Monday, December 21, 2015

Holiday arrangements

 Holiday arrangements: School closes on Tuesday December 22nd. at 12.30 p.m.

Parents of children in Junior and Senior infants are asked to collect those children at 12.10 p.m. to alleviate the parking problems that could arise. School re opens on Wednesday January 6th. at 9.15 a.m.

  On behalf of the Board of Management and staff of the school, I would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas. I look forward to seeing you all in 2016.

Nollaig shona daoibh go léir.

 

Thursday, December 17, 2015

School note December 17th

Dear parents,
Today, Mr Hodnett's class staged 'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!' for all classes to attend. Tomorrow, Friday, parents of Third Class will get an opportunity to enjoy this production. Well done to all the children involved. Mr Hodnett has asked me to thank all the parents who provided props and costumes etc.

Next Monday, December 21st., the school will stage a Christmas Carol Service in St. Joseph's Church. There will be two performances, one at 10.15 a.m. and another at 11.30 a.m. As space is limited, I suggest that parents of children from Junior Infants to Second class inclusive might attend at 10 a.m. and parents of children from 3rd. to 6th. class might attend at 11.30 a.m. I would like to express my gratitude to all the teachers for the effort they have put into this at the end of a long term. In keeping with tradition, all children need a Santa Hat. Full Dress Rehearsal tomorrow. Thanks to Fr. Cussen for making the Church available to us at all times.

Holiday arrangements: School closes on Tuesday December 22nd. at 12.30 p.m.
Parents of children in Junior and Senior infants are asked to collect those children at 12.10 p.m. to alleviate the parking problems that could arise. School re opens on Wednesday January 6th. at 9.15 a.m.
On behalf of the Board of Management and staff of the school, I would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas. I look forward to seeing you all in 2016.
Nollaig shona daoibh go léir.


J. Lyons
Principal

Community Council news: AFTERNOON TEA, A PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL. This extra special event with hot punch reception, a selection of sweet and savoury delights and an afternoon of entertainment will take place on Sunday Feb 7 at the Community Resource Centre - Tickets are €15 each. We have limited availability and tickets are in huge demand. Gift cards available. In order to avoid disappointment contact Eithne at 087 6487807 or Mary at 087 7675991 to book your place.

Thursday, December 10, 2015

School note December 10th

10-12-2015

Dear parents,

                    Yesterday, West Midlands Theatre Company from  Birmingham staged a performance of 'Beauty And The Beast' for children from First to Fourth class. It was greatly enjoyed by all.            

                    On  Monday,  December 21st., the school will stage a Christmas Carol Service in St. Joseph's Church. There will be two performances, one at 10.15 a.m. and another at 11.30 a.m. As space is limited, I suggest that parents of children from Junior Infants to Second class inclusive might attend at 10.15 a.m. and parents of children from 3rd. to 6th. class  attend at 11.30 a.m.

                  Third class are staging 'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever' next week. All classes will be given an opportunity to enjoy this event on Thursday 17th.  and there will be two performances for parents and family  of Third class pupils in the Halla at 10 a.m. and 11.30 a.m on Friday 18th. Early booking essential!

                   Fr. Cussen will visit the school today and tomorrow to conduct a Service of Reconciliation for Children from Third to Sixth Classes inclusive.

                I am keenly aware of the financial pressures that all families face at this time of year. The Parents Association has asked me to inform you that, as was the case for the last few years, they will donate a gift to the staff on behalf of all parents. Teachers do not expect a gift from children. If children would like to give something personal they could perhaps make their own card as a gift to their teacher.

                Parking: As the weather deteriorates, it is important for parents to be conscious at all times of safety in the vicinity of the school. I wish to highlight particularly children crossing from the Car Park to the school entrance. Nobody should park in that area at any time. Parents are requested to use the Resource Centre carpark and the Church carpark.

               Book Fair: The turnover from the Book Fair came to €1926.53. The school is now entitled to buy books to the value of 60% of this amount i.e. €1150 approx. Thanks especially are due to the parents who gave so generously of their time to sell books on Thursday and Friday.

                 Ballybrown/Clarina Community Games: Art Competition – this competition will take place tomorrow FRIDAY 11th DECEMBER in Ballybrown Resource Centre from 3-5pm. This competition is open to Boys/Girls from U8's – U16's. A4 paper will be provided but children must bring whatever colouring media and accessories they want to do the competition with (crayons, markers, paints, charcoal etc.) No visual aids or pictures will be allowed. The theme is 'A Community Games based activity'. Kids get practising! There is a small charge of €1 per child.


Gach dea ghuí,

  

J. Lyons

Principal

 

 

Thursday, December 3, 2015

School note December 3rd 2015

3-12-2015

Dear parents,

                     Yesterday, Limerick footballer Peter Nash visited the school to present medals to the members of the boys Under 13 team that won the Limerick City Cumann na mBunscol title in October.  Peter spoke about the value of working hard, enjoying all sports, perseverance,  giving of your best and the importance of Healthy Eating. He is an excellent role model for our young players. A special word of thanks to Mr Lordan and Mr Hodnett for the time and effort they put into coaching the team.

