Limerick Diocesan Board of Education Report 2023/24
Ex-Officio:
1. The Bishop (Chairman)
Ms. Lorna Sharpe (Diocesan Secretary)
2. Chairpersons of School Boards of Management
Mrs. J. Bray (Adare)
Ven. J. Godfrey (Aughrim)
Ms. R. Wolfe (Birr)
Mrs. L. Sandes (Cloughjordan)
Ms. S. Miller (Kiltallagh)
Very Rev N. Sloane (Limerick)
Mrs. Karen O’Donnell (Nenagh)
Ms. Daphne Casey (Rathkeale)
Rev. Canon J. Galbraith (Roscrea)
Mr. J. Donovan (Shannon)
Rev. Canon J. Stephens (Tralee)
3. The Principal Teachers of the Primary Schools in the United Dioceses
Ms. T. Brown (Adare)
Mrs. L. Fenton (Aughrim)
Ms. V. Barnwell (Birr)
Mr. J . Coughlan (Cloughjordan)
Ms. P. Ni Bhriain (Kiltallagh)
Ms. K. Gleeson (Limerick)
Ms. S. Maher (Nenagh)
Mr. N. West (Rathkeale)
Ms. A. Powell (Roscrea)
Mr. K. Toomey (Shannon)
Mr. M. O’Toole (Tralee)
Elected Members: (To be re – elected 2026)
1. 4 Lay Members of the Diocesan Synod
Mr. J. Clarke ( Limerick)
Mrs. M. Brickenden ( Limerick )
Mr. A. Hoffman (Ardfert & Aghadoe)
Ms. P. Mason (Ardfert and Aghadoe)
2. 4 Teachers elected by the full-time permanent teachers.
Ms. R. Finney (Oxmanstown NS, Birr)
Ms. N. Slattery (St Mary’s NS Nenagh)
Mr. J. Ryan (The Glebe NS Aughrim)
Ms. C. Cronin (Kiltallagh NS)
Membership
The Board acknowledges the commitment in terms of time and expertise that the members bring to the deliberations of the Board. The Board also thanks the Principals, Chairpersons and individual Board of Management members for their work and commitment to the schools in the diocese.
Responsibilities of the Board of Management
The Board of Education wishes to highlight the importance of each Board of Management having adequate comprehensive insurance in place. There are specially tailored school insurance policies which should include Employer’s Liability, Public Liability, Professional Indemnity and Legal Expenses. Please note this insurance should include an indemnity to the various Trustees and Patron. It is up to each individual Board of Management to consider the adequacy of these covers in the policy provided by insurers and if necessary that the Board of Management are covered by the insurers for any legal liability arising from wrongful actions of teachers or other employees. In addition, the Board strongly recommends that the schools take out ‘Pupil Personal Accident Insurance’ for all pupils enrolled in the school.
Finally, the Board of Management are asked to ensure that all those who have access to the children during the running of the school, have received and undergone the appropriate safeguarding protocols, undergone Garda Vetting and received statutory clearance.
Finances
The accounts for the year ended 31st December 2023 are following this report in the Book of Reports. These accounts will be presented for approval at the next scheduled AGM of the Board on 6th November 2024. The Board is grateful to Ms. Phyllis Mason and Ms. Lorna Sharpe for preparing and checking the accounts.
The Board is very grateful to the Parishes of the Dioceses for their continued financial contribution towards the works of the Board. This funding for the work of the Board is vital if we are to make contributions to the schools. In 2023, the Board noted that contributions totaling €2,800 were received from various parish groups/unions in the Dioceses. We ask for your continued support and generosity for 2024 to support the on-going works of the Board for the coming year and encourage the remaining parish groups/unions to make a contribution in 2024. This money helps to make small grant payments to each of our eleven schools to help fund the delivery of the RE Programme.
Allocations of Funds to National Schools for 2023
A donation of €500 was made to each National School in the Dioceses to provide resources associated with the RE and Social Curriculum and an additional contribution of €200 toward transportation expenses incurred by schools attending the annual diocesan schools service in St Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick, on 16th October 2023.
Meeting
We held our annual general meeting on the 3rd of October 2023, in person in The Woodlands Hotel, Adare.
It was agreed to request a list of all eleven school’s trustees for Diocesan Records, to be reviewed at the AGM annually. An email was sent to all the principals to request this information and to highlight the risks of not knowing same.
Notes
-Insurance may be void if all trustees are dead.
-It is essential that the school trustee ensure that any transfer of ownership and title to the school site be properly registered and compliant with relevant legislative requirements.
