Thank you to our Year 5 parents who attended our Accelerated Reader information meeting on Tuesday. Led by Mrs Matthews, our Language and Literacy Co-ordinator, the session provided an opportunity to learn more about how the programme works and the many benefits it offers in supporting reading progress, independence and a love of reading. We look forward to seeing our Year 5 pupils embark on their Accelerated Reader journey for the first time and wish them every success as they discover new books and develop their reading skills.

#LoveReading #ReadingForPleasure #AcceleratedReader

Our staff recently participated in an excellent inclusion training session delivered by Ronán Conlon from Fit Minds. The highly engaging and practical workshop focused on developing greater understanding of additional needs, inclusive practice and strategies to support all children to participate and thrive.

Through a blend of discussion, real-life scenarios and hands-on activities, staff explored ways to adapt learning experiences, support emotional regulation and create inclusive environments where every child feels valued and successful.

The practical movement workshop was a particular highlight, providing plenty of opportunities for staff to get involved, have fun and experience inclusive activities first-hand. It was an informative, enjoyable and thought-provoking session that has provided staff with valuable ideas and strategies to further enhance inclusive practice across our school.

We would like to thank Ronán for delivering such an engaging and worthwhile training session.

Many, many thanks to all who organised and supported our Coffee Morning for Macmillian Cancer Care. There were so many beautiful cakes, tray bakes and buns on display.

There was a great atmosphere in the hall with so many staff (past and present), volunteers from 'The Friends of St Joseph's', grandparents, parents, past pupils and friends from the local community who popped in to show their support.  

We finished off the day with a bun sale in school with lots of treats being enjoyed by the boys and girls.

Draw Winners were:

Colette Matthews 

S. Demaine

Michelle Donnelly

Brenda Baillie

Siobhan O'Loughlin

Anne McPeake

M. McArdle

We will announce the final total raised next week.  Again many thanks to all - what a team effort and what a great morning!   

#greatteameffort  #welldoneandthanks

Our newly elected Pupil Council representatives met for the first time this week with Mr. Traynor and Mrs. Wray to take part in a pupil leadership training session. During the session, the pupils learned about their important role in representing the views of their classmates and explored ways to lead assemblies and discussions, create displays, gather pupil opinions and ensure that every voice is heard within our school community.

The children received their leadership information packs, and details about how to receive badges and lanyards for their new role.  They are excited to begin their new roles. We look forward to supporting our Pupil Council members as they develop their confidence and leadership skills and make a positive difference throughout the year.

Bonjour, dia dhuit, guten tag, hola!

Today, our school came alive with the sights and sounds of Europe as we celebrated European Day of Languages. Pupils took part in a vibrant array of activities, including art, singing, dancing, dressing up, and visits from our local Shared Education partner schools. Throughout the day, children enthusiastically learned and spoke a variety of European languages, embracing the diversity and richness of our continent.

It was a fantastic day of fun, friendship, and learning for everyone involved!

A huge well done to Mrs Campbell's Year 5 boys and girls who led our Year 4-7 September Golden Assembly with confidence, creativity and care. Their theme, "We Belong," reminded us of the special place each of us holds within the St. Joseph's family.

Through thoughtful readings, prayer, drama, and joyful singing, the children explored what it means to belong to a community where everyone is valued, supported and encouraged to flourish.  Stella the Star, our school mascot, also featured as part of the assembly, helping to reinforce our school values and reminding pupils about the importance of kindness, generosity and supporting others through our upcoming Macmillan Coffee Morning.

Following the assembly, pupils received certificates for September Pupil of the Month and Accelerated Reading, while our newly elected Pupil Council members were proudly presented with their badges. We also celebrated several achievements from outside school.

Well done to all our boys and girls on a wonderful start to the new school year. We are very proud of you all!

A sincere thank you to all our Nursery parents who attended the Nursery Curriculum Evening, and to our Nursery staff for organising such an informative, engaging and enjoyable evening for all who attended

Today, we celebrated our Year 1-3 September Golden Assembly, with our Year 1 pupils joining us for assembly for the very first time. They were absolutely amazing!

With the European Day of Languages being celebrated this week, Ms Blease's Year 3 class led our assembly on this important theme. The children explored how more than 200 languages are spoken across Europe and how each language reflects the unique culture, heritage and identity of its people.

The boys and girls spoke with great confidence, and their singing was simply wonderful. It was a lovely assembly and a fitting way to mark the end of our first month back at school.

As part of our celebrations, pupils were presented with certificates recognising their achievements in school. We also enjoyed celebrating the success of a number of children who brought in medals, certificates and trophies earned through activities outside school. In addition, we recognised all of our September birthday boys and girls.

Well done to every one of our pupils on such a positive start to the school year. We are extremely proud of you all!

Choir and orchestra practices have commenced once again in St. Joseph's under the expert guidance of our very talented teachers and musicians, Mrs McDonnell, Mrs Matthews, Ms McKibbin and Mrs Downey.

The boys and girls will meet each Tuesday and Thursday afternoon to rehearse a variety of musical pieces, hymns and songs that will enhance many of our school services and events throughout the year.

What a talented group they are! We look forward to seeing and hearing them perform in the months ahead.

Our popular Knit and Natter group gathered together once again today in St. Joseph's, and it was wonderful to welcome everyone back. There was plenty of chat, laughter and creativity as members shared the beautiful patterns, projects and garments they have been working on.

The group meets every Tuesday morning at 9.30am and welcomes anyone from the local community who enjoys knitting, crocheting or simply spending time with others in a friendly and relaxed environment. Whether you are an experienced crafter or just beginning, you are most welcome.

We would love to see the group continue to grow, so why not come along, swap ideas and patterns, learn a new skill and enjoy a cuppa with good company?

#Community #KnitAndNatter #StJosephsPS #LifelongLearning #CommunitySpirit #EveryoneMattersEveryMomentCounts