On Thursday May 29th, Fifth and Sixth Class headed outdoors in keeping with our commitment to outdoor learning. They set out from school and walked to Carrigmeal Woods where they enjoyed the fantastic views from the viewing point. From Carrigmeal they headed east through Dysart Woods where they enjoyed an incredible “ nature bath “ amongst the bluebells. A well earned picnic, a magical round of hide and seek and the spectacular views back over Ratheniska completed a super hike . Returning by Grange, they stopped at the Togher for more chats and a drink. A great experience and a wonderful memory .
Survey of Homelearning January-March 2021
RatheniskaFollowing the most recent period of homelearning , we conducted a survey to assess the experience. The survey was conducted via Survey Monkey and sent to all parents via Aladdin at the end of April.
As of 28 April, a total of 59 responses had been received and the results can be view via the link below.
A Dancing Start to Active Week 2021
RatheniskaIn line with the easing of Government restrictions on outdoor activities, we were delighted to have Claire Carroll in school this week. Claire introduced all the boys and girls from Juniors right up to 6th class to some great dance moves. She will continue the classes each Monday for the next six weeks. We are looking forward to all the classes getting together at the end of the six week block to showcase what they have learned. 
Earth Day 2021
Ratheniska5th Class spent some time last week discussing Planet Earth, the environment and climate change. They got together and collaborated on making very thought-provoking posters which they have displayed at the front of our school. They have encouraged us to reflect and realise that Earth Day is not just is not just one day a year – it is is 365 days a year!
First Penance 2021
RatheniskaThe boys and girls from Second Class celebrated the Sacrament of Penance this week. Father Ciprian visited our school and met with the children in the the lovely surroundings of our Calm Room. It was a break from the traditional First Penance but one that was very meaningful for each and every child.
Super Gardeners!
RatheniskaJunior Infants are engaging in many different ways in our new theme of gardening, growing and biodiversity this week. We are learning about the importance of bees in our world and we have have set up a mini garden outside our back door where we have have planted some wild flowers. We also planted sunflowers and are starting them off inside. During our Aistear sessions, we are “sowing”, “growing”, building, creating and working in our pretend Garden Centre. We are looking forward to seeing the fruits of our labour!
Class-to-3K 2021
RatheniskaAll the boys and girls from 3rd to 6th class have started their training for the annual Class to 3 k which they will undertake towards the end of the term. Their training schedule will be built on daily and their teachers and support staff are taking part and encouraging them every step of the way.
Outdoor Learning
RatheniskaNow that we are all back in school and the weather has taken a turn for the better, we are are taking some of our learning outdoors at various times during the day. Many pupils and their teachers can be seen out and about reading, doing number work, science, Aistear and more. Whatever we can do inside is being adapted for the outdoors whenever possible. Ms. Stapleton has acquired some electrical cable reels and will be setting them up in the very near future to create a very unique outdoor learning space.
