It has been a busy couple of weeks on a number of fronts for the school.
The 6th Year Parent/Student/Teacher was very well attended. It was very apparent that all concerned have very high aspirations for the Leaving Certificate and thereafter. The students were particularly focussed, with the vast majority having a clear idea of the educational and career path they hope to pursue. All in all there was a vibrant, positive atmosphere which bodes very well for the year ahead.
As school principal I had a busy but enjoyable couple of weeks visiting the primary schools in the county. I was made feel very welcome wherever I went and it was a real pleasure to engage with the pupils, all of which were a credit to their schools. The visits culminated in a Sports Day which was attended by over 180 students. Credit is due to all involved. Deputy Principal and event organiser, Mr. Hagan, saw to the smooth running of the event and he was ably assisted by some of the school’s students who acquitted themselves very well.
6th Year students attended the Higher Options fair in Dublin. This is the premier education and careers fair in the country and should prove very worthwhile in informing the students of their college and career options.
A non-denominational school service marked the beginning of the school year for students and teachers. Father O’ Callaghan presided over the service. The students were extremely pro-active in the service, contributing all the music and readings.
One of the country’s foremost educational consultants, Michael Bond, gave a study skills seminar to 3rd and 6th Year students. This will undoubtedly be of real value to the students’ exam preparations.
Perhaps the most positive event of the year so far was the Open Night for incoming students. It was extremely well attended, with a high volume of applications for next year’s enrolment. The students enjoyed the various s activities and presentations thoroughly. Parents were equally impressed with the school’s facilities, many pupils commenting how much ‘it has changed since my time’.
Upcoming Events
- The school will begin its participation in the TL21 Project in October. This is a collaborative project with five other schools where all school s examine a teaching and learning topic. The teachers involved do so on a voluntary basis. They see it as an opportunity for continuing professional development. There are also real benefits for teaching and learning in the school.
- The Information Night for 1st Year parents will take place on Wednesday, October 2nd at 7 pm. Educational consultant, Michael Bond, will give a talk on the transition from primary to secondary school from 7 to 7.30. The parents will then have an opportunity to meet the teaching staff to discuss their child’s progress from 7.30 to 8.30.
- There will be a Study Skills Seminar for 3rd and 6th year parents, also given by Michael Bond, on the same evening. It will take place from 7.30 to 8 pm.
- A workshop for 1ts Year students the Safe Use of Social Networking Sites, including the topic of cyber bullying, will take place on October 9 during school hours. This should prove to be a very valuable workshop.
- A talk for parents and teachers on General Internet Awareness will follow on November 11.
