We look forward to welcoming you . . . → Read More: May 16th 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                              

We look forward to welcoming you to our Open Evening which will take place next Thursday 23^rd May 6.00 -8.00pm.  We invite all of you to attend and take this opportunity to visit the school and your child’s classroom. The theme for this year’s evening is the Learn Together Programme. We hope that as many of you as possible will attend. Once you have spent some time in the school please join us for refreshments which will be available in the school hall from 6.30p.m.

• The PTA will be on hand to receive food from 6.00p.m. on the evening
• Please ensure that your child/ren stay with you at all times while touring the school
• A buggy bay will be set up in the front stairwell for your convenience

The Per Cent for Art Scheme Edible Garden project will be officially opened with the children and Nicky Hooper during the school day and we invite you to visit the garden during the Open Evening (walk along school pathway to garden, the basketball court area will not be open). The children have been busily planting this month, many thanks also to Charlotte Molloy (Mum to Cian, Niamh’s class) for all her help with this!

As you know, we will host the Educate Together Annual General Meeting on Saturday 25^th May. Educate Together will celebrate 35 years and 65 schools this year, and we look forward to welcoming all of these school communities to SETNS. If you would like to be involved and help out on the day or on preceding days please contact the PTA or the school office. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school and all that is unique to SETNS. We hope to involve a number of children on the day to represent the wonderful pupil body we have in our school, we would especially appreciate your support in ensuring that Student Council members and 6^th class pupils attend on the day as requested in my recent letter to parents/guardians of those children. Please see the ET AGM information leaflet attached to this newsletter. If you wish to attend the public session, please RSVP by May 17^th to agm@educatetogether.ie  For further information please contact Educate Together office at Ph: 01 4292500.

Gaeltacht Trip 2013

Speaking of 6^th class pupils, all reports to date indicate that the children have settled into their new surroundings with great ease and are enjoying their memorable experience in Coláiste na Rosann. We look forward to welcoming them back tomorrow with greatly improved Irish language skills and many happy memories! Thank you to Deirdre, David and Claire for looking after the children during this week in Donegal. Thank you also to Alison for teaching Deirdre’s Junior infant class, as expected the children adapted very well to their new teacher this week.

Run for the Cure

Run for the Cure took place last Friday. Congratulations to all involved in making sure that this year’s event was another great success; the runners, joggers, parents involved in organising the Bun for the Cure (ribbons and raffle) and you for your support. In particular, a word of thanks to Yvonne Coakley, Helen Wren and Siobhán McGovern for co-ordinating these events.

A note from Alice,

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Thank you for your continued support for our Reviewed Healthy Eating Policy. You can find this policy on the school website, but if you’d like a hard copy, Catriona has kindly offered to keep a few in the office, for you to take. As always we keep the children at the “centre” of all we do and please remember we all (staff and parents) are in partnership in their education and wellbeing. If you have any queries about the policy please speak with your child’s teacher. Please help children to remember to bring in juices/milk to have with their lunches and water to sip throughout the school day. Extra H2O on P.E. days!

Thank you as always, Alice.

Green Team News:

The Green Team has come up with a handy new slogan this week – ABC! A for airtight lunch boxes or containers (avoids the need for tin foil or cling film). B for batteries, please bring as many used batteries as you can to school to help win the competition we are currently entered into. C for Conserve water and energy! Remember to switch off all electrical items rather than leaving them on standby and the pledge  - ”I pledge to turn off the tap when I am brushing my teeth!”.
So happy ABC’s everyone.

Reminder: Junior Infant Information Evening Tuesday 28^th May at 7pm

We look forward to meeting parents/guardians of our newest pupils due to start in SETNS in September 2013. Sincerest thanks to the PTA for being on hand to talk to parents about the work they do with the school, to meet and greet parents/guardians and to ensure that there is a warm welcome for all.

Vision Testing:

Vision testing for Senior Infants took place in school yesterday and today.  Sixth Class pupils will have their vision tested on the 13^th June ‘13.

Pupils not returning in September ‘13

If your child/ren will not be returning to Swords ETNS next September, please let us know in writing as soon as possible. We can only offer available places to children on our Waiting Lists, on a First-Come First-Served basis. Your understanding and support in this regard is greatly appreciated.

Sports Day Friday 31^st May 2013

Sports Day will take place on Friday 31^st May 2013 in St. Colmcilles GAA Club. Please put this date in your diary and more details will follow before the day itself.

Fiona

Our Open Evening will take . . . → Read More: May 2nd 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                                 

Our Open Evening will take place on Thursday 23^rd May 6.00 -8.00pm.  We invite all of you to attend and to take this opportunity to visit your child’s classroom. The theme for this year’s evening is the Learn Together Programme. A note with more details of this evening will follow in the coming weeks. For the moment please put this date in your diary.

Following on from the Open Evening on Saturday 25^th May, we will host the Educate Together Annual General Meeting. Educate Together will celebrate 35 years and 65 schools this year, and we look forward to welcoming all of these school communities to SETNS. If you would like to be involved and help out on the day or on preceding days please contact the PTA or the school office. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school and all that is unique to SETNS. We hope to involve a number of children on the day to represent the wonderful pupil body we have in school.

