Under the Patronage of the Catholic Archbishop of Dublin

Information Booklet 2017-2018 Revised April 2017

Please keep this book for future reference

Trafalgar Road, Greystones, Co. Wicklow.

INSIDE FRONT COVERBLANK

Information BookletIndex

PageSt. Brigid’s – Contact Details 1Welcome1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Our Pupils - our priority 11.2 St. Brigid’s National School - our vision, mission & values 11.3 The Ethos of St. Brigid’s 11.4 The aims of St. Brigid’s 21.5 Admission 22. ORGANISATION - Information you frequently need. 32.1 School Hours 32.2 Access to St. Brigid’s 32.3 Punctuality 32.4 Where children assemble in the mornings 42.5 Where children assemble on wet mornings 42.6 Supervision 42.7 Reminders to parents 42.8 Collecting children 42.9 School uniform/ shoes/ tracksuits- Schoolwear House/ jewellery/ valuables 52.10 Classrooms 62.11 Assignment of children to classes/ Junior Infants/ other classes/ Principal responsible 62.12 Children’s Birthdays 72.13 Book Lists/ orders 72.14 Book Rental Scheme 72.15 Department of Education and Science Book Grant 72.16 Secondary School Enrolment 73. HEALTHY EATING 73.1 Lunch-time 73.2 Allergies 84. CURRICULUM 84.1 The Primary School Curriculum 84.2 Religious Education Classes 84.3 Physical Education 84.4 Special Needs Education 84.5 Homework 84.6 Assessment 94.7 Standardised Tests 95. COMMUNICATION AND PARTENT/TEACHER MEETINGS 115.1 Rationale of review 115.2 Clarity in order to maintain and enhance partnership 125.3 Effective Communication 125.4 Formal Parent-teacher Meetings 135.5 When written notes from Parents are required 135.6 Messages 135.7 Admitting parents/visitors to the school 135.8 An appointment is essential 135.9 If you have a concern or query 145.10 With whom should parents make an appointment? 145.11 Authorization of Board of Management to defer a meeting 145.12 Maintaining and improving communication 145.13 Other relevant Policies

6. ATTENDANCE 14

7. SCHOOL CALENDAR 15

8. GREEN SCHOOL 159. AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES 1510 HEALTH AND SAFETY 1610.1 Emergency exits 1610.2 Exiting the hall 1610.3 Church 1610.4 Traffic 1610.5 School traffic wardens 1710.6 Fire drill 1710.7 Sick bay and first aid 1710.8 Medication 1710.9 Primary school Garda programme 17

11.CODE OF BEHAVIOUR 18Rationale of Code 18Relationship of Code 19Aims 19Content 1911.1 Behaviour and learning 2011.2. Standards of Behaviour expected in School 20 11.3. Whole school approach 2111.4. Positive strategies 2111.5. School rules 2211.6. Rewards and sanctions 2211.7. Notification of pupil's absence 2411.8. Reference to other policies 2411.9. Implementation date 2411.10 Ratification and Communication 2512. DUTY OF CARE 25

13. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY 2513(a) - Garda Vetting 26 13(b) - Cyber Safety 26

14. COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE 27

15. TRUSTEES & MANAGEMENT 2815.1 The Patron, the Trustees, the Parish and the Board of Management 2815.2 Members of the Board of Management 2011 - 2015 2815.3 School Chaplain 28

16. PARENTS' ASSOCIATION 2916.1 Parents involvement in the school 2916.2 Coffee morning 2916.3 Various roles 2916.4 Parents' Association Constitution 31

17. BACKGROUND INFORMATION 3317.1 Foundress of Sisters of the Holy Faith Margaret Aylward 3317.2 St. Brigid’s National School since 1906 3617.3 Our Patron Saint 36

18. APPENDIX 3718.1 Appendix 1- Benefits of Reading 3718.2 Appendix 2 (a) - St. Brigid's School Pledge 3718.3 Appendix 3 Pupils at the Centre of St. Brigid's 38

This information booklet provides essential information in relation to our school. Should you require clarification on any element, please contact the school principal who will be happy to discuss and clarify your queries. The information was revised in April 2017.

School name: St. Brigid’s N.S.

School address: Trafalgar Road, Greystones, Co. Wicklow

Telephone: 01-287-6113

E-mail address: office@stbgns.ie

Website: saintbrigidsgreystones.ie

Please note there is only one official St. Brigid's website. School management does not use Facebookor Instagram as a means of communication. Some teachers use apps / blogs/ email as a means of communicating with parents of own class. The class teacher will advise.

St. Brigid’s N.S - Welcome

Parents a big welcome to you and to your child/children. St. Brigid’s Board of Management and staff look forward to working in partnership with you. We welcome and need your involvement, comments and suggestions. We invite you to be actively involved in your child's school.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Your child/ren, our Pupils, their learning and welfare in a caring environment is our priority.

St Brigid’s exists to promote the full and harmonious development of each child. This is done by helping your child/children learn in a caring environment. We wish each child to focus on his/her learning and reach his/her potential. We want to devote all school time to teaching and learning and, of course, we hope that all the boys and girls will be happy in school. Children will be more interested in learning if you show an interest in their school lives, therefore, it would be very beneficial if you would ask your child, ‘What did you learn today?’

1.2 St Brigid’s N.S.

Our Vision

Our vision is to continue to be an inclusive, nurturing, educating community that fosters the developmentof each child.

Our Mission Our mission is to enable each child to learn and develop to his/her full potential in a happy, safe, stimulating, Christian learning environment. St. Brigid’s strives to promote the full and harmonious development of

each child.

Our Values

We cherish each child. We live and promote Christian values especially respect, fairness, co-operation, responsibility, kindness, care, trust, self esteem and partnership.

Our Motto

Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí.

1.3 The ethos of St Brigid’s

• The school models and transmits a philosophy of life inspired by belief in God and in the life, death

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and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• The policies, practices and attitudes of St Brigid’s are inspired by Gospel values.

• Religious education is provided in accordance with the doctrine of the Catholic Church.

• Prayer is a feature of each day. In co-operation with parents, priests of the parish and with parish personnel, children are prepared for the sacraments of reconciliation, communion and confirmation.

• Parental involvement is encouraged and appreciated.

• A spirit of mutual respect is promoted.• Pupils are shown, by example and teaching, to appreciate and respect people of different religious affiliations and nationalities.• The principal, teachers and support staff aim to make the school a centre of excellence in which high professional standards are maintained and where pupils learn in a happy, safe and stimulating environment.• Parents, teachers and management support and collaborate with one another as partners in leading the children to the fullness of their potential at the different stages of their school career.

• All members of the school team are held in high esteem and equal respect. Personal and professional development is encouraged.

• All partners of the school community contribute to the positive ethos of St. Brigid’s.

1.4 The aims of St Brigid’s

• To provide a welcoming, safe, happy, comfortable and stimulating learning environment.

• To facilitate each child to live a full life as a child.

• The school strives to promote the full and harmonious development of all aspects of each child, including his/her relationship with God, with other people and with the environment.

• To provide a broad and balanced curriculum for each child, according to the Department of Education and Science Primary School Curriculum and Catholic Religious Education Programme.• To enable each child to have access to the full curriculum.• To help each child achieve his/her potential. • To help each child develop his/her relationship with God. To enable all the children to have an appropriate knowledge of the Roman Catholic religion and to understand how their faith is meant to influence their lives and how their lives influences their faith. • To foster and nourish a strong sense of self-worth in each child.

• The school aims to foster a sense of community between management, teachers, parents, pupils and a sense of belonging to the wider community.

1.5 AdmissionJunior InfantsApplications for Junior Infant classes are made on a standard application form on an advertised date, well in advance of each school year.

Priority is given to siblings of children already attending St Brigid’s, to children who are resident in the Parish of Holy Rosary & St. Kilian at the time of enrolment and admission and to children of current staff who have reached their 4th birthday by 30th April of year of entry. Age criteria will be applied when applications

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exceed the number of places available.

Other standardsApplications to other standards should be made to the school through the school secretary.

2. ORGANISATION - Information you frequently need.2.1 School hours 9.00 a.m. – 2.40 p.m.Official opening time is 9.00 a.m. However to facilitate children who need to be dropped off earlier, gates are opened at 8.50 a.m. During this time 8.50 -9.00 am children chat in their line.

For safety reasons:• children should not be at the school gate before 8.50 am • children should not come into Convent grounds before 8.50 am• children should not be in school grounds before 8.50 am.Pupils are supervised and covered by School Insurance only during official hours 9.00 am – 2.40 pm and for activities after school sanctioned by the Board of Management.

8.50 am School gates open

9.00 am Supervision begins

9.00 am Bell rings/children line up/children collected from yard by class teachers

10.35 10.50

Sos/Morning break for ten minutes 'Little Break' is Fruit/Vegetable BreakJunior ClassesSenior Classes

12.30 pm Lón/ Lunch break for thirty minutes

1.40 pm School day ends for Junior and Senior Infants

2.40 pm School day ends for First to Sixth classes

2.2 Access to St Brigid’s There are two entrances into the school grounds. One at Trafalgar Road, and one at Kimberley Road. There is a Traffic Warden at school entrance Trafalgar Road. • Parents should not park or drive into the convent grounds to drop off or collect their children.• Convent gate is closed at 8.50 a.m. after teachers have come in. Please note children should not come in through Convent grounds before 8.50 a.m. because teachers are driving in.

For Safety Reasons The Trafalgar Road gate is closed at 9.30 a.m. (please note that this gate is not locked). The Kimberley Road gate is locked at 9.30 a.m.

For the first two weeks of the school year both gates will be reopened at 11.50 a.m. (for Junior Infants)and will be closed again at 12.15 p.m. From the beginning of the 3rd week of September both gates will be reopened at 1.30 p.m. and closed at 1.55 p.m. Both gates are opened again at 2.30 p.m. Both gates are locked at 4.10 p.m.

Please note: Greystones is now metered with frequent visits from Traffic Wardens.

2.3 Punctuality • Parents are asked to ensure that their children arrive in the school yard in time for the bell at 9.00 a.m. • Children are not permitted to go to their classroom until they are accompanied by their teacher.• A note is always required to explain a child’s late arrival.

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• Any child who comes to school after 9.00 a.m. is considered late. • Please collect your child on time as it is unfair to keep children waiting.

2.4 Where children assemble in the morningsWhen the bell rings at 9.00 a.m. children assemble in class groups in the big yard. Each teacher will accompany the children, in their class group, from yard to classroom.

2.5 Where children assemble on Wet Mornings between 8.50 a.m. and 9.00 a.m.On wet mornings, children are allowed into the school at 8.50 a.m. However, parents are asked not to come into the school hall as this causes congestion and overcrowding. In the interest of safety, it is very important not to stand in the school entrance area. Children in Junior Infants, Senior Infants and Rooms 19, 20 assemble in the hall. Children in classrooms on the top and middle lobbies should go to their classrooms. Children in Rooms 14, 15, 16, 17 also go to their classrooms.