                 All children in the school will attend Mass in St Joseph's Church in Ballybrown on Tuesday December 8th at 10 a.m. for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

                  West Midlands Theatre Company from Wolverhampton pay their annual visit to the school on Wednesday December 9th when they stage 'Beauty and the Beast' for children from First to Fourth classes. Nothing compares with the experience of a live performance by professional actors. Cost is €3 per child.

                     Parents Association: A meeting of the Parents' Association will take place in the school on Tuesday December 8th at 8.30 p.m. The main purpose of this meeting is to appoint a chairperson. We would be grateful if anyone interested in this role would attend. The two other positions within the association are currently filled by Susan MacNamara (Secretary) and Breda McCarthy (Treasurer). All welcome. 

                 On Tuesday last, the Parents Association presented the school with a cheque for €1220. The school has purchased a special Educational Set of Lego. The Parents Association money has also paid for buses to a performance by the Cork Pops Orchestra in UL (First to Fourth Classes) and buses  to the Lime Tree Theatre when Junior and Senior Infants go to see 'Cinderella' on December 18th.

              'Cinderella': Tomorrow is the last day for payment for Infant Classes for this event.

                       Ballybrown/Clarina Community Games: Art Competition – this competition will take place on FRIDAY 11th DECEMBER in Ballybrown Resource Centre from 3-5pm. This competition is open to Boys/Girls from U8's – U16's. A4 paper will be provided but children must bring whatever colouring media and accessories they want to do the competition with (crayons, markers, paints, charcoal etc.) No visual aids or pictures will be allowed. The theme is 'A Community Games based activity'. Kids get practising. There is a small charge of €1 per child.

Draughts - is up and running on Wednesdays nights from 7.00 to 7.50 pm in the Community Centre we have over 20 children most evenings which is great. If your child would like to come along it's not too late for them to join.

         Santa will arrive at Ballybrown GAA Club on Sunday 13th December at 3pm.

J. Lyons

Principal

 

 

 

 

Thursday, November 26, 2015

School note November 26th

26-11-2015

Dear parents,

                    I wish to bring the following to your attention.

                    Parent teacher meetings are going ahead again today between 3.15 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. With 273 children in the school, it is important to stick to your allocated time. If you are unable to keep an appointment for some reason, please contact the school and we will arrange a suitable date.

                    Members of the Board of Management of the school met last night. Deirdre McCarthy, Corcamore, and Jimmy Hartigan, Church Road were nominated as Community representatives. The new Board takes up office on December 1st. Thanks to John Hannon and Ann Curtin who have served as parent nominees for the last eight years along with Community representatives Helen Kennedy and Annette Noonan. Sarah Keyes has served as teachers' nominee for the past four years and is replaced by Sheila Hayes.

                    Yesterday, over 50 children represented the school at the Limerick Cross Country championships at Patrickswell Racecourse. It was an unseasonably mild day and it was a most enjoyable experience. Thanks to all the parents who attended on the day for their help. It was greatly appreciated.

                    The Book Fair will take place on Thursday December 3rd and Friday December 4th. Books will be available for viewing by all classes on Thursday December 3rd.  The Parents Association are looking for volunteers with the Book Fair.  If you are available to assist on Thursday 3rd December, between 2pm - 4pm or between  7.30pm and 9.00pm, or on Friday 4th December between 9am-10am or from 2pm to 3.30pm, please text Susan MacNamara on 087-2257625.         

                    School will close for all pupils on Tuesday December 1st at 1.45 p.m. The inspectors who carried out the Whole School Evaluation are visiting the school to give their feedback on that day.

                             Ballybrown GAA Juvenile Club are holding their End of Year Meeting in the GAA Club tonight, Thursday 26th @ 9pm.  Parents of children playing hurling & football from U6's to U16's are invited to attend.  All help needed for our teams for the 2016 Season.
                     FAMILY FUN QUIZ: A great night was had by all who attended the Family Quiz in the Resource Centre last Friday night. Competition was keen, brains were tested, ages were calculated and cakes were eaten ! Prize winners as follows : 1st McGrath Family, (The McGrafia) 2nd Musgrave Family, ( The Only Way Is Up) 3rd Cantillon Mann Family (The Cúinne Dána)). 4th Harrington Family (The Hip Hoppers). Thanks to all who attended and supported.

                        BALLYBROWN JOURNAL:The fifteenth edition of the Ballybrown Parish Journal will be launched by Fr. Eamonn Fitzgibbon on Monday night next November 30th in the Ballybrown GAA Clubhouse at 9.00pm. All welcome.