Run for the Cure

Run for the Cure takes place next Friday 10^th May. This event is open to everyone in the school community. The route will be the same 8km route as on previous years, it is not a race, you can run jog or walk the route. We will be leaving the school at 1p.m. and hope to be back before school finishes at 2.10p.m. We need a rough idea of numbers so can you text or email Yvonne on 086 8569817 or yvonne.coakley@gmail.com and let her know if you are partaking.

The Bun for the Cure fundraiser will run alongside this event in school where children will be able to buy a bun for €1, all funds raised will be in aid of Cancer Awareness/Relief. Last year this event raised over €900 so please get baking buns (pink or blue icing) and help make this event successful again this year.

• Buns can be dropped to the school front door from 8.15 a.m. on the morning of the 10^th May.
• Pink and Blue ribbons will be on sale and collections buckets will be visible all week from next Tuesday.
• A raffle will take place in school with the draw on Friday 10th at assembly.   Children can buy tickets in school from tomorrow Friday 3^rd May.  Ticket are 5 for €2. One of the prizes is a large cake donated by the Wren Family.

First Holy Communion

Best wishes and congratulations to the children who will be making their First Holy Communion on Saturday 11^th May in St. Cronan’s Catholic Church, Swords. We hope that the children and their families enjoy this special occasion.

Health Promotion Week

During this Health Promotion Week, the children have been learning about good food and nutrition habits and why eating healthily is essential to their overall wellbeing.  They have studied the different food groups, the recommended daily servings and the importance of a varied and balanced diet. As per the note earlier this week, our revised Healthy Eating Policy is now effective.  The main revision is that “treat” type (high in sugar, fat, salt) foods may be included for lunch on Fridays.  Please see the website for the full policy document. We thank you in advance for your support.

Infectious diseases and illnesses

There have been no newly reported cases of Slapped Cheek Syndrome since our last Newsletter however there has been a reported case of Impetigo in Junior Infants. An information leaflet has been sent home with pupils.  Please continue to inform the school of any infectious disease or illness so that we can inform the class and school community. If you have any concerns, please contact your GP.

Gaeltacht Trip: May 13^th – 17^th

Our 6^th class pupils will be setting off on their Gaeltacht trip to Coláiste na Rosann on Monday 13^th May. The boys and girls are hugely excited and we wish them a safe, enjoyable and memorable trip. The opportunity to spend this valuable time in Donegal is made possible by you the parents/guardians and by the staff, I would like to thank you all for the preparations over the last few months. Bainigt taitneamh as an turas agus go n-éirí an bothar libh!

Junior Infant Information Evening Tuesday 28^th May at 7pm

We look forward to meeting parents/guardians of our newest pupils due to start in SETNS in September 2013. Sincerest thanks to the PTA for being on hand to talk to parents about the work they do with the school, to meet and greet parents/guardians and to ensure that there is a warm welcome for all. Junior Infant teachers will also be present to give an overview of the Junior infant Curriculum and to offer some tips for parents/guardians in helping their child prepare for their first day, week and year in Junior infants.

Standardised Testing
Standardised testing will take place over the next 2 weeks. Micra T (English) will take place for 1st-6^th  Classes on 8^th May 2013. Sigma T (Maths) will take place for 1^st – 5^th Classes on 15^th May 2013. 6^th Class students will complete their Sigma T Assessment (Maths) following their Gaeltacht Trip on Wednesday 29^th May 2013.
We encourage all students to be present on testing days as there will be no opportunity to re-administer the tests. Results are used to assist teachers in identification of any difficulties children may have in a specific area and also used as part of the schools Literacy and Numeracy Strategy as recommended by the Department of Education and Skills. Standardised Test results will be communicated to parents/guardians as part of the children’s end of year school report

H2O – a note from Alice

Dear Parents and Guardians, with the warmer weather promising to arrive shortly, please help children to remember to bring extra water to drink during the school day. It is very important to keep the body fully hydrated at all times.

The Inclusive School – a note from SEN team

We are committed to meaningful inclusion of all children in our school. Resource teachers who work with children with Special Needs, allow them to invite friends/peers to play games/participate in activities with them from time to time. The focus is on developing social skills, interaction between different children and building relationships.

Sports Day Friday 31^st May 2013

Sports Day will take place on Friday 31^st May 2013. Please put this date in your diary and more details will follow before the day itself.

Green Team News
The April survey of wrappings on lunches was carried out by the Green Team last Friday. The results were hugely positive for the Junior classes. Well done to everyone who remembers to use Simple Wrappings On Really Delicious Sandwiches (SWORDS). As a green school we try to avoid the use of cling film and tin foil. Using airtight containers and no wrappings is a cost effective and environmentally friendly option.

Earth Day was celebrated in our school on Monday 22^nd  April when we switched off all electrical appliances and lights from 10am – 11am. We were also very privileged to have Dr. Fahy from University College Galway host a number of specialised Earth Day workshops from Senior Infants to 6th class.

As we work towards our third Green Flag (Theme Water) a reminder of the pledge that every child in our school continues to uphold daily, “I pledge to turn off the tap when I am brushing my teeth.” This conserves our most precious natural resource We Are Trying-to-save Every Raindrop! WATER.

Athletics

Congratulations to all the children who took part in the Athletics meeting in Balheary last Tuesday. A special word of thanks to Clodagh Mc Donnell, Florence Cusack, and Ann Marie Purewal who helped with supervision on the day and other parents who supported our school on the day.  The next and final race will be held in Morton Stadium in Santry on 21^st  May.

