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Our School > Policies
St.Mary's B.N.S.
Routines and Procedures
2008
Overview of Contents
1. Absences – Pupils
2. Absences – Staff: Illness
3. Absences – Staff: Brief
4. Accidents/Serious injuries
5. After school
6. Alarm
7. Allocation of classes
8. Assessment
9. Attendance – School Day & Punctuality
10. Bicycles
11. Blinds, windows and Doors
12. Board of Management
13. Break time
14. Bullying:Anti-bullying Charter
15. Bullying
16. Calendar
17. Caretaker and cleaner
18. Caring for pupils
19. Chalk/Whiteboards
20. Chess
21. Child protection policy
22. Choir
23. Circulars
24. Class Leagues
25. Committees
26. Computers
27. Computer software
28. Concerts
29. Courtesy
30. Covering for each other
31. Cumann na mBunscol
32. Curriculum
33. Dialann Scoile
34. Digital Cameras
35. Discipline
36. Drama
37. Dress Code – teachers, pupils
38. Duty of Care
39. Early Collection
40. Electrical equipment
41. End of year reports
42. English
43. Extra curricular activities
44. Extra personal vacation EPV
45. Enrolment Policy
46. Fire Drill
47. First Aid
48. Fund Raising/Charity Collections
49. Geography
50. Guitar
51. Harassment
52. Headed Notepaper
53. Heating
54. Health & Safety Statement
55. Health Checks/Headlice
56. History
57. Homework
58. Internet
59. Irish/Gaeilge
60. Laptops
61. Learning
62. Learning Support – Literacy
63. Learning Support – Numeracy
64. Letters to parents
65. Library
66. Lights
67. Litter
68. Lunches
69. Lunchtime Announcements
70. Mathematics
71. Medicines
72. Memoranda to staff
73. Mobile Phones
74. Money
75. Motto
76. Music Education
77. Notes from pupils/parents
78. Noticeboard/whiteboard
79. Outside Facilitators/Instructors
80. Paired Reading
81. Parents/Guardians
82. Parents’ Association
83. Parent/Teacher meetings
84. Penmanship
85. Personal insurance
86. Photocopying
87. Education
88. Physical Education/Equip.
89. Policies
90. Post
91. Posts of responsibility
92. Prayers
93. Preparation of school work
94. Programmes for implementation during the school year
95. Protecting Yourself and Pupils
96. Pupil Information Sheets
97. Punctuality
98. Religious Instruction
99. Resources
100. Resource Teacher
101. Roles
102. Roll Book/ Leabhar rolla
103. Safety
104. School day
105. Schools in the area
106. Science
107. Secretary
108. Sick Bay
109. S.E.S.E.
110. S.P.H.E.
111. Smoking
112. Special Needs Assistants
113. Sports Day
114. Staff/room
115. Staff development
116. Staff Duties
117. Staff Meetings
118. Student Teachers/Work Experience Students
119. Substitution
120. Supervision: General
121. Supervision: Wet Days
122. Supervision: Yard Duty
123. Swimming
124. Teacher's Charter
125. Telephone
126. Television and Radio
127. Textbooks
128. Tidiness in the Classroom
129. Timetables
130. Tionól
131. Toilets
132. Tours
133. Uniform/School Tracksuit
134. Videos/dvd
135. Vision Statement
136. Visual Arts
137. Visual Arts Resources
138. Yard Equipment
139. Where Do I Find Them? Resources
Appendices
Appendix 1 - Brief Absences Circular 18/00.
Appendix 2 - Sample of the Accident Report Form and blue incident card.
Appendix 3 - Guidelines for Yard Supervision
Appendix 4 - Arrangements for school years 2008/09 to 2010/11.
Appendix 5 - Postholders – list of duties and responsibilities.
Appendix 6 - The Molanó Code
Appendix 7 - Anti-bullying Charter
Appendix 8 - Rules of the School Yard
Appendix 9 - Samples of blue Molanó Cards and Reminder Cards.
Appendix 10 - Samples of 'End of Year Report'
Appendix 11 - Sample of headed notepaper/official school stationery.
Appendix 12 - Form of Report of Accident by Adult.
Appendix 13 - Sample letter for cases of headlice in a class.