-It is also necessary for Trustees to be available for consultation with the Board of Management on any change of use of the school and on proposed alterations to the buildings or school site. Dept of Education / RCB /Diocesan BOM sanction would also be required for any change of use or alterations to existing school accommodation/land.
Diocesan School Service
Our annual school’s service was held on the 16th of October 2023, at St Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick.
The sermon was given by Rev’d Gary Dowd, from Glenageary, Co Dublin. It was a lovely occasion shared with pupils from all our national schools over the Limerick, Killaloe and Ardfert area, as we came together to enjoy a united diocesan school’s service in the presence of the Bishop Michael Burrows . The theme of the service was Friendship expressed via a visit by the character Shrek , who conveyed the importance of accepting both ourselves and others for who we are, by following our heart and not judging someone on how they look.
A special thanks to The Very Rev Niall Sloane for all his work and for extending us a warm welcome to St Mary’s Cathedral, to the cathedral staff, and to Peter Barley who provided the musical accompaniment. Thanks to the Organising Committee for their help with all the preparations for the day and especially to Ms. Paula Ni Bhriain who helped liaise with all the schools regarding their transport requirements. In addition, we would like to thank all the principals, teachers and finally to the children for their enthusiastic participation during the service.
A collection was taken up during the service in aid of ISPCC for €404.75 and a further donation was made by the
LBOE in lieu of the visiting ministers’ expenses to Barnardos for €150, as requested
Training for Boards of Management
Boards of Management concluded office at the end of the school year 2023, after which the newly formed Boards of Management were appointed. The patrons as part of their duty enjoined on them by the Dept of Education provided training to incoming Boards on the 10th of February 2024, in the Woodlands Hotel , Adare or February 24th in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris . Training was provided by an excellent trainer /facilitator, Ms. Eileen Flynn where she delivered identical training sessions that dealt with the key areas where incoming Boards require prompt briefing concerning their considerable corporate responsibilities. Both sessions where well attended with 70 attending the meeting in Adare
Meantime there are online Training Modules available.
1. The Board as a Corporate Entity
2. BOM Child Protection Training
3. BOM Finance for Schools
https://www.ireland.anglican.org/children-youth/education/information-policies-roi/boards-of-management-secure-page Login details on request from the Diocesan Secretary
The COI Board of Education has joined forces with CPSMA over the last year to provide a stronger support and advisory service to school principals and Boards of Management. Training for Boards is only one element of support. Access to professional advisory services and information is another key resource Ph 01- 6292462
Reports for 2023/2024 school year from some of our Primary Schools
Aughrim, The Glebe – Principal Lisa Fenton
The Glebe National School has had an eventful and enriching academic year, filled with a variety of activities that have contributed significantly to the educational and personal growth of our students. The academic year kicked off with a visit from professional ballerina Emer Lenihan on September 8th, who inspired students with her grace and dedication to the arts, enhancing their appreciation for dance. Early in October, the whole school got the experience of doing a hands-on workshop with orienteering expert Stephen, who provided students with valuable navigation skills and a deeper understanding of outdoor activities.
The Limerick Diocesan Board of Education Meeting was attended by staff on October 3rd, 2023, addressing important educational matters and future plans. This was followed by the Diocesan Schools Service at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick, on October 16th, under the theme of friendship, that united students and staff in a meaningful service. A couple of days later, students had the opportunity to experience the Baboró Children’s Arts Festival in Galway with a captivating performance of “Polar Bear and Penguin” on the 18th of October, fostering their appreciation for the arts.
In November and December, students participated in tag rugby sessions with our neighbours in St. Catherine’s NS, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. On November 21st, the outgoing Board of Management members were honoured with a meal at Gillane’s Hotel, expressing gratitude for their service. The school was privileged have a visit from Bishop Michael Burrows on November 30th, offering students a unique learning experience as we listened to him perform in Holy Trinity Church, Aughrim. The same day, students showcased their athletic skills in a competitive tag rugby blitz.
December brought festive cheer with Christmas Jumper Day on the 8th, where students and staff donned festive jumpers to raise funds for charity. The annual Christmas concert on December 20th featured performances by students, celebrating the season with music and drama. The staff were super proud of the children on the day, and as a community, it was lovely to chat and mingle in the school.
Throughout Term 2, students enjoyed dance lessons with Andrea, enhancing their physical education and creative expression. Collaborative basketball sessions with St. Catherine’s promoted sportsmanship and inter-school interaction. February included a visit to Ballinasloe Library on the 24th, encouraging students’ reading and research skills. On the 28th, students participated in the FAI Primary 5’s Soccer Tournament, demonstrating their athletic abilities and team spirit.