May Day 2013

May Day (Lá Bealtaine), or Labour Day (Lá an Lucht Oibre), is the first Monday of May. It is a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland. It is a traditional Celtic festival and a time to campaign for workers’ rights.

School will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday 6^th May 2013

Finally, it may a little optimistic to mention but as we are now in the month of May, summer upon us, weather permitting children will be involved in outdoor activities/lessons throughout the school day. So please ensure that your child uses adequate sunscreen, has plenty of water to drink and wears suitable clothing and footwear.

Fiona

]]> http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?feed=rss2&p=1925 0 http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?p=1912 http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?p=1912#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:36:28 +0000 SETNS http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?p=1912 Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                              

Welcome back to term 3 in . . . → Read More: April 18th 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                              

Welcome back to term 3 in SETNS. I hope you are well rested and ready for the eventful weeks ahead. The children have settled in and are already taking part in the many activities in school. Welcome to Kian (and his family) who has joined Maeve and Leah’s 2^nd class this term.

A correction from our last Newsletter 21/03/13:

• Vegas Fun Night – one prize remains uncollected: Niamh Keenan

Friday April 26^th – Coffee Morning/Bring a Bag to School

You are invited to bring in your unwanted clothing and other items that you no longer require. List of accepted items; Clothes – Have to be clean, dry & reusable, Curtains, Bedding (Except duvets & Pillows), Towels, Paired shoes & Trainers, Handbags and Belts. Funds raised will help to buy GAA helmets and other resources for the children.

We are having a coffee morning on Friday 26^th April from 8:30am to 9:15am  for the parents/guardians of 5^th class pupils. We look forward to seeing you at this event, supported by the PTA.

Voluntary Contributions

Voluntary Contributions were collected on Tuesday/Wednesday morning this week. Although the vast majority of envelopes have been returned, a small number remain outstanding. If you have not returned your envelope, please do so at your earliest convenience, as all envelopes must be accounted for. Thank you for your on-going support.

Sports in SETNS

Best wishes to our pupils representing SETNS in a wide range of sports i.e. GAA Football, hurling, basketball, cricket, Athletics and FAI 5-a-side soccer. Thank you to the staff that voluntarily coach and organise the teams. Thank you for your support of the teams, when and where possible.

Run for the Cure – a note from Yvonne

Just a quick note to remind everyone that Run for the Cure will take place on Friday 10th May. For those not familiar with this event, this is an event to raise cancer awareness and also raises much needed funds for Cancer research. The run part of the day; it is an 8km run/jog around Swords, leaving the school grounds at 1.00p.m. The event is open to all of the school community- staff, parents, guardians, grandparents, older siblings….Looking forward to seeing you on the 10^th.

Enrolment Reminder

As per our enrolment policy First Come First Served, please make sure that you have all younger siblings pre-enrolled in the school.

Bag Packing

Thank you so much to all who turned up to the Bag Packing that took place on Friday and Saturday of last week in Dunnes Stores. Parents and teachers alike made a huge contribution and it was a great success.  A total of €1,942.50 was raised which is fantastic! Well done to all involved in this PTA organised fundraiser.

La Fayette Photographers

Our Junior Infant pupils’ had their school photos taken this week and they looked fantastic.  Order forms with the exact money must be returned to the school no later than Monday 22^nd of May. Thank you to the PTA for organising this. The Junior Infants also had their immunisations this week; they were very brave and greatly complimented by the HSE staff.

Eason’s Spelling Bee Competition

Congratulations to Caragh Sedgwick (Bronagh’s 5^th Class) who represented SETNS in the Regional finals of the Eason’s Spelling Bee Competition. Well done, Caragh, we are very proud of you!

Infectious diseases and illnesses

We have had two newly reported cases of Slapped Cheek Syndrome and there are some cases of Chicken Pox in the school and school community. If you have any concerns, please contact your GP.

World Earth Day

Monday 22^nd April is World Earth Day and we intend to participate in global activities highlighting the need to conserve energy on the day avoiding use of electricity in the school for one hour. Thanks to Bronagh, Marie, Deirdre Moffit (Callum’s mum) and the Green Team for organising this awareness day.  Frances Fahey, Lecturer from University College Galway will join us on Monday for a series of workshops (SI – 6^th Class).

ET AGM

As I mentioned in a previous newsletter we will host this year’s Educate Together AGM on Saturday 25^th May 2013. This is a great honour and a great opportunity to show what SETNS is all about.  We will soon be looking for volunteers to help out on Friday the 24^th and Saturday the 25^th of May – Please put a note in your diary and we will be in touch shortly with more details.

Fiona

Dates for your Diary

Athletics 23^rd April

Bring a Bag to School/Cash for Clobber 26^th April

5th Class  Parents Coffee Morning 26^th April

]]> http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?feed=rss2&p=1912 0 http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?p=1909 http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?p=1909#comments Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:51:59 +0000 SETNS http://www.swordseducatetogether.ie/?p=1909 Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                                 

Thank you for . . . → Read More: March 21st 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                                 

Thank you for your enthusiastic support for recent events in school; Vegas Fun Night, Coffee Morning, Gaeltacht Lá Spraoi, Stay Safe Information Talk, Seachtain na Gaeilge and Black and White Day. Many other activities are scheduled for Term Three and we look forward to your continued support.