Gach dea-ghuí,

J. Lyons

Principal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Ballybrown GAA Juvenile Club are holding their End of Year Meeting in

the GAA Club on Thursday 26th @ 9pm.  Parents of children playing hurling & football

from U6's to U16's are invited to attend.  All help needed for our teams for the 2016 Season.

 

 

Camogie Club AGM

Ballybrown Camogie Club will hold its AGM on Sunday November 22nd at 8.30 p.m. in the clubhouse. Parents, coaches, player over 16 years of age, or anybody interested in getting involved with the club-please come along . All welcome!

School note November 19th 2015

Dear parents,

                     I wish to bring the following to your attention.

                      The school was visited by two inspectors from the DES this week to carry out a Whole School Evaluation of Management, Leadership and Learning. The process began at 9 a.m. on Monday and finished at 5.30 p.m. yesterday. The inspectors visited all classrooms and Special Education settings and studied documents relating to curricular and organisational policies and long and short-term planning. They also inspected data relating to Standardised tests, Literacy and Numeracy, School Self Evaluation and School Improvement plans. The inspectors met with the Chairman of the Board of Management on Monday and officers of the Parents Association on Tuesday. They met with the Special Education team on Tuesday and the In-school Management team on Wednesday. They met with the Principal from 3.30 to 5.30 p.m. on Wednesday. They were very positive in all their comments. They will return to the school for a post-Evaluation meeting in December.

               Board of Management: A meeting took place on Tuesday night to elect parent nominees to the Board of Management. John Collins and Catherine Smith were elected to serve on the new Board which takes up duties on December 1st for a four-year term.

             Parent- teacher meetings take place on Wednesday and Thursday 25th. and 26th.  of November from 3.15 p.m. to 5.30 p.m.    All families have received appointments in the post. If you wish to meet a Special Needs teacher, please do so before or after meeting your child's class teacher.                               

                National Parents Council Primary and Post Primary have developed an Anti Bullying Programme for parents of both primary and post primary children. The aim of this course is to enable you to support your child regarding issues of bullying and will also inform you of new procedures for both Primary and Post Primary schools. Each session runs for two and half hours and is provided free of charge. For anyone interested in attending please use the following link http://www.npc.ie/training.aspx?contentid=6771.

 

Gach dea-ghuí,


J. Lyons

Principal

 

Ballybrown Camogie Club holds its AGM on Sunday November 22nd at 8 p.m. in the clubhouse.

Parents, coaches, players over 16... please come along and get involved!

 

WE'D LOVE TO SEE YOU THERE : FAMILY FUN QUIZ TOMORROW (Friday 20th) in Ballybrown/Clarina Community Resource Centre at 7.30pm.  €20 per table (max. 5 people) Complimentary refreshments and great fun for all the family guaranteed ! Tickets are limited to 20 tables and are on sale at the Resource Centre and School Office. Thank you for your continuing support of the Community Centre.

 

 

 

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Anti Bullying Programme

National Parents Council Primary and Post Primary have developed an Anti Bullying Programme for parents of both primary and post primary children. The aim of this course is to enable you to support your child regarding issues of bullying and will also inform you of new procedures for both Primary and Post Primary schools. Each session is runs for two and half hours and is provided free of charge. For anyone interested in attending please use the following link http://www.npc.ie/training.aspx?contentid=6771.

School Note November 12th

12-11-2015

Dear parents,

                     I wish to bring the following to your attention.

                     Next week, the school will be the subject of a Whole School Examination (WSE) with the focus on Management, Leadership and Learning. This will  begin on Monday morning and continue for 3-4 days. It will be carried out by inspectors from the DES. Parents in Junior Infants, First, Third and Fifth classes have received questionnaires relating to their views on this school. Please note that the deadline for return of these forms is tomorrow, Friday 13th., at 3 p.m.

                Parent- teacher meetings take place on Wednesday and Thursday 25th. and 26th.  of November from 3.15 p.m. to 5.30 p.m.    All families have received appointments in the post.                              

               The  term of the Board of Management will expire on November 30th and a new Board of Management takes up office in December. A meeting for parents will be held at the school on   Tuesday November 17th. at 8 p.m.   Two parents of children enrolled in the school (one being a mother and the other a father) will be elected at the meeting.

              Today, our School Assembly for November was hosted by Rang a Cúig.

Polo shirts were presented to our hurlers who played in the Ard Scoil Rís blitz. Eight boys and girls who achieved scores of 100 or more in the Manga High online Maths challenge were presented with their medals. The 8 are: Barry Toomey, Seán O Brien, Bláithín Musgrave, Adam O Connor, Hannah Cliffe-Byrnes, Emer Conroy, Maeve Curtin and Ruth Hannon. Well done on a great achievement.

           Best wishes to Alex Connole, Olivia Kerins, Tadhg Hannon and Darragh O Sullivan who line out on the Limerick City football  teams today in the Sarsfield Cup and Larkin Shield.

