June Newsletter 2024

 It’s hard to believe we are approaching the end of this school year already.  It has been a very busy year with the boys and girls working hard and also getting opportunities to participate in many outdoor and extracurricular activities.  We wish Adam, Seamus, Bethany, Sarah, Christina, Katie and Max all the best as they prepare to move on to local secondary schools and we thank them for the contribution they have made to Ballybay Central during their time with us.

Parents’ Association

Many thanks to the Parents’ Association for their kind donation of €1798 towards transport costs for swimming and the school tour.  The Student Council also wish to acknowledge receipt of €250 which was used to purchase their shopper bags.  It is important that all families support the Parents’ Association throughout the year as without their financial support swimming and tours would cost a lot more or mightn’t happen at all.  The Parents’ Association is currently organising an End of Year Fun Night for Monday 17^th June in the school grounds.  This is always a great social evening when the school community come together to celebrate the end of the school year.

Camphill Community

Camphill Community is holding an Open Day on Sunday 9^th June at the Robb Farm, Corraskea, Ballybay, A75 EO65.  There will be a colour run, music, BBQ, a bakery and lots more.  Entry is free and all are welcome from 2-5pm.

Curriculum Evaluation

The school recently underwent a curriculum evaluation in Maths.  The inspector spent two days with us observing Maths being taught, reviewing documents including school policies and teacher preparation, chatting with pupils in a focus group while also monitoring compliance with Child Protection and Anti-Bullying guidelines.  At the end of the two days the inspector met with the Principal and Deputy Principal to give oral feedback.  He was very pleased with the work taking place in the school – the school is fully compliant with Child Protection and Anti-Bullying guidelines, teacher planning and preparation was excellent and the teaching and learning taking place was very good.  A report will be issued in due course and following the school’s response to the report it will be made available on the Department of Education’s website.

Active School

Swimming lessons have finished for all pupils.  Currently children are participating in 4 weeks gymnastics with Lisa Boyle from LA Gymnastics.  We greatly appreciate the use of Hall St. hall for our gymnastics.  Children in 1^st-6^th class took part in a table tennis workshop with Jing Yi last month.  This was great fun and the school received a Table Tennis Set.  Many thanks to Monaghan Sports Partnership for organising the workshop.         

Our Active School Week takes place from 10^th- 14^th June. Children do not wear school uniform during Active School Week. They must wear tracksuits/shorts/ leggings and runners. We are looking forward to a week of activities which will end on the Friday with our school tour to Todd’s Leap.

School Tour

On Friday 14^th June all pupils will travel to Todd’s Leap, Ballygawley for our school tour.  We will leave school at 9.00am sharp.  Children need to wear P.E. clothes including runners as they will be participating in games and activities.  All children will take part in team games and then children from Junior Infants-1^st Class will visit ‘Granda Bens Ethicial Zoo Trail’, while 2^nd-6^th Class will take part in ‘Total Wipeout’, which includes the ‘Big Yella Slide’, ‘Bungee Run’ and ‘Last One Standing’.  Children need to bring a substantial packed lunch which will be eaten there.  Treats including crisps are permitted but no fizzy drinks please.  Children do not need any money and mobile phones are not permitted.  We will arrive back to school for 3.00pm and all children should be collected at 3.00pm.

Tour cost:

Infants-1^st Class           €15 per pupil

2^nd-6^th Class                 €25 per pupil

Please forward payment for the tour before Wednesday 12^th June.  The school tour must be paid for in advance of the day.

The details of the school account are below: 

 

IBAN: IE20 AIBK 9324 2601 2651 56 

BIC: AIBKIE2D

Account Name: Ballybay Central School 

 

Please put your family name/child's name on the payment.

You will receive a receipt from Sandra in the office after payment has been received. 

H20  Heroes

The Senior Room took part in a ‘H2O Heroes Water Workshop’ last week.  We were privileged to welcome three scientists from DKIT to the classroom for a great interactive workshop.  The children explored water from a local source and enjoyed identifying many living organisms in it.  At the end they ascertained the water quality was good which is great to hear.

 

Early Closing

School will close at 2.00pm for all pupils on this Friday 7^th June.  Please ensure children are collected promptly at 2.00pm.  The Afterschool have been notified.

Cycle Training

On Thursday this week, 6^th June, pupils from 1^st-6^th Class may take part in a cycle workshop with Garda James Gallagher, our community guard.  In order to take part pupils must have a bike and helmet.  If they don’t, unfortunately they won’t be able to take part.  There are a number of children who are not taking part so please don’t worry if your child has no bike.  Hopefully next year we will have Bike Green with us in school and they deliver a 6 week cycle programme and provide bikes and helmets.

International Day 19^th June

On 19^th June we are looking forward to celebrating diversity within our school community. We want to promote the different cultures and learn more about each other’s countries, cultures, traditions and much more. By learning about different countries and cultures it helps us to have a greater understanding of the world and the people who live in it. Celebrating diversity also helps to promote tolerance and acceptance of different cultures. In the lead up to our International Day we will be asking families from different cultures to contribute to the event – this could be food items, music, traditional dress, pictures, games etc from their countries. We will have displays set up in the hall, Hall Street, from 1.00 – 3.00 so please tell all your family and friends to call in.