March was a culturally enriching month, starting with a theatrical performance by Branar, entitled “Ballad of a Bandit”, which captivated the students and staff alike. World Book Day on the 7th featured various reading activities to promote literacy and a love of books. The school held an open day on the 20th, welcoming prospective students and their families to explore the facilities and programs.
During Term 3, ongoing gymnastics sessions helped improve students’ coordination and physical strength, while swimming lessons provided essential life skills and physical exercise. On April 18th, a wellbeing support visit from Nuala Dalton of Oide focused on enhancing wellbeing within the school community.
May was a particularly eventful month. The school was awarded it’s third Green Flag, this time under the theme of ‘Travel’, recognizing its commitment to environmental education and sustainability. The annual Parents’ Association Cake Sale and Sale of Work was held on May 18th and raised an amazing €1000. Well done to all involved and many thanks to the PA for their ongoing support. Students participated in Bike Week events on the 24th, promoting cycling and road safety awareness. The school tour to Wildlands on the 29th provided educational and memorable experiences for the students.
We held our Sports Day and New Infants Welcome Morning in June, both of which were very successful. On June 11th, staff participated in a wellbeing workshop focused on restorative practice. This workshop was beneficial as it provided strategies for improving communication, building stronger relationships, and fostering a positive school environment. The academic year concluded with a beautiful End of Year/Graduation Service on June 20th, led by Archdeacon John Godfrey, celebrating the year’s achievements and honouring our graduating 6th class students.
Throughout the year, The Glebe National School has demonstrated a commitment to providing a holistic education, fostering academic excellence, physical fitness, cultural enrichment, and personal development. We look forward to another year of growth and success.
Cloughjordan NS – Principal Ivor Hayes 2023/24
Cloughjordan No. 1 N.S. reopened on 29th August 2023 and we were delighted to welcome 9 new pupils to Junior Infants to commence their primary education.
Throughout the year, the children participated in a range of fun activities that were thoroughly enjoyed by one and all. Some of these included a circus workshop, a Cluichí sa Choill outdoor event in Knocknacree Woods, a STEM Day at Nenagh College for 5th and 6th Class and trips to Nenagh Library and Nenagh Art Centre to participate in Science events. We also had a Scholastic Book Fair in school in October, a trip to Birr Theatre to see ‘Elfie Saves Christmas’ in December, a trip to Borrisokane Community College to see the Transition Years production ‘School of Rock’ in March and a trip to Sheelagh na Gig Bookshop to mark World Book Day on 7th March 2024. The pupils enjoyed participating in the BLAST Arts and Creativity in Education 2023/2024, with local artist Fionnuala McKenna on the theme of transport and also enjoyed working on our school mosaic, based on the theme ‘Happiness Is…; with artist Gerardine Wisdom. We welcomed Birgit Strohwold to teach Spanish to 3rd – 6th Classes, under the ‘Say Yes to Languages’ initiative. All the pupils in our school received a very generous gift of a bare root tree from Bishop Burrows on 9th April 2024, which they were delighted to take home and plant.
Our 5th and 6th Class pupils attended a Diocesan Primary Schools Service in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick, on Monday, 16th October 2023. 5th and 6th Class met with Bishop Burrows in St. Kieran’s Church, Cloughjordan on Thursday, 16th November to sing a chosen hymn and to listen to the Bishop talking about his appeal to support ‘Empowering Women through Literacy in Berundi and Madagascar’ We also had our School Carol Service in St. Kieran’s Church, Cloughjordan, in December and we welcomed Margaret, Gareth and staff from the Postal Bible School in February for the Annual Presentation and Prizegiving.
The pupils in our school had a very active school year, as they have participated in many sporting activities – athletics, Gaelic football, hurling, camogie, gymnastics. soccer, basketball, swimming and safe cycling to name just a few. It was a privilege, once again, to unite with our neighbours and friends in St. Michael’s N.S. for training and to enter hurling, camogie and football teams in the Cumann na mBunscoil U11 and U13 competitions. There were great sporting successes throughout the school year, including our U13 Boys Gaelic Football team winning the County Finals and our U11 Girls Gaelic Football team reaching the County Finals, our 5th and 6th Class coming 1st and 2nd in Villiers Primary School Sports Day, our girls’ soccer team reaching the Munster Finals FAI 5 a-side and our Basketball team progressing to the next stage of our local school Basketball Competition.
