Dangan NS - Parent Newsletter

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The boys and girls are very excited as we count down to the Christmas holidays. There has been wonderful energy around the school in recent weeks with Chritmas Art activities, GAA training for the younger classes, Gymnastics lessons with Liam, Peace Proms practice, play rehearsals, and continued Peadar Lehane training ahead of the finals this Friday. Our decorations are up, and the children have been doing so well as they prepare for their Christmas performances and enjoy the many activities happening throughout the school.

We recognise that this time of year looks different for every family, and we want all pupils to feel included and supported, whatever traditions they may or may not celebrate.

We ask that parents remain mindful of the diverse beliefs among our families at this time of year. While some children may not embrace the same traditions as others, we ask that there be no mention of what is “not real,” especially regarding the more magical aspects of Christmas. It is a good opportunity to remind your child to be thoughtful and considerate when speaking with others about Christmas.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to the busy and joyful weeks ahead.

Please take a moment to read the following updates and reminders.

Many thanks,

Ms Ryan

Important Dates this term

• 11th December - Peace Proms Rehearsal in Dublin (12:30-2 pm - 3rd-6th Class)
• Christmas Plays - Monday Afternoon 15th Dec (Mrs. Prendergast's, Ms Forde's, Ms Walsh's & Ms Payne's Classes)
• Christmas Plays - Tuesday 16th December between 9am & 2:40pm (1st - 6th Class)
• Special Visitor 🎅 - Wednesday 17th December
• Nasal Flu Vaccinations - Thursday 18th December
• Christmas Holidays - Friday 19th December @ 12pm

The school flu vaccinations will take place on Thursday, 18th December. If you have already given consent for your child to receive the flu nasal vaccine but now wish to withdraw that consent, please email the school office as soon as possible so this can be updated. The school office email address can be found below.

Please be mindful that parking is limited. In the interest of being able to maximise the amount of collection points in the school for drop off and collection, we would kindly ask that you minimise large gaps when parking in front of or behind other cars as we have limited space available for collection and drop off.

Also, please be mindful of where you are parking when dropping and collecting your child, please do not park up on our neighbours grass or in front of their entrance gates.

A huge well done to the boys’ and girls’ Peader Lehane teams on reaching the final this Friday! We are incredibly proud of all the children for their hard work, commitment, and teamwork throughout the competition.

The final will take place in Boardsmill, with the girls’ match kicking off at 11:00 a.m. and the boys’ match following at 12. We wish both teams the very best of luck and know they will represent the school brilliantly!

In Ireland, all schools follow strict Child Protection Procedures set out by the Department of Education and TUSLA to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every child. On our school website, at the link provided here, you will find a short explainer for parents outlining the key points of these procedures, along with a link to our school’s full Child Protection information.

How Parents Can Help Make

Every School Day Count: (Advice from Tusla)

• Establish a good routine in the mornings and evenings so your child is prepared for the school day ahead.
• Make sure your child goes to school regularly and follows the school rules.
• Ensure your child arrives at school on time – not late.
• Arrange dental and medical appointments outside school hours when possible.
• Always inform the school if your child is absent due to illness – this should be followed up with a written note when your child returns to school.
• Take truancy seriously – if your child is not attending school as you expect they may be putting themselves at risk – Who are they with? What are they doing?
• Take family holidays outside term time.
• Talk to your child about school and take an interest in their school work (including homework).
• Attend parent evenings and school events.
• Praise and reward your child’s achievements at school.
• Always support school staff in their efforts to control difficult or challenging behaviour.
• Discuss any problems or difficulties with the school – staff are there to help and will be supportive.

Kindly find our contact information provided below. For the latest updates on your child and their class activities, we invite you to stay connected through our school website.

Email: office@dangannationalschool.ie
Website: www.dangannationalschool.ie
Location: Clonmahon, County Meath, A83 HN83, Ireland
Phone: 046 955 7332
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/School/Dangan-National-School-110400390786882/