Vegas Fun Night Friday

A fantastic night was had by all at the Vegas Fun Night; huge thanks to the Fundraising Committee for their trojan efforts in organising this very successful and enjoyable evening. Thank you also to the school staff and pupils for getting involved in supporting the event and in particular thank you for your generous support and enthusiastic participation on the night.

Please note (contact Catriona in the school office):

• one prize remains uncollected: Niamh Doran
• a sum of money was found outside the school gates (Thursday 7^th March)

Coffee Morning

Our final Coffee Morning for this year is on Friday 26^th April for the parents/guardians of 5^th class pupils. We look forward to seeing you at this event, supported by the PTA.

Gaeltacht Fundraiser – Lá Spraoi

Sixth class pupils organised a very enjoyable and enterprising Lá Spraoi for all pupils from Junior Infants to 5^th classes. Activities included face painting, nail painting, headbands, penalty shooting and wet sponge throwing. Refreshments were on sale throughout the day. Thank you to everyone for their support!

Stay Safe

Thank you for attending the Stay Safe Information Talk last week facilitated by Joan Duggan CAPP/PDST. Information booklets will be distributed to parents/guardians of senior infant pupils next term.

Seachtain na Gaeilge

Imeachtaí na Seachtaine; Ceilí, Lá Spraoi, Cluiche Biongó Tráth na gceist Mórshiúl sa Chlós Ceol agus Craic sa halla le Fintan (athair do Liam agus Eoghan), Jody, Niall, Padraig agus Toddy. Míle buíochas as ucht Deirdre and d’fhoireann go léir.

Black and White Day –Thursday 21^st March

Today Black and White Day is the UN International Day for the elimination of Racial Discrimination. We as a school community wear Black and White showing our support. Thank you for your support.

Catholic Confirmation Thursday 21^st March

We hope that 6th class pupils who were Confirmed today enjoyed this special day with their families and friends.

Voluntary Contributions

Voluntary Contributions will be collected on the mornings of 16^th and 17^th April 2013. The BOM will send out a letter closer to the dates.

La Fayette Photographers

Junior Infant pupils will have their school photos taken on Wednesday the 10th April 2013.  Unless otherwise indicated by you in advance of this day, both class and individual photographs will be taken and proofs sent home to you. The photographer will start taking pictures at 8:30 a.m. sharp.

A note from the PTA:

Cash for Clobber

The recent Bring-a-Bag to school day went very well and raised €714 – Thank you so much. Who would have believed our old clothes were worth so much! We plan to organise this collection again on Friday the 26^th of April, so give those wardrobes a Spring clean over the Easter break and let’s see if we can make enough money to pay for Helmets for the school GAA hurling team. We are looking for unwanted clothing and other items that you no longer require. List of accepted items; Clothes – Have to be clean, dry & reusable, Curtains, Bedding (Except duvets & Pillows), Towels, Paired shoes & Trainers, Handbags and Belts.

Bag Packing – Dunnes Stores Thursday 12^th and Friday 13^th April 2013

We have been fortunate to secure 2 days’ worth of bag-packing at Dunnes Stores in The Pavillions, thank you Niamh.  To maximise this fundraising opportunity we need your hard work and smiley faces to give the shoppers in Dunnes a reason to drop plenty of coins into the buckets….remembering to keep those eggs and detergents separate!  The bag pack will take place on Friday the 12^th and Saturday the 13^th of April.  We need as many people as possible to give whatever time they can on those days.  Please could you e-mail setns.fundraising@gmail.com with your name, phone number, -mail address and a rough indication of you availability or come and talk with any of the PTA or fundraising committee.  This is a great opportunity to raise money without asking you for money directly.  Thank you for your support.  Volunteers must be over 18 years of age.

Run for the Cure

Run for the Cure will take place on Friday the 10^th of May 2013 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.  It is an 8K run in the local area.  All welcome! The PTA will be sending home more information nearer the date.

G.A.A. News

Four Teams are presently taking part in the Fingal League.  Also a Junior Boys Hurling team will enter Cumann na mBunscoil. Thank you to Louise and David for organising this.

Athletics

The next athletics meeting is on the 23^rd of April in Balheary. More information to follow…

Immunisation

Junior Infants Immunisation Vaccinations will take place on Tuesday the 16^th of April ‘13. Immunisation Information packs and consent forms were sent home last month, if you have not already returned the consent form, please do so immediately.

Green Team News

The Green Team is working very hard towards our third Green Flag theme “Water” and would like to remind you of the Green Codes used in the school. SWORDS (Simple Wrappings On Really Delicious Sandwiches) a reminder to use air tight containers for lunches and avoid use of cling film, plastic or tin foil. S.E.T.N.S (Save Energy Today Never Stop) a reminder that by switching off all electrical items left on standby, we are saving energy and reducing our electricity bills. W.A.T.E.R (We Are Trying to save Every Raindrop) a reminder about the pledge –“I pledge to turn off the tap when I am brushing my teeth.”

Check out the foyer for Green Tip of the week! Wishing you all a wonderful Green Easter.

Eason’s Spelling Bee Competition

Wishing Caragh Sedgwick (Bronagh’s 5^th Class) all the very best as she represents SETNS in the Regional finals of this competition on 10^th April 2013.  Good Luck Caragh!