The Student Council will also be hosting a cake sale on the day. Money raised will go towards funding additional play equipment for the yard. Parental contributions for the cake sale will be required and the Student Council will be in touch with all families regarding this.

Staff Arrangements 2024-2025

We extend our best wishes to Ms Brown as she leaves us at the end of the year for her maternity leave.  Many thanks to Mrs Morgan for all her work in the Senior Room each week and also thanks to Ms Donaghy who covered the admin days in the Senior Room from September to December.  We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms Lauren Angell who worked with our Ukrainian pupils this year.

Class arrangements for next year are as follows:

Junior Room                           Junior& Senior Infants & 1^st Class

Middle Room                        2^nd, 3^rd, & 4^th Class

Senior Room                          5^th & 6^th Class

Teachers have not been allocated to each classroom yet.  You will be informed of this before the end of the year.

Dates

Thursday 6^th June                  Cycle training 1^st-6^th Class.

Friday 7^th June                       School closing at 2.00pm for all pupils.

Mon 10^th-Fri 14^th June           Active School Week.

Wednesday 12^th June            Last Gymnastic session.

Friday 14^th June                     School Tour to Todds Leap.

Monday 17^th June                  End of Year Fun Evening.  Time to be confirmed.

Wednesday 19^th June            International Day & Cake Sale.

                                                    School Reports will be released on Aladdin

Thursday 20^th June                Sports Day – weather permitting

Friday 21^st June                     School closing at 12.00pm for summer holidays.

 

 

  May Newsletter 2024

5-A-Side Soccer

Congratulations to Adam, Max, Seamus, Suleiman, Luke, Bethany, Lisa and Aloise who represented our school at the FAI Schools Soccer Tournament in April.  The conditions were atrocious and the children played two of their matches during wild, rain and hailstones!  Although not victorious on the day everyone played their hearts out and did themselves proud.  Many thanks to Euan for coaching the children in advance of the tournament.

Active School Week

Active School Week is always one of the highlights of the summer term and while National Active School Week is this week 29^th April-3^rd May, schools are free to choose an alternative week.  Our school week will take place from Monday 10^th – Friday 14^th June.  There will be a lot more details issued closer to the time but a good week of activities is being planned.

Ballybay Youth Club

Congratulations to Luke Gilliland, 4^th Class who along with other boys in Ballybay Youth Club have qualified for the All-Ireland Young Environmentalist Award in the R.D.S.  The eco-biodiversity group created items for an outdoor sensory space including a herb table, bug hotel and minion planter by up cycling disused item.  Luke was the spokesperson of the group at the semi-finals, held during April.  We wish Luke and his friends every success at the finals.  Ballybay Youth Club is free to anyone who wishes to join.  It takes place on various days (depending on class the  child is in) at Birch Court after school.

Luke and the eco-biodiversity group meeting with Minister Heather Humphreys when she officially opened the sensory space at Ballybay Youth Club.

After Schools Activities

So far this year we have had Christmas Art & Craft, Lego & mine craft, Stem and soccer activities after school.  The uptake and feedback has been positive.  There will be no more after school activities this term but we do hope to continue with a monthly activity after school next year.  If you know of anyone who might be interested in facilitating an after school workshop please let the Principal know.

P.E. in the Park

Many thanks to Monaghan Sports Partnership who part funded the PE in the Park activities during April.  The school further subsidised the costs of each session.  Children from 1^st-6^th Class took part in kayaking and orienteering in the park.  This is a fantastic opportunity for our children right on the door step.  Monaghan Sports Partnership have also invited some schools to participate in a Table Tennis Road Show delivered by Table Tennis Ireland with instructor, Ying Yi.  Children from 2^nd Class upwards will get an opportunity to take part on Friday this week.                        By providing children with opportunities to take part in different sporting activities we hope to encourage children to become more active and perhaps take up a sport activity outside of school hours.

            

                      

Cycle Training

Garda James Gallagher, community guard in this area will visit the school on Thursday 6^th June to deliver a cycle training workshop for children 1^st-6^th Class.  Children will need to bring their own bikes to school and have a helmet in order to take part.  Bikes may be left in school the evening before.  If your child has no bike or helmet, unfortunately they can’t take part.

Gymnastics

Gymnastics for all classes will take place for 4 weeks commencing on Wednesday 22^nd May with LA Gymnastics.  We are hoping to use Hall Street hall and the children will walk to and from the hall.  The cost per child is €20 payable online or via cheque in advance of the classes.

The details of the school account are below: 

IBAN: IE20 AIBK 9324 2601 2651 56 

BIC: AIBKIE2D

Account Name: Ballybay Central School 

Please put your family name/child's name on the payment.

You will receive a receipt from Sandra in the office after payment has been received. 