2.6 SupervisionSupervision is provided only during official school hours and activities after school sanctioned by Board of Management. • 9.00 a.m.–1.40 p.m. (for Junior and Senior Infants)• 9.00a.m.–2.40 p.m. (for First to Sixth classes).

Pupils are supervised and covered by school insurance only during official school hours and for after-school activities that have been sanctioned by the Board of Management. The Board of Management cannot accept responsibility for children who arrive before the official opening time of 9.00 a.m. or who remain on the school premises after the official closing time at 2.40 p.m. Children enrolled in after school activities organised by the school are insured for the duration of that activity.

2.7 Reminders to parentsParents of Junior Infant children may accompany their children to the classroom for the first couple of weeks. From the beginning of fourth week of September please encourage your child to say “goodbye” to you in the yard and allow him/her to come in their class line independently when the teacher comes out to the yard to collect class.

Parents of children in other years should not accompany their children to the classroom. We want to start work promptly and also want to encourage children to grow in independence.

Please do not bring buggies or pushchairs into the school building. Please leave them in the schoolyard.

In the interest of children’s safety dogs should not be brought into the school grounds or tied to the school gates.

2.8 Collecting children Children must remain on the school premises until dismissal time. Children may not leave the school except with the written request of their parents/guardians and permission of the principal.

• Please collect your child/children on time.

• Please wait in the yard well away from school doors for your child/children to be brought out by their teacher.• Please keep doorways clear.

• When you have collected your child/children, please keep them with you. Children are not allowed to climb on gates/railings, run up and down steps or play in garden/pebbled areas while parents chat.

• For safety reasons, every child must leave the classroom at dismissal time. Children must not return to

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their classroom for any reason after their class has been dismissed.• Children should wait for their siblings and friends in the yard well away from school doors. They should not go to different lobbies to meet siblings.2.8 (a) Where to meet your child at the end of the school dayJunior and Senior InfantsJunior Infant & Senior Infant teachers will bring the children to meet you as follows:• Rooms 1 and 2 exit by the double doors at the main entrance into big school yard. • Rooms 3 and 4 exit by the double doors at main entrance into small yard (by the secretary’s office)

All other classes• Rooms 5, 6, 7 and 8, exit by the single side door into small yard.

• Rooms 9, 10, 11 and 12 exit by the double doors at the main entrance into bigger yard

• Room 14, 15, 16 and 17 exit into Kimberly Road lane• Rooms 19 and Room 20 exit smaller yard.

2.9 The school uniformChildren must: • Wear their school uniform everyday except when they have P.E. or after school physical activity. • Wear tracksuit only for P.E. and for after school physical activities organised by the school.

GIRLS BOYS Green tartan school pinafore Grey trousersGreen cardigan Green jumperWhite shirt White shirtGreen tie Green tieWhite, dark green or navy socks /tights Grey SocksOptional kilt for fifth and sixth class girls with green v-necked jumper

Shoes (Girls and Boys)• Please wear sensible shoes (preferably black/navy if possible). Laces must be tied. If children cannot tie laces Velcro is recommended. • High-heeled/and platform shoes are not allowed.• For PE suitable rubber-soled shoes are required.

Tracksuits• Green tracksuit and white polo shirt for boys and girls.• Green shorts (optional - during official Summer time).• Tracksuits are worn on PE days, for some school outings and for school activities as directed by the teacher. Tracksuit may be worn for after school physical activities which are organised by the school.

• No hoodies when in school / or school grounds

All uniform items are available from Schoolwear House at the Tesco Shopping Centre, Greystones (Phone 287 3420).

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All belongings must be clearly marked with your child’s name and room number.

Jewellery • One pair of studs may be worn in pierced ears. • One finger ring is allowed.Reminder:• No nail varnish, false nails, make-up, hair colour or hair extensions are allowed.• Long hair must be in a plait/ponytail or bun.

Valuables Children should not bring valuables to school. The school cannot accept responsibility for any valuables brought into school.

Mobile Phones: Mobile phones must always be powered off and kept in child’s school bag. All other communication devices are forbidden.

2.10 Classrooms Our School is in 3 separate blocks. There are 12 Mainstream Classrooms, a General Purpose Hall, Staff Room, Learning Support Room and 2 Offices in the main school. There are 4 Mainstream Classrooms in Seomraí Bhríd Uí Bheirne.There are 2 Classrooms in S.N.P. and 1 Mainstream Classroom adjoining S.N.P. Room 20 is in the corner beside S.N.P.

2.11 The assignment of children to classes In order to devote the whole of the school year to teaching and learning, classes for the following year will generally be assigned end of June.

The principal is responsible for the grouping of children into classes. Sometimes children are grouped into new classes for September after serious consideration, consultation with class teachers and parents, and a review of their progress and behaviour. We try to ensure that a child will have at least one friend in the new class. Usually, approximately half the children in the regrouped class will be children from their previous class. Children will rarely continue right through the school with all the children with whom they started in Junior Infants.

Why regroup children? The regrouping of children is done for educational and social reasons and to maintain a good learning environment and positive atmosphere. • Children have been regrouped into different classes over the years in St Brigid’s. • In our experience, regrouping of children has been beneficial for them. • The vast majority of children who have been regrouped speak positively of the experience. • Naturally at the beginning of the year, the children may miss friends from their previous class but parents and teachers find ways to help them adjust to being with other children, to make new friends, and to retain their ‘old’ friends.

The following criteria are used when regrouping children into classes. • Friendship.• Gender balance.

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• Behaviour. • Ability / Talent mix2.12 Composite/Mixed classesIf we have a composite (or mixed class), children are generally assigned to such classes on the basis of alphabetical order.

2.13 Children’s birthdays Celebration is a healthy and necessary part of life.Children’s birthdays are usually celebrated in school by singing ‘Happy Birthday’ in the school yard before returning to their classrooms. Parents are asked not to give out birthday invitations in school even if every child in the class is invited.Some parents, in their great generosity, send in sweets and cakes to share around the class on their child’s birthday. For a number of reasons some parents object to their children receiving sweets/cakes. Please do not send sweets/cakes to the class for your child’s birthday.

2.14 Book lists / ordersBook lists are posted out to all pupils with their school report in June. (A copy of all book lists are given to Michael Doherty, Main Street, Bray. Mr. Doherty also operates a website – www.schoolbookshop.ie – you can also place your order in the Village Bookshop Greystones.)

2.15 Book rental schemeSt Brigid’s operates a book rental scheme for all pupils, whereby pupils can rent textbooks. However, workbooks are not available to rent.

2.16 Department of Education and Science book grantThe Department of Education and Science gives a book grant to the school of approximately €11 per pupil based on the total enrolment on 30th September of the previous year. The Department intends this to be used to establish and maintain a book rental system for all the children.

2.17 Secondary School Enrolment It is essential that parents contact the secondary school of their choice to enquire about the terms and conditions of enrolment. There is no automatic entry to any secondary school from St. Brigid’s National School. The school complies with legislation requiring it to pass on information regarding a child’s educational progress to his/her next school. When enrolling your child in secondary school please inform the school if he/she has any particular learning needs or disability.

3. HEALTHY EATING3.1 Lunch-time• At St Brigid’s we encourage healthy eating. We recommend water, milk, sandwiches, vegetables and fruit. (Sweets, biscuits, chocolate, cereal bars with chocolate, popcorn, crisps, chewing gum, lollipops and nuts are not allowed.)• Sos beag is ‘fruit/vegetable break.’• Children are asked to use a reusable beaker and lunch box to minimise waste. Glass bottles are not allowed. • Cling film and tin foil are not allowed as they are difficult to recycle. • Children are asked to put peels in the compost bin. • Children are asked to take home any wrappings/cartons they may have. • Lunch time is from 12.30 p.m. to 1.00 p.m. Lunches are eaten in classroom for 15 minutes.• Children are asked to remain seated in his/her place during this period.

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• Children are asked not to bring food or drink into the yard at 12.30 - 1.00. • On returning to the classroom after lunch, children are asked to begin silent reading immediately and continue until 1.15 p.m.3.2 AllergiesIf your child is not allowed to eat a particular food, please ensure that your child understands this. Also, please inform the school in writing of any food your child is not allowed to eat or of any other things to which your child is allergic.

4. CURRICULUM 4.1 The primary school curriculumThe full Department of Education and Skills Primary School Curriculum and Revised Language Curriculum are implemented throughout the school. The Religious Education Programme – 'Grow in Love' is taught in all classes Junior Infants – 4th. Alive O is taught in 5th & 6th.The following subjects are taught:

Religious Education (Roman Catholic) Social, Environmental & Scientific Education (SESE)Language: Irish (Gaeilge), English Arts Education: Music, Visual Arts, DramaMathematics (Recorder is taught to all pupils from Second to sixth classes)Physical Education Social, Personal and Health Education (S.P.H.E.) including Stay Safe, R.S.E., Walk Tall Programme.

If you as parents/guardians have queries about any aspect of S.P.H.E. please contact class teacher or school principal.

4.2 Religious education classesReligious Education at St Brigid’s is taught in both a formal and informal way. A thirty-minute Religious Education class is given each day. In partnership with parents, priests of the parish and parish personnel, children are prepared for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Communion and Confirmation.

Pupils of all religious faiths and none are equally respected.

4.3 Physical education A specialist PE teacher begins lessons during the third week of September. Suitable plain rubber soled runners are needed for PE.

4.4 Special Needs Education St Brigid’s aims to provide a curriculum that will enable each pupil to reach his/her potential. Classroom teachers assess and monitor the progress of children in their care.

In addition to mainstream class teachers St. Brigid’s has been allocated a number of Special Education Needs teachers in preparation for the introduction of the Department of Education and Skills New Model of Educational Support in September 2017. Many of the recommendations included in the new model are already being implemented in St. Brigid’s. Mainstream teachers and Special Education Needs teachers provide blocks of intensive teaching and learning in Maths and English in Junior Classes so that the boys and girls will have a solid foundation for learning in English and Maths. These blocks of teaching and learning are called ‘Intensive Prevention’.

Educational support is also provided through Team Teaching in middle and senior classes.

Following consultation with parents and having received their consent some children who fulfil certain criteria may be withdrawn from class for individual or group work with a learning support teacher.

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Children who have been allocated Resource Hours prior to January 2017 will continue to receive their allocation.

4.5 HomeworkJunior and Senior Infants Homework is given at the discretion of the teacher and is usually based around reading activities, e.g. learning nursery rhymes, practising words, listening to stories, etc.First Class to Sixth ClassAll pupils from First to Sixth class are required to have a homework diary that parents are asked to sign each night.

