Newsletter 22nd September

Sports Activities
In another return to normality, we are glad that basketball (for 3rd & 4th Classes), rugby and swimming have resumed and we plan that all classes will get some sessions during the year. This year’s Cumann na mBunscol competitions are ongoing (although postponed this week due to the ploughing). We aim to resume football coaching after Halloween. Swimming has already begun for 2nd Class. Your child’s teacher will let you know in advance when swimming will be, so that you can be prepared as regards gear and also costs – each class will have six sessions each at €9 per session. If you wish, view our proposed swimming timetable.

Smart Devices
A reminder that phones, tablets etc. are not necessary for children during the day. In exceptional circumstances if they need to be brought, they must be turned off and handed to the class teacher in the morning.

Labels
It’s a good time to ensure that your child’s name is on all clothing. We can have some difficulty identifying jumpers/tracksuit tops in the playground. Please check now! We have plenty of lost property; please ask at the office.

Primary Language Curriculum Inservice
Teachers are required to undertake inservice on the revised primary language curriculum. This will take place on Friday, 28th October, the day before the Halloween break. School will finish for all pupils at 12:30 (12:15 for infants) on that day.

Road Safety
Please continue to remind your children to be extra careful when walking or cycling home in the afternoons. Thank you.

Parking
Please remember when parking to the rear of the school at the Athy end to reverse into your space. This ensures you don’t have to reverse out where there could be children walking. Please continue to take care, thank you.

Covid Reminder
Public health advice remains that your child should not attend school if they are unwell or have Covid symptoms. If you are unsure, please contact us. Thank you for your cooperation.

Collection
Our school is one of the nominated charities in Tesco Portlaoise to which you can donate a ‘blue token’. If you or anyone you know is shopping there, please do consider us! Thank you very much.

Ploughing Traffic

As no doubt you are aware, the National and World Ploughing Championships will take place in Ratheniska next week. Garda Traffic Management advises us that there will be a noticeable increase in traffic through Ballylinan, though they do not expect as big an increase as on some other routes. Consequently, the plan is for our school to open and close at the usual times.

However please note that there are likely to be delays on the mornings of Tuesday 20th, Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd. We will be understanding and ask that you be patient; there is no need to rush to avoid being late.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as always.