Appendix 14 - A standardised Nótaí Seachtaine/ coicise/Cúntais Míosúil format.
Appendix 15 - English Translation for Instructions for filling in Roll Book.
Appendix 16 - Teachers Charter
Appendix 17 - Guidelines for Mid Morning and Lunchtime Supervision on Wet Days.
Appendix 18 – Primary School Curriculum Guidelines to Timetabling for each curricular
area.
Appendix 19 – Staged Approach Stage 1Monitoring Form
1. Absences – Pupils
A pupil who has been absent from school is required to provide a note on his return to school, signed by his parent/guardian. A note in the dialann scoile will suffice.
If a pupil fails to do so, he should be reminded to bring it the next day.
Further failure to produce a note will require the teacher to put a note in the dialann scoile requesting a slip for absence at the front/back of the dialann to be filled in and signed by a parent/guardian.
If the problem persists inform the principal.
Notes of absence should be stored in attendance box files which are provided for this purpose in each classroom.
Under the Education Welfare Act 2002, schools are required to make returns to the Education Welfare Board on attendances in a school year. The board must be notified when a pupil is absent for 20 days or more.
The school secretary will provide teachers with forms to record the name of any pupil who has been absent for 20 days or more at the end of each term. These should be returned to the office asap.
2. Absences – Staff: Illness
If you are unable to attend school due to illness, contact the principal on his/her mobile phone as soon as possible so that substitution cover can be put in place.
If you are unable to contact the principal, contact the Deputy Principal or office as soon as possible.
Absences due to illness of more than 3 days requires a certificate.
Please hand up the certificate on your return to school so that a claim for substitution cover can be made.
Alternatively the certificate may be sent directly to the Dept. of Education & Science.
For further information see INTO guidelines for teachers.
See also Substitution in this book.
3. Absences – Staff: Brief
Other brief absences are allowed in accordance with Circular 18/00. These cover a wide range of absences. Substitution is allowed for some of these. See these in Appendix 1 Brief Absences Circular 18/00.
Brief absences as outlined in Appendix 2 require the prior approval of the Board of Management.
When a teacher knows he/she will be absent, a programme of work should be left for a substitute/temporary teacher along with notes, information and a timetable.
When no substitution cover is available an absent teacher's class is divided among other classes. This is the duty of the principal, who will also ensure that these children know what work to be getting on with. Pupils will be divided in accordance with the enrolment numbers in other classes.
See also Extra Personal Vacation Days in this handbook.
4. Accidents/Serious Injuries
When an accident occurs in the classroom/yard/school environment. Staff should attend to the injured pupil as best they can.
First Aid kits are located in the staffroom and in Rooms 3, 5, 9 and 16. These kits are also available for bringing on class tours and to matches.
If a teacher is unable to deal with an injury he/she should contact the principal for immediate assistance.
First Aid should be administered where it is thought appropriate.
In the case of serious injuries, the parents/guardians should be informed immediately so that arrangements can be made for the pupil to be brought home.
In extreme cases, it may be necessary to contact a doctor and/or ambulance. A Parent/guardian should be informed immediately.
All serious accidents should be recorded in the Accident Report Folder, located in Room 5, as soon as possible after the accident and signed by the teacher attending to it and also by the principal.
A blue incident card should also be filled out, signed by the teacher and given to the pupil who should get it signed by a parent/guardian and returned to his class teacher who will keep it in the attendance file.
See Appendix 2 for sample of the Accident Report Form and blue incident card.
See Appendix 3 Guidelines for Yard Supervision from the Supervision Policy
See Health and Safety Statement.
5. After School
Teachers should ensure the pupils in their class leave the school after the bell rings at 2.30p.m. in an orderly fashion.
Pupils are not allowed to loiter around the school after the bell has rung at 2.30p.m.
The principal, deputy principal, assistant principals 1 and 2, and Special Duties Postholders 3,4,5,6 and 7, take turns to oversee the dismissal of pupils from a vantage point at the top of the school yard.
Pupils may remain behind if they are attending extra curricular activities or where it has been arranged with a parent/guardian beforehand.
Pupils should behave themselves outside the school while on the way home or while waiting for a bus/collection.