Homework is given to children from Monday to Thursday. The main objectives of giving homework are:

• to help children to revise class work;

• to encourage children develop the habit of independent study;

• to form the basis for future study;

• So that parents can see how well children are doing.

• to provide opportunities for parents to be actively involved in their child’s learning.

Homework is not normally given on Fridays except in Sixth Class or if a child has not fulfilled his/her homework requirements during the week.

In general, the time a child spends on homework is as follows.

First Class 20 minutes

Second Class 20–30 minutes

Third Class 30–35 minutes

Fourth Class 40–45 minutes

Fifth Class 45–60 minutes

Sixth Class 1 hour–1 hour 15 minutesPupils are allowed to leave the books that they do not require for homework in school, as long as they are stored neatly. The school does not accept responsibility for pupils’ books left in school overnight. Please note our school insurance does not cover personal belongings/ books left in school

4.6 AssessmentThe importance of assessment within the school is recognised and a wide variety of formats both formal and informal are being used. A key part of assessment is teacher observation. Some children may need an assessment with a specialist. A psychologist from National Educational Psychological Services (N.E.P.S) assesses a small number of children each year. Parents sometimes have their child assessed through the H.S.E or with a private specialist. Parents are asked to give a copy of such an assessment to the Principal, so that relevant recommendations of the specialist can be implemented by the child’s teachers and if appropriate, an application can be made to the Special Education Needs Organiser (S.E.N.O) for SNA access.

4.7 Standardised testsIntroduction

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Schools are required to administer standardised tests during your child’s primary education in First or Second Class, in Fourth or Fifth Class and in Sixth Class. In St Brigid’s we use them every year from Senior Infants to Sixth Class.

Standardised tests are a small part of the ongoing assessment that takes place daily throughout your child’s primary schooling. When used in combination with information from other formal and informal assessment methods, standardised test results contribute to the accuracy of a teacher’s monitoring of your child. As with the other tests your child does in school, his/her result on a standardised test can be affected by how he/she feels on the test day or by worry or excitement about a home or school event. This means that each test result is an indication of your child’s achievement in English reading or Maths on that particular day.

Caution is advised against over reliance upon a single test score. A standardised test may measure a child’s performance in a particular test on a certain day, but this is not, on its own, a measure of a child’s ability.Below are the answers to some common questions parents have.

What is a standardised test?A standardised test is used to measure a child’s achievement in English Reading and Maths compared to other children throughout the country at the same class/age level. The English test gives information about how well your child can understand what he/she has read. However, this test does not gather information on your child’s written or spoken English. The Maths test finds out how well your child can use numbers for different purposes and solve Maths problems.

Are standardised tests the same as intelligence tests? No. Standardised tests are not intelligence tests.

For what are the results of the standardised tests used? • To help assess your child’s standard of English Reading and Maths.• To report to you as a parent on your child’s achievement in English Reading and Maths.

• To help your child’s teacher plan for further learning across the curriculum because your child’s achievement in English Reading and Maths is important for all his/her learning.

• To help find out if your child has learning difficulties in English Reading or Maths so that the school can put appropriate supports in place for your child.

• To help find out if your child is a high achiever in English Reading or Maths so that appropriate learning experiences can be provided for him/her.

When are standardised tests administered? • For Senior Infants, at the end of the second term.

• For all other classes during the month of May.

How will I know what the scores mean? Your child’s STen scores will be given to you in your child’s summer reports.

Understanding Sten scoresSTen scores range from 1 to 10. The table below shows what the different STen scores tell you about your child’s achievement in English reading and Maths.

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Sten score What the score means Proportion of children who get this score8-10 Well above average 1/67 Above average 1/65-6 Average 1/34 Below average 1/61-3 Well below average 1/6

If your child’s STen score is 5 or 6, you will know that his/her performance on the test is average. About one third of children in Ireland have Sten scores in this band. You can see from the table that there are also Sten scores above and below the average.

A Sten score of 1, 2 or 3 suggests that your child may have difficulties in English Reading or Maths, though one test score by itself does not give a complete picture of your child’s learning in these areas. Your child’s class teacher, in consultation with yourself and some other teachers, may decide that your child would benefit from extra support with reading and Maths. This support may be given by the learning support teacher or the class teacher. Your child’s teacher will discuss this with you.

Percentile rankA pupil’s percentile rank indicates that his or her standing in relation to other pupils in the norm group (the representative national sample of pupils at a particular class level on whom the test was standardised). A pupil achieving a percentile rank of 66 did as well as or better than 66 per cent of pupils in the norm group, and, by inference, the population which the norm group represents.

If my child’s score is high, what does this tell me?A high score on the test may suggest that your child is a high achiever in English Reading or Maths. As with low scores, one high score is not enough to confirm this. Your child’s teacher will use information from other classroom assessments to understand more clearly how well your child is doing in English Reading and Maths.

Should I share the score with my child?You know your child best. No matter what your child’s score is, you play an important role in encouraging your child to do his/her best, and in helping your child with English Reading and Maths. If the score is low and your child needs extra help with English Reading or Maths, it may be helpful to talk to him/her about this and to see the help in a positive way.

Helping my child to enjoy school and succeed in learningUsing standardised tests to gather information on your child’s achievement in English Reading and Maths can play a vital part in supporting your child’s learning. Ultimately, this support can help your child enjoy school and make the most of the many opportunities to learn, created by you and by your child’s teachers.You may find the DVD for parents “The What, Why and How of Children’s Learning in Primary School” helpful in talking to your child about working with the learning support teacher. If you don’t have a copy of the DVD, you can view it on the internet from the NCCA website homepage at www.ncca.ie. (Click on the button for Primary School Curriculum: Information for Parents.)

5. COMMUNICATION AND PARENT/TEACHER MEETINGS Good communication is the key to good relations between teachers and parents. During school year 2013/14 the Board of Management reviewed our arrangements for communication and parent teacher meetings in order to provide clarity for parents/guardians and teachers. This policy states best practice long established in St Brigid’s. BOM, Principal, Teaching Staff and Parents Association contributed to this review. This is a draft policy and the Board welcomes further comments.

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5.1 Rationale of review“Bearing in mind that communication between home and school should be frequent, open and positive, Boards in consultation with the principal and staff of the school should promote good practice for the conduct of communication between home and school (Circular 40/97) Schools are obliged to offer at least one parent/teacher meeting per school year (Circular 14/04) and to provide a written report at the end of the school year (Circular 56/11). The Board of Management

• recognises the right / need of parents to discuss their child’s progress and welfare with their child’s teacher/s

• specifically wishes to clarify arrangements for parent teacher meetings

• wishes to ensure that parent teacher meetings are effective

• wishes to prevent interruptions to teachers during preparation/ teaching time

• recognises its duty ‘To provide a safe place of work for employees’ (Cir 40/97)

• wishes ‘To take measures to prevent or minimise the risk of assaults to teachers or other staff employed in the school (Circular 40/97)

5.2 Clarity in order to maintain and enhance partnership The Board of Management and Staff of St Brigid’s are proud of our tradition of good working relationships and partnership with pupils and parents / guardians. The welfare, education, safety and happiness of our pupils is the priority of all partners in the school community. The Board of Management and Staff greatly value parental partnership, co-operation and support. All are committed to continuing good relationships and partnership. In order to maintain and enhance the partnership between parents and teachers clarity regarding arrangements for good communication is essential.

5.3 Effective CommunicationEffective communication is always based on respect, trust, openness. (Circular 40/97) and acknowledgement of different roles.

The following methods of communication are used

• From First Class, the homework notebook is used as a method of communication between teacher and parent.

• School newsletters are issued during the year to inform parents about school activities and update information.

• Emails are sent to parents.

• Text-a-Parent is used for urgent/short messages.

• Information is posted on the school website.

• Formal parent-teacher meetings are held once per year. (1st to 6th Classes in Nov. JI/SI In Jan/Feb)

• If necessary another parent teacher meeting can be arranged by phoning the school office or by writing a message in your child’s homework note book.

• Teachers sometimes contact parents particularly if concerned about a child’s academic progress, behaviour or social development.

• A written report of each child’s progress is posted to his/her home address in mid June each year. (If parents/guardians have any queries regarding their child’s end of year report Teachers will be available by prior arrangement for a short meeting to clarify the query regarding a child’s end of year report)

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• Parents are asked to give their mobile and work phone numbers and the phone number of another person who can be contacted in an emergency to the school office.

• Please check your child’s school bag for notes.

5.4 Formal Parent-teacher Meetings

• Junior and Senior Infants Meetings will take place before or after class from mid-January to mid-February

• Parent-Teacher Meeting for First to Sixth Classes during November.

• Morning meetings: 8.35 a.m. to 8.45 a.m. (P/T meetings must finish by 8.45 a.m. as classrooms must be ready for classes at 8.50 on wet mornings)

• Afternoon meetings: 2.45 p.m. to 4.00 p.m.

• On the second last Thursday of November, Parent/Teacher meetings may continue until 5.45 p.m.

5.5 When written notes from Parents are requiredA written explanation is required from a parent/guardian to explain the following.

• A child’s absence from school.

• A child’s late arrival to school for any reason.

• If a child has to leave school early for any reason. Children should not leave school early except for medical / dental / educational specialist appointments. A copy of your child’s appointment letter is required.

(A note should be left with the secretary at least one day before your child will be arriving late for school, be leaving early or be absent from school for any reason. If a child has to leave school early parent/guardian must collect child at secretary’s office where the child must be signed out.)

• If someone different is collecting a Junior & Senior Infant e.g. if they are going on a play date.

• If you are requesting a meeting with teacher or principal

• If you are concerned for your child

• Why homework was not completed

• If a child needs to stay in sickbay during lunch time or

• If somebody different is collecting a junior or senior infant e.g. if going on a play date.

5.6 MessagesParents/Guardians who wish to leave a message with a child during the school day are requested to leave it at the secretary’s office so as not to interrupt a class. Please help your child to pack his/her school bag and prepare lunch the previous night in order to minimize the need to have forgotten items delivered to your child during the school day. While we are happy to oblige in an emergency, we do not want to spend undue amounts of time running these errands during the school day.

5.7 Admitting parents/visitors to the schoolCir40/97 gives direction about Admitting Visitors / Parents to the School and states the following:

• Parents who wish to have a consultation with a class teacher should make a prior appointment with the relevant teacher by phoning the school office or through the child’s home work notebook.

• “The practice of parents approaching classrooms directly during teaching time” is not permitted. Specifically, access to teachers is on an “appointment only” basis.

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Parents/ visitors to the school please check in at school office always.

All parents/ guardians and visitors to the school must report to the school office. Parents/ Guardians or visitors should not go directly to any classroom or area of the school during the school day unless previously arranged with the principal.