We were delighted to support and raise funds for many very worthwhile causes throughout the school year. We supported the Trick or Treat for Sick Children 2023 by dressing up in Hallowe’en or other costumes in October. There was a bake sale in school in November to raise funds to support the Bishop’s Appeal ‘Empowering Women through Literacy in Berundi and Madagascar’. We also supported the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal and the Our Shoes Campaign. We had a collection in aid of relief efforts in Gaza, c/o the Church of Ireland Bishop’s Appeal and the local conference of St. Vincent de Paul at our school Carol Service. We had a Bring and Buy Sale and Easter Egg Raffle on Friday, 22nd March 2024. The proceeds of €1670 were shared equally between Daffodil Day 2024 and PAWS Animal Rescue. In May, we raised funds for Cloughjordan Community Playground, as all classes had an afternoon of playground fun and games and in June, we raised funds for Down Syndrome Ireland by selling ice-cream at our Sports Day.
3rd – 6th Classes had a fun-filled and jam-packed activity day in UL Adventure World Camps for the Senior School Tour on Friday, 31st May 2023. We welcomed parents, past pupils and extended family members to our school Sports Day on Friday, 7th June. We also welcomed our new Junior Infants and their parents. Junior Infants – 2nd Class had a fantastic school tour at the Fun Academy, visiting Mount St. Joseph Abbey, Cistercian College, Roscrea, for the Junior School Tour on Friday, 14th June 2024. Activities included a waterslide, inflatables, team challenges, orienteering and more.
We are very grateful to all our school staff, our Board of Management and our Parent Teacher Association Committee for their invaluable support, and to so many parents, and others, for their help in endless ways, throughout the year.
We wish our 12 Sixth Class pupils every success and future happiness as they move on to Borrisokane Community College and Villiers School Limerick.
Last, but not least, it is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our wonderful Principal, Mr. Ivor Hayes, as he retires on August 31st, after 24 years of teaching in Cloughjordan No. 1 N.S., 16 of which he has been Principal. As a teacher, Ivor’s classroom has always been a safe and happy place, where he ensured that each child was encouraged and supported to achieve their full potential. As a leader, he has guided the school through many changes and has made the school a place for us all to be extremely proud of. His infectious enthusiasm, together with a caring good-humoured and meticulous approach, has been an inspiration to our whole school community. We extend our grateful appreciation to Mr. Ivor Hayes for his many years of hard work, commitment and dedication to Cloughjordan No. 1 N.S. We wish Ivor every blessing for the future and thank him most sincerely for his long years of dedicated service to our school.
Kiltallagh N.S. – Principal Paula Ní Bhriain
We have had an amazing year here in Kiltallagh- a year full of exciting academic and holistic educational activities to enhance and enrich the lives of each and every student here in our school!
Like the musical…The Sound of Music…Here are a few of the favourite things that we got to do this past school year!
– Back in September, the children of Kiltallagh participated in a Mindfulness and Resilience Workshop with psychotherapist Harriet McGuigan.
– Enjoyed a wonderful morning of fun and creativity using Lego with the Brickx Club, Kerry.
– Had a taster class in Chosun Taekwondo with Barry O’ Connor a Black Belt instructor who demonstrated all the punching and kicking techniques involved in this Korean martial art.
– Made a trip to Radio Kerry- our local Radio Station in late September. This was an amazing experience for the pupils where the children got a guided tour of their studios.
– Were provided with a hands on First Aid Training course with PHECC First Aid Response Instructor, Ann Marie Lynch.
– Participated in the Concern Primary Schools Debating Competition. This was another fabulous experience for the senior room pupils debating on various topics including ‘electric cars are the best way to reduce emissions’ and ‘eliminating plastic in our oceans is just a dream’
Flying High!
It has to be said that one of the highlights of our school year was our school excursion in October, when the children of Kiltallagh got to fly to Dublin to meet the Ombudsman for Children, Dr. Niall Muldoon in his headquarters and engage in a workshop on Children’s rights. The trip to Dublin also included a picnic on the grounds of Trinity College, a visit to Dáil Éireann to meet Minister Norma Foley and other government personnel.
Kindness Café/Tír na nÓg Fundraiser: We finished Term 1 with a wonderful surprise visit from Louise Quill of the Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation. Louise had spoken to us at our Harvest Service about the Tír na nÓg orphanage in Tanzania.
We were overjoyed to present her with €571.81- the proceeds from our Kindness Café which we ran in our school following our Christmas Service. Louise told us exactly how she planned to spend this money – to buy some much needed toys for the children in the orphanages in Tanzania. Later in February, Louise sent us some lovely photos and a video of the children playing with all the fabulous toys she had purchased for them from the proceeds of our Kindness Café.