Christmas shopping?  The Book Fair will take place on Thursday December 3rd and Friday December 4th. Books will be available for viewing by all classes on Wednesday December 2nd.

             Parking: As the weather deteriorates, it is important for parents to be conscious at all times of safety in the vicinity of the school. I wish to highlight particularly children crossing from the Car Park to the school entrance. Nobody should park in that area at any time.

Community news: Get your tickets now for the FAMILY FUN QUIZ in Ballybrown/Clarina Community Resource Centre on Friday November 20th at 7.30pm.  €20 per table (max. 5 people) Complimentary refreshments and great fun for all the family guaranteed ! Tickets are limited to 20 tables and are on sale at the Resource Centre and School Office.

 

Gach dea-ghuí,

 

J. Lyons

Principal

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Cancellation of cross country running

Cross Country Cancellation Notice



To all Schools

It is with sincere regret that I have to inform you that we have had to cancel this year's Primary Schools Cross Country which was due to be held on Wednesday 11th November in Mick Neville Park, Rathkeale.

Following an inspection of the venue on Monday with the site manager, it was determined that the recent spate of bad weather which is due to continue for the rest of this week and the effect that the persistent rain of late which has caused the pitches to become unusable in places and the long term damage that the 1100 children taking part in the event may cause

We did attempt to come up with an alternative venue and date but we were advised that this would be too impractical at such short notice.

Therefore, on behalf of the committee and myself, I would like to apologise for the disappointment that this cancellation at such short notice may cause, especially to those of you who have already made travel arrangements and to the children and their coaches who have put in many hours preparing for this event. Unfortunately, these were circumstances which were beyond our control.

Hopefully we will be able to secure a new venue for the event in 2016 that will be capable of catering for the increasing numbers of participants.

Schools that have paid their entry fees for this event these will be returned over the next couple of days.



Yours sincerely,

Mossie Woulfe

Thursday, November 5, 2015

School Self Evaluation report on Literacy

Summary School Self-Evaluation Report

 

 

1. Introduction

Our school has its own context.  There are 15 teachers and 271 pupils in the school.  We have a number of programmes operating in the school including Shared Reading, Peer Tutoring, Buddy Reading and also Early Intervention for Infants. Our attendance levels are excellent. Our pupils' behaviour is excellent. For more information on how we intend to improve our pupils' learning, please see our website / newsletter. 

 

1.1   The focus of the evaluation

 

We undertook a school self-evaluation of teaching and learning during the year. We evaluated Literacy.  We chose this because we felt that our pupils could improve their learning outcomes in this  area.   

This report summarises the strengths that were identified and the areas that have been prioritised for improvement.

2. Summary of school self-evaluation findings

 

We collected information from parents, pupils and teachers in preparing this report.  We looked at how well our pupils were doing in Literacy. We also looked at our Standardised \test results.

 

2.1 We found that our school has strengths in the following areas:

 

 

Strengths

.

·        49.8% of pupils are performing above the national  average compared with 25% nationally.

·        The school's average score in the Drumcondra Primary Reading Test is 110.4 which is well ahead  of the national average of 100.

·        76% of Infants liked reading.72% of pupils surveyed in the middle classes liked reading  while 74% of the senior pupils did so.

·        89% of parents surveyed reported that their children enjoyed reading and 94% thought their children were succeeding at reading. 62% said their children enjoyed writing stories and 77% enjoyed learning spellings.

·        Teachers report that they use a variety of teaching approaches in the teaching of Literacy.

·        Early Intervention to support children with difficulties is in place.

·        There is a library of reading books in each classroom.

·        Shared Reading is used from Junior Infants to 2nd class.

·        A Peer Tutoring reading project takes place in 3rd class.

·        Buddy reading takes place in 1st and 6th classes.

 

 

 

We know these are our strengths because of the information yielded from surveys of parents teachers, children and also from test results

 

.2.2 We have decided to prioritise the following areas for development:

·        Comprehension

·        Oral Language Development

       ·       Writing

 

  

 