School and Campus Grounds

While the campus footpaths, ramps and entrance area to the school are usually gritted by our caretakers on frosty/snowy/icy mornings, we remind you to always exercise care when walking on the school and campus grounds in frosty/snowy/icy conditions.

Infectious diseases and illnesses

There are no new reported cases of Slapped Cheek Syndrome though there are some cases of Chicken Pox and Influenza in the school and school community. If you have any concerns, please contact your GP.

Reminder from Karl

Huge thanks to all parents who have completed Karl’s online questionnaire. The questionnaire is still on the school website www.swordseducatetogether.ie and can be accessed by clicking on the “Karl’s Parents’ Questionnaire” icon. It will be available for completion until Monday 25^th March 2012.

Enrolment Reminder

Our enrolment policy is First Come First Served. If you have not already done so, please pre-enrol any younger siblings as soon as possible.  This can be done through our web site www.swordseducatetogether.ie or by filling out a pre-enrolment form at the office.

Dates for your Diary

La Fayette Photographers Wednesday the 10th April

Bag Packing Thursday 12^th and Friday 13^th April

Voluntary Contributions 16th and 17th April

Junior Infant Immunisation 16^th April

Athletics 23^rd April

Cash for Clobber 26^th April

Coffee Morning 26^th April

Happy Easter/ Holidays

School closed: Friday 22^nd March

School re-opens: Monday 8^th April.

Fiona

Vegas Fun Night Friday 8th March . . . → Read More: Thursday March 7th 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                             

Vegas Fun Night Friday 8^th March – a note from the Fundraising Committee

Vegas Fun Night and Raffle tickets will be available at school this afternoon and Friday afternoon at 1.10p.m. and 2.10p.m. as well as at the door on Friday night. Tell your family and friends to come along as everyone is welcome. There are unbelievable prizes to be snapped up on the night. We look forward to meeting as many of you as possible tomorrow evening for this event. The free draw for pupils was held last week and congratulations to all our winners.

Coffee Morning

Our Coffee Morning Friday 15^th March is for the parents/guardians of 4^th class pupils. We look forward to seeing you at this event, supported by the PTA.

Educate Together AGM – change of date

The Educate Together AGM will take place in our school on Saturday 25^th May 2013. Please note that this is a change of date from Saturday 4^th May. We are delighted to have been chosen to host this event for the wider ET community.

A note from Karl

World Maths Day/World Book Day

This week we celebrated World Maths Day and World Book Day. Thanks to Colette Caddle for coming in to work with the classes for World Book Day. It is much appreciated. The SETNS handwriting competition was launched today. World Maths Day was marked in school with a series of activity stations in the Dream Den with a focus on Problem Solving and Maths Trails. These events link in with our Literacy and Numeracy Strategy, which aims to improve children’s understanding of Mathematical Problems and Reading Comprehension Strategies. Thank you to all involved.

Safer Internet Talks – Connect with respect

Our Community Garda, Garda Tom gave an information talk to parents/guardians of 5^th and 6^th class pupils on Thursday 28^th February. We very much appreciate the support throughout the year of the Community Gardaí and were delighted with the turnout for this very important event. The themes ‘Connect with respect’ and ‘Think B4 U Post’ were supported by videos which were shown on the night and will be shown to pupils next term.

Friendship Bracelets

A huge thank you to all who bought friendship bracelets during Friendship Week. €700 was raised for Amnesty International through the sale of the bracelets.

Black and White Day – Thursday 21^st March

Black and White Day is the UN International Day for the elimination of Racial Discrimination and the school Community wears Black and White showing our support.  Children are encouraged to wear clothes which are black or white on this date. Thank you for your support.

Voluntary Contributions

Voluntary Contributions will be collected on the mornings of 16^th and 17^th April 2013. The BOM will send out a letter closer to the dates.

Help My Kid Learn

The Department of Education and Science launched a new website aimed at supporting parental involvement in children’s learning. Please use this link to visit this website; www.helpmykidlearn.ie

The website’s purpose is to provide fun activities that parents can do with their children to develop their literacy and numeracy. It includes general information, fun activities and useful tips. Help My Kid Learn is a website where people can see that supporting a child’s literacy and numeracy development is a natural, easy and fun activity that can be integrated into any part of their day.

LaFayette Photographers

Junior Infant pupils will have their school photos taken on Wednesday the 10th April ’13.  Unless otherwise indicated by you in advance of this day, both class and individual photographs will be taken and proofs sent home to you. The photographer will start taking pictures at 8:30 am sharp.

Infectious diseases and illnesses

There are still some reported cases of Slapped Cheek Syndrome, Chicken Pox and Influenza in the school and school community. If you have any concerns, please contact your GP.

Flora Mini Marathon 2013

Calling all Mammies! If you are a runner, jogger or walker, please note that registration for the Flora Mini Marathon on the 3rd of June is now open. This is a great day out and helps to raise funds for our school. The PTA will be touch soon to look for mammies to nominate a class to run/jog/walk for. So register now and dust off those runners and get training!

Seachtain na Gaeilge

Next week, 11^th-15^th March we will be celebrating Seachtain na Gaeilge in our school. There will be plenty of fun activities for the children to enjoy, including céilí, bingo and a quiz. The emphasis will be on enjoying activities through the Irish language. We encourage you to use any cúpla focal you may have when around the school next week. The 6^th classes will be organising a fun day on Wednesday as a Gaeltacht fundraiser, your support would be greatly appreciated. On Friday the children are invited to dress in Green White and Gold if they wish.