Term 2 in Kiltallagh was another hive of activity with the adoption of a seal named Avoca River by our inspiring Chairperson Suzanne on behalf of the pupils in our school!
‘Avoca River’ was found on a beach in Cork in January 2024. She was subsequently rescued and is now in the rehabilitation centre in Courtown, Co. Wexford (Seal Rescue Ireland).
In tandem with this The Heritage Council facilitated a stimulating Super Furry Animals workshop -exploring the special characteristics of mammals and invertebrates – a truly impressive hands on experience of the special features of these creatures. ‘Talking all things Turtles’ was another memorable workshop with Sea Synergy with the pupils learning so much about these reptiles including species identification, habitats and the lifecycle of the turtle. Sadly no live turtle appeared!
To conclude our second term, we had a very enjoyable and most informative visit by MEP for Ireland South- Séan Kelly- as part of our Blue Star Programme. Seán informed the children about all the wonderful work he has been doing in the European Parliament. We completed the work on our Blue Star application by celebrating International Europe Day with a Cuisine, Costume and Language extravaganza in our school- encompassing many cultures including Nigerian, Austrian, Belgian, French, Ukrainian, Italian, Hungarian, Polish, Romanian and of course our own native Irish culture.
The year just kept getting better in Term 3 and a truly memorable day was the visit by the senior pupils to UL in May – the culmination of months of research and project work on how different dogs respond to various genres of music for their ESB Science Blast entry. Their findings were extraordinary, and they had an absolutely fantastic day showcasing their project.
This science exhibition was followed by the thrilling news that we were successful in achieving our Curious Minds Gold Award which involved our participation in Lego We Do and Blue Bots engineering seminars as well as Irish Wildlife and Mini Beasts workshops.
As our school year drew to a close, the children enjoyed
– an outdoors training workshop with CYCLE RIGHT -another fun, engaging, insightful and most important activity giving them the knowledge and skills to cycle safely.
– A delightful day at our Annual Sports Day in collaboration with Ballyfinnane N.S. in the summer sunshine. The highlight was undoubtedly the challenge football game between parents and children. Needless to say there was a lot of tired, bruised but not broken bodies at the end of the fun filled active sports day!
– An emotional End of Year Service in Kiltallagh Church-followed by a delicious BBQ and refreshments back at their school where we we all said a fond farewell to our two wonderful 6th class students Ciara and Solanna.
Like the story in the Bible-when the best wine was served at the end of the Wedding Feast at Cana-our school tour is an apt analogy.
Our School Tour at Coachford Activity Centre was a tremendous day of fun and joyful experiences- where the pupils jumped, bounced and raced each other for the entire day both in and out of water.
What a dynamic, enriching, immersive and all-encompassing educational program the students of Kiltallagh have had this year. We look forward now to a ‘sos beag’ until we return to our lovely Kiltallagh in September.
Nenagh – St Mary’s National School – Principal Shirley Maher
The school was a hive of activity throughout the year with never a dull moment. We were delighted to welcome 7 new pupils to the school, September 2023, which resulted in 62 pupils being on the register for this academic year. Our staff comprises of Mrs. Caroline Whiteford who taught Junior Infants and Senior Infants, Ms. Donna Cavanagh who taught 1st, 2nd and 3rd classes and Mrs. Shirley Maher who has responsibility for 4th, 5th and 6th classes. Ms. Derena McDermott was our full-time Special Educational Needs teacher and Ms. Niamh Slattery and Ms. Mairéad McLoughney were our other Special Education Teachers, who were completing a Job share position together. We are also delighted to have Mrs. Mary Cope, as a full-time Special Needs Assistant, and Mrs. Noelle Carroll, our part-time Special Needs Assistant. We have a wonderful staff on board who are deeply committed to the happiness of all children who enter the doors of St. Mary’s and providing them with a broad and well-balanced curriculum.
In November, Board of Management elections took place, and we are greatly indebted to all those who serve in a voluntary capacity on our Board. Our Board of Management comprises of the following people:
Chairperson- Mrs. Karen O’Donnell
Reverend Keith Barry- Patron’s Representative
Mrs. Audrey Clarke- Community Representative
Mr. William Jones- Community Representative
Mrs. Natasha Clarke- Parents’ Representative
Mr. Gearóid Cleary- Parents’ Representative
Mrs. Shirley Maher- Principal & Secretary
Mrs. Donna Cavanagh- Teachers’ Representative
In curricular areas, a huge focus of School Self Evaluation was on Wellbeing and encouraging new Reading Initiatives throughout the school. Some Wellbeing initiatives which took place throughout the year were Wellbeing Wednesdays at the end of each month and Happy hour which took place most weeks. I am sure some of you are wondering what Happy Hour involved! All pupils from 1st to 6th classes were divided into groups of 8/9 and participated in activities such as STEM activities, Team building challenges, Craft and Cookery. Great excitement builds once Happy Hour approaches each Wednesday.
