5-12-2013.
Dear parents,
Today, we had our last School Assembly of 2013. Prizes were presented to the winners of the Numero leagues in all classes from Second to Sixth inclusive. This is part of our Numeracy strategy, making Maths enjoyable. Children in various classes have also been playing a variety of Maths games. I am grateful to all the teachers who have sourced these activities and put them into practice.
Fourth Class hosted the December Assembly. They explained the concept of Gravity by conducting some experiments. The class also treated us to their version of the haka with accompanying chants as gaeilge.
As part of our ongoing Literacy review, we have identified Oral Language as an area on which to focus. Improving your child's competence in speaking and listening is of vital importance. The child of today may not enjoy the same opportunities for speaking and conversing as children of previous generations. Playstation, DVD etc have, in many cases, replaced interaction with other children and with adults. To give guidance to parents, you will find Tips for Improving Oral Language on the school website. I am sure you will find them useful and practical.
The school choir has been hard at work preparing for the Christmas Carol Service which will take place in Ballybrown Church on Thursday December 19th. at 12.30 p.m. All classes, from Junior Infants to Sixth, will be involved. Each child needs a Santa hat, if possible. Try your nearest Euro shop! Parents are welcome but remember that space is limited.
Thank you to all parents who attended parent-teacher meetings last week and to the teachers who put a lot of work into preparation for these meetings. If for some reason, you were not in a position to attend, please contact the school as soon as possible.
Mollie Locke, who is in Second Class,travelled to Neptune Stadium in Cork to compete in the All Ireland Gymnastics finals last weekend. Having qualified from her region, she and three other qualifiers formed a team to represent the Mid West Region. They battled against stiff competition and succeeded in getting third place in the national finals.
Santa will be arriving at Ballybrown GAA Club on Sunday 15th December 2013 at 2pm. Admission €5 per child (Family rates available). Photo with Santa & a treat.
Gach dea ghuí,
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J. Lyons
Principal
