Friday 1st December 2023
Hi there
Another busy week and the start of a new month. Christmas is upon us and I must say, Cookstown street is beautifully lit up – just love those silver lights on the trees!
All classes are working extremely hard to be ready for Assessments next week. The Timetable is out for the January 2024 BTEC Exam series, so there isn’t time to waste.
Our staff work very hard and are so conscientious. At the same time, we support each other regarding industrial action as per half day strike on Wednesday. Staff deserve a pay increase - they deserve to be recognised for the work they do, which in many cases is beyond teaching. They are compassionate and go out of their way to care and support our young people. Resources are few, workload increases by day and more importantly, the lack of support for pupils with additional needs is appalling. For the sake of our young people and their future, this has to change!
Love for Life had great discussion with a number of year groups regarding relationships and with a focus on Dignity, Values, Worth and Respect. Very age related and interesting.
Congratulations to our Pope John Paul II Students who carried out a 24 hour sponsored fast with all proceeds going to ‘Concern’. Home Economics are tempting our taste buds with the delicious aroma of Christmas baking, and Year 8 had a great morning of football over in St Ciaran’s Ballygawley.
And ‘Charlie’ went to the Mart in Ballymena on Monday! A great experience for the Agriculture Club – not so for Charlie – but he was shining!. Brilliant price too – and ready for the next project!
You’re in for a surprise next week!! Keep a check on our Facebook page.
Don’t forget girls and boys, the Christmas Exam period commences Monday 4th. Revision booklets are on the website. Prepare well and be proud of your success.
Enjoy your weekend.
Isabel Russell
Principal