5.8 An appointment is essentialA parent who wishes to arrange a meeting with a teacher or the principal is requested to make an appointment by contacting the school secretary by phone or email or through the child’s homework notebook indicating the reason for the meeting. Please ask your child to make sure teacher sees this note. Occasionally a second member of staff may attend meeting. (A teacher is responsible for his/her class from 9.00am – 2.40 pm and, therefore does not have time to engage in anything more than a greeting with parents, unless you have an appointment.

5.9 If you have a concern or query.Parents if you have a concern, query or change in home circumstances which may affect your child please inform relevant person in school.

5.10 With whom should parents make an appointment? If your concern /query relates to your child’s work/ progress please discuss your concern with your child’s class teacher. if your query relates to general school policy please discuss this with the principal.

5.11 Authorization of Board of Management to defer a meeting The Board authorises a teacher, other school employee, parent/guardian to leave/defer a meeting which she/he feels is intimidating, aggressive, inappropriate or personal. The teacher/school employee/parent/guardian should report in writing his/her experience to the Chairperson of the Board within four days of the meeting.

5.12 Maintaining and improving communicationThe Board invites your comments/suggestions regarding communication.

5.13 Other relevant Policies – please see Complaints Procedure This Communications Policy will be reviewed. This draft was approved by BOM on 13th May 2014

6. ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOLIt is vital for your child’s life skill’s training and for his/her success at St Brigid’s that her/his attendance is both regular and punctual. You should ensure that your child remains in school for the full day and that family trips are organised to coincide with the school holidays. (Dental appointments during school hours seem to be unavoidable. )

The school is legally required to notify the National Educational Welfare Board if your child has missed twenty days or more in the course of any one school year or if the principal/ class teacher is concerned about your child’s attendance.

At the end of each term, children with full attendance will be acknowledged and complimented. Children with full attendance for the year will receive a certificate on the last day of summer term and children who are only short of full attendance by one, two or three days are also acknowledged.

Please do not promise your child that he/she may come home from school if he/she is unwell. Your child

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should not come to school if he/she is sick. A number of children come to school & request to go home as early as 9.15 am. This is very disruptive to the class. If your child is sick please keep him/her at home to allow him/her to recover quickly & to avoid passing on the illness to other children & staff. Please be assured if your child becomes ill in school we will phone you.

7. SCHOOL CALENDAR The school calendar is issued in April by email and also with your child’s school report in June and gives advance notice of all holidays. Please retain the calendar and refer to it during the school year.

8. GREEN SCHOOL St. Brigid’s is a Green School. We have been awarded five Green Flags.

1st Green Flag for Litter & Waste Management Awarded in 20052nd Green Flag for Energy Awareness & Conservation Awarded in 20073rd Green Flag for Water - its Uses & Conservation Awarded in 20094th Green Flag for Sustainable Transport Awarded in 20115th Green Flag for Bio-diversity Awarded in 20146th Green Flag for Global Citizenship - Litter and Waste

9. AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIESA variety of after-school activities are available to the children in St Brigid’s for example• Swimming, from Junior infants to Sixth• Short tennis, from Senior Infants to Second Class.• Athletics, from Junior Infants to Sixth Class.• Basketball, from Third to Sixth Class.• Hurling and Football, from Third to Sixth Class.• Junior Theatre Group, for Third and Fourth Class.• Senior Theatre Group, for Fifth and Sixth Class.• Homework Club by invitation• Art, Third to Sixth Class• Science Club, First to Sixth Class• Guitar, First to Sixth Class• Yoga, Third to Sixth Class• Mandarin, Senior Infants to Fifth Class

Classes in these activities take place after school hours and details will be available in June. All classes are provided by suitably qualified personnel.

Please note the following.

• Our duty of care ends at 1.40p.m. /2.40p.m. when children are dismissed from school. Our duty of care is extended to 3.45p.m./ 4.00 p.m.(depending on the after school activity) when children undertake Board of Management-approved activities in school or on school grounds. It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that children are collected on time from after-school activities. • It is also the responsibility of parents to ensure that children who have enrolled for an after-school activity on the school grounds turn up for the activity and remain on the school grounds until the activity is finished. If children enrol for an activity at another location, e.g. Kilian House, Eire Óg, Shoreline or the athletics grounds, it is the responsibility of parents to bring their children to the correct location, supervise them and collect them on time.

Only children who enrol for an after-school activity may stay at school for that activity. A child participating

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in after-school activities may not leave the school grounds before or during the activity, e.g. between 2.40p.m. and 3.45/4.00 p.m.(depending on the after school activity).

Short tennisA parent must accompany any child who does short tennis after school on Tuesdays to Kilian House Family Centre. Children are not to be left unsupervised /unaccompanied while waiting for their coaching session. The school has no responsibility for supervision before, during or after short tennis in Kilian House. Please note that Kilian House does not provide supervision. The short tennis coach is fully occupied coaching and cannot attend to children waiting for the next class. It has been brought to the principal’s attention that some children are running on the stairs outside the centre and/or running in the car park while waiting – this is something that is of great concern.SwimmingSwimming lessons at Shoreline Leisure, Greystones are organised by the Parents’ Association and take place from 3.00p.m.–3.30p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Children attending swimming lessons must be accompanied and supervised by parents at all times while at Shoreline Leisure Pool.

AthleticsAthletics programme is held in Charlesland Sports & Recreation Park on Thursday afternoons from 3p.m. - 4 p.m. for 1st & 2nd classes and from 4 p.m. - 5 p.m. for all classes. Children are given the opportunity to learn sporting and athletics skills from experienced trainers with their classmates in an excellent facility at a low cost group rate. Parents are asked to volunteer one hour of their time per term to help supervise at the venue.

10. HEALTH AND SAFETY 10.1 Emergency exitThe single side door near the Trafalgar Road gate is an emergency exit and is connected to the School alarm. A code is used to open this door at 9.00a.m., for break times and when children are being collected by parents at the end of the school day. Children on the middle lobby enter or exit by this door. Apart from the above times, this door is closed for security reasons. In an emergency, this door is opened from the inside by pushing the green bar – this will activate the alarm.Children and adults are asked to use the main entrance when entering or exiting the school during the school day.

10.2 Exiting the hall following assembliesThe most senior class will leave the hall first, followed by all other classes. Classes from rooms 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20 exit by emergency door in the hall.

10.3 ChurchWhen in the church, children are asked to genuflect together in their own seat before leaving. For Carol Services and other such occasions, children on the right side of the church will exit by the door of the right-side chapel. Children on the left side of the church will exit by the door on the left side chapel. Children in the main aisle of the church will exit through the main doors of the church. 10.4 TrafficThe advice from Greystones Community Garda (2006) regarding traffic problem near school is that the children’s safety is paramount.• Parents should walk children to school if at all possible. • Parents should try to reduce traffic, the greater the traffic the greater the likelihood of accidents.• Parents should remember that the school gates do not open until 8.50a.m.• Gardaí will not allow parents stop on Trafalgar Road as there are double yellow lines.• Parents should park and drop children at the Kimberley Road entrance.

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• Parents should remember those using the footpaths when they park and should never park on the footpaths. • Parents should allow children from First Class upwards to walk into the school yard by themselves.

10.5 School traffic wardensChildren are asked to cross the roads only with the school traffic wardens who are on duty on Church Road and on Trafalgar Road. School traffic wardens are on dutyOn Church Rd. 8.30am – 9.10am /2.35pm – 3.00pm (Pedestrian Crossing) On Trafalgar Rd. 8.25am – 9.40am / 1.40pm – 1.55pm / 2.40pm – 2.55pm (Outside of school/ Pedestrian Crossing).

10.6 Fire drill The fire drill is practised during school hours each term.

If fire alarm rings during morning assembly time, 8.50 – 9.00 a.m. pupils remain in their line. Pupils do not approach the building. Adults/teachers will leave the building and come out to classes in yard.

If fire alarm rings during dismissal time existing fire drill procedures will be used to evacuate the building.

If fire alarm rings during after school activities person in charge of particular activity will evacuate own group.

10.7 Sickbay and first aidFirst aid arrangements are in place to care for children who sustain minor injuries in the playground. All children are expected to go out to play in the yard. In exceptional circumstances children who are feeling unwell or with a written request from a parent are allowed to stay in the bottom lobby for the duration of play time. If a child becomes unwell at school, his/her teacher may refer him/her to the principal for permission to stay in during break time.

10.8 Medication If at all possible, please organise for your child to take medication at home. In the interest of the safety of every child, children may not keep medication of any kind in his/her school bag. If a child has to take medication in school on a long-term basis, parents must seek the approval of the Board of Management to allow the child to take the medication in school. Please ensure that your child’s name and instructions for use are clearly and securely marked on his/her medication before it is handed into the secretary. Parents should fill in form if you child has a chronic condition.

10.9 Primary School Garda Programme 3 Visits for the 5th and 6th Classes

• The role of the Gardaí

• Bullying

• Stranger Danger

• Cycle Safety

• Personal Safety

• Vandalism

Junior Infants to 4th Class

• Cycle Safety

• Stranger Danger11. CODE OF BEHAVOUR

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Title

St. Brigid’s National School Code of Behaviour

Indroductory Statement

This policy was formulated by the staff, pupils, parents and BOM of St. Brigid’s N.S. Greystones.

Rationale

Our motto – Mol an Óige agus tiocfaidh síRationale of the code of behaviour

• Our code of behaviour is based on respect for oneself and others.

• We acknowledge the individuality of each child.

• We recognise the variety of differences which exist between children and the need to accommodate these differences.

• We foster an atmosphere where each child can learn.• We expect each child to respect the rights of others and to play his/her part in making the school a safe and happy place to learn.

• Teachers, the Board of Management, parents and support staff all work in partnership to ensure that all school hours are devoted to teaching and learning.

• Each teacher has responsibility for the maintenance of discipline within his/her classroom while sharing a common responsibility for good order within the school premises. The overall responsibility for discipline within the school rests with the principal.

• We acknowledge that good behaviour, especially in Junior and Senior Infants, flows from a desire to please and is based on the relationship between the child and teacher. As girls and boys grow older, we recognise that good behaviour is based on mutual respect, a sense of motivation and purposeful learning.

• We acknowledge that communication, co-operation and positive relationships between parents, teachers and others in the school contribute enormously to good behaviour.

• We acknowledge that vigilant supervision and acknowledgement of good behaviour are vital.

• Children will be reminded monthly, and as the need arises, about the school’s rules.

• A record of unacceptable behaviour is kept by class teacher.

It was necessary to revise the Code of Behaviour of St. Brigid’s N.S. because:• It is an area of concern identified by the school community.• The existing policy is due for review.• To ensure an orderly climate for learning in the school.• It is a requirement under DES Circular 20/90 on School Discipline.• It is a requirement under the Education Welfare Act, 2000, Section 23.