St Patrick’s Day

Please note that the school will be closed on Monday 18^th March and will re-open on Tuesday 19^th March 2013. Lá Feile Padriag.

Dates for your Diary

Stay Safe Talk – Senior Infants Parents/Guardians

Thursday 14^th March 2013

4^th Class parents/guardians coffee morning

Friday 15^th March 2013

Seachtain na Gaeilge 11^th- 15^th March 2013

Black & White Day Thursday 21^st March 2013

Junior Infant School Photos 10^th April 2013

Voluntary Contributions collection dates 16^th & 17^th April 2013

Fiona

Dear Parent,

The Department of Public Health has been informed of a case of Fifth Disease (“Slapped cheek syndrome”) in a child who attends the school.

Slapped cheek syndrome is due to a viral infection spread by coughing and sneezing. The incubation period for this illness is between 4 and 14 . . . → Read More: HSE Letter Re: Slapped Cheek Syndrome]]> 7^th February 2013

Dear Parent,

The Department of Public Health has been informed of a case of Fifth Disease (“Slapped cheek syndrome”) in a child who attends the school.

Slapped cheek syndrome is due to a viral infection spread by coughing and sneezing. The incubation period for this illness is between 4 and 14 days. The infection can cause a rash, fever and joint pains. It usually clears up without any problems. Most adults (60%) have had the infection as a child and are immune.

Rarely, infection during early pregnancy can damage red blood cells in the developing foetus. Children with sickle disease or defects in their red cells can develop severe anaemia. If you are in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy or you or your children have a blood disorder, speak to your General Practitioner or Obstetrician.

It is recommended that children with the illness should be kept out of school while they feel unwell. Children are most infectious for the few days before the rash. A fact sheet is provided with this letter for further information.

Yours sincerely,
DrRuth McDermott (MCRN 16416)

Senior Medical Officer Department of Public Health

Prevent spread of respiratory infection

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.

2. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of tissues in the bin. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not into your hands.

3. Do not send your child to school when they are sick.

4. Make sure your child has had all their vaccines. If your child has health problems ask your doctor about getting the flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine.

Fifth disease, Erythema infectiosum, Parvovirus B19 infection.

What is Slapped Cheek Syndrome?

Slapped cheek syndrome (or Fifth disease – so named because it is one of the 6 common infections causing a rash in childhood) is caused by a virus (human parvovirus B19). It is usually mild, occurring in . . . → Read More: Fact Sheet Re: Slapped Cheek Syndrome]]> SLAPPED CHEEK SYNDROME – FACTSHEET

Fifth disease, Erythema infectiosum, Parvovirus B19 infection.

What is Slapped Cheek Syndrome?

Slapped cheek syndrome (or Fifth disease – so named because it is one of the 6 common infections causing a rash in childhood) is caused by a virus (human parvovirus B19). It is usually mild, occurring in small outbreaks among children, particularly in the spring – more than half of all adults by the age of 20 – 25 years have been infected and are immune.

Who gets Slapped Cheek Syndrome?

Anyone can be infected, but the disease seems to occur more often in 5-14 year olds.

How is the virus spread?

The virus is spread by droplets from the nose and throat of infected people.

What are the symptoms and when do they appear?

Children with the infection develop a characteristic red rash on the cheeks, just as though they have been slapped. This is followed by the development of a widespread lace-like rash on the body and limbs which may last up to 3 weeks before fading: it may return following exposure to sunlight or heat – the rash is occasionally itchy. Some children may have vague signs of illness or no symptoms at all. When adults are affected, they don’t usually get a rash but rather have a flu-like illness with joint pain.

How long after exposure does the disease occur?

The incubation period is typically between 4 and 14 days. The risk of spread to close contacts is highest in the 2 – 4 days before the onset of the rash.

How is Slapped Cheek Syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis of slapped cheek syndrome is based on the appearance of typical symptoms. A specific blood test to confirm the diagnosis has recently been developed.

Does past infection with the virus make a person immune?

Yes. About 60% of adults are immune to infection because they had the disease as children.
What is the treatment?

There is no specific treatment for this viral infection. Joint and muscle pains can be treated with paracetamol. Specialist advice should be sought for children with underlying blood disorders (for example, sickle cell disease) who develop the infection since this can lead to further damage to red blood cells.

What are the complications associated with Slapped Cheek Syndrome?

For many years slapped cheek syndrome was regarded as an unimportant infection of children. Recently, studies have shown it may cause problems in early pregnancy or for people with particular blood disorders. While most women infected during pregnancy will not be affected, parvovirus B19 may infect the foetus before week 20 of the pregnancy and lead to a condition known as foetal hydrops for which intra-uterine transfusion has been successfully used as treatment – it may also increase the risk of miscarriage. In people with chronic red blood cell disorders, such as sickle-cell disease, infection may result in severe anaemia. Infection has also been associated with arthritis in adults.

What can be done to prevent the spread of Slapped Cheek Syndrome?

Exclusion of children is ineffective since nearly all transmission occurs before the child becomes unwell.  It is recommended that children with the illness should be kept out of school while they are feeling ill. School employees who are less than 21 weeks pregnant and people with blood disorders should consult their GP or obstetrician for advice.
Should close contacts be isolated?