Teachers organising extra curricular activities bring equipment with them when they go to meet with their group. Pupils should not have access to equipment, eg. footballs while unsupervised.
6. Alarm
The school is fitted with a burglar alarm system to ensure security outside of school hours.
This alarm pad is located inside the school's front door. Each member of staff has been given the alarm code, account number and alarm monitoring company's phone number..
In the event of a false alarm, key in the code. Ring the alarm monitoring company, identify yourself and give the account number.
7. Allocation of Classes
In St.Mary's we will aspire to teachers working for a 2-4 year period at a class level, in special education or as resource teacher, before moving on to another. This will help ensure that all teachers can gain experience in as many class levels as possible over the course of their career.
The principal will decide on the allocation of classes following consultation with all teachers.
Allocation of classes for the following school year will be announced between April and the June teacher's meeting.
8. Assessment
Teachers should acquaint themselves thoroughly at the beginning of the school year with the Assessment and Record Keeping Policy.
Standardised Assessment in English Reading, Spelling and in Maths is carried out in classes Rang 1-Rang 6 during May and a note to this effect should be included in Yearly Schemes of Work.
A copy of results from standardised assessment tests should be given to Learning Support Team.
Assessment is used to identify a pupil's strengths, progress and areas of concern. It is used to help identify pupils with learning difficulties.
See Assessment & Record Keeping Policy
9. Attendance – School Day & Punctuality
Teachers should be in school no later than 10 minutes before school begins. (ie.8.40a.m.) - Rules for National Schools 142(1)(b)
If a teacher is running late, he/she should contact the principal on his/her mobile/office so that arrangements for supervision/cover of his/her class can be made.
Teachers should not leave the school before the closure of classes at 2.30p.m.
The overall teaching year consists of 183 days.
See Rules for National Schools in office.
See School Day in this handbook.
10. Bicycles
Pupils who bring their bicycles to school should not ride them inside the school grounds.
They must walk them along the path and down to the front of the school, where they are kept.
Only pupils with bicycles are allowed there.
Teachers should bring these regulations to the notice of pupils at the start of the school year and encourage boys to wear helmets when riding their bicycles.
Cycling safety forms part of the S.P.H.E. Programme.
Students in Rang 6 take part in the South Dublin County Council Cycling Proficiency Course organised and run by the principal.
11. Blinds, Windows and Doors
Each classroom has horizontal blinds. These are delicate and should be operated by the teacher.
Blinds should be opened each morning to allow for adequate light.
Windows may be opened to allow for the proper ventilation of classrooms.
Windows should be closed properly by teachers at the end of the school day to ensure adequate security when the school is not in operation.
If you have a broken/cracked window please inform the principal/caretaker.
Teachers should have a key to their own classroom, along with a key to the main school doors.
Ensure you lock your door at the end of the school day.
If you lose your key inform the principal.
See Alarm in this handbook.
12. Board of Management
The Board of Management is the school’s governing body. It consists of 8 members as follows:
- 2 Patron’s nominees, including the Chairperson.
- 2 Parents’ representatives, one father and one mother.
- The school Principal.
- The teachers’ representative, elected by the teaching staff.
- 2 nominees of the Board nominated from the wider community.
The Board is elected for a 4-year term and meets at least 5 times a year.
Staff may bring concerns to the notice of the Board through the teachers’ representative.(see staff list for current rep.)
The teachers’ representative reports back to the staff on decisions made by the Board, in accordance with the Board’s instructions.
13. Breaktime
Breaktime is an integral part of the school day. Breaktimes are:
a) 10.45 hours – 10.55 hours
A bell will ring at 10.55 to indicate that break is coming to an end.
The hand bell will ring at 11.00. Pupils stop playing and line up.
Teachers are requested to be in the yard by 11.00.
b) 12.30 hours – 13.00 hours
A bell rings at 12.55 to indicate that break is coming to an end.
The hand bell will ring at 13.00. Pupils stop playing and line up.
Teachers are requested to be in the yard by 13.00 hours.
Pupils will normally go out to the schoolyard for breaks, unless the weather is inclement. The decision whether to go out is made by Assistant Principal 2.
Teachers must ensure all pupils have left the classroom and gone outside to the yard before closing exterior doors and going for his/her break.