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Relationship of the Code of Behaviour to Characteristic spirit of the school

In St. Brigid’s N.S. we strive for co-operation between staff and pupils on a daily basis. Our mission is to enable each child to learn and develop to his/her full potential in a happy, safe and Christian learning environment. Through this mission statement and school values we aim to provide a caring, harmonious environment which aims to nurture the potential of everyone in the whole school community. We hope that this Code of Behaviour based on the principles of respect, responsibility, self-discipline, health and safety, co-operation, and the importance of learning will continue to develop positive relationships which exist in the school and act as a framework for good behaviour.

Aims

• To ensure an educational environment that is guided by our mission statement

• To foster and maintain good relationships, partnership and communication in the whole school environment including staff, parents and pupils

• To create a positive atmosphere of respect, responsibility, tolerance and consideration for others.

• To promote positive behaviour and self-discipline, recognising the differences between children and the need to accommodate these differences

• To ensure the safety and well being of all members of the school community

• To support parents and pupils in understanding school procedures that form part of the Code of Behaviour and to seek their co-operation in the application of these procedures.

• To ensure that the school rules, rewards and sanctions are implemented in a fair and consistent manner throughout the whole school.

Content of the policy

The policy is addressed under the following headings:11.1. Behaviour and learning11.2 Standards of behaviour expected in the school • What behaviour is unacceptable?11.3 Whole school approach to promoting positive behaviour • Staff • Board of Management • Parents • Pupils11.4 Positive strategies for managing behaviour • Classroom • Playground • Other areas of the school11.5 School Rules • We have basic rules to help protect your rights and to encourage responsibility • Why are school rules needed?

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11.6 Rewards and sanctions • Rewards and acknowledgement of good behaviour • Strategies for dealing with unacceptable behaviour

11.7 Procedure for notification of a pupil’s absence from school

11.8 Reference to other policies

11.9 Implementation Date

11.10 Ratification and Communication

11.1 Behaviour and Learning

A child’s good behaviour, co-operation and concentration have a very positive impact on his/her own and others’ learning and progress. Unfortunately the reverse is also true.

We are continuously monitoring the children’s behaviour. We do our best to prevent any incidences of misbehaviour/bullying while children are in our care. However as you will appreciate, it is not possible for us to deal with incidences which may arise when children are outside our care.

When there are concerns regarding a child’s emotional, social well being and development, these concerns will be discussed with the child’s parent(s)/ guardian(s) and, sometimes, assessment may be recommended.

The purpose of the Code of Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Code is to foster and maintain good relationships and a happy learning atmosphere.

11.2 Standards of Behaviour expected in the school

The Education Welfare Act, Section 23, states that the Code of Behaviour shall specify ‘The standards of behaviour that shall be observed by each student attending the school’.

What is expected of the boys and girls?All children are expected to:

• Behave in a responsible manner, to show courtesy, consideration and respect for others;

• Work diligently, make good use of their time and to refrain from interrupting others at work

• Be well-behaved, have good manners and obey all teachers and school rules;

• Have good attendance, punctuality and be proud to wear the school uniform;

• Come to school well prepared and take responsibility for their own learning.

What behaviour is unacceptable?It is unacceptable for children to behave in a way that indicates a lack of respect:

• For themselves, e.g. doing something dangerous and not giving of their best

• For others, e.g. unkind, disruptive, aggressive or bullying behaviour

• For adults, e.g. lack of courtesy; and

• For property and the environment, e.g. deliberately breaking things

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11.3 Whole School Approach in promoting positive behaviour • StaffWe, the staff of St. Brigid’s N.S., believe that the creation of a positive school learning environment, based on mutual respect between teachers and pupils, is of utmost importance. This positive ethos permeates all activities in the school and helps to form a strong sense of community. It is the policy of St. Brigid’s N.S. to actively promote good behaviour through example, honesty and courtesy. Children learn best by being rewarded. As part of our on-going efforts to promote positive behaviour time will be allocated at some staff meetings for discussion regarding implementation of this code. Staff will be given opportunities to share their experience of both positive and negative behaviour and to learn from collective wisdom.

Teachers will use various strategies to promote good behaviour including “Golden Time”, star/reward charts, stickers, homework passes, lucky dip, group competition (groups compete, if someone misbehaves other groups get extra points), extra responsibilities in class and in the school, singling out for exceptional achievements and efforts, and other incidental means of praise or reward. The school’s S.P.H.E. curriculum is used to support the code of behaviour. It aims to help children develop communication skills, appropriate ways of interacting and behaving, and conflict resolution skills including S.A.L.T (Stop, Ask, Listen, Talk).

To facilitate new members of staff to become familiar with practices within the school, discussion regarding the implementation of the code will always form part of the first staff meeting held each August/September. A copy of the code will be available to parents and teachers on the school website. The code will also be given to parents of Junior Infants.

• Board of ManagementThe Board of Management of St. Brigid’s N.S. has overall responsibility for ensuring that the code of behaviour is prepared and revised in line with current legislation.

• ParentsParents play a very important role in helping our school implement it’s code of behaviour. Evidence indicates that a good relationship between parents and the school is a very important factor in maintaining high standards of behaviour and achievement.

• PupilsPupils were consulted during the drafting of this Code of Behaviour. Their views on the formation of a Student Council were implemented. Students elected our first students council in November 2012.

11.4 Positive strategies for managing behaviour

‘The most effective methodology that teachers develop in attempting to manage challenging behaviour is to prevent it occurring in the first place’, (Managing Challenging Behaviour, Guidelines for teachers INTO 2004:5).

• Classroom

The following positive strategies are used by staff to effectively manage behaviour in the classroom - √ Class contract is drawn up with the children based on a discussion about respect, co-operation, responsibility, behaviour and learning.√ Teachers model positive behaviour and ensure pupils are frequently reminded of how they are expected to behave.√ Classroom management techniques that ensure a variety of activities, for example in S.P.H.E., Circle Time, Golden Time, Pupil of the Week, and ‘Catch them being Good!’

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• Playground√ Concise set of playground rules which emphasise positive behaviour.

At break time bells• Walk to your line.• Line up quietly.

• Other areas of the school√ When on the stairs, pupils always walk quietly in single file.

11.5 School Rules based on the principles of respect, responsibility, self discipline, health & safety, co-operation & importance of learning

School RulesWe have school rules to help you learn, be happy, safe and responsible.

School Rules1 Be respectful (to yourself, others ,the environment and property).2 Be kind3 Learn / Do your best4 Be Safe5 Be healthy6 Be tidy

No BullyingBullying in any form is strictly forbidden.If you are bullied, follow the Stay Safe Rule: say “STOP”, MOVE AWAY and TELL AN ADULT WHOM YOU TRUST. (Please see Anti- Bullying Policy)

Why are school rules needed?We have school rules to ensure that children:

• are safe and happy;• feel secure and know what is expected of them;• develop respect for themselves, others, their school an their environment;• develop their sense of responsibility and co-operation;• use their time well to learn and develop their talents; and • get on well with others

11.6 Rewards and sanctions

Rewards: At St. Brigid’s N.S. we strive to promote effort and positive behaviour by verbal acknowledgement and merits. We promote positive behaviour, where greater emphasis is placed on rewards rather than sanctions.

Rewards such as the following are given:

At Junior Level

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√ Verbal praise, stickers and stars are used.

√ Certificates are also given to children for good work and behaviour.

√ Pupils are mentioned at assembly and over the intercom.

At Senior Level

√ Praise, acknowledgement and appreciation of good behaviour.

√ Merit awards.

√ Classroom privileges.

√ More responsibility.

√ Opportunities for pursuing enjoyable interests and activities.

√ Pupils are mentioned at assembly and over the intercom.

Sanctions:

While constantly encouraging and acknowledging good behaviour, we also have to respond to any child’s unacceptable behaviour. The teacher or principal will choose a sanction which she/he considers reasonable and appropriate. Sanctions will take account of the child’s age, the seriousness of the misdemeanour and the child’s previous behavioural record.

Junior Classes procedure for dealing with unacceptable behaviour

The starting point for this process depends on the nature of unacceptable behaviour.

1. Verbal warning, communicate reason for warning and discuss ways to improve.2. ‘Time-out’ on the thinking chair for a short period.3. ‘Time-out’ twice in one day results in separation from peers to another classroom and child required to

fill in ‘Think sheet’ to be signed by parents.4. Lunchtime detention will be given from time to time (appropriate to the behaviour)5. Communication with parent.

6. If necessary, an individual reward chart will be set up for the child.7. If unacceptable behaviour persists, the teacher will refer to the Principal.

8. Contract

9. Shortened school day

10. Refer to Board of Management

Senior Classes procedure for dealing with unacceptable behaviourThe starting point for this process depends on the nature of unacceptable behaviour.

1. Verbal warning of unacceptable behaviour and advise on how to improve

2. Separation from peers in the classroom.3. Separation from peers by sending to another room and pupil required to fill in ‘Think sheet’ to be

signed by parents/ guardian.4. If a pupil receives three ‘Think sheets’ then he/she will be sent to ‘Friday Lunchtime Detention’.

5. On receiving fourth ‘Think Sheet’ the parents/ guardian will be invited to visit the school to discuss pupil’s behaviour with class teacher.

6. If pupil offends again the principal and class teacher will draw up contract with the pupil, which the pupil, along with his/her parents, will be asked to sign in the school.

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7. Referral to Board of Management and the parents will be requested to meet the chairperson, the principal, their child’s class teacher, another member of the Board of Management to discuss ways to help child improve, any breach of contract and subsequent sanctions e.g. shortened school day.

8. Temporary suspension by the Board of Management in accordance with Rule 130(5). 9. Expulsion may be considered in an extreme case in accordance with Rule 130(6).

These procedures may need to be differentiated for children with specific behavioural difficulties as appropriate.Please note:

√ For serious instances of misbehaviour a child may be suspended immediately by the principal with the written approval of the chairperson of the Board of Management. √ School staff supervise children during school hours and respond to misbehaviour. The school cannot take responsibility for children’s behaviour outside of school hours.√ Parents are advised to monitor and supervise their children’s use of the internet/social media and mobile phones.

The most effective schools are those that have good relationships with parents. Every effort will be made by the Board of Management, Principal and staff to ensure that parents are kept well informed regarding their child’s behaviour. The school provides a welcoming atmosphere towards parents. Parents are not only informed when their child behaves badly, but also when he/she behaves particularly well.

11.7 Procedure for notification of a pupil's absence from school

The Education Welfare Act, 2000, section 23 (2) (e) states that the code of behaviour must specify “the procedures to be followed in relation to a child’s absence from school”. Section 18 stipulates that parents must notify the school of a student’s absence.

Parents/Guardians must send a note informing teachers in writing of their child’s absence from school and the reason for this absence. These notes must be signed and dated by the parent/guardian. These notes will be kept by the class teacher. The teacher will fill in the standard TULSA notification form if a child misses 20 days. This is forwarded to the Educational Welfare Services.

Children who have full attendance in St. Brigid’s N.S. are acknowledged throughout the year and also during the last week of school year at an awards ceremony in their classroom.