No – no action is required.

What should pregnant women do?

If exposed, speak to your GP or Obstetrician. A blood test will show if you are immune (and the baby is therefore not at risk). If you are not immune, as long as the pregnancy is beyond 20 weeks no action is required. Exposure before 20 weeks requires discussion with your GP or Obstetrician.

We generally recommend that non-immune pregnant women stay out of high risk contact (e.g. a school experiencing an outbreak) until the pregnancy passes 20 weeks.

I hope you . . . → Read More: February 21st 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                                  

I hope you and your family had a lovely mid-term break and have recharged the batteries for another half term in SETNS. I thought it was worth sharing with you, that the many visitors and sports’ coaches, who come to the school, frequently comment on the wonderful children in SETNS. Thank you for your support of the work we do in school to ensure that your child has a fun, rich and varied learning experience. As always the newsletters capture some of the most recent news items and activities; which are also available on our website.

Infectious diseases and illnesses

Please be advised as per previous Newsletter/HSE Information letter and factsheet that we continue to have reported cases of Slapped Cheek Syndrome and Chicken Pox. The information factsheet on Slapped Cheek Syndrome is available on our website. If you have any concerns, please contact your GP.

Safer Internet Talks – Connect with respect

Our Community Garda Tom gave talks on Safer Internet usage to our 5^th and 6^th class pupils on Tuesday this week and a follow up meeting with parents/guardians of 5^th and 6^th class pupils will take place in school on Thursday 28^th February at 7.00p.m... We very much appreciate the support throughout the year of the Community Gardaí. We hope to have a good attendance on the night for this very important issue. The theme is ‘Connect with respect’.

Vegas Fun Night Friday 8^th March

The PTA is busily preparing for our community social evening Vegas Fun Night on the 8^th of March in the Carnegie Court Hotel. Flyers have been sent home and an email was sent out on Tuesday calling on all parents/guardians to become involved in supporting this fundraiser. This Friday should see lots of activity around the school to advertise the event.  There is a link on our website which gives you full details regarding tickets and the free draw for pupils. With your support this will be a resounding success for SETNS!               http://www.setnsvegasfunnight.com/

Coffee Morning

Our Coffee Morning tomorrow Friday 22^nd February is for the parents/guardians of 3^rd class pupils. We look forward to seeing you at this event, supported by the PTA.

Footwear in school

Children should wear correct footwear for active activities which means they are able to participate in daily “keep fit” exercises. Please ensure that your child wears correct sportswear/runners to school each day, not just on PE days.

The Edible Garden

This week Nicky and Philip have organised workshops for children in all classes on planting and growing vegetables for our Edible Garden. We are thrilled with the garden and very much appreciate their work in getting the children involved in the garden in a hands on way. We hope to officially open the garden later this term. Thanks to Charlotte (parent of Cian) for coming on board to help with the maintenance and future development of the garden. If you wish to help out with this project, please let us know.

Sports in SETNS

It’s that time of year again when the GAA teams get back in training for the Fingal League. Thank you to all involved in coaching and supporting the teams and especially the children training this season. Cricket has started up again this term, many thanks to Cricket Ireland.

The Dream Den

A competition to rename the Library Area in school to reflect the multi-purpose nature of the room was won by Anna, Ellen, Jakub, Alex, Fifi and Nicole from Norah’s class. The class will have a games day in the room on Friday and will have the winning name The Dream Den displayed outside the room. The Student Council narrowed the selection down from the vast number of entries, from all the classes, so well done to all involved.

Educate Together AGM

We are delighted that this year’s Educate Together AGM will take place in our school on Saturday 4^th May 2013. We look forward to welcoming members of the ET school communities from around the country to Swords. More details to follow…

Do Not Consume Drinking Water Notice

This notice remains in place in school. We do, however, welcome recent water testing in school and hope that it will, in time, pave the way for a resolution to this on-going situation. Children do have access to bottled water, if needed, though you are requested to ensure that your child comes to school with adequate drinking water.

Caring for our school

Thank you to Karina, Alice and Michael (Áine’s son) led by Áine for working their ‘magic’ in the school foyer in preparing for Seachtain na Gaeilge. There is a fabulous display of Irish words and phrases and musical instruments. Thank you also to Aaron and Peter who put on protective covers on school chair legs to help protect the floor surfaces. Thank you all!

YEGAS FUN NIGHT

FRIDAY 8TH MARCH 2013

Fiona

You will have received a letter from the PTA about the fundraising plans to host a “Vegas Fun Night” on 8th March 2013, Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords. We are looking forward to this night which promises to be a wonderful social occasion for the SETNS school community. . . . → Read More: January 31st 2013]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                              31^st January 2013

You will have received a letter from the PTA about the fundraising plans to host a “Vegas Fun Night” on 8th March 2013, Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords. We are looking forward to this night which promises to be a wonderful social occasion for the SETNS school community. The children’s free entry competition (win a Smyth’s voucher) will generate great excitement among the children.

Thanks to the PTA for their fantastic work in initiating this fundraiser.

Credit Union Quiz

Well done to all our Credit Union quiz teams and congratulations to Aoife, Eoin, Colm and Eoin who came third in the Senior category. We also had teams in fourth, fifth and sixth position in this category. Thank you to David, Claire O, Norah and Bronagh for preparing the children so well for the quiz and thank you, as there was great support on the day.

