Month: April 2018

Holy Communion

Congratulations to Ms Murphy and Ms. Harte’s classes who all made their communion on Saturday last. Lots of people remarked on how reverent they were in the church and how beautifully they sang.  Thanks to Mrs Collins and to all the pupils from 3rd class  who came along to help with the singing.

 

 

Two Badminton Champs

We learned today that Fionn’s brother Cillian also won a gold medal in the U11 Irish Juvenile Inter County Championship. Two champions in one family !

Congratulations to Fionn in 5th class who won a gold medal in the U15 Irish Juvenile Inter County Championship last weekend. Fionn had been playing badminton for only 3 years and is already making a name for himself.

The Sponsored Walk

The forecast for Tuesday is giving rain so the walk may be postponed to Friday.

Our annual sponsored walk takes place on Tuesday May 1st , weather permitting. Children have brought their cards home yesterday and today. Any amount collected is gratefully received and appreciated. Please send back the card even if blank in order to prevent unauthorised use by persons not in our school.

The forecast is for clouds but it might be chilly so sweatshirts should be worn.

We made Butter.

In First class this week they were learning about farming, milk and various dairy products. Mr Mc Veety decided it would be a great idea to make butter.They used fresh cream and shook it in sealed lunch boxes for about 10 mins until it turned into butter.The children then spread it on their crackers and gobbled it up. It looked yummy.

 

 

Attendance Figures

We share our attendance figures with An Tusla twice a year. If your child misses more that 20 days we are obligated to report this. 20 days missed is nearly a month of school. It is important that we know the reason for any absences so we can include this in any report we make.

Our best month this year for attendance was October when a staggering 97.8% of our pupils were in school.This was also the best month over the last five years.

Overall atendance this year is slightly down,  possibly due to the volume of tummy bugs and the flu outbreak of this past winter. We are currently running at 96.2% attendance but the record to beat is 96.4% from last year.

Three Angels

We always say we must have the nicest children in Ireland attending St. Brigid’s and today three girls from Ms. O’Neill’s 5th class proved us right. They organised their own garden cake sale in aid of Focus Ireland and raised €180 to give to the homeless. This is their second year to undertake their own fundraising campaign. We think they are amazing. Well done girls and thanks to all their friends and supporters who helped out  and bought their cakes.

Scarlet Fever

April 24th 2018

 

There has been a confirmed case of scarlet fever in 2nd class. It is therefore a possibility that your child has been exposed. Please read the following advice from the HSE.

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a scattered red rash and high temperature caused by bacteria (Group A streptococci). Occasionally these bacteria can cause kidney or heart complications. Prompt treatment with an antibiotic usually prevents these complications. Treatment will also prevent spread to others.

What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

A scattered red rash that is often most marked in the creases of the joints and over the stomach. It usually blanches (goes white) when pressed on. The skin may feel rough to the touch, sometimes described as feeling like sandpaper. Someone with scarlet fever will have evidence of a streptococcal infection somewhere, usually in the throat or sometimes in the skin.

What should I do if I think my child has it?

If your child develops any of these symptoms bring him/her to your GP for examination. Tell the doctor that another child in the school has scarlet fever. The doctor will prescribe an antibiotic for your child. It is important that your child takes the full course of medicine.

Can my child stay in school?

Your child can return to school when he/she is well and has finished one full day of antibiotic treatment.

What can I do to prevent spread of infection at home?

The bacteria are spread through contact with nose and mouth secretions so:

  • Wash hands thoroughly after wiping nose.
  • Wash hands thoroughly before preparing food.
  • Wash dishes well in hot soapy water.
  • Do not share cups, straws, spoons, eating utensils etc.
  • Do not share toothbrushes.

Thank you for giving this your attention. Your GP will be able to answer any further questions that you might have concerning scarlet fever.

Yours Sincerely,

Denis Courtney