11.8 References to other policies

The Code of Behaviour includes information from the following school plans and policies;

√ S.P.H.E. plan√ Anti-bullying√ Enrolment√ Health and Safety√ Anti Cyber Bullying Code

11.9 Implementation Date

This policy was implemented from August 31st 2012 and most recently reviewed April 2017.

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11.10 Ratification & Communication

The Board of Management officially ratified this policy in November 2012. Code is regularly reviewed. A copy of this code of behaviour is available to parents in the ‘Information Booklet’ and on Website.

12. DUTY OF CARE ST. BRIGID’S SCHOOL GREYSTONES• The Board of Management recognises that it has two duties of care. The primary duty is the protection, safety and welfare of the children attending St Brigid’s N.S. The board as an employer also has duties and responsibilities towards its employees.

• The board will adhere to the protocol in Child Protection Guidelines & Procedures, Department of Education & Science, 2011.

• The board believes that the academic, personal and social development of children flourishes in a culture where good relationships are encouraged, people feel valued and respected, and where appropriate support is available for those in difficulty.

• The board is committed to the maintenance of an environment in which children feel secure, in which they are encouraged to express themselves and in which they are listened to.

• All children in the school are made aware that there are adults in the school whom they can approach if they are worried. In addition, opportunities will be included in the curriculum for children to develop the skills they need to keep them safe.

• In the interests of children, concerns regarding abuse or neglect will be referred to TUSLA, Social Work Department, Child and Family Services, Health Centre, Glenside Road, Wicklow Town.

• The Board of Management undertakes to circulate Child Protection Policy Statement to all parents and guardians at the time of enrolment and on a regular basis thereafter.

• The policy statement regarding child protection at St Brigid’s N.S. applies to all staff, members of the Board of Management, volunteers and contractors working in the school.

• This policy statement will be subject to review at the start of each academic year forthwith.

13. CHILD PROTECTION POLICYChild Protection Policy of St. Brigid’s N.S. Greystones

The Board of Management recognises that child protection and welfare considerations permeate all aspects of school life and must be reflected in all of the school’s policies, practices and activities. Accordingly, in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Education and Skills’ Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post Primary Schools, the Board of Management of St. Brigid’s Greystones has agreed the following child protection policy:

1. The Board of Management has adopted and will implement fully and without modification the Department’s Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post Primary Schools as part of this overall child protection policy. 2. The Designated Liaison Person (DLP) is the Principal.3. The Deputy Designated Liaison Person (Deputy DLP) is Ms. Mary Beausang. 4. In its policies, practices and activities, St. Brigid’s Greystones will adhere to the following principles of

best practice in child protection and welfare:

The school will

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• recognise that the protection and welfare of children is of paramount importance, regardless of all other considerations;

• fully co-operate with the relevant statutory authorities in relation to child protection and welfare matters • adopt safe practices to minimise the possibility of harm or accidents happening to children and protect

workers from the necessity to take unnecessary risks that may leave themselves open to accusations of abuse or neglect;

• develop a practice of openness with parents and encourage parental involvement in the education of their children; and

• fully respect confidentiality requirements in dealing with child protection matters.

5. The following school policies, practices and activities are particularly relevant to child protection:- The Code of Behaviour, Anti-bullying Policy, Anti Cyber Bullying Policy, Pupil Attendance Strategy, Supervision of Pupils, Sporting Activities, School Outings, SPHE, Record Keeping. The Board has ensured that the necessary policies, protocols or practices as appropriate are in place in respect of each of the above listed items.

6. This policy is on the school web site and has been made available to school personnel and Parents. A copy of this policy will be made available to the Department of Education & Skills and the Patron if requested.

7. This policy was last reviewed by the Board of Management March 2017.

13 (A) Garda Vetting

All employees, volunteers and those on work experience in school must be Garda Vetted prior to working / volunteering. Parents who volunteer to help in any capacity in the school must have been Garda Vetted for particular role before they begin assisting in the school.

Garda Vetting Invitation forms are available from the Secretary’s Office or on the School Website. These forms must be returned to the Principal for signing. Photographic identification must also be submitted to the Principal with Garda Vetting Forms. Please see school website for more details.

13 (B) Cyber Safety

Parents are requested to supervise their children in order to prevent upset/ hurt through unkind, inappropriate use of social media.

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14. COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

CPSMA / INTO Agreed Parental Complaints Procedure:

Parental complaints procedure - Introduction Only those complaints about teachers which are written and signed by parents/guardians of pupils may be investigated formally by the Board of Management, except where those complaints are deemed by the Board to be:

1. on matters of professional competence and which are to be referred to the Department of Education;2. frivolous or vexatious complaints and complaints which do not impinge on the work of a teacher in a

school;3. complaints in which either party has recourse to law or to another existing procedure.

Unwritten complaints not in the above categories may be processed informally as set out in Stage 1 of this procedure.

Stage 11.1 A parent/guardian who wishes to make a complaint should approach the class teacher with a view to

resolving the complaint.

1.2 Where the parent/guardian is unable to resolve the complaint with the class teacher she/he should approach the principal teacher with a view to resolving it.

1.3 If the complaint is still unresolved the parent/ guardian should raise the matter with the chairperson of the board of management with a view to resolving it.

Stage 22.1 If the complaint is still unresolved and the parent/guardian wishes to pursue the matter further she/he

should lodge the complaint in writing with the chairperson of the board of management.

2.2 The chairperson should bring the precise nature of the written complaint to the notice of the teacher and seek to resolve the matter between the parties within 5 days of receipt of the written complaint.

Stage 33.1 If the complaint is not resolved informally, the chairperson should, subject to the general authorisation

of the Board and except in those cases where the chairperson deems the particular authorisation of the Board to be required:

(a) supply the teacher with a copy of the written complaint; and

(b) arrange a meeting with the teacher and where applicable, the principal teacher with a view to resolving the complaint. Such a meeting should take place within 10 days of the written complaint.

Stage 4. 4.1 If the complaint is still not resolved the chairperson should make a formal report to the Board within 10

days of the meeting referred to in 3.2(b).

4.2 If the Board considers that the complaint is not substantiated the teacher and the complainant should be so informed within 3 days of the Board meeting.

4.3 If the Board considers that the complaint is substantiated or that it warrants further investigation it proceeds as follows:

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(a) The teacher should be informed that the investigation is proceeding to the next stage;

(b) The teacher should be supplied with a copy of the written evidence in support of the complaint;

(c) The teacher should be requested to supply a written statement to the Board in response to the complaint;

(d) The teacher should be afforded an opportunity to make a presentation of case to the Board. The teacher would be entitled to be accompanied and assisted by a friend at any such meeting;

(e) The Board may arrange a meeting with the complainant if it considers such to be required. The complainant would be entitled to be accompanied and assisted by a friend at any such meeting;

(f) The meeting of the board of management referred to in (d) and (e) will take place within 10 days of the meeting referred to in 3.1(b)

Stage 5

5.1 When the Board has completed its investigation, the chairperson should convey the decision of the Board in writing to the teacher and the complainant within 5 days of the meeting of the Board.

5.2 The decision of the Board shall be final.

5.3 This Complaints Procedure shall be reviewed after three years.

5.4 CPSMA or INTO may withdraw from this agreement having given the other party 3 months’ notice of intention to do so.

15. TRUSTEES & MANAGEMENT

15.1 The patron, the trustees, the parish and the Board of Management Archbishop Diarmuid Martin, as leader of the Catholic community in the Archdiocese and as patron has ultimate responsibility for St Brigid’s Primary School. The Archbishop delegates some of his responsibility to the Board of Management. The Board of Management is responsible to him and does its utmost to provide a caring, welcoming, safe and happy learning environment in St Brigid’s. The board is responsible for the staffing, planning and maintenance of the school.

St. Brigid’s is one of the three Catholic primary schools in the Parish of Holy Rosary & St Kilian.

The vision of the Parish of Holy Rosary & St Kilian is as follows.We the parishioners of Holy Rosary & St Kilian’s desire to become a parish where caring for one another in the way Jesus taught us will be recognised as the basis for everything else we do.

15.2 Members of the Board of Management 2015–2019 Mr Tom Sherlock, chairperson/patron’s nominee Ms Laura Cuddihy, patron’s nominee Principal Teacher Ms. Orla Teehan, nominated by the teaching team Ms Aoife Cuddy, mother, nominated by the parents Mr Conor Loftus, father, nominated by the parents Mr Liam McCabe, representative of wider community Ms Bairbre Murphy, representative of wider community

15.3 School Chaplain, a priest / parish pastoral worker from Holy Rosary & St Kilian Parish

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16. PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

We value the involvement of parents at St Brigid’s. All parents of children at the school form the Parents’ Association (PA). The Parents’ Association works in close partnership with the Board of Management and the teaching team to promote the interests of the children and the involvement of parents in the school.

The committee, which serves the association, is formed each September at the annual general meeting. The aims of the association are:

• to represent the views of parents;• to inform parents of developments in education;• to foster co-operation between parents, teachers and school management; and• to organise events which are of interest to parents or children.

St Brigid’s Parents’ Association is affiliated to the National Parents Council which has a voice in the national decision-making process with the Department of Education and Science, management bodies, teachers’ representatives and other relevant groups.

The Parents’ Association organises various committees, such as those for catering, swimming, athletics, fundraising, the library, cleaning the school desks, the shop and gardening. Parents who volunteer to help in any capacity in the school must have been Garda Vetted for particular role before they begin assisting in the school.

16.1 Parents involvement in the schoolApart from various committees, many parents are involved as individuals in the school. Some parents like to help with reading and activities. We greatly appreciate and welcome this help. The class teacher may give you an opportunity to volunteer on a rota basis. Help from parents is invaluable in many areas of the school, for example with classroom activities, walks, swimming, sports day, school shop and school tours. Parents are asked to fill in a form so that they can be Garda vetted if they are to have unsupervised access to children.

The Board of Management, principal and staff are most grateful for all the help the school receives from parents. We look forward to seeing you at parents’ meetings, sports days, plays and concerts.

16.2 St Brigid’s coffee morning

16.3 Information from the Parents Association Various Roles - A brief outlineSwimming Co Ordinator

• Manage the two swimming slots that St. Brigid’s has in the Shoreline Leisure Centre.• Allocate places to 60 swimmers - 120 in total. Liaise with the Schools Co-ordinator in Shoreline.• Arrange our annual enrolment day in September for Term 1. Manage the waiting lists so that places can be filled during the year. Manage re-enrolment for terms 2 & 3.• Collect swimming fees

Fundraising• Each year parents are asked for a Voluntary Contribution of €85 per family • The Fundraising Committee meets and discusses possible events which will hopefully attract the parents’ attention and provide a way to meet other parents in a social atmosphere, gathering much needed funds for the school. We try to gauge the mood of the various activities which we bring to the table. They are then presented to the PA for further discussion/agreement/rejection. Approval of Board of Management is then sought.• It is a great way to meet other parents. Children come to realise the effort that goes into making the school the success it is.