Pupils should not stay inside at breaktime without a note from a parent/guardian.
Those who do stay in should be brought to ‘Sick Bay’ located in Room 5.
Teachers should praise pupils for good/exemplary behaviour in the yard.
At the end of break boys should not enter the classrooms until his teacher has returned to the classroom.
An array of board games is provided for pupils when they stay in at breaktime. They should be kept in good condition and pieces should not be lost.
In the yard pupils may play ball,chasing games and use the equipment such as bean bags, hoops etc.
Boys are not permitted to play ballgames in the yard before school. If they find any stray yard equipment in the morning, they should bring it inside and return it to the appropriate classroom.
Occasionally certain boys require extra attention in yard, their names will be noted in a book located in the staffroom. Teachers on duty should consult it before going out.
See Appendix 3-Yard Supervision Guidelines and Appendix 8 - Rules for Yard.
See Supervision in this handbook and the school Supervision PolicyDocument.
14. Bullying : Anti-bullying Charter
ANTI-BULLYING CHARTER
Every pupil has the right to be free from bullying during his time in St. Mary’s.
Our school will not tolerate
any unkind actions or remarks,
even if these were not meant to hurt.
Any series of unkind actions or comments will be called bullying.
Bullying can be physical, verbal or psychological.
Pupils: Remember your CODE -
Be gentle
Be a friend
Tell about bullying
SAY NO – GET AWAY – TELL SOMEONE
Parents: Be alert to signs of bullying
-of or by- your child.
Look for support.
Do not encourage your child to
“give as good as you get”;
We, the teachers, consider bullying to be a serious matter.
We are a “TELLING” school.
We recognise that victim and bully need help.
ADULTS MUST PROTECT CHILDREN
15. Bullying
Bullying refers to an on-going systematic pattern of behaviour. It can last for weeks, months or even years. Bullying may be physical, verbal or psychological in nature.
Some children become involved in bullying by acting as bystanders or supporters. There is no such thing as an innocent bystander in these matters.
At St.Mary’s B.N.S. each person is valued, cherished and respected. We all have a right to be different; this is what makes us special. We should treat one another, as we would like others to treat us. Bullying is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
In St. Mary’s teachers should encourage the children to show trust, care and to give friendly support to other boys.
The Anti-Bullying Charter should be displayed in each room in the school and teachers should ensure their class are familiar with it at the start of the school year.
Teachers should have a full understanding of the issues involved and be familiar with the Bullying Guidelines, as set out in the St.Mary's Anti-Bullying Policy.
You should also be familiar with the Child Protection Policy.
If a case of bullying comes to your attention, please follow the guidelines as set out in the St.Mary's Anti-Bullying Policy Document. Treat these cases seriously at all times.
Bullying forms part of the school’s S.P.H.E. Programme and is covered in the Stay Safe Programme in Senior Infants, Rang 2, 4, 6 and revised in Rang 1,3, 5.
See Anti-Bullying Policy Document
16. Calendar
The school calendar/yearly planner is compiled in consultation with the staff in the 3rd term of each school year. This is done in consultation with Loreto N.S. Grange Rd. and takes into account Standardisation of the School Year as agreed with the DES and Teacher Unions.
Holidays, breaks, staff meetings, Parent / Teacher Meetings and other events should be included in the calendar.
A copy of the calendar is distributed to all members of the school community at the beginning of the school year in September. It is also displayed in the office and in the staffroom.
Should amendments be needed, due notice is given to all concerned.
In addition to this, a monthly calendar/féilire is compiled and distributed to all members of the school community at the beginning of every month, by our school secretary. It is also posted on the school website by the ICT Coordinator.
Teachers should add any events, extra-curricular activities and/or outings relevant to his/her class by noting details on the blank calendar displayed in the staffroom for this purpose.
Teachers may keep their copies in their roll book, handbook and/or at home.
See Appendix 4 for arrangements for school years 2007/08 to 2009/2010.
Caretaker and Cleaners
The caretaker is charged with the general maintenance of the school and its environs.
The cleaner(s) is/are charged with cleaning the classrooms/cloakrooms, toilets and other areas of the school.
The principal, on behalf of the BOM issues them with their duties and contracts.