School note November 5th, 2015

5-11-2015.
Dear parents,
                     Eight children from Ballybrown NS have been awarded medals for achieving scores in excess of 100 points in the Manga High Maths online challenge. This is a great achievement. Well done to all pupils who took part.
                    Tomorrow, the children from First to Fourth classes visit the University Concert Hall for a performance by the Cork Pops Orchestra.
                     On Wednesday November 11th, almost sixty boys and girls will represent the school at the Limerick Cross Country sports in Rathkeale.
                   Parent- teacher meetings will take place on Wednesday 25th and Thursday November 26th from 3.15 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. All parents will receive notification of their appointments in the post in the next few days.
                   This school will be the subject of a Whole School Evaluation (WSE) of Management, Leadership and Learning during the week starting Monday November 16th. The WSE will be carried out by two inspectors of the Department of Education and Skills. Children in some classes will receive questionnaires for parents to fill. Children in two classes in the senior half of the school will be asked to complete simple questionnaires on their experience of school.
                 For those of you who were unable to attend the AGM of the school's Parents' Association, please see the school website or the email that follows this for a summary of the School Self- Evaluation Report on Literacy. I included this topic in my presentation on that night.
                Christmas shopping?  The Book Fair will take place on Thursday December 3rd and Friday December 4th. Books will be available for viewing by all classes on Wednesday December 2nd.
              First Holy Communion: A meeting for parents of children in the First Communion class will take place on Tuesday November 10th from 8.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. in the school Hall.
           Health Promoting Schools: Limerick Sports Partnership a 'Step into Winter' 5 km run, starting at City Hall on Saturday November 7th at 11 a.m. If any families attend, please e mail photos to the school for our Health Promoting Schools file.

        Gach dea-ghuí,

       J. Lyons
       Principal


FAMILY FUN QUIZ in Ballybrown/Clarina Community Resource Centre on Friday November 20th at 7.30pm.  €20 per table (max. 5 people) Complimentary refreshments and great fun guaranteed ! Tickets are limited to 20 tables and are on sale at the Resource Centre and School Office.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Congratulations!

Well done to the boys under 13 football team on their victory in the City Cumann na mBunscol final in the Gaelic Grounds today. A thrilling game, played in a fine sporting spirit, saw Ballybrown NS emerge as winners at the end of a great contest. A special word of thanks to Mr Lordan and Mr Hodnett who saw their hours of coaching pay off. Ballybrown played in unfamiliar white jerseys due to a clash of colours but they did the school proud. 
Ballybrown abú!

School note October 22nd 2015

22-10-2015.

Dear parents,

                      School will close at 3 p. m. tomorrow Friday  October 23rd. for midterm and reopen on Monday November 2nd.

                      Our Under 13 boys football team contest the final of the City Cumann na mBunscol competitions in the Gaelic Grounds today . Our opponents are Gaelscoil Chaladh an Treoighe. Thanks to all teachers involved in games in the school for their time, dedication and expertise.

                 Tomorrow, Friday is our Halloween Fun Day. In keeping with our Healthy Eating policy, children may bring one treat to eat. Sixth Class pupils have been busy decorating the Halla.

                 The AGM of the school's Parents' Association took place in the school on Tuesday night.  The Association has decided to contribute €1000 to purchase educational equipment and to help defray the cost of buses to upcoming events.

                 Congratulations to Christopher Kelly, a former pupil of this school. Christopher, founder of Talamh, a provider of tech solutions to the agriculture sector, was  named winner of the 'Best Start-Up Business' category of the competition to find Limerick's Best Young Entrepreneur , which was organised by the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Limerick. Christopher is also a winner of the Paul Whelan INTEL Scholarship for 2015

 Gach dea-ghuí,

J. Lyons

Principal

 

Ballybrown/Clarina Community Games will be starting back at DRAUGHTS after the Mid Term Break. It is open to all boys and girls and we hope to have teams in U10's, U12's, U14's & U16's.

Start Date – Wednesday 4th November in the Resource Centre, from 7pm to 7.45pm in the Resource Centre, there is a small charge of €1 per child.If you have any queries please contact Pauline Lowe on 087 8365545

 

November Fair on Sunday 1st November starting at 10.45am in Community Resource Centre​
Prizes for Halloween Art Competition will be presented. AlsoCake Sale, Mini Farmer's Market, Face Painting, Raffle, Complimentary Refreshments, firewood and lots more. See you there!

 

 

 

 

 

Friday, October 16, 2015

Football final

Best wishes to the school Under 13 boys football team who contest the City Final at the Gaelic Grounds on Thursday next October 22nd at 1.35 p.m.

Problem of the Day Friday

Problem of the Day

Friday 16th October

 

 

 

1st & 2nd classes: 35 children from Ballybrown NS went on a trip to Limerick. There were 20 boys. How many girls were there?

Of the 20 boys, 5 had blue eyes. How many did not have blue eyes?

 

3rd & 4th classes: How many 2 digit numbers can be made using the numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4, using each digit only once?

 

The sum of 2 consecutive odd numbers is 20. Their difference is 2. What are the numbers?

 

5th & 6th classes: Kevin's mother is 4 times as old as Kevin is now. In four years time, Kevin will be one third of his mother's age. What age is Kevin now? What age is his mother?

 

What ages will Kevin and his mother be when Kevin is half his mother's age?

