Covid 19

Dear Parents / Guardians,

I sincerely hope that you, your children and your extended families are all well.

I know that you have suddenly found yourselves in a very challenging time, juggling work and / or other commitments with children at home.

The recent announcement to close schools on Thursday, 12^th March took everyone by surprise. Our teachers set about, in the limited time that they had, compiling work for each child to take home that day. At that time, we were of the opinion that our school would re-open on Monday, 30^th March. However, this is looking extremely unlikely now.

Our teachers are currently working together to provide some further activities that your child may complete at home. We fully understand that the completion of these activities may not always be possible or easy. We will be in touch with you during the week with these activities.

I would suggest that you try, if possible, to set aside one hour a day for children to engage with the activities provided. Any more time than this, outside of the school environment, may not be realistic.

Reading is one activity that we cannot endorse enough. The material does not always have to be ‘academic’ nor is a book always required. On-line material, newspapers or magazines will enable your child to develop and improve their fluency and comprehension skills.

R.T.É. 2 will have a programme called ‘Home School Hub’ on air, from Monday 30^th March each day from 11a.m. until 12 noon and a shorter programme called 'Home School Extra' on air from 4:10p.m. until 4:30p.m. These programmes will be aimed at children from 1^st to 6^th Class. I would certainly recommend that your child engages with them.

Understandably, many of you, and indeed your children, may be feeling quite anxious as information about Covid-19 becomes known and circumstances develop throughout our country. Having to stay away from family members - grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins is particularly hard and adds stress in this difficult time. We know that your child’s well-being is your priority, not the completion of schoolwork, during this very uncertain time so please do not put yourself or your child under any undue pressure.

Above all, please understand that we do not expect parents to become teachers overnight nor do we expect that homes will become schools. The suggested activities are to be used to guide you and your child. I intend to be in school every day if you need to make contact so please do not hesitate to call on 043-6671750.

In the meantime, my sincere wish for you all, together with our staff and our Board of Management, is that you stay well and stay safe.

Alan Conroy

Principal