THE FRIDAY NOTE (20TH MARCH 2026)
Dear Parents/ Guardians,
Eid Mubarak to all in our school community who are celebrating. We wish you a joyful and peaceful Eid spent with family and friends! This is a special and significant time in the Islamic calendar, centred on gratitude, community and generosity. As an integrated school, we value and celebrate the richness of the different traditions and beliefs that make up our community.
On the same note, I’d like to congratulate our Primary 2 children who helped us mark St Patrick’s Day in assembly yesterday morning. Thank you to Mrs McGeown, Mrs Tohill and all the learning support assistants for their hard work with the children. Thank you also to our Parents’ Council for the tea, coffee and refreshments served for the family members and friends of our P2 children- this is greatly appreciated and has become a lovely addition to our class-led assemblies.
Mrs McCammon’s P3/4 class will be leading our Easter assembly next Friday and, as always, P3/4 parents are warmly invited to attend and support the children.
I hope you find the following information useful as we move closer to the Easter break.
EASTER RAFFLE
Thank you to everyone who has already purchased tickets for our Easter Raffle. After the first week, we have raised £223. Winners from the first draw were selected this morning in assembly. Children can purchase additional tickets (20p each) for next week’s draw.
SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHER
The school photographer will be in school next Friday for class photographs. All children should wear full school uniform. P3/4 pupils leading the assembly should bring their uniform to change into afterwards.
MENINGITIS AND SEPTICAEMIA
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is aware of the meningococcal disease outbreak recently reported in South East England. The UKHSA is leading the response, and there is no increased risk to the population in Northern Ireland. However, this serves as an important reminder to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and the steps to take if concerned.
Meningococcal infection does not spread easily and is usually passed through prolonged close contact, such as living in the same household. While it can affect all ages, recent outbreaks have shown that older children, teenagers and young adults are more likely to be affected.
Although uncommon, meningococcal disease can become serious very quickly. Early recognition and prompt medical attention are essential. Important information can be found on the NI Direct website.
ARMAGH HALF-TIME GAME
Some of our P6 and P7 pupils will be playing at half-time during the Armagh v Kerry match on Sunday. We wish them all the very best- what a fantastic opportunity!
GORTATOLE TRIP
Our P7 pupils will be attending Gortatole OEC in Fermanagh from Monday 30th March to Wednesday 1st April. I’m sure they will have a fantastic time.
I will be accompanying the children alongside Mr Bourne, Mrs O’Braonain and Mrs Hughes. Many thanks to these staff members for giving their time to support what is always a memorable trip.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST REHEARSAL
There will be a full cast rehearsal on Thursday 2nd April (all day). Children involved may wear their own clothes and should bring quiet activities to complete when not needed.
HIGHLAND DANCING AND TIN WHISTLE (TERM 3)
A reminder that any children wishing to take part in Highland dancing or tin whistle next term should return £24 in an envelope. The deadline has been extended to next Friday.
ALLERGIES
Due to allergies within our school community, children must not bring any food items containing nuts. Kiwis and eggs must also be avoided in packed lunches. Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping everyone safe.
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