Coffee Morning

The final coffee morning of the year takes place on Friday 24^th May.  All parents are very welcome to drop in between 9.20 and 10.30 for a cuppa and a chat with other parents.  If you are free why not call in?

End of Year School Tests

Pupils in the Middle and Senior Classrooms will be completing standardized tests during the week beginning Monday 27^th May and Monday 3^rd June.

School Tour

A school tour has been arranged for Friday 14^th June for all pupils to Todds Leap Activity Centre.  Pupils will take part in different activities including team games throughout the day.  Younger children (infants-1^st class) will visit Granda Bens Ethical Zoo Trail while older children 2^nd-6^th will take part in Total Wipeout.  This will be a great way to end our Active School Week.  Further details will be issued next month.

International Day

In order to celebrate our diverse school community, an International Day is being planned for Friday 31^st May.  Children will get a chance to showcase their family’s culture and traditions at this event.  It is planned to hold the event in Hall Street hall and members of the community, including parents, grandparents and pupils and teachers from Scoil Eanna will be invited.  On the same day the Student Council will be organizing a cake sale in order to raise much needed funds for their playground equipment.  The support of the whole school community would be greatly appreciated at this celebration day.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Friday 3^rd May                      Table Tennis (2^nd class upwards)

Wednesday 22^nd May           Gymnastics (for 4 consecutive Wednesdays) for all

Friday 24^th May                              Last swimming lesson

Friday 31^st May                     International Day & Cake Sale in Hall St 1.00-3.00

Mon 10^th-Friday 14^th June     Active School Week

Wednesday 12^th June            School Reports released on Aladdin

Friday 14^th June                     School Tour to Todds Leap for all pupils

Monday 17^th June                  Parents’ Association end of term Fun Evening

Friday 21^st June                     School closing at 12.00 for summer holidays

 

School Calendar 2024/2025

A copy of next year’s school calendar is included below.  Any additional closures will be issued to parents as soon as they become known.

Ballybay Central National School

 School Calendar 2024-2025

 

School Re-opens	Wednesday 28th August 2024
Mid-Term Break	Monday 28th October  – Friday 1st November inclusive
Christmas Closing	Wednesday 20th December at 12
Re-opening	Monday 6th January 2025
St Brigid’s Day	Monday 3rd February
Mid-Term Break	Thursday 20th  & Friday 21st February
St. Patrick’s Day	Monday  17th March
Easter Closing	Friday 11th April at 12.00             (last day of school)
Re-opening	Monday 28th April
Bank Holiday	Monday 5th May
Bank Holiday	Monday 2nd June
Summer Holidays Closing	Friday 20th June

 

Parents will be informed as soon as possible if there are any additional closures or changes to this calendar.

 

 

 

March Newsletter 24

 

Newsletter 2024

Credit Union Quiz

On Monday 29^th January 2 teams represented our school at the Credit Union Table Quiz.  Congratulations to Luke, Amelia McAdam, Hannea and Jason who competed in the Junior Section and Adam, Max, Seamus and Lisa who competed in the Senior Section.  Both performed well and the senior team finished in 2^nd place, only beaten by 2 points.

          

 

Early Collection on Wednesdays

Many thanks to all parents for facilitating staff training on 4 consecutive Wednesdays during January and February.  Today is the last day school finishes at 2.45 for children in 1^st-6^th Class.

Collection at 3.00pm

The school gate is extremely busy at 3.00pm with cars coming and going.  Children will not be permitted to leave the school grounds until it is safe to do so.  Parents of younger children should come to the school gate to collect their child/children, especially if they are parked further away.  Some parents wait until 3.05/3.10 to collect and this reduces the amount of vehicles at 3.00pm.  Please consider staggering your collection time.

After School Activities

On Wednesday 21^st February all pupils have the opportunity to take part in a Lego workshop after school.  (Infants 2.00-3.00 & 1^st-6^th 3.15-4.15).  On Tuesday 19^th March the after school workshop is a STEM workshop – Predators of the Deep Ocean and River Monsters.  (Infants 2.00-3.00 & 1^st-6^th 3.15-4.15).   Please ensure you have returned the form indicating if your child/children wish to take part.  These afterschool activities are free.  Glow Group, www.glowgroupni.com who will deliver the Lego  workshop are also willing to deliver an eight week after school workshop @ €45 per child, Lego for younger children and coding and Minecraft for older children.

 At this stage we are looking to see if there would be sufficient numbers for the 8 weeks.  Please note parents would have to pay for this.  You will be notified if the 8 week programme goes ahead.

Open Afternoon & Applications for 2024/2025

An Open Afternoon takes place on Wednesday next, 14^th February.  Parents and children who are considering enrolling in Ballybay Central School are welcome to visit the school between 1.30-3.00 on that afternoon.  Application forms will also be available on the day.  The closing date for receipt of application forms is Friday 1^st March.

Volleyball/Junior Athletics Coaching

On Monday 26^th February for 3 weeks children in the Middle and Senior classrooms will participate in volleyball as part of our P.E. programme.  Children in the Junior classroom will receive Junior Athletics Coaching.  These activities are being provided by Monaghan Sports Partnership.  Tracksuits and runners must be worn on Monday 26^th Feb, 4^th March and 11^th March instead of Fridays.  Due to limited space in school we plan to do the volleyball and athletics in Hall Street hall.  The children will walk there and back.

