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Letter from Principal, April 3rd 2020
Teaching and Learning.
This is week number three of on line teaching and learning. I would like to thank everyone for your engagement in the new experience. I would like to draw your attention to a few points of note.
- While on line learning is replacing face to face teaching and learning for the time being, it is not the same. Both students and teachers will agree that there is no substitute for classroom interactions that occur in the normal school setting.
- I am aware that wifi and equipment varies from house to house. This has been a source of stress for some families. All I am asking parents to do is to make sure that your sons and daughters are engaging as best they can under the circumstances. All students can do is their best. I have reminded teachers to be aware of this also. While students are at home, parents and guardians must judge what their daughters and sons are able to achieve in relation to the amount of work that can get done.
State Examinations.
On Thursday 2nd April, the Education Minister, Mr Joe McHugh announced that ‘by hook or by crook’ the Junior Cert. and Leaving Cert. would go ahead. Our 3rd and 6th Years must continue to prepare for exams. Eastertime is a time for revision and study. It is also a time to recharge the batteries. Make sure you get fresh air and plan your day to involve a range of activities which includes study. You are reminded to adhere to HSE guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid 19.
I am aware that a number of our students are overwhelmed with the amount of work that is being sent to them and expected to complete. All you can do is your best. I have asked teachers to ease off for the Easter break and to issue you with study and revision plans for the two weeks of Easter.
Non Exam Classes.
I am asking our 1st , 2nd , TY and 5th Years to take a break from school work for these two weeks. Recharge the batteries for our return to school on April 20th. Whether this return is actual or virtual. Keep an eye on Department and HSE announcements. Please remember our country is on lockdown which involves restricted movements etc.
Fifth Year Options/TY Applications.
At this stage most forms have been returned to jcleary@stfarnans.ie . If you haven’t yet done so, please do as a matter of urgency. If you are having problems downloading or uploading forms you might consider one of the following options,
- Take a photograph of completed form using your phone and e mail accordingly.
- Write options or complete TY form as part of e mail response using the forms as a guide.
School Transport.
New applicants for bus transport for our next academic year might be interested in the following link. https://www.buseireann.ie/inner.php?id=257. It explains the procedure to apply for bus tickets for the new school year. The closing date is the last Friday in April.
Easter egg Competition.
In a previous newsletter I mentioned our Easter egg competition for 1st and 2nd Year students. Students were asked to write an essay/design a poster entitled ‘Staying Positive during Covid 19.’ We had a great response to the competition. I am happy to announce that the winner is Shannon Cash, class Cuchulainn. Shannon picked up her prize on Friday, April 3rd.
Finally...
May I take this opportunity to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding during this strange time. Remember we are one day closer to normality. Stay safe. Remember, if there is anything you want to discuss with me, I can be contacted on principal@stfarnans.ie. I will do my best to respond.
Eddie Collins, Principal.
