November has been a busy and memorable month in our school. From Junior Infants marking the start of their school journey with their first photos, to older classes diving into history, science, and online safety, there has been a wonderful sense of curiosity and energy throughout the school.
We also came together for important faith celebrations, productive Parent-Teacher Meetings, and the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal, reminders of the strong community spirit that defines St. Brigid’s.
Celebrating Science Week in 2nd Class
Second Class celebrated Science Week from 9th to 16th November. Throughout the week, the girls used a wide range of scientific skills including predicting, investigating, designing and making, analysing, communicating, classifying, and experimenting. The focus of the week was on the properties of materials. The girls sorted and classified materials into different categories and investigated which materials were waterproof and which were absorbent. They then applied this knowledge to design and make a raincoat for Teddy to keep him dry during the wet weather. Another task involved building a raft for the Gingerbread Man to carry him safely across the river, testing which materials were most suitable. They also explored which properties of materials would make them ideal for building a house. It was an exciting and enjoyable week for everyone involved
Cyber Safe Talks for 3rd-5th Class
This month, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Class pupils took part in a cyber safety talk delivered by CyberSafe Kids. The sessions helped the girls learn how to stay safe, smart, and confident online. They explored important topics such as protecting privacy, managing personal information, understanding their digital footprint, staying safe on social media and in gaming, recognising misinformation, and responding to cyberbullying. The talks were engaging, practical, and very informative
5th Class Trip to EPIC Museum and the Jeanie Johnston
On 7th November, the girls in Fifth Class enjoyed an exciting trip to the EPIC Museum and the Jeanie Johnston. Having recently learned about the Famine in class, the visit provided an excellent opportunity to reinforce their learning and see history brought to life. The girls were very engaged throughout the day and found the experience both fascinating and memorable
Potato Growing Experience in 1st Class
Back in Term 3 of Senior Infants, our 1st Class students planted potatoes in the school garden with great excitement. This month, they finally harvested the fruits of their hard work by digging up a wonderful crop and even getting the chance to taste their home-grown potatoes!
A huge thank you to our amazing Garden Committee volunteers, whose guidance and support made this hands-on learning experience possible. The girls loved seeing the full growing cycle from planting to harvest, and we’re so grateful for all the time and care our volunteers contribute to the garden
Inspectorate Visit from the Department of Education
Our recent evaluation visit by the Inspectorate went really well and was a great success. The purpose of the visit was to review our school’s provision for teaching and learning in Science. During the evaluation, inspectors met with members of the school leadership team, teachers, and pupils. They visited a number of classrooms to observe teaching and learning in action and to speak with teachers and pupils about their experiences of science in our school. At the inspectors’ request, a focus group of twelve pupils from Third to Sixth Class was convened. We were delighted to share the enthusiasm, curiosity, and scientific understanding of our pupils with the inspectors. We also welcome their feedback and recommendations as we continue to develop our Science teaching in line with the new Primary Curriculum Framework. Well done to everyone involved!
Team Hope Shoe Box Appeal
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part in creating shoeboxes for Team Hope. Your generosity and kindness will bring joy to children in need and make a real difference this Christmas. We are so proud of the care and effort put in by all who contributed.
In November, We Remember
During this month of November, we hold in special remembrance the members of our school community who have sadly passed away. This year we especially remember our former colleague, Mary O’Boyle, who left us on the 11th of September.
Mary taught in St. Brigid’s for many years until her retirement and was a beloved member of our staff. A dedicated classroom and learning support teacher, Mary was known for her wisdom and empathy, and for the deep kindness and gentleness she showed to everyone in our school community.
We extend our condolences to all her family, to her husband, Kevin, her sons, Kieran and Aidan, and her daughter, Aoife Campbell, who taught alongside us for many years and who remains very much in our thoughts at this time.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam
Value of the Month
Our Five School Values:
- Respect
- Kindness
- Inclusion
- Resilience
- Nurture
Since the start of this school year, our focus has been on Respect. The girls were encouraged to take part in a ‘Respect Mission’, practicing respect at school, at home, and in their community. They shared some examples and we are so proud of how well they did this.
This month, our Value of the Month is Kindness. At our recent assembly, the student council gave an excellent presentation, explaining the Bí Cineálta (Be Kind) anti-bullying policy in a child-friendly way, helping the girls explore what kindness and respect look like in everyday life. We hope to build on this further at our next assembly.
Parents can support this work at home by noticing everyday moments where respect and kindness are shown. It is a great way to build on what they are learning at school.
Dates for your Diary
Dates for Your Diary | |
Check Shared Parents’ Calendar | Class Christmas concerts/performances |
6th December | Festive Fun Day in Boys’ School (1pm-5pm) |
10th December | Vincent de Paul hamper items collection date (details to follow) |
12th December | Christmas Raffle Draw |
19th December | Half Day Closure for Christmas at 11:40am |
5th January | School reopens after the Christmas break |
Gentle Reminders
1. Attendance and Routine
December can be a busy month. Please help your daughter stay consistent with their routines, rest, and attendance so they can finish the term strong.
2. Winter Clothing
As the weather gets colder, please ensure that your daughter comes dressed with proper winter gear so they can enjoy outdoor play comfortably and safely.
3. Healthy Snacks and Lunches
With holiday treats everywhere, we encourage balanced and nut-free snacks and lunches to help students stay focused and energised during the school day.
4. Label Belongings
Winter clothing and extra layers can easily get mixed up. Labelling your child’s items helps them find lost belongings quickly.
Artwork around the School