Thursday, October 15, 2015

School Note October 15th, 2015

15-10-2015
Dear parents,
                   All families received Code of Conduct notes on Monday. Please read these with your children and sign the last page before returning the signed page to the school. Our motto in regard to good behaviour is summed up in four words: Be Kind To Everyone.
                Last Monday, two members of the Defence Forces  visited the school to present the school with a copy of the Proclamation and a National Flag. They spoke to the children about their work and explained the significance of the National Flag. This is the first event in a series of events as part of the 1916 Centenary.
              Maths Week: This is Maths Week and classes are involved in a range of activities, including Maths trails, Maths Art, Target Boards, Numero, Problem of the Day etc. There are some excellent maths displays on the walls of the corridors. The Problem of the Day appears on the website www.ballybrownns.ie. All classes from First to Sixth are now registered with mangahigh.com. Children can take part online from home.
                Please telephone the school if you wish to make an appointment to meet a teacher. Teachers cannot leave their class to meet parents who do not have an appointment.
                Today, our boys and girls Under 13 teams play in the City Cumann na m Bunscol semi finals.
                 Second class visit the Lime Tree Theatre today for a performance of 'Carnival of the Animals.'
              Parents Association: There is a Recycling day planned for Tuesday 20th.  October.  Please have your bags of unwanted clothes, handbags, paired shoes etc in bags at the school by 9.15am that morning.  No phones or duvets, please. Please leave bags by the main gate on that morning.  All items will be collected by 9.15 a.m. The Parents Association would really appreciate some volunteers to help with the bags from 8.45 a.m. Please contact Breda McCarthy on 087 7988475 if you can spare thirty minutes in a very worthwhile cause. Many thanks in advance for your help.
               The AGM of the Parents Association will take place on Tuesday October 20th at 8.30 p.m. in the school. All welcome.

Gach dea-ghuí,


J. Lyons
Principal

Ballybrown GAA and Camogie Clubs are running a fundraiser called Ballybrown Goes Strictly on Saturday 24th Oct at 8 o'clock in the South Court Hotel. All support would be appreciated. Tickets available from Hayes shop, any Committee member or Marguerite Quinn at 086 865 5071.



Problem of the Day

Problem of the Day
Thursday October 15th



First & Second classes: Today is Thursday October 15th. What date was last Monday? What date is next Monday? What month comes before October? What month comes after October?


3rd & 4th classes: James and Rachel are in Fourth class. Mr Lordan gave a Maths test. James said to Rachel: 'I got 2 marks more than you. The sum of our marks is 14.' How many marks did James get?

5th & 6th classes: A fruit shake costs 2c more than a chocolate milk shake. If 3 fruit shakes and 5 chocolate milk shakes cost 78 c, how much does a fruit shake cost? How much does a chocolate milk shake cost?

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Problem of the Day Wednesday

Problem of the Day Wednesday October 14th.

5th & 6th classes: It's Alan's birthday and he's having a party.

Seven other people will attend. Everyone will sit around the table. The seating arrangements are as follows.

 

Amy and Alan sit together.
Brad and Beth sit together.
Charles sits next to either Debbie or Emily.
Frances sits next to Debbie.
Amy and Alan do not sit next to either Brad or Beth.
Brad does not sit next to Charles or Frances.
Debbie and Emily do not sit next to each other.
Alan does not sit next to either Debbie or Emily.
Amy does not sit next to Charles.


Where should everyone sit?

 

Guests: Amy, Brad, Beth, Charles, Debbie, Emily, Frances


Problem of the Day

Wednesday October 14th.

 

3rd and 4th classes: Eamon De Valera was born on October 14th 1882. If he were alive, what age would he be today?

 

What age was he when he took part in the Easter Rising of 1916? (Think carefully about this)

 

He was President from 1959 to 1973. For how long was he President?

 

 

1st & 2nd classes:     Which numbers come next? 3, 5,  7, 9, - , - .

 

An apple costs 5c. An orange costs 6c.

 

How much for 2 apples?

How much for 3 oranges?

How much for 3 apples and 2 oranges?

 

How much will 5 oranges cost? How many apples can you buy for the price of 5 oranges?

 

 

 


 

 

Problem of the Day Tuesday

Problem of the Day

Tuesday October 13th.

 

First & Second classes:  Which is the biggest number in this list? Which is the smallest?

 

      7, 11, 8, 19, 10, 5, 15

 

 

Third and Fourth classes:

Every number with a factor of 10 must also have factors of?

_____ , _____ and _____

 

 

 

 Fifth & Sixth classes:

 

Write the missing digits to make the addition correct.

 

1_1 +_1_ = 900

 

 

 

Arrangements for football semi finals


Thursday October 15th. 


Girls football: Ballybrown NS  v Monaleen NS at 10.25 a.m.

Boys football: Ballybrown NS v an Mhodh Scoil at 2.05 p.m.

Both games go ahead in Old Christians GAA Club in Rathbane

 A contractor will be on site this week at Old Christians.  There are a few important points to note.