The staff completed training on the Primary Math’s Curriculum. Annual reviews have taken place on our legislative policies, and they have been reviewed and ratified by the Board of Management during the school year.
The children have been given the opportunity to participate in a number of extracurricular activities, such as French, soccer, tennis, yoga, swimming and Zumba dancing. It was with great delight that we took Junior and Senior Infants to Glendeer Pet Farm and 1st to 6th classes enjoyed a visit to Castlecomer Discovery Park.
A very successful year was had by all, and we look forward to what lies ahead!
Limerick – Saint Michael’s N.S. Report – Principal Kate Gleeson
As we approach the end of another school year, here in Saint Michael’s we have much to reflect
on and give thanks for.
We welcomed back staff and pupils at the end of August and Ms. Ann-Marie Mullane kindly
continued as Acting Principal, which allowed our Principal, Ms. Kate Gleeson, to spend a little
more time at home with her baby daughter and two older sons. We welcomed a new staff
member, Ms. Laurianne Carmody, who was in a shared SET role with Limerick School Project.
Term One saw the very welcome return of swimming lessons for pupils from 2nd – 6th class.
Throughout the year the pupils really enjoyed a variety of activities such as, GAA training, dance
classes, visits to Limerick City Library, Limerick City Gallery of Art, in-school artist visits, Maths,
Engineering Week and Seachtain na Gaeilge activities. We had some exciting visitors through
the year, including a parent who helped us learn ‘Silent Night’ in Polish, another parent who ran
workshops as part of Engineering Week and even grandparents! We enjoyed some
performances from our talented singers and musicians in the school as part of our Christmas
Carol service and we all enjoyed being accompanied by Bishop Burrows on the organ as part of
his Peregrinations. We were delighted to welcome the Bishop back again later in the year to
help us celebrate our Green Schools flag raising ceremony. All the classes had a lot of fun on
their school tours and during various sporting events, such as rugby blitzes, UL School Sports
day and our very own Sports Day. There was great celebration the day the Liam McCarthy Cup
visited! We were delighted to be recipients of a STEM grant for over €8000 and we are looking
forward to getting some interesting STEM projects up and running in the new school year.
Our P.T.A. outdid themselves again this year, organising a number of successful events. Our
Annual Family Fun evening is always the highlight of Saint Michael’s calendar, and this year was
no exception. I would like to thank everyone who has given time to support the P.T.A and the
school this year, with an extra special thanks going to our dedicated committee of parents and
teachers. I would also like to thank all the staff for their constant hard work, support and good
will and the parents and pupils for making Saint Michael’s such a special place. A final thanks to
our Board of Management who give their time and expertise so generously to the school.
We are sorry to say goodbye to Ms. Maria Robinson, who is retiring at the end of the school
year. We are sorry to be losing such an experienced and well-liked member of our team but we
are also delighted for Ms. Robinson and hope she will come back to visit us often!
Finally, to our outgoing Sixth class and other pupils who will be leaving us at the end of the
school year – we are so proud of you and wish you the very best in secondary school and
beyond.
Rathkeale – Church Street National School – Principal Niall West
Our current enrolment is 17 pupils, and we have two full time teachers (principal plus 1). During the 2023/2024 school year we were also the base school for a principal release cluster position which unfortunately will cease at the end of the school year. There is one fulltime SNA, a parttime EAL teacher, a parttime secretary and a parttime caretaker on staff.
The past year has once again been busy for us. In September we had a great day with a Heritage in Schools expert and explored the wildlife and biodiversity in a local stream. All pupils took part in a series of workshops at Rathkeale Boxing Club during the autumn. Also during the autumn, we attended the Diocesan Schools’ Service in St Mary’s Cathedral, visited the fire station in Rathkeale and took part in the Food Dudes Programme.
Our Parents’ Council organised a very successful Christmas Craft Fair and raised some much needed funds for the school. The first term ended with a Christmas Carol Service in Holy Trinity Church, Rathkeale.
The senior classes took part in the Say Yes to Languages pilot during the second term. Their chosen language was French and over the course of eight weeks they picked up quite an amount phrases.
As Limerick was one of the counties chosen to install solar panels, we were delighted to have the panels installed during the Easter Break. Hopefully this will help to reduce the electricity costs which have been soaring lately.
