Board of Management Meeting – 13th March 2023

  • Pupils: We currently have 206 pupils on roll. 27 pupils have enrolled in our Junior Infant class for September 2023. 24 pupils will be graduating from our 6th class in June of this year.
  • School Website: Our new school website was recently launched (www.stmaryscentralschool.ie).
  • School Based Summer Programme: The school based summer programme will take place in St. Mary’s again this summer which gives children with additional needs the opportunity to receive extra tuition and support which is of benefit to parents and the children themselves. Similar to last year, it will run for two weeks directly after school closes for the summer holidays (Monday June 26th – Friday July 7th).
  • First Penance: The sacrament of First Penance (Reconciliation) for our 2nd class pupils took place on Thursday evening 9th March.
  • First Holy Communion: Our First Holy Communion ceremony will take place on Saturday May 13th
  • Fire Drill: A fire drill was completed on Thursday 2nd February.
  • Parents’ Association Update: Our Bingo Night was a huge success raising €4534. Our Board wishes to thank everyone who participated including families and businesses who contributed sponsorship. Items to be purchased or have been purchased as a result of the fundraising include placements mats for Juniors, Seniors and 1st class, a new AED (defibrillator) for the school, decode-able readers and Maths equipment and resources.
  • Staff Professional Development: Oonagh Foley from the NCSE delivered a two hour presentation to teachers on the topic of Dyslexia on Wednesday 8th March. Teachers will complete a 2 hr Schools First Aid Awareness Course this Wednesday 15th March. Mr. Duggan, Mr. McCarthy and Ms. Walsh completed certified defibrillator training.
  • Swimming Lessons: Swimming lessons at Dunmanway Pool have finished for 3rd and 4th classes. 1st and 2nd class will begin their 6 week block straight after Easter.
  • Crazy Hair Day: A fundraising Crazy Hair Day in aid of the Hope Foundation took place on February 15th. Past pupil Keshia Murphy spearheaded the fundraiser and €360 was raised.
  • Future Charity Fundraising Event: A fundraiser in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Society will take place in St. Mary’s at some point before the end of the summer. Further details to be announced when known.
  • Garda Visit: Garda James Masters visited our 6th class on 23rd February to speak with pupils on the topic of ‘Being Kind Online’.
  • FAI Soccer Tournament: Our 5th and 6th class boys took part in the FAI Soccer Tournament in Carrigaline on Monday 27th February. The Girls competition will take place on Tuesday 21st March in Carrigaline.
  • Sciath na Scol Competitions: St. Mary’s have entered the Sciath na Scol Hurling, Camogie and Football competitions this year. Hurling and Camogie will begin shortly followed by the Football competitions after Easter.
  • Annual Diocesan Religious Visit: Eddie Maloney, a Diocesan Religious advisor visited St. Mary’s on 13th and 14th March.
  • Breast Cancer Awareness Talk: Our Parents’ Association are facilitating a Breast Cancer Ireland Awareness Presentation on Thursday 30th March in our school. This event is open to the general public and will be advertised shortly.
  • Easter Holidays: Our Easter Holidays this year will begin on Friday 31st March (half day), returning on Monday 17th April.
  • Academic Calendar 23/24: The school calendar for next year (2023/24) has been confirmed. You can view it below…