During the last month, the boys and girls have been collecting many essential items for homeless people, which have now been donated to PATH, Portlaoise. This was organised by the Parents Association and when the representatives from PATH came to visit the children they were very grateful for the huge amount of items that they will now take to distribute to some very worthy people.

Rang 3 had a visit from some members of Stradbally and Portlaoise Fire Stations recently. With the upcoming season of lights and candles at Christmas, it was a timely reminder to check out our fire safety procedures both at home and in school.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in many classes these days. Junior Infants are creating North Pole vibes in their classroom with Santa and his elves and many Arctic animals to be seen roaming around while 6th Class  got into groups, collaborated with each other and created a beautiful Nativity inspired mural which hangs proudly in the  hallway.

2nd Class have been working on the theme of Houses and Homes during the last fortnight. The mini architects have been drawing plans, creating and constructing and have a city of various buildings on display for all to see.

Rang 6 and Rang 1 got together to do some shared reading on Friday. It was lovely for the two classes to get together and read whist getting to know one another.

The children in a First, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth classes were treated to a visit by Heritage in Schools biodiversity expert, Edel Heeran. at the end of November. Edel brought her beekeeping equipment and some local honey for us to taste whilst explaining the importance of bees and other pollinators to the environment and economy. Her visit included a walk about to look at the biodiversity around the school. Thanks to Laois Co Co and Heritage in Schools for funding the visit.

Third Class and Junior Infants got together last week to share some stories with one another. The Third Class pupils chose some books from the Junior Infant library and worked in small groups to present the stories to their young buddies. It was a genuine learning experience that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.