The summer term got off to a flying start with a full day music workshop followed by the Villiers inter primary schools’ sports day. During Bike Week we cycled along the Greenway from Rathkeale to Ardagh and beyond. One of the highlights of the term was our participation in Science Blast at UL. The senior pupils investigated which moisturiser worked best to keep skin moist. The event is always very well run and extremely educational for the pupils.
Hot school lunches were provided for the first time during this past year.
Roscrea – St. Cronan’s N.S – Principal Anne Powell
We have enjoyed a brilliantly busy year in St. Cronan’s N.S., during which our enrolment jumped from 11 to 25 pupils. We were delighted to welcome many pupils from Racket Hall and the Hibernian Suites at Sacred Heart Convent, and our school has become a wonderfully diverse, inclusive and harmonious hive of activity and learning.
In September we underwent a Dept. of Ed. English Curriculum Inspection. Our Inspector was really impressed with all of the teaching and learning in our school and provided very positive feedback.
Throughout the year, children have enjoyed tennis, swimming, soccer and rugby and look forward to an action-packed Sports Day in June.
We were successful in our application for the B.L.A.S.T. Residency Programme. ( Bringing Live Arts to Students and Teachers ) and were fortunate that Monica O’Meara, a local ceramicist, could join us again to share her exceptional skills with our children. The theme of Biodiversity was explored, and the results were truly impressive. Each pupil constructed their very own ceramic birdhouse, and leftover clay was used to make some wonderful Christmas decorations which were sold at our Christmas Craft Fayre.
Hanna won a local colouring competition, and her prize treated everyone to a morning of Pizza-making in Supermacs.
We raised €470 for North Tipperary Hospice at our annual Coffee morning. Children dressed up in their Halloween costumes and sang Halloween songs to the people of Roscrea raising €350 for Temple Street Children’s Hospital. Children created an amazing assortment of Christmas decorations and raised €660 for Roscrea Age Friendly at our Christmas Craft Fayre. We also participated in the Christmas Shoebox Appeal for Team Hope. A huge thank you to all who supported our endeavours.
The ‘Say Yes to Languages Programme’ gave children an opportunity to learn some Portuguese in a fun and active way.
All pupils enjoy a stroll to Roscrea Library every month, where they can browse through the shelves and select some books to enjoy while improving their literacy skills.
Children can enjoy a tasty meal every day following our successful application to the Hot Lunch Scheme.
We were delighted to welcome Gillian McHugh as our new School Secretary. Gillian is an invaluable addition to St. Cronan’s, and we hope that she will be very happy with us.
The new Board of Management benefited greatly from the training provided by Bishop Michael Burrows.
Marion Flanagan provided some excellent Internet Safety advice for our parents at an information evening. Staff training for the new Maths Curriculum, Parent Teacher meetings and Standardised Testing have all taken place and we look forward to our school tour and our 6th Class Graduation Ceremony at the end of a busy school year.
Shannon, St John’s NS – Principal Kevin Toomey
School year 2023/2024 has been a successful year in St. John’s NS., Shannon. The old adage says that you know it’s been a good day in school when they Children go home tired, but happy. I don’t know about the kids, but it is safe
to say the staff left on the last day of June absolutely exhausted – but certainly happy.
As always, we followed our core principle as a staff, ‘when the children are happy, safe, and comfortable,
they WILL learn’. To that end we set about developing the same family atmosphere that has been here year on year, and helping the children work towards reaching their full potential.
The year kicked off with the email no school looks forward to, The big bad WSE! However, I can now confidently say it was a very positive experience and should not be dreaded by any school. It was challenging and anxiety inducing but a really worthwhile experience. What we valued most about the experience, was the recognition of the hard work being put in and the time taken by the inspectorate to really understand the school. While there were recommendation which we welcomed, it was fabulous to see the focus was really to acknowledge all the amazing things that are happening every day here.
We continued to maintain and develop the strong links we have here in Shannon with the local community.
Through involvement with many local businesses, sports clubs, other local schools, and our fantastic neighbours,
we try and instil a sense of pride of place in the kids. Shannon is their town, and we want them to love the town and their neighbours. For the first time since 1961, we opened our doors to and invited every single neighbour in Drumgeely to a coffee morning. For some living in Shannon all their lives, it was their first time seeing the inside of the school. We doubled this up as a fundraiser for the Irish Cancer society and raised €1350. The day was a huge
success and thoroughly enjoyed by all.
We tried to offer the children as many new and valuable learning experience as possible. Fun is the key, and boy did we have some fun. Maths week maths trails, Science week CSI experiments, guitar lessons, pilates, gardening, and baking to name just a few hands on learning activities the kids enjoyed this year.