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CateringThe Catering Team organises tea and coffee after meetings and the school and various events throughout the year.Duties Include:• Purchasing any supplies needed for events.• Ensuring the Parish hall is booked where necessary.• Contacting parent (via letter, email or text) to look for volunteers to help at and bake for events.• Setting up and decorating the Parish hall for events and coordinating other committees and volunteers helping at these events.• Organising to have catering supplies and tables brought to the hall for events and to the school for tea/ coffee evenings.• Organising food and drinks for the Parents’ Association Thank You evening.Events are as follows:September:• Welcome Tea for all first day parents on the first day of the Autumn Term (morning) – tea/coffee and biscuits.• AGM (evening) – tea/coffee and biscuits.• Information Evening for Junior Infant Parents (evening) – tea/coffee and biscuits.May:• Communion Teas (usually Saturday, day time) – tea/coffee, home bakes and treats for Communion children and their families.• Confirmation Teas (usually Friday, day time) – tea/coffee, home bakes and treats for children making Confirmation and their families.June:• Thank You Evening for parents, staff and BOM – cheese/dips/nibbles and drinks.• Graduation Mass Teas (evening) – tea/coffee, home bakes and treats for the children graduating.

Any other events requested by Principal.

Athletics• St Brigid’s athletics sessions take place on Thursdays at 2 - 3 pm, 3 - 4 pm at Shoreline Sports Park,

Charlesland. To allow the maximum number of children (45) at the 2-3pm session, there may be a requirement to have a parents rota for toilet supervision. Parents on such a rota must have been Garda Vetted.

• Activities include long jump, high jump, hurdles, javelin, shot put, discus, hammer, plyometrics, ladder drills, fun orienteering, archery, rock wall climbing and rounders.

• All activities help to increase the child’s sporting abilities in a fun environment. Children develop key skills such as balance, hand to eye co-ordination and posture, and benefit from participating in many sporting activities in a relaxed atmosphere.

School Stationery Shop • The shop is located on the bottom lobby and is open four mornings a week: Mon - Thurs from 9.00 -

9.30am. Children are encouraged to buy copies in the school shop because of their suitability and quality. • There is a rota system, where each person works one morning a week for a month, every second month.

Each person has a copy of the rota with all the names and contact numbers.• If you cannot attend on your assigned day, you please try to swap with someone else on the list for

that month. Access to the shop is through the Principal's office. The keys are available from Principal/Secretary if the door is locked.

• Full training is provided for all new volunteers.• The shop sells all the school copies and stationary needed by the children. It does not sell school books. All

the items on the shelves are individually priced and there are copies of price lists on the wall for reference.

Duties are as follows:

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• If possible check the cash in the box with the previous days closing balance before you start.• Count the cash at the end and complete the reconciliation in the book provided. This book of records:

the date, the balance carried forward, the intake of the day, the closing balance and an amount to bank if the closing balance is in excess of €40. Initial the entry.

An optional school stationery order form will be sent home with the children in June allowing the option of placing this order through the school shop directly. If parents wish they can order the stationery which will then be delivered to the children directly in the first week in September.

• Any money to be banked is to be given to the secretary in the office.• Check the stock of the items and if an item is low in stock ask the secretary to order it.• Check that there are sufficient coins of each denomination and if low ask the secretary to order from the bank.

Library• Tuesday’s from 9am-11am (1st to 6th Class)• August - From School Secretary get new class information, new list of class teachers, children and room numbers for 1st - 6th class.• August - New library cards to be made for the incoming 1st class with their name and room number - yellow for girls / blue for boys.• In the library card box all the cards have to be adjusted with correct room numbers.• Check the current rota list and text each helper (if they can help again for the new term).• Once this is done compile a new rota list of parents with mobile numbers and email addresses.• Set up Rota for term Sep - Dec and then a new rota from Jan - May and distribute.• Start the library mid Sept and finish last week of November as hall is then used for Christmas play etc.• Start the library mid Jan to May taking into account no library at midterm or Easter• Library closes end of May. Hall in use for school plays etc.• Library books to be maintained and any delivery of new books to the school have to be covered and set up so they can be used in the library or distributed to the classes.

Gardening• Involves assisting in upkeep of the school garden. • Bi-annual clean up. • Seasonal activities in classes to encourage knowledge of gardening and plants.

16.4 St. Brigid’s National School Parents’ Association Constitution1. St. Brigid’s National School is proud to have a pro-active Parents’ Association (PA). The support parents

provide is an essential part of the life of the school and their involvement and contribution is strongly encouraged. In every successful organisation grass roots participation makes a real difference. Joining the Parents’ Association is a great way to become involved in school activities, learn about the day to day running of the school and establish a vital network among parents.

2. The PA role and aims are• To foster a spirit of co-operation between parents, teachers and school management• To provide a channel of communication between parents, teachers and school management• To provide a forum for discussion on issues of interest or concern and an opportunity to raise such items• To manage the fund raising activities on behalf of parents for utilisation as determined by the Board of Management (BOM)• To assist in the provision of Extra Curricular activities• To undertake appropriate initiatives for the benefit of the school and students

General Meetings1. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the members shall be held once a year during September / October. Parents/Guardians shall be given a minimum of one week’s notice of the date, time and location of the meeting.

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2. An Extra-Ordinary General Meeting (EGM) may be held at the request of not less than fifty-five (55%) percent of parents. The request to hold an EGM must be made in writing to the Secretary of the Association stating the reason for the meeting. 3. The Committee may call an EGM at any time. 4. Parents shall be given at least one week’s notice in writing of an EGM.5. Notices to parents/guardians will be deemed to have been served by giving them to their children attending the school. These notices should also be posted on the school internet site.

MembershipMembership of St. Brigid’s National School Parents’ Association is open to all Parents/Guardians of children attending St. Brigid’s.

The PA Committee Structure and MeetingsAt the AGM a minimum of four members shall be elected to represent Parents/Guardians on the Committee. In addition to the elected members, the Committee shall comprise of three (2) Delegates to the National Parents’ Council elected at the AGM, two elected parents from the Board of Management and one representative from each sub-committee. Also, a Parent Year Rep should attend each meeting,. ** (see next page). The School Principal and Teachers’ Representative(s) are ex-officio members of the Committee. Committee meetings will normally be held each month during the school year. The meeting schedule shall be published each September. During the first meeting of the in-coming Committee after the AGM, the following officers shall be elected by formal nomination. Should the need arise, a secret ballot may be held.

CHAIRPERSON VICE-CHAIRPERSON SECRETARY TREASURER The term of the Officers shall be for two (2) years. All sub-committee members are invited to attend the monthly PA meetings throughout the year.

The Sub-Committees • Athletics• Catering• Fundraising• Gardening• Library• Shop• Swimming• Year Book

Parents who volunteer ad hoc support will form the PA Panel and will be contacted to provide support for specific once-off / occasional events as required. ***(see below)

Class RepresentativesClass Representatives are responsible for assisting with the flow of communication between the school and the parents as requested by Principal. Every class at St. Brigid’s has two parent class representatives, ideally a parent of a boy and a parent of a girl in that class.

The Class Contact list:The Class Contact list is a list of contact details (name, mobile, email) for parents of each child in the class. This list is invaluable for party invitations which are not allowed to be given out at school.

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The Role of the class rep• Managing the Contact List:Parents have the option to give consent for sharing contact details at registration. However, the box is not always ticked, so the class reps need to follow up with any parents whose details are missing from the previous year’s contact list. Bear in mind that some parents may choose not to be on this list.• Spread the word:Share monthly mails about what was discussed at the PA meeting; . Encourage fellow parents to make use of school website.

• Organise one or two social evenings a year for your year.• Encourage class parents to give a hand where they can:

There are certain events at St. Brigid’s which a particular year is expected to take care of such as:Junior Infants Junior Infants photos (co-ordination)Serving Tea to the incoming Junior Infant parents on an evening in June

Senior Infants Tea (in school hall) for JI parents on first day of school

1st Class and 3rd Class (along with the Catering Team)Communion Teas served after the Communion Masses at the Parish Hall - May

5th Class – (along with the catering Team) Confirmation and Graduation Teas (served in the Parish hall after the masses) – May/June

6th class Prepare and present year book for Graduation.Ideally class reps assume the role for a two-year period, with one rep stepping down yearly for another to replace them this way there is always an ‘experienced’ class rep on hand.

17. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

17.1 Margaret Aylward – Foundress Sisters of Holy FaithMargaret Aylward was born at 11 Thomas Street in the city of Waterford on 23rd November 1810. Waterford is beautifully situated on the southern bank of the Suir river and when Margaret was growing up it was a very, very busy port. Her father was a wealthy port merchant and owned his own ships for exporting the bacon which had been salted and packed in many factories on the quayside. He was a fervent Catholic and was more than kind both to his own workers and to the poor.

Margaret was a pretty child with dark blue eyes and an abundance of golden brown hair. At that time there were no schools for Catholic children so Margaret was sent to a small private school run by two kind Quaker ladies. The Quakers were very good and gentle people. They loved God and respected others. Margaret loved the stories they told about Jesus and His miracles. Sometimes they allowed the children to draw little pictures of these stories.

On her way to and from school Margaret could not but notice the sad life led by poor children. They had no schools as the government did not provide schools for the Catholic children in those days. Uneducated, hungry and barefoot, these little ones stood outside shops and at street corners, begging from the passers-by. Their white faces, thin bodies and outstretched hands never left Margaret’s memory. She confided her pity for them to her father who encouraged the generosity of her kind heart in sacrificing her ‘sweet’ money. Very often he gave her extra money in order to increase her joy in giving.

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Long before the terrible famine of 1847 the Irish poor suffered greatly from lack of food. In England the rulers were deaf to the words of Grattan, a good Irish leader, when he spoke out boldly in Parliament about the sad plight of the Irish people. The barefooted begging waifs in Waterford got some food, but in country areas the poor had no food whatever, except boiled nettles. They died in large numbers.

Many famous Irishmen visited Margaret’s home in Thomas Street, including Daniel O’Connell, who was a frequent visitor. Brother Rice, the founder of the Christian Brothers, also came – Margaret’s “Uncle Murphy”, now Brother Joseph, had been one of the first to join Brother Rice’s new Order. Margaret loved Brother Rice because he had opened schools for the poor Catholic boys of Waterford. She herself left home at the age of ten to become a boarder in the Ursuline Convent, Thurles, where she completed her education.

On her return to Waterford Margaret lost no time in coming to the aid of the poor children who had often formed the subject of her dreams. Not knowing how or where to start, she offered to help the Presentation Sisters in their over-crowded classrooms. She also visited the homes of the poor and helped them in every possible way.