  • There is only one pitch available at Old Christians.  There are works currently ongoing on the other pitch. We have no access to this pitch at all during the day.  Teams will need to warm up behind the goals on the main pitch.
  • Due to the works taking place, we will not have access to the car park.  Cars will have to be parked outside the GAA Grounds.  There will be a safe pedestrian route from the changing rooms to the pitch.
  • In the event of a draw, no extra time will be played on the day. If a match finishes level, a replay will be played on Friday or Monday.

Monday, October 12, 2015

Problem of the Day Monday October 12th.

Problem of the Day

Monday October 12th.

 

1st & 2nd classes:     Which numbers come next? 3, 6, 9, - , - .

 

An apple costs 6c. An orange costs 5c.

 

How much for 2 apples?

How much for 3 oranges?

How much for 3 apples and 2 oranges?

 

 

3rd & 4th classes: The score in the County Hurling final yesterday was Na Piarsaigh 1-22: Patrickswell 4-12

 

(a)   Which team won and by how much?

(b)  Which team got more scores, Patrickswell or Na Piarsaigh?

(c)   It is 50 years since Patrickswell won their first County title. What year was that?

 

 

5th & 6th classes:

 One toffee apple needs: 1 stick, 100g of sugar, 1 apple

 

50 sticks cost €6.25
1kg of sugar costs €0.99
100 apples cost €22.50

Children buy just enough sticks, sugar and apples to make 100 toffee apples. They sell all 100 toffee apples for €1 each. The profits go to charity.

 

How much money goes to charity?

 

Thursday, October 8, 2015

School note October 8th, 2015

9-10-2015
Dear parents,
                   Next week is Maths Week and classes are involved in a range of activities, including Maths trails, Maths Art, Target Boards, Numero, Problem of the Day etc. The Problem of the Day will appear on the website www.ballybrownns.ie. All classes from First to Sixth are now registered with mangahigh.com. Children can take part online from home.
                On Monday October 12th, an officer of the Defence Forces will visit the school to present the school with a copy of the Proclamation and a National Flag. This is the first event in a series of events as part of the 1916 Centenary.
                Healthy Eating: The school operates a very successful Healthy Eating policy. A healthy lunch consists of some fruit, sandwich/roll and water. We have a fruit break each day at 10 a.m. Cereal bars are not suitable as the sugar content is extremely high. Ballybrown NS is a Health Promoting school. Mairead Kelly from the HSE Health Promoting unit will visit the school in the next week as we plan the year ahead.
             First Holy Communion: The children in Second Class will receive First Holy Communion on Saturday May 14th at 11 a.m. The Do This in Memory programme of Masses   begins on Sunday October 25th in St Joseph's Church, Ballybrown. 
           The INTO (Irish National Teachers Organisation) has been running a campaign called 'Stand Up for Primary Education',  to focus attention on issues such as  class size, Special Ed, underfunding   of schools etc in the run up to the Budget.   Postcards with this message are available at Reception. Parents are requested to contact their local TD's by e mail or postcard.  Postage will be paid by INTO.
            Parents Association: There is a Recycling day planned for Tuesday 20th.  October.  Please have your bags of unwanted clothes, handbags, paired shoes etc in bags at the school by 9.15am that morning.  No phones or duvets, please. Please leave bags by the main gate on that morning.  All items will be collected by 9.15 a.m. The Parents Association would really appreciate some volunteers to help with the bags from 8.45 a.m. Please contact Breda McCarthy on 087 7988475 if you can spare thirty minutes in a very worthwhile cause. Many thanks in advance for your help.
                            The AGM of the Parents Association will take place on Tuesday October 20th at 8.30 p.m. in the school. All welcome.

Gach dea -ghuí,

J. Lyons
Principal


Tuesday, October 6, 2015

First Holy Communion Class: Schedule of Masses for the year ahead

DATES OF THE SATURDAYS/SUNDAYS OF

"DO THIS IN MEMORY 2015-2016"

 

Sunday, 25 October 2015

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Saturday, 21 November 2015

Feast of Christ King

 

Sunday, 13 December 2015

Third Sunday of Advent

Sunday, 24 January 2016

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Saturday, 20 February 2016

2nd Saturday in Lent

 

Thursday, 24 March 2016

Holy Thursday

        Saturday, 9 April 2016

Third Saturday of Easter

 

Saturday, 14 May 2016

1st Holy Communion – 11.00 a.m. Mass

Sunday, 29 May 2016

Feast of Corpus Christi.

 

 

 SATURDAY MASS AT 8.00 P.M.

 SUNDAY MASS AT 10.00 A.M.

PLEASE BE IN THE CHURCH 5 – 10 MINUTES BEFORE MASS.

Friday, October 2, 2015

School GAA fixtures

Well done to our Under 13 girls who defeated Gaelscoil Chaladh an Treoigh today Friday 2nd Oct. The boys under 13 team were winners v Patrickswell NS on Tuesday and the Under 11 boys  gave a great account of themselves v Corpus Christi NS in non-competitive Go Games.