 Student Council News

As part of a fundraiser for yard equipment, the Student Council are planning to sell tote bags.  These will be available to purchase at the school early in March.  The bags will feature self portraits of all the students in the school and will make a lovely keepsake for years to come.  The process is currently at the design phase.  Please keep an eye on the school website for further details.

After School Committee

Our Active School Committee was chosen in January.  Congratulations to       Moriah (JI), Eliana (SI), Theodore (1^st), Holly (2^nd), Mason 3^rd, Jason (4^th), Lisa (5^th), Christina (6^th).

Moderator’s Visit

We are looking forward to the visit of the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Rt. Rev. Dr. Sam Mawhinney and his wife on Tuesday 5^th March.  The Moderator will visit the classrooms and take part in an assembly.

Soccer for Girls in County Monaghan

Blayney Academy FC are currently recruiting for their u13 and u14 teams for the new summer soccer season. No experience is required. They are looking for girls with a love of sport and meeting new people while also wishing to increase their fitness and skill levels. Their teams play weekly in leagues and cups with all home matches in Beech Hill College, Monaghan. Training takes place at Clontibret Astro Park. There are three free open days for girls interested in playing the world's biggest female sport, where they can give it a go, meet new friends and try soccer 'the Academy way'. 

Girls from all over Monaghan and surrounding counties are invited to attend and parents can contact Club Chairman David Lynch (086-8328667) or Girls Development Officer Declan McNamee (0044-7979880009) for further information.

You can also visit their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/blayneyacademy/ 

 Free Open Football Sessions:

• Friday 9/2/24 - 30pm Our Ladies Astro Castleblayney
• Sunday 11/2/24 - 11am Beech Hill College Soccer Pitch
• Thursday 15/2/24 - 6pm Clontibret Astro Park

Coffee Morning

The next coffee morning will take place on Friday 1^st March.  All parents are warmly invited to drop into the school hall for tea/coffee and a chat between 9.20-10.30 on that morning.

Congratulations

Congratulations to our Chairperson, Rev. Gerry Clinton on his recent engagement to Naomi Hillis.  We wish them both every happiness.

Parents’Association

The Parents’ Association are hosting “Wardrobe Colour Style” with Catherine McGregor, on Wednesday 20^th March in Hall Street.  Tickets will be issued to each family shortly.

Healthy Eating Policy

All families will receive a draft copy of the newly revised Healthy Eating Policy today.  Please read the policy carefully and complete the attached questionnaire.  Return the questionnaire to Mrs. Patton before Wednesday next, 14^th February.

Mid Term

School will be closed on Thursday 15^th and Friday 16^th February for Mid Term break.

 

 

 

    January 2024  Newsletter

Welcome back to a new term at Ballybay Central School.  We trust you and your family had an enjoyable Christmas and we look forward to what 2024 has to bring.

Welcome

We welcome Ms. Elaine Morgan to the staff.  Ms Morgan is covering Ms Donaghy’s maternity leave and will be teaching in the Senior Room every Tuesday.  Ms Morgan has spent many years teaching in Hong Kong and she brings a wealth of experience with her.  She will be introducing the pupils in 4^th-6^th Class to French which will be an added bonus.

Pre Christmas Activities

School was very busy in the run up to the holidays.  Many thanks to all who donated food to our food appeal.  Teach na Daoine were delighted with the response.

€260 was donated to Ballybay Cancer Society following the festive walk to school and breakfast.    Again many thanks to all who donated so generously.

 Everyone had a great day at the pantomime in Armagh on 18^th December.

The highlight of our run up to Christmas was most definitely the Christmas Shows in Derryvalley Hall on 20^th December.  The children performed so well.  Many thanks to the Parents’ Association for their gift of a selection box to every child and also thanks to the committee for organising the food after the show.  All parents should have received the link for the recording of the shows.  We are very grateful to Tyron Ross for recording and editing the evening. 

The following day was a pyjama, movie and hot chocolate day with donations being given to the Parents’ Association funds. 

All children were very pleased with their Kris Kindle gifts which were distributed on 22^nd December.

Fresh Today Lunch Boxes

All pupils are being given a lunch box this week.   The lunch boxes are being provided by Fresh Today.  They will no longer be taking back empty boxes/food after lunch.  Your child’s lunch carton from Fresh Today will be put in the lunch box each day after lunch and sent home.  Please ensure your child’s lunch box is in their bag every day in order to take home lunch cartons.

A new year might be a good time to talk to your child about their lunch order.  While most children are happy with their lunch orders and eat all they get, a number of children especially in the Junior classroom are not eating any of their Fresh Today lunches.  Fresh Today lunches are not compulsory and if your child does not want to receive the lunch you must let us know so their name will be taken off the system.

Coffee Morning

The next coffee morning will take place on Friday 26^th January.  All parents are warmly invited to drop into the school hall for tea/coffee and a chat between 9.20-10.30 on that morning.

Dates For Your Diary

Monday 5th February             -           School Closed, St. Brigid’s Day

Thur/Fri 15^th/16^th Feb              -           School Closed, Mid Term

 

 

 

         November 2023  Newsletter

 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9:6

Credit Union Poster Competition

Congratulations to Charlotte McAdam (1^st Class), Mikayla Maunde Chisambi (4^th Class) and Katie Moffett (6^th Class) all of whom were awarded 3^rd place prizes in their relevant age categories in the recent Credit Union poster competition.  They received their prizes at the prize giving ceremony on Saturday 18^th November.

Teach na Daoine Food Collection

During December we are asking all families to donate non perishable food items to our annual food collection for Teach na Daoine Monaghan.  Teach na Daoine is a family resource centre based in Monaghan which provides support to the community.  Each year at Christmas time they make up food hampers which are distributed to those in need.  They also have a ‘Food Pantry’ all year round and would be very grateful of food donations which will go towards restocking the pantry in the New Year.  Items may be left into school between now and Wednesday 13^th December.  Item s will be collected by a representative from Teach na Daoine on Thursday next week, 14^th December.

Cash for Clobber

Many thanks to all who donated clothes to our Cash for Clobber clothes collection.   In total almost 185 bags were collected and the school receives €516 as a result.  Most of this money is being used to help with costs for our Christmas Play, costumes, backdrops etc.

Trip to Pantomime

All children will be attending The Market Place Theatre on Monday 18^th December.  We will be leaving school at 9.20am and returning before 3.00pm.  Junior & Senior Infants are to be collected at 3.00pm on that day, instead of 2.00pm.  Cost per trip is €15 per pupil which must be paid online on or before Wednesday next, 13^th December.  Uniform must be worn on the day.  Please do not send any spending money etc.  Mobile phones are not allowed.

Food Glorious Food Recipe Books

In February 2018 the Parents’ Association produced a fabulous recipe book entitled Food Glorious Food.  There are a number of copies of the book in school for anyone who wishes to purchase one in the run up to Christmas priced at €10 each.  If you would like one please contact school and we will get it to you.

Active School Flag

This year we are beginning our Active School Flag journey.  Active School Flag is a Department of Education initiative supported by Healthy Ireland.  Schools are provided with a framework to guide them to work towards achieving a physically educated and physically active school community.  Ms Brown is our Active Schools Coordinator.  Our Active School slogan is: Exercise Every Day, A Little Goes A Long Way! which was selected following a competition in the Middle and Senior Rooms.  Congratulations to Hannea Avelino (4^th class) on her winning slogan.  Also congratulations to Daniel Moffett (2^nd Class) and Jessica Murphy Ly (4^th Class), runners up with their slogans.  You will be able to view the slogans on the Active School Tab on our school website.

Student Council

Members of the Student Council have been busy recently.  They have a drop box displayed on the Student Council notice board and if any pupils have an idea/initiative they can put t in the drop box.  They also surveyed all staff and pupils to ascertain what equipment they would like for the playground.  A climbing frame came out on top and now the Student Council are meeting to come up with some fund raising ideas to meet the costs.  It is great to see the Student Council being so proactive!

Board of Management

Welcome to our new Board of Management which took up office on 1^st December.  The following people have been elected:

Chairperson                                              Rev. Gerry Clinton

Patron’s Nominee                                     Clayton Wilson

Parent Nominee                                        Florence Steenson

Parent Nominee                                         Tyron Ross

Principal                                                       Karen Pepper

Teacher Nominee                                      Pamela Patton

Nominee from the Wider Community   Wendy Sloan

Nominee from the Wider Community   Eric Latimer

Christmas Show

There is great excitement in school as children practice for their Christmas Show.  The show will take place in Derryvalley Church Hall (Eircode A75 DR64) on Wednesday 20^th December at 7.00pm.  This is our first show since Covid and we are very much looking forward to the evening which will be full of fun, music, dancing singing, food and maybe a surprise of two!  Further information will be sent out on Aladdin closer to the time regarding practices that will take place in Derryvalley on Tuesday 19^th and Wednesday 20^th December.

Aladdin Connect

Please make sure at least one parent is receiving notifications on the Aladdin Connect app.  Some parents that are registered on Aladdin are not receiving notifications of messages.  Important messages are being sent out twice (by email and Aladdin) but from January messages will only be sent on Aladdin Connect.  If you are having any difficulties with Aladdin Connect please contact the school.

Kris Kindle

It is the policy in our school that instead of the children exchanging Christmas presents with each other we implement Kris Kindle. Children have been given the name of who to buy for.   Please wrap it and put the name of the person it is for (but not who it is from) on the label.  We ask that all presents are brought into school between now and 15^th December.  Please be mindful of the age and interests of the child your child has to buy for.  Please don’t include selection boxes in the presents.  All presents will be left in the hall until Friday 22^nd when they will be distributed before children go home.

Christmas Cards

As is school policy we ask that children do not exchange Christmas cards with each other in school.

Coffee Morning

Following on from the enjoyable coffee morning we’d like to invite parents to this month’s coffee morning which will be held on Friday this week, 8^th December.  If you are free, call in for a cuppa and a chat between 9.20 and 10.20.

We would like to invite all parents to                   

 a tea/coffee morning in the school on

Friday 8^th December 9.20-10.20am

This will be an opportunity for parents to meet each other over a cuppa.

 

After School Club – Christmas Art & Craft

Our Christmas Art & Craft After School Club will be held on Tuesday 12^th December.  Junior & Senior Infants will meet between 2.00-3.00pm.  1^st-6^th Class will meet from 3.15-4.15pm.  We were disappointed that the After School Dance and Fitness Class had to be cancelled at short notice in November.

Festive Walk to School

On Friday 15^th December we will be holding our annual Festive Walk to School fundraiser.  Children are to dress up in Christmas jumpers, hats etc. (no uniform) and we will meet at the old Riverdale Hotel between 9.00-9.20am and walk to school through the park.  When we arrive at school members of the Parents’ Association are going to provide a breakfast for everyone.  We ask everyone to contribute to our collection for Ballybay Cancer Society on the day.  A suggested amount to donate is €2 per child but of course if you wish to donate more that will be greatly appreciated.  Ballybay Cancer Society values the donations they receive each year.  The money they receive is always put to good use to support local families who are affected by cancer.

 

Dates for Your Diary

 

Friday 8^th December – Coffee Morning 9.20-10.20am

Tuesday 12^th December – After School Club – Christmas Art & Craft                                                           Junior & Senior Infants 2.00-3.00pm/1^st-6^th Class 3.15-4.15pm

Friday 15^th December – Festive Walk to School in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society

Monday 18^th December – Panto in Armagh

Tuesday 19^th & Wednesday 20^th December – Practice for Christmas Show in Derryvalley      Church Hall

Wednesday 20^th December – Christmas Show at 7.00pm in Derryvalley Church Hall

Thursday 21^st December – Pyjama and Christmas Movie Day at school

Friday 22^nd December – School closing at 12.00 for Christmas

Monday 8^th January 2024 – School reopens

 

 

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

 

 

 

         November 2023  Newsletter

Welcome back to school for what will be a busy few weeks in the lead up to Christmas.  We hope everyone had an enjoyable midterm break and got a chance to rest and recharge the batteries.

Parents’ Association

The following parents have been elected to the Parents’ Association committee for 2023-2024.

Chairperson                           William Patton

Vice Chairperson                   Leah Cosgrove

Secretary                                Alison Bann

Treasurer                                Sandra Anderson

Vice Treasurer                       Jonathan Anderson

Committee

Edlyn Avelino, Anne Marie Gilliland, Tyron Ross, Danika Sloan, Florence Steenson and Sabine Vogel.

The committee greatly appreciate the support of all parents with their activities throughout the year.

Board of Management

Many thanks to Tyron Ross and Florence Steenson who have volunteered to serve as the parent nominees on the new Board of Management which will officially commence its term of office on 1^st December 2023.

P.E. in the Park

Pupils from 1^st class upwards had 2 very enjoyable sessions in the park.  Thanks to the staff from Castleblayney Outdoor Adventure Centre.  On 19^th October children enjoyed kayaking and on 26^th October everyone participated in orienteering.  This was a great opportunity for our pupils and we hope that we may get the opportunity to participate in P.E. in the Park again next year.  We acknowledge the financial support from Monaghan Sports Partnership who contributed to the costs (€15 per child) and the school contributed per child, which left it very affordable to all at €5.

During mid term the school grounds were mapped by Orienteering Ireland which means we will be able to organize orienteering activities ourselves around the school grounds. 

P.E. for the remainder of the year will continue to be on FRIDAYS so pupils should wear tracksuits and runners every Friday.             

Coffee Morning

Our 2^nd Coffee Morning will take place on Friday 17^th November 9.20-10.20, We’d encourage parents who are available on this morning to pop in at any stage and have a cuppa and a chat with other parents.  School will provide tea, coffee and biscuits.  This is an opportunity to welcome everyone to the school community.

Library Visit

Pupils in Ms Brown’s room had a very enjoyable trip to the new library in Castleblayney during Children’s Book Festival.  They had the opportunity to listen to Gerry Daly, an author and illustrator and get to work on their own illustrations.

Pupils in the senior room will be attending Monaghan library on 23^rd November for a story telling session with Steve Lally.

Parent Teacher Meetings

Parent Teacher meetings will take place on Thursday 23^rd November from 2.00-6.00pm.  School will close for all pupils on that day at 2.00pm. 

Parents will be able to book their appointments through Aladdin the week before hand.  You will receive information regarding booking in advance.  Each meeting will strictly be 10 minutes per child.  It is very important that this is adhered to, to ensure all parents see their child/children’s teacher at the allocated time. Parents of children who attend Mrs Patton should make an appointment to meet with her on this day also to discuss updated support plans.

If you are unable to attend at a suitable time on the afternoon of the 23^rd November, please email the school and your child’s class teacher will make arrangements to meet with you on an alternative day/time.

Cash for Clobber/Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal

Please drop bags for clothes collection to school for Friday this week, 10^th November.  Spread the word with your family and friends.

Anyone wishing to take part in the Christmas Shoe Box Appeal should return shoe boxes this week for Wednesday 8^th.  Each shoe box should be accompanied with a €5 donation.  Please put a sticker on the box identifying what age the shoe box is for.  Shoe boxes should be wrapped separate to the lids so as the boxes can be opened before being transported.

Student Council

Congratulations to the new Student Council members – Adam, Annabelle, Emily, Ethan S, Hannea, Max, Stefan and Witness.  

They, along with Mrs Boyle, organised a very successful Autumn Scavenger Hunt on the last day of term.  Following the scavenger hunt all children received treats and pictures to colour.  We look forward to working with the Student Council this year.        

Christmas Pantomime

On Monday 18^th December the whole school will travel to the Market Place Theatre in Armagh for the annual Pantomime.  The cost per child is €15.

Payments should be made by:

• Online banking – IBAN IE20AIBK 9324 2601 2651 56 or
• Cheque/draft from bank or Credit Union

On or before Wednesday 13^th December.

If using Online banking please put your name on the reference line so we know it’s your payment.

Mrs McBride will issue receipts of payment.

Important Dates

Friday 17^th November          Coffee Morning

Thursday 23^rd November     School closes at 2.00pm for Parent/Teacher  meetings

Friday 24^th November                    School closed for staff training day (Primary Maths                                                          Curriculum)

Friday 15^th December           Festive Walk to School (more details next month)

Monday 18^th December        Trip to Market Place Theatre, Armagh for pantomime                                                      (all pupils)

Wednesday 20^th December  Christmas concert in Derryvalley Hall                               (time to be confirmed)

 

October Newsletter 2023

Photographer

The School Photographer was in school yesterday and took photos of the children.  Junior Infants and 6^th Class groups as well as a school photo were also taken.  You will receive proofs of the photographs with details of how to order and pay next week.  There is no compulsion on anyone to purchase the photographs.

Coffee Morning

The first coffee morning was held in the school hall this morning.  As mentioned at the Parents’ Evening in September the coffee morning is for all parents and will be held once per month.  The aim of the coffee morning is to welcome parents into the school community and to have an opportunity to chat and to get to know other parents.  If you are free on Friday 17^th November please drop in to the next coffee morning,  you will be made feel very welcome.

Student Council

Our Student Council elections are currently underway.  Pupils who have been nominated for the Student Council have displayed their election posters along the corridor.  They are currently working on their speeches.  Voting takes place in school next Monday, 9^th October.  8 pupils from 2^nd-6^th will be elected to serve on the Student Council this year.

Bills

You should have received an email this week outlining the following payments which are now due:

Pupil Cover Insurance                                           €  5.30         (per child)

Football                                                                €12.00         (per child)

PE in the Park   *1^st-6^th Class only                       €  5.00         (per child)  

Payments should be made by:

• Online banking – IBAN IE20AIBK 9324 2601 2651 56 or
• Cheque/draft from bank or Credit Union

On or before Friday 27^th October.

If using Online banking please put your name on the reference line so we know it’s your payment.

Mrs McBride will issue receipts of payment.

Parents’ Association AGM

The AGM of the school’s Parents’ Association will take place on Tuesday next 10^th October at 8.00pm.  The Principal will give a short talk at the start of the meeting.  Elections will take place on the night to elect a new committee.  Please consider volunteering as the school values and relies on the support from the Parents’ Association.

Board of Management

The term of office for the current Board of Management concludes on 30^th November 2023.  A new Board of Management comes into effect on 1^st December 2023. The Board of Management is made up of eight people:

• 2 representatives of the Patron (Presbytery of Monaghan)
• 2 teachers
• 2 parents
• 2 members of the wider community (selected by the other 6 Board Members)

Wendy Leonard and Alan Hamilton are the current parents’ representatives on the Board.  We would like to thank them for the contribution they have made during their time on the Board of Management.

Over the coming weeks all parents will receive correspondence from our Chairperson in relation to the nomination of parents to serve on the new Board of Management (2023-2027.  All parents are eligible to serve and there must be one male and one female representative.

Cash For Clobber

Our annual Cash for Clobber collection will take place on Friday 10^th November.  All unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, shoes (paired) may be left into school after the October midterm break.  The money raised from the collection will be used to buy much needed resources for the school. Please spread the word amongst friends, neighbours and family members.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

Children’s Book Festival

Pupils in the Middle classroom are going to Castleblayney Library on Wednesday 18^th October to listen to the children’s author and illustrator  Gerry Daly.  His books include ‘Where Are You, Puffling?’, ‘Puffling and the Egg’ and ‘Wee Donkey’s Treasure Hunt’.

Pupils in the Senior and Middle Classroom will take part in The Big Book Quiz which is online, during Children’s Book Festival also.

Mid-Term

School will be closed from Monday 30^th October - Friday 3rd November inclusive for mid-term. 

Dates For Your Diary

Monday 30^th October - Friday 3rd November                Mid Term

November 10^th                                                                Cash for Clobber

November 17^th                                                                Coffee morning for all parents

September Newsletter 2023

 

Welcome

Welcome back to a new school year at Ballybay Central and we extend a very warm welcome to Moriah, Lauren, Sam, Harper, Chloe, Mark, Daniel, Louise, Katie and Bethany who have joined our school this September.  We hope you will be very happy with us.  We also welcome Niamh Donaghy and Lauren Angell who have joined the staff.  Ms Donaghy will be teaching in the Senior Room every Tuesday and Ms Lauren is our EAL teacher this year.

Fresh Today

Fresh Today lunches recommence today, 4^th September for pupils in Senior Infants upwards.  The log in details from last year are the same.  Please order/make any changes before 5.00pm each Thursday for the following week.  If you don’t change the order your child will receive the same lunch each week.  Please check in with your child/children to see what they like or don’t like.  Younger children can get upset if they continue to receive a lunch they don’t like!  Lunches for Junior Infants will begin on Thursday 14^th September and they will receive log in details before then.  If your child/children are never going to avail of the free lunch being provided please let the office know and they will be taken off the system.

Please remember to provide a healthy snack for first break.  CRISPS, CHOCOLATE BARS, CHOCOLATE BISCUITS ETC. ARE NOT ALLOWED.  Suggested alternatives are fruit, crackers, salted popcorn, yoghurts, cheese, wraps, pasta, sandwiches, bread sticks, rice cakes, sugar free jelly or vegetables.

Aladdin Connect

Later today you will be requested to give or decline permission for 2 separate items on Aladdin Connect:

• Use of photographs – this is giving permission for your child’s photo to be used during the year on the school website, newsletter, the local newspaper etc. children are not named when photographs are used.  If you do not give consent your child won’t be photographed in school.
• Taking part in school activities outside the school grounds. This includes walks, trips to the local park/playground, visits to other educational facilities/schools, school tours etc.

Please check your Aladdin and accept or decline permission as appropriate.

Aladdin will be used for all correspondence from school this year.  Please note you are unable to reply to an Aladdin notification or to send a message using Aladdin.  Later in the year Aladdin will be used to book Parent/Teacher Meeting appointments.  If your child is absent, being collected early or arriving late to school, please use Aladdin to inform their teacher.

P.E.

PE will be on Fridays for this term and we look forward to welcoming Euan Treanor soccer coach with the FAI for the next 6 Fridays.

Children should wear tracksuits and runners every Friday for P.E.

Uniform

Please ensure jumpers are named – especially during this warm weather as they can get mixed up when taken off.  School uniform must be worn Monday-Thursday.

Text Books/Stationery

The Free Primary Schoolbooks Scheme means that parents are no longer required to contribute to the cost of schoolbooks.  Therefore you will not be charged for book rental as other years.  All books and resources used to implement the curriculum are the property of the school and if damaged or lost must be replaced.

Photographer

The photographer will visit the school on Tuesday 3^rd October.

Parents’ Meeting

All parents are invited to attend a meeting in the school on Wednesday13^th September at 7.30pm.  Staff will be present at the meeting to discuss the school curriculum, routines and general school policies.  It is important that each family is represented at the meeting.

Cash For Clobber

Our annual Cash for Clobber collection will take place on Friday10th November.  All unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels, shoes (paired) may be left into school after the October midterm break.  The money raised from the collection will be used to buy much needed resources for the school. Please spread the word amongst friends, neighbours and family members.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

Hedgerow Week

This is Hedgerow Week, an initiative of Teagasc and The Heritage Council.  Ross Cochrane will visit the school this week and will speak to 4^th-6^th Classes about the importance of our hedgerows.

Homework

Written homework will begin next Monday.

Contacting the School

If you need to contact a member of staff, please ring 042 9741365 before 9.20am or after 3.10pm.  The school secretary works on Mondays and Wednesdays.  If you require to discuss a matter in depth with a teacher, a meeting will be arranged which will take place before or after school.  The reason for requesting a meeting should be indicated in advance.  Teachers must not be contacted on their personal mobile numbers or personal email addresses.

Ballybay Central National School

School Calendar 2023-2024

School Re-opens	Wednesday 30th August
Mid-Term Break	Monday 30th October-Friday 3rd November inclusive
Christmas Closing	Friday 22nd December @ 12 (Mon 25th-Fri 5th Jan)
Re-opening	Monday 8th January 2024
St. Brigid’s Day	Monday 5th February
Mid-Term Break	Thursday 15th & Friday 16th February
St. Patrick’s Day	Monday 18th March
Easter Closing	Friday 22nd March @ 12 (last day of school)
Re-opening	Monday 8th April
Bank Holiday	Monday 6th May
Bank Holiday	Monday 3rd June
Summer Holidays Closing	Friday 21st June