intercultural week
Thank you to the huge number of wonderful grandparents who attended our recent assembly. The children enjoyed singing for you and we hope you got an insight into school life from your grandchildren at Scoil Oilibheir Naofa when you visited the classrooms.
The International focus was a great success and we all learned so much from the interesting presentations representing the countries of origin of many of our newcomer children. Our thanks to Ms Lynch and Ms Geraghty for co-ordinating this successful initiative and to all the teachers and children for the beautiful displays.
School Tours
Children and teachers all enjoyed successful, educational school trips to Ardgillan Park, DSPCA, Newbridge Farm and Drogheda Post Office. We ensured all tours cost €10 , which helped make it affordable for all families.
Book Lists have been distributed to all children and ‘The Book Haven’ provided a great service last week in the school hall for parents to purchase books hassle free. The school will receive a 10% discount on the total spent for school resources. Books are available in local bookshops, if you did not have the opportunity to attend.
Art & Craft & Insurance money is now due for the next school year. The school will be open until Friday 12th July. Please put money in an envelope and mark clearly. If it is not possible to pay the full amount now, please pay a portion of the amount and the remainder by the end of September.
Uniforms are available from The Children’s Shop, West St., Drogheda
Lunches Please refer to our healthy lunch policy on the website , (no fizzy drinks, chocolate, yogurts, crisps or nut products)
Pencil Cases Please keep size and contents of pencil cases to a minimum. All equipment required is available in the classroom and these can be a distraction to young children.
Dates For your Diary
Return to school: Thursday 29th August
New Junior Infants (10-12 noon)
Thursday 29th-Friday 13th September
Mid term Break: School closed Monday 28th October to Monday 4th November
Christmas Holidays: School closed Friday 20th December @ 12.30
Thank you for your continued support during the year. Hope you all have a lovely summer and a great break from the daily routine. Keep safe and well.
Slán go fóill,
Denise Kelleher (Principal)
May Newsletter
Dear Parents/Guardians,
What another busy month it has been and so much to celebrate!
Well done to all our children in second class who received their First Holy Communion. The ceremony was memorable and the butterfly art work was fantastic. Our thanks to Fr. McNelis, the class teachers – Ms Howard, Ms Downey and Ms Barton, the choir and the parents who helped make it a very special day. Thanks also to the Parents’ Association for providing refreshments in the school hall. The photographs and videos will be delivered soon.
Table Quiz
Thanks to the great support by parents at the quiz organised by staff members last Friday. Almost 1,300 Euro was raised, which will be spent on school resources and books. Thanks to all the local shops and businesses who donated prizes to the successful raffle.
School Garden
Thank s to Robert and Fergal for their energy and enthusiasm in developing our school garden, which is a great facility and learning environment for our children. Help is needed at any time, so please call in and lend a hand. Monday morning is a designated meeting time, so do come along if you have some free time. Grandparents welcome also.
Skip-Hop workshops and Sports Days
We are delighted to inform you that we have invited Skip-Hop for two days of skipping on Thursday 6th and Friday 7th June. Every child will have the opportunity to take part in one of the workshops. The children will learn a selection of moves including individual skipping, double dutch, long rope and partner skipping. A contribution of 3 Euro per child is requested, 5 Euro for two children and 6 Euro for three children. The aim of Skip-Hop is to encourage children and adults to skip for fun, health and fitness whilst introducing traditional skipping games back into the playground. Skipping ropes are available to purchase also for adults and children at discounted prices. Please refer to your child’s class teacher for details regarding sports day and Skip-Hop schedule.
Parents’ Association & Family Fun day
This action packed fun day for all is being co-ordinated by the PA on Saturday 8th June from 2-5pm. Put it in your diary for a fun day for all the family….more information to follow.
Grandparent’s Assembly & Intercultural Day
On Friday 14th June we will be celebrating Grandparent’s Day with a whole school assembly including prayers and songs. All grandparents are welcome. We will also celebrate our cultural diversity with lots of activities planned to enable our children become more aware of other countries and different cultures…more information on this soon…..
New Junior Infants
All new Junior Infant parents have received a letter recently offering a place for September. Please ensure the acceptance form is returned by Wednesday 29th May. A meeting for all our new parents is on Tuesday 11th June.
Green Schools Update
Our pupils have been busily engaged producing work based on our ongoing Green School ethos, with particular emphasis on our Travel theme. It has included environmental art activities, mini beast hunts, nature walks, walkability audits, observation of class caterpillars and seed planting. Please continue to walk, cycle and park n’stride with your child where possible.
Miscellaneous
Please send in any outstanding money for school photographs, Irish dancing, tour etc.
Remember to check our website scoiloilibheirnaofa.scoilnet.ie for updates
Dates For Your Diary
Wed. 29th May Senior Infant tour to Drogheda Post office and Kangaroo Club
Fri. 31st May Junior Infant tour to Newbridge Farm
Mon. & Tues. 3rd
& 4th June No School. Bank Holiday & School Holiday
Thurs 6th & Fri. 7th June Skip-Hop Workshops & Sports Days
Saturday 8th June Family Fun Day 2-5pm
Tuesday 11th June New Junior Infants Induction Meeting 2pm
Friday 14th June Grandparents Assembly 11am
Monday 17th June Second Class tour to Ardgillan Park
Tuesday 18th June “The Book Haven”, School Hall 1-3pm to purchase new books. Parents Association – Second hand book stall
Tues. 18th & Wed. 19th First Class school tour DSPCA & Marley Park
Fri. 21st ‘Loughcrew’ end of year celebration 11am
Tues. 25th Graduation Assembly 2nd class parents 11.30am
Fri. 28th School Closes 12.30pm
Thought for the Month: “Judge each day, not by the harvest but by the seeds you plant”! (Anonymous)
Thank you for your continued support. Enjoy the long weekend and let’s hope the sun shines!
Denise Kelleher (Principal)
Click on the following link google translate and copy and paste the newsletter to have it available to read in your home language.