In 1840 Margaret’s father died and her brother took over the business. Her own health had begun to cause worry and on her family’s advice she came to Dublin to consult a doctor. She lived with her brother John at the Manor house, Clontarf. The years 1845 to 1850 were the worst in Irish history – years of famine, fever, poverty and emigration. In Dublin Margaret saw greater poverty than she had ever seen in Waterford.

Margaret joined the Ladies of Charity, a group of ladies who were attached to the St. Vincent de Paul Society. In a short time she obtained permission from Cardinal Cullen to set up a branch of the Association in the inner city where the poverty was greatest. She and her companions visited the hovels of the poor, comforted the sick and dying , fed and clothed poor families in the slum dwellings.

Little children, some of them ill and handicapped and orphaned by the famine, made the greatest appeal to Margaret’s love and charity. Most of them had been picked up by the Poor Law workers and placed in the poor House. Here, brothers and sisters were separated from each other. Everything was done to deprive them of their Catholic faith. At the tender age of twelve or so they were sent as stable boys and scullery maids to the Big Houses of the gentry. Margaret said sadly, “There is no law for the Catholic orphan”. Full of concern for the unwanted, unloved little ones, Margaret and her friends worked and prayed. At that time her confessor was Fr. John Gowan, a Vincentian priest. To him she confided her love and fear for the orphans. God gave them a brilliant and unusual idea – to found an orphanage with a difference! After a special meeting between Cardinal Cullen, Margaret and the other Ladies of Charity, St. Brigid’s Orphanage was founded. The idea was that the children would not be housed in a big institution but with foster-parents in the country, where they would have freedom, loving parents, brothers and sisters, school friends and pets!Once the idea of St. Brigid’s Orphanage was put before the people, money came from all parts of Ireland. An office was opened at 46 Eccles Street. Good foster-homes were found outside the city, mainly in south Co. Dublin and in Wicklow. The first child was received in January 1857, and in a few months the Ladies had seventy children in their care. Margaret was careful to see that brothers and sisters were kept together with the same foster-mother. The orphans went to the local school and made new friends. The delicate ones regained health and strength in the pure air of the countryside.

This new system of fosterage made great demands on Margaret so she and a few of the Ladies devoted themselves completely to the care of the orphans. They called themselves Daughters of St. Brigid and took up residence at 46 Eccles Street, leaving their companions to work with the poor in the inner city. They visited the foster-homes frequently to make sure that every little child was happy and well cared for. They advertised widely for help and their work depended completely on voluntary subscriptions. The number of orphans increased. Margaret and her companions prayed much together and God blessed them in every way.

The year 1859 brought a very great cross. A poor Catholic workman called Henry Matthews fell ill and was dying in Sir Patrick Dun’s Hospital. He begged of his great friend Fr. McCabe to place little daughter Mary,

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then aged four, in a Catholic orphanage. The child’s mother, Maria Matthews, had left her husband some years before while they lived in London and had gone to the West Indies. She was not a Catholic. She lived an immoral life, so Henry returned to his friends in Dublin. After Henry’s death in 1858 Fr. McCabe brought little Mary to St. Brigid’s and Margaret placed her with a kind foster-mother from Saggart called Mrs. Kenny.

Sometime later Maria Matthews was expelled from the West Indies for misconduct. She returned to London and, on hearing of her husband’s death, she came to Dublin and began to make enquiries about Mary. A Mr. Heffernan, friend of the orphans, was fully aware of the dying wish of Henry Matthews. He sent a lady to Mrs. Kenny with a letter supposed to have been written by Miss Aylward, saying that she wished to remove the child. This lady brought Mary to Mr. Heffernan who kept her in his own house for some time. However, when he had heard that Miss Aylward had received notice from a solicitor demanding the child, he took her to Belgium where, at his own expense, he placed her in a convent boarding school.

When Margaret received the notice from the solicitor she was very distressed. She went immediately to Mrs. Kenny to discuss the matter with her but found to her dismay the Mary had been taken away. Mrs. Kenny did not know the lady who had called but she had been assured that the child would be in safe keeping. She showed Margaret the letter which the lady had brought. Margaret was then ordered to appear in court.

The court case dragged on until November 1860. As Margaret had not removed the child the judge could not convict her but nevertheless he condemned her to six months in prison. She was brought to Grangegorman – then a prison as well as a mental home – and was kept in a small dark airless room separated by only a partition from the prison ward. No words could describe what Margaret suffered in both mind and body. Her door was kept locked night and day, and this sensitive and gently-raised lady had to endure the screams and moans of the poor suffering patients. But what pierced her heart most was the sobbing of little innocent children. In those days there were no drugs to quieten insane people. They were strapped to their beds or beaten to keep them from giving trouble. The cold, the hunger and the lack of fresh air all injured Margaret’s health. Her teeth fell out, she got ulcers on her legs, and all her joints were swollen so that she could not cut her bread. She suffered and prayed for her loved orphans and for more helpers so that she could open schools for the Catholic poor in the slum areas of the city.

As for the child Mary Matthews, when the time came for her to leave school and return to Ireland she refused. She entered the convent of the sisters who had reared and educated her. Margaret Aylward always treasured the photo of Mary taken on the day of her profession. She also treasured a gift she received from Pope Pius 1X while she was still in prison. It was a beautiful cameo brooch showing the head of St. Peter, cut in precious stone and set in gold.

Margaret’s sufferings and prayers were very pleasing to God, and as soon as she left the prison many more helpers joined in the work. Now she was able to satisfy her desire to open schools for the poor. The first one was ready in 1861. She realised also that only nuns could give full attention to the orphanage work. The Daughters of Charity, whom she had invited to Dublin from France, would not accept her fosterage system. She went in sorrow to give Cardinal Cullen the disappointing news. Both he and Fr. Gowan advised her to form her small group of dedicated helpers into a religious congregation. Her companions were overjoyed, and after much prayer and a special audience with the Holy Father in Rome Margaret consented to founding the new order. Already known as the Daughters of St. Brigid, they now became the Sisters of the Holy Faith.Many other schools opened in the poorest parts of the city. Margaret would never allow them to be called “poor schools”. They were St. Brigid’s Catholic Schools, out of respect for the children she loved. Not only did she provide education; every morning in each school a hot breakfast a awaited the pupils. “It is our principle”, she wrote, “to treat the poorest child, however neglected, with respect and to see in each one Jesus Christ Himself, the Son of God”.

Glasnevin became the Mother House of the Holy Faith Sisters in 1865 and Margaret worked hard organising the Orphanage and schools until her death on 11th October 1889. For the last two years of her life she was an invalid and the Sisters were greatly encouraged by her love of prayer, her humility, her patience is suffering

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and her interest in the orphans and the pupils.

Since then the Sisters have carried the Good News and the spirit of their foundress to many parts of the world. Today they work in the Third World and in Third World situations, helping the poor and making them aware of the precious treasure they possess – their holy faith!

QUESTIONS 1. What words would you use to describe the kind of person Margaret Aylward was?2. How did God speak to / call Margaret Aylward?3. What are the needs which we see in Ireland today?4. Does the life of Margaret Aylward remind you of anyone else’s life story? Whose?5. How does her story challenge you in your life?

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES1. Encourage the children to draw a series of pictures depicting the life of Margaret Aylward. Perhaps a wall

frieze could be made of these.2. Having told the story of Margaret Aylward ask the children to make up and act out a play on a particular

part of her life.3. Ask the children to make a cardboard copy of the Holy Faith motto and decorate it – “This is the victory

that overcomes the world, our faith”. 4. Have the children work in pairs – one child pretending to be Margaret Aylward, the other child interviewing

her about her life and work. 5. Ask the children to pretend they are poor children in the time of Margaret Aylward. Ask them to write their

story and tell how they felt before meeting Margaret Aylward and afterwards.

17.2 St. Brigid’s National School St. Brigid’s is a Roman Catholic co-educational school that was first established in 1906 by the Holy Faith Sisters to provide Catholic education for the children of Greystones. Until 1999, St. Brigid’s educated girls from Junior Infants to Sixth Class and boys from Junior Infants to First Class. In September 2000, St. Brigid’s became a fully co-educational vertical school – Junior Infants to Sixth Class. On 1st October 2001, the day-to-day management of St. Brigid’s was transferred by the Sisters of Holy Faith to the parish of Holy Rosary and St. Kilian. 17.3 Our patron saintWe celebrate the feast of St Brigid on the first day of February, which was an important Celtic feast as it is the first day of spring. St Brigid was born at Faughart near Dundalk, Co. Louth, in 451 AD, nearly 1,600 years ago. Bhi conaí uirthí in éineacht lena h-athair, Dubhtach. Níor chreid seisean i nDia ach bhí a mháthair, Brocessa, ina Críostaí. D’oibrigh Bríd agus a máthair go dian dícheallach ar an bhfeirm ó mhaidin go h-óiche. Ghuígh siad fad is a bhí siad ag obair.

Brigid showed great love and kindness to the poor. She and seven others set up a convent in Cill Dara (now Kildare), which means ‘church of the oak’. The nuns also had a farm where they ploughed fields, milked cows, fed hens and ducks, and took care of all the farm animals. Brigid also took care of the sick and dying and one story tells of how she explained the story of Calvary to a dying man as she wove a cross from rushes.

Brigid died when she was around seventy years old. Before she died, she was the Mother Abbess of about 13,000 nuns. There is a statue of her in France and many other places holding a book in one hand and a quill pen in the other, which shows that she is a patron saint of learning. This is why our school is named after her. She is also the patron saint of farming. Go raibh maith agat a Íosa, do Naomh Bríd agus na naoimh go léir.

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18. APPENDIX Appendix 1Benefits of ReadingChildren who read at least 20 minutes per day make more progressPlease encourage your child to read. It is essential that children read every day if they wish to progress. The following information clearly shows the benefits of reading.

Student A Reads Student B Reads Student C Reads

20 minutes per day 5 minutes per day 1 minute per day

3,600 minutes per school year 900 minutes per school year 180 minutes per school year

1,800,000 words per year 282,000 words per year 8,000 words per year

Scores in the 90th percentile Scores in the 50th percentile Scores in the 10th percentile on standardised tests on standardised tests on standardised tests

Appendix 2Our School PrayerThis is our school.

Let peace dwell here.Let the rooms be full of contentment.

Let love abide here.Love for one another,

Love for humankind and nature,Love for life itself,And love for God.Let us remember

That as many hands build a house,So many hearts make a school.

Appendix 2 (a)The St. Brigid’s N.S. PledgeRespect yourself and others,

The environment and property too,Be kind to everybody,

And learn things old and new.

Be safe and sound all the time,Eat healthy fruit and veg,

Tidy up after yourself,That’s the St. Brigid’s pledge!

le Rang a Cúig, Seomra 12, Márta 2017

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INSIDE BACK COVER

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