THE FRIDAY NOTE (14TH NOVEMBER 2025)
Dear Parents/Guardians,
What a brilliant week it’s been at Saints and Scholars! This week was Anti-Bullying Week and it was fantastic to see our pupils engaging so thoughtfully in activities that celebrated kindness, empathy and inclusion. Our children have been learning how to support one another and make our school a place where everyone feels safe and valued. A huge thank you to everyone who took part in Odd Socks Day- it was a joyful celebration of what makes each of us unique!
I also wanted to take this opportunity to say a big well done to Ms Hassard and Mrs O’Braonain’s P4 class for this morning’s beautiful Diwali assembly. Well done P4!
I hope you find the following information useful!
CELEBRATING MRS O’BRAONAIN
At the end of the first half term, Mrs O’Braonain was nominated for the Anti-Bullying Alliance School Staff Award- a recognition of her outstanding work as our pastoral lead. She works tirelessly to ensure that bullying is stopped in its tracks and that every child feels happy and safe in Saints and Scholars. We were absolutely delighted (though not at all surprised!) to learn that she was selected as the overall winner for Northern Ireland! We’re so proud of you, Mrs O’Braonain- thank you for everything you do!
NURSERY & P1 NATIVITY
We’re excited to announce that our Nursery and P1 children will be staging their Nativity performance on Wednesday 17th December at 10am. Families are warmly invited to join us for this very special event. Doors will open at 9.15am, with tea and coffee served by our wonderful Parents’ Council.
We can’t wait to see our youngest stars shine on stage!
PARENTPAY
A gentle reminder to please clear any outstanding ParentPay balances and ensure all payments are up to date. Thank you for helping us keep everything running smoothly.
OPEN NIGHT
If you have a child due to start Nursery or P1 in September 2026, or know someone who does, please save the date:
Tuesday 9th December, 6.00-7.30pm with the Principal’s Address at 7pm in the assembly hall.
We will also be hosting a Stay & Play session for prospective Nursery and P1 pupils on Tuesday 6th January from 10.30am-12noon in Leafy Hollow. This will be a wonderful opportunity for children to join their parents for some outdoor learning fun.
Please note:
We look forward to welcoming new families and sharing what makes Saints and Scholars so special.
CHRISTMAS SHOEBOXES
We are once again supporting Vibe’s Shoebox Appeal for children in Latvia. The collection date for the shoeboxes has been extended and will now take place on Thursday 20th November. Please ensure a £5 donation is submitted with your shoebox, or you can donate online (Gráinne shared details on Dojo on Wednesday). Thank you for supporting this very worthwhile cause!
DECK THE PAWS!
The Nit & Natter Community invites you and your furry friends to a festive Christmas celebration at Armagh Cricket Club on Saturday 13th December (12–5pm).
For just £15 per dog, your pooch will enjoy a “pawtrait” with Santa Paws, a puppuccino, a personalised gift, and a festive goodie bag.
Dogs and humans alike are encouraged to dress to impress- think jumpers, tinsel, hats, or festive collars! All proceeds support Pretty ‘n’ Pink. Hamish, of course, will be there with bells on! We hope to see lots of you there too!
BARNEY BOWL FOUNDATION: COUNTY ARMAGH PEOPLE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
We’re so proud to share that Gail Steed, our dedicated HR Officer, has been nominated for the Barney Bowl Foundation County Armagh Person of the Year Award 2025! Gail (alongside the ever-energetic Lily and their wonderful team of knitters) works tirelessly to fundraise for Pretty’n’Pink and the Southern Area Hospice throughout the year. Since founding Nit & Natters, they’ve raised over £100,000!
The awards ceremony will take place at the Armagh City Hotel next Saturday, and we couldn’t be prouder. We definitely think they deserve the win. You can cast your vote at www.cordeliasfoundation.co.uk!
REPORTING ABSENCES
All absences should be reported via the ‘Book an Absence’ link on our website on the first day of absence. This helps us keep accurate records and ensures compliance with Education Welfare guidance.
If you ever have any questions or concerns, you’re always welcome to get in touch with me or your child’s class teacher via Class Dojo or you can catch me at drop off or collection time. For safeguarding concerns, please contact Mrs O’Braonain directly at aobraonain211@c2kni.net.
Have a lovely weekend everyone!
Mr A. Scott-Mulholland
Principal