If a staff member sees any area of the school that needs attention please bring it to the notice of the principal. This will include breakages, leaks etc. in the classroom and toilet areas.
Please make the job of cleaners as easy as possible by ensuring pupils keep their classrooms in good order and by ensuring the floor space is clear of boxes, etc.
See Tidiness in the Classrooms in this handbook.
18. Caring for Pupils
Teachers should treat their pupils with respect, creating an atmosphere where every individual is cherished and affirmed. In this way, we can create friendly and harmonious relationships within the school.
Teachers when applying sanctions should take into account the seriousness of the misbehaviour.
When admonishing pupils, teachers should be sensitive to them and should avoid remarks and comments that may be interpreted by pupils to be hurtful and insulting.
In discussions with other staff members concerning pupils, teachers should be respectful about them.
See Teachers Charter in this handbook.
See Discipline in this handbook.
Chalkboards/Whiteboards
A supply of chalk (white and coloured) and whiteboard markers are distributed at the beginning of each school year.
Further supplies are available in the office.
Chess
St.Mary's Chess Club enters teams in Inter Schools Chess Competitions. On competition days, boys may need to leave class early to participate in matches. They should have a note signed by a parent/guardian to this effect.
Child Protection Policy
There is an obligation on the school to provide pupils with the highest possible standard of care in order to promote their well being and protect them from harm.
To that effect the school has in place its Child Protection Policy. You should familiarise yourself with every aspect of this document and know how to deal with disclosures of abuse when they are brought to your attention.
The principal is the Designated Liaison Person for this school and should allegations of abuse be brought to your attention inform the D.L.P. immediately.
In the absence of the principal, Assistant Principal 1 will act as Deputy Designated Liaison Person.
If a teacher has concerns about a child he/she should record concerns on a 'Caomhnú' form which is available in the office.
Information gathered should be recorded and kept locked in the confidential drawer in the office. No one has access to these files except the Designated Liaison Person.Child Protection Policy.
Choir
We have a very active choir made up of boys from Rang 3,4,5 and 6.
Choir practise usually takes place on Wednesday 11.30-12.30 in the halla.
At this time, choir boys carry their chairs to the halla, boys from Ms. Shorten's class will go to those rooms/classes where the singers have come from, where they will work on assigned tasks.
Ms.Shorten's class return to their own classroom when the choir practise has finished and their teacher is available to oversee their return to the classroom.
23. Circulars
The Department of Education and Science issue circulars on a regular basis.
All these circulars can be downloaded from the DES website.
These are displayed in the staffroom for a period of time. They are then stored in the Circulars' Folder in the staffroom for the remainder of the current school year.
Teachers should acquaint themselves with their content and are welcome to consult documents contained in the folder. You may make copies of them if you wish.more than 1 school year old will be kept in a folder in the office.
24. Class Leagues
Teachers in Rang 2-Rang 6 are encouraged to run class leagues in hurling and football.
These take place in the field after school 2.30-3.30p.m. on a weekly basis, weather permitting.
Boys from other class levels act as referees for these matches. They should be encouraged to take responsibility for collecting and returning jerseys for his fixture.
A teacher must be present at all times and should see all boys off the premises afterwards before his/her own departure.
Commitees
The school has a number of committees which are in operation on an on going basis. These committees have membership made up of Board of Management, Parents' Association, Teachers, Principal and community representatives. They meet a few times a year.
The Committees are Parents Association Committee, Health and Safety Committee and some school policy commitees as suggested by D.E.S. eg. Substance Use, R.S.E.
The Board of Management is the body which governs the school.
The principal has the right to be a member of any school committees.
26. Computers
Each classroom has a minimum of one computer linked to laserjet printers in/outside the computer room.
Computers should be used as an aid to learning and teaching.
Report any problems to the ICT Co-ordinator.
The school is fully networked and access to the internet is available in all classrooms.
Decisions in regard to the use of the internet are made in the light of the school's ICT Policy at the beginning of each school year.
The school has digital cameras, video camera and digital projectors,
Opportunities are made for teachers and their classes in the use of all ICT equipment at the beginning of the school year or individually as requested.(See computer room timetable and mobile trolley timetable)
Computers should be turned off at the end of the school day.
See Internet
See ICT Policy Document.
27. Computer Software
A range of software is available to teachers.