Parent/Guardians for Junior and Senior Infant Pupils

Please ensure that your child/children walk along the pathway with you at home time. The school grounds are a “walking only” zone. This will help to keep the children safe on their way home. I would greatly appreciate your co-operation in this matter.

A note from Alice: H2O

Parents please ensure children bring water into school each day.  Juice is good to take with their food but children need to sip water throughout the day to keep them fully hydrated.

Infections and Illnesses

Cases of infections and illnesses, such as chicken pox, will be communicated to the school community by text-a-parent, class notes and with updates on our newsletters. At any time should you have any concerns please consult your GP.

Green Team News

The latest lunch box survey of wrappings, show 43% of pupils are using airtight containers with no wrappings.  The team would love to see this figure increase to 50% by Simple Wrappings On Really Delicious Sandwiches. Thanks to Trish Kennedy,  Environmental officer Fingal County Council who funded  workshops in our school on Wednesday 30^th January.  Children from Junior Infants to 5^th class were lucky enough to hear Natasha speak about our environment.  It is very much hoped that the classes that missed out this time will have an opportunity with Natasha in the future.

The new green code for our water theme is We Are Trying to save Every Raindrop!!

Coffee Morning (3rd Class)

The Coffee Morning for 3^rd Class parents/guardians will be held in school on Friday 22^nd February 2013 from 8.40a.m. to 9.15a.m. Thus far the coffee mornings have been very enjoyable and we look forward to meeting you then.

Aladdin

Last Tuesday a test email was sent to your nominated email address at 12 noon. The email was sent to 327 recipients, to date 216 have indicated that they have read the e-mail leaving 111 messages unread. Please check that you have received the email and let the school office know if your email address needs to be changed.

February dates for your dairy

Mid-Term 11-15 February 2013

3^rd Class Coffee Morning 22 February 2013

Fiona

On behalf of the . . . → Read More: December 13th 2012]]> Dear Parents/Guardians,                                                                                                  

On behalf of the SETNS School community I would like to extend our deepest sympathises to Áine and her family.  Áine would like to thank the School Community for their support at this sad time.

Parent/Teacher Meetings 5^th and 6^th December

It was great to see such a large attendance at the Parent/Teacher meetings last week and lovely to meet so many of you. Your positive response to these meetings is much appreciated.

“Bring a Bag to School” – Recycling Bag Collection

The PTA was delighted with the response to this fundraising initiative and would like to thank you for contributing your recycled goods which resulted in raising over €700.00. This money will be spent on purchasing new covers for the basketball poles and Bean Bags for our library area in school. As stated previously we will also contribute to our chosen charity – LauraLynn House, “Ireland’s only children’s hospice”.  The PTA intends to repeat this fundraiser later in the school year.

Green Team

Remember to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle over the holidays as much as possible.

We have had some lovely events in school over the last few weeks:

The Talent Contest

Congratulations to Tesleem, winner of the senior talent contest, and our very own Jedward twins, Darragh and Callum winners of the junior talent contest. It’s true to say that all participants were winners at the fun event. Thanks to our amazing compere Siobhán who ensured the show was a fun filled event for all.

Coffee Morning (1st Class)

Our coffee morning with the parents/guardians of First Class parents was a very enjoyable event. Thank you to the PTA and Florence (Mum of Thoma and Pia) for sending us in some treats.

We were delighted that Per Cent for Art Scheme designer Nicky Hooper was in school to meet children at assemblies and joined us for a coffee.

Traffic Management

Traffic Management Guidelines are attached to this newsletter as a reminder of good practice and to ensure the safety on and around the school campus. We ask you as parents/guardians to strictly observe these guidelines at all times. Please remind your child/children to walk home directly from school and ensure they arrive home safely.

Community Awareness of Drugs
Eleven participants completed an informative and enlightening six week course presented by Bernie McDonell. Thank you to Alice for bringing this initiative to the school, to the participants for their interest and enthusiasm each week and to the PTA and BoM for their support.

Inclusive school

From time to time children will be invited to attend “social play” to support children with Special Needs socialising. This is an integral part of our policy on inclusion. The benefit for children who participate in such activities is a life-long learning skill. Alice

Senior Infants Class Presentations

Senior Infant pupils have been busily practicing for their Winter Plays. They have sent out their invitations and we look forward to welcoming parents/guardians and families to the classes next week. Good luck to Eibh and Niamh and their classes with these performances!

No gifts please!

As a staff we would like to express our wish that no presents be purchased this year. We are very aware of the financial difficulties that many parents and families are experiencing at this time and would very much appreciate your co-operation in this regard. A handmade card is always appreciated at any time of year.

Christmas Holidays

We wish the children and families celebrating Christmas a very happy and peaceful holiday.

Hanukah

“Chag Samech” (Happy Hanukah) to all Jewish families celebrating Hanukah this week.

December /January School Closure

The school will close on Friday 21^st December and will re-open on Monday January 7^th 2012.

Junior & Senior Infants finish at 11:45 a.m.

First to Sixth Classes finish at 12 noon.

On behalf of myself and the staff

we wish you and your family and friends a happy holiday season.

Dates for your Diary

                                                   Winter Fair Friday 14th December

Christmas Holidays Friday 21^st December

Fiona