Upcoming fixtures: 

Tuesday October 6th:Boys under 13 : St Patrick s BNS V Ballybrown in Rhebogue

Wednesday:Girls Under 13  Ballybrown NS v Monaleen NS. School field

Thursday October 8th: Under 11 boys . To be confirmed.

Thursday, October 1, 2015

School note October 1st 2015

Dear parents,

                        Yesterday, we had our first Assembly of the year. Rang a Sé  put on a brief presentation on local history followed by a tin whistle recital. Ellie Smith complemented  this with some Irish Dancing and it was rounded off with some guitar playing. We reiterated the playground rules: 'Be Kind to Everyone' and 'No Rough Play.'                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

                    The school is currently involved in Cumann na mBunscol GAA activities on at least four evenings a week. This week, we have teams from the school involved in games on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday as we take advantage of the fine weather. I would like to thank all the teachers involved for their interest and commitment and also the parents who provide transport each week. I am grateful to Ballybrown GAA club for making their pitch available  to the school at all times. Please check the school website for news of fixtures etc.

             Please remember that an absence note is required every time your child is absent. These are kept on file until the end of the school year. The school has to make returns to the National Education Welfare Board (Túsla)  in respect of every child who misses 20 days or more in a school year.

     A number of children are frequently late for school. Please try to ensure this does not happen.

    Gach dea-ghuí,

J. Lyons

Principal

Monday, September 28, 2015

Sports fixtures update

Tuesday September 29th: Under 13 boys football v Patrickswell NS in Clarina. Throw in 2 p.m.

Wednesday September September 30th: Under 13 girls football v Milford NS in school pitch. Throw in 2 p.m.

Thursday October 1st: Under 11 non -competitive boys football v Corpus Christi in Community field in Moyross. Throw in 1.45 p.m. Leave school at 1.15 p.m.

Friday, September 25, 2015

Sports fixtures next week

Tuesday 29th: Under 13 football (boys)    v Patrickswell in Clarina . Throw in 2 p.m.

Wednesday 30th: Under 13 football (girls) v Milford at school pitch  1.30 p.m. or 2 p.m. to be confirmed


Thursday Oct 1st Under 11 boys: Corpus Christi V Ballybrown. To be confirmed. 


Wednesday, September 23, 2015

School note September 24th. 2015

24-9-2015

Dear parents,

                    I wish to bring the following to your attention.

                    It has come to my attention that a number of children are dropped at school at an early hour. I wish to remind parents that the school cannot accept responsibility for children who are at school before 9 a.m.  The school provides morning supervision for 15 minutes from 9 a.m. to 9.15 a.m.daily to facilitate parents. It is not a playtime. It is assembly time. Parking space is at a premium each morning and evening. A number of parents are staying at school from 9 to 9.15 a.m. to watch their children play. This means there are no parking spaces available in the designated areas or parents are parking in bus spaces and in the Staff parking areas. Children are supervised in the Junior yard by Mrs Hodgins and the senior yard  by myself.   I would appreciate your co operation in this matter.            

                    Tomorrow Friday 25th. September is the last date to sign up for Allianz pupil personal accident insurance.

                     Cumann na mBunscol matters: Last Saturday morning, this school took part in the Ard Scoil Rís blitz, losing to the eventual winners. Our Under 13 girls football team played their first match of the season v St Nessan's NS in Mungret yesterday. The boys under 13 team play Lisnagry NS today in Clarina while the boys  Under 11 team play Our Lady Queen of Peace in the school pitch tomorrow Friday. Please check the school website for information on fixtures etc. . I would like to thank all the teachers involved for their interest and commitment and also the parents who provide transport each week.

                    Thanks also to all families who have paid the Art & Craft/Photocopying contribution. If you haven't got around to it yet, please contact Rosemarie at the school office.  

                MPCC Credit Union return to the school tomorrow, September 25th.

Gach dea-ghuí,

J. Lyons

Principal

 

JIM O FARRELL EXHIBITION FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25 : You are cordially invited to a viewing of the Indian paintings of Jim O'Farrell at the Greenhills Hotel, Ennis Road, Limerick on Friday September 25 at 8.00pm. The exhibition will be opened by the Minister for Finance Michael Noonan. It will go on permanent display in Calcutta from December 5.

OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE SAILOR'S HAGGARD MONUMENT in Newtown Clarina will take place on Sunday, September 27 at 3.00pm. This monument is dedicated to the memory of all those who passed through Newtown on their way to fish the tidal waters of the River Shannon.  It is the work of a group of local volunteers who have worked tirelessly over the past few months to create this commemorative site. Many of the volunteers come from the fishing community and in erecting this monument wished to capture this aspect of local history and to preserve the memory of the salmon fishing tradition.The blessing will be performed by Monsignor Michael Lane, and there will be short contributions on the history of the fishermen, a couple of songs and refreshments to finish. Do come along! For further details, contact Maura Byrnes at 087 2565443