Christmas is always a calendar highlight, and this year was no different. Of all the visitors we had, and there were many, one stood out. He didn’t have his sleigh with him but in true Clare styled arrived instead on a red tractor following behind the local fire engine! Santa’s annual visit was truly memorable, and Mr. Toomey’s Christmas wish of another Clare all Ireland came only 8 months later! Decorating the Christmas tree as a whole school family always bring a smile to all the little faces and is a lovely way to finish out the term.
During our annual trip to Shannon Airport where we sing Christmas Carols for loved one returning
from abroad, our very own Noah was invited to Clare FM studios to realise his dream of being live
on the radio!
Our infant classes also had a fantastic opportunity with our friends at Shannon airport to take part
in a lovely ad campaign highlighting the need for change to preconceptions on gender diversity.
They did a fantastic job, and we were so proud to take part in such a worthy exercise. The video
can be viewed on our Facebook page for those interested.
Acknowledgements
The Board wishes to thank all involved in educating and supporting our young children, through another academic year 2023/24. We would like to acknowledge the contributions of the teachers, the clergy, both new and old member of the Board of Managements and Sunday School Teachers in nurturing the young children in their faith.
I wish to make a particular reference to Mr. Ivor Hayes, former principal of Cloughjordan NS who took a well-deserved retirement this year. We wish him well in his new endeavors.
The Boards thanks Dr. Ken Fennelly of the Church of Ireland Board of Education for his continued support over the last year and in particular with the new Board of Management Training. The staff at Church House are always very willing to assist with any queries from the Board and schools, and for this they deserve our sincere appreciation and thanks.
Lorna Sharpe
Secretary of LBOE
September 2024
Limerick Diocesan Board of Education
Financial Statements
In accordance with instructions given to me, I have examined, without carrying out an audit, the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2023 from the information and explanations supplied.
to me.
Phyllis Mason
Notes 2023 2022
€
Income:
Endowment Receipts 1 2377 2254
Parish /Group /Union Contributions 4 2800 2200
SSSI Grant 550 0
5,727 4,454
Expenditure:
Bank Charges 34 39
Donations to Primary Schools & Choir 3 7,800 7,600
Donation to Barnardo’s in Lieu of Travel Expenses 150 0
Clergy Mileage Expenses 0 75
Woodlands Hotel Room Hire AGM278
Woodlands Hotel Room Hire New BOM
Training 300 0
(8,562) (7,714)
Surplus/ (Deficit) for year ( 2836) ( 3,260)
Purchase of 3210.23 Units RCB General Trust (R of I) 0 15,000
Balance brought forward 13,403 31,663
10,567 13403
Represented By:
Bank Balances
AIB Bank, O’Connell St. Limerick 10,567 13,403
Limerick Diocesan Board of Education
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the Year Ending 31st December 2023
2023 2022
€ €
1Endowment Receipts
RCB Capital 2,338.31 2245
Deposit interest 38.43 9
Bank of Ireland dividends –
2377 2254
2Investments held on 31 December 2023
244 Units Bank of Ireland ordinary stock
18,706.41 Units R.B. General Unit Trust (R of I)
3Expenditure:
2023 2022
Donation to St Mary’s Junior Choir Limerick 500
500
Donations to Primary Schools
St. John’s, Tralee 700 700
St. John’s, Shannon 700 500
St Michael’s Limerick 500 500
St. Cronan’s, Roscrea 500 500
Church St, Rathkeale 700 700
St. Mary’s, Nenagh 700 700
No. 1 NS, Cloughjordan 700 700
Kiltallagh NS 700 700
Oxmanstown, Birr 700 700
St. Nicholas, Adare 700 700
The Glebe, Aughrim 700 700
Total 7,800 7,600
Note €500 was paid to all NS’s and a further €200 towards transport costs for the Diocesan Schools Service
4 Contributions from Parishes/Groups / Unions 2023 2022
€ €
Birr 500 0
Nenagh 300 300
LCP 300 0
Cloughjordan & Borrisokane 200 200
Tralee & Dingle 200 200
Shinrone 150 150
All Saints, Castleconnell 200 200
Roscrea 200 150
Kilcolman 200 0
Clonfert 300 300
Killarney 0 250
Killaloe 0 200
Kilnasoolagh 250 250
Total 2800 2200
Note €500 was paid to all NS’s and a further €200 towards transport costs for the Diocesan Schools Service
5Approval of financial Statements
A meeting of The Limerick Diocesan Board of Education is scheduled to take place on 6th November 2024. The Financial Statements are subject to approval at this meeting.