Licences are required for all software installed in the school's computers.
Software must not be copied and distributed to teachers, parents or pupils.
Software is located in the computer room and in individual classrooms.
When you are finished with software please return it.
Do not leave CD's in the CD Drive.
Any damage or problems should be reported immediately to the ICT coordinator.
See ICT Policy for a catalogue of available software.
28. Concerts
The school concert takes place every 3 years.
Details regarding dates, programme, ticketing, etc. are decided in consultation with Teachers, Principal, Parents Association and B.O.M.
29. Courtesy
Courtesy and good manners are essential in the school.
The Molanó Code outlines for pupils how they should behave towards others requiring them to be polite, mannerly and respectful.
Teachers should regularly remind boys of the need for courtesy, respect and good manners and praise examples of courtesy and good manners in the classroom and whole school environment.
See Molanó Code and Appendix 6 in this handbook.
See S.P.H.E. Policy.
30. Covering for Each Other
Where substitution is not permitted and a teacher is absent pupils are divided among the other classes.
The number of pupils in the receiving class will determine division of pupils.
If a teacher is on yard duty, his/her neighbouring teacher will keep an eye on the pupils in their classroom while he/she gets a cup of tea/coffee/lunchbreak. Doors between classrooms must be left open at all times during these times.
Teachers may swap yard duty with another teacher if circumstances warrant it, eg. tour, outing, EPV day, etc.
If a teacher is absent due to illness and is on duty that day, another teacher will cover for him/her in line with the yard duty substitution rota.
See Supervision General, Wet Days, Yard Duty and Breaktime in this handbook and Supervision and Breaktime policies.
31. Cumann na mBunscol
St.Mary's B.N.S. enter teams in the Cumann na mBunscol Inter School Leagues in Football(term 1)and Hurling (term 2-3).
All teachers are encouraged to help out with teams. At least 2 teachers accompany a team to match fixtures.
Training usually takes place in the school field on a Monday after school.
Matches for Junior teams normally take place on a Tuesday, weather permitting.
Matches for Senior teams normally take place on a Thursday, weather permitting.
Cumann na mBunscol organise Inter-schools Athletics Competitions in track and field events. St.Mary's also enter children in these events which take place at Morton Stadium in Santry over 2 days each May.
Teachers are encouraged to help out with the preparation of teams/athletes for these events. - Training normally takes place after school.
In the case where a teacher/teachers decide to hold lunch time training sessions in the field for football/hurling/athletics, he/she should ensure at least 1 teacher is present in the field to supervise at all times.
Pupils should be back in the yard to line up with their class.
Curriculum
Teachers are required to be well informed of the Primary School Curriculum 1999 and the methodologies used. In this way it will make their teaching interesting and effective.
Each curricular area is to be taught and the various resources available in the school should be used to good effect.
Teachers should be effective in the use of integration between subjects and within subjects (integration / linkage).
In planning for the Curriculum teachers should take into account:
Whole school policies and planning.
Individual difference.
Assessment.
The social and emotional dimensions of learning.
The Primary School Curriculum Documents form the basis of all Curricular Policy statements in the school, which are drawn up in consultation with teaching staff.
Postholders are appointed as coordinators for each curricular area. For a list of those responsible for each curricular area, see Appendix 5
See Preparation of School Work and Timetable in this handbook.
33. Dialann Scoile
This forms the basis for home/school communication.
Pupils should write neatly in their dialann and should note the date.
All items should be numbered, ticked when completed and signed by a parent or guardian.
See Homework in this handbook.
34. Digital Cameras
The school has a number of digital cameras.
These may be used by the teacher and his/her class for educational purposes.
If a teacher wishes to borrow a digital camera overnight, he/she should inform the principal and note the specific camera borrowed, the date and his/her name in the book provided for this purpose in the computer room.
Cameras should be returned to the school the following morning as it may be needed during the school day.
If you require assistance, please contact the ICT Coordinator.
35. Discipline
All pupils from Rang 1 to Rang 6 are expected to observe the Molanó Code – the St.Mary's Code of Behaviour.
The Molanó Code is in Appendix 6 and the Anti-bullying Charter is in Appendix 7. These are printed in the pupils’ Dialann Scoