December Newsletter 2025
As we approach the final month of this term at school it is lovely to hear the buzz of excited children as we prepare for Christmas. Everyone, from Junior Infants to Sixth Class is busy rehearsing their plays and singing songs with great enthusiasm. We are all very much looking forward to performing on the stage in Derryvalley Hall (Eircode A75 Y021) on Wednesday 17th December. The performances will begin at 7.00pm and the Parents’ Association have organised a supper after. The night should conclude by 9.00pm. If you are unsure what you were asked to provide for the supper please contact the office and we will let you know.
Congratulations
Many congratulations to Emily Gilliland in 5th class who was selected to play at half time during the Ladies Intermediate Championship Ulster Final in Enniskillen recently. Ms Millar captained Brigid O’Neill’s team on the day and while it wasn’t to be for them this time, both Emily and Ms Millar represented their club and community with pride.
Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal
Many thanks to all who sent shoe boxes in for Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal. These will be very much appreciated by boys and girls around the world at Christmas time and beyond.
Christmas Food Appeal
Please support our annual Christmas Food Appeal. All non perishable food items will be donated to Teach na Daoine on 15th December. They will use the food to make up food hampers which are distributed to local needy families at Christmas time.
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Afterschool Activity
There was great excitement at our Christmas Baking Afterschool Activity with Elaine yesterday. Everyone went home with yummy treats. Thank you so much to Elaine Fuller for facilitating the afternoon. We run a free afterschool activity each month. This will be the last afterschool activity for this year.
Golden Friends Christmas Lunch
We have been invited to attend the local Golden Friends group Christmas lunch in Derryvalley hall on Wednesday 10th December. The children will perform some Christmas songs. We will leave school by bus at 1.30pm and arrive back around 2.30pm. All children are to stay at school until 3.00pm on that day. If your child has a Christmas hat or headband please encourage them to wear them to school on that day.
Clothing Collection
Please spread the word we are having a clothing collection this term. Bags of clothes may be left into school from Monday 15th December. The collection will take place on Friday 19th December. Please note we have changed company this year. Towels, bedding (duvet covers, pillows etc) and curtains are not accepted.
Kris Kindle
Each year we organise Kris Kindle for the children. All names have been given out in each classroom for each child to buy for. The children love this and the excitement of opening their presents on the day of the holidays is unbelievable. We are organising Kris Kindle this year and ask that all presents are brought into school between now and 15th December. Please do not put who the present is from on the gift, only write who it is for.
Can I please ask when selecting presents for children that you are mindful of the age and interests of the child your child has to buy for. The budget is €5 per child – shops like Mr Price, Home Savers and Dealz are ideal for Kris Kindle gifts. While on the whole each year your children are delighted with their presents there is usually one or two who aren’t and it is very disappointing for them. Maybe you would take your child/children shopping and allow them to choose the gift that they think would suit the child you are buying for.
Festive Walk to School
Thursday 18th December will be our annual walk to school. Pupils wear festive jumpers, hats etc to school, we will meet at the Riverdale Hotel between 9.00 and 9.20. On arrival at school all pupils will be provided with a breakfast. Donations (€2 per child) on the day in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society.
Staff
Later this month we will say goodbye to Mrs Coyle. Mrs Coyle has been our Special Education Teacher since last February while Mrs Boyle was on maternity leave. We wish to thank her very much for the contribution she has made to Ballybay Central School for the last nine months. Mrs Boyle will return on Monday 15th December.
Upcoming Dates
Tuesday 11th December Last night of homework
Monday 15th December Food Appeal Collection
Wednesday 17th December Christmas Plays in Derryvalley Hall at 7.00pm (A75 Y021)
Thursday 18th December Festive Walk to school & Breakfast in aid of Ballybay Cancer Society
Friday 19th December Clothing Collection at 9.30am
School closes at 12.00 for Christmas
Monday 5th January School re-opens
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:11
Wishing you and your families a very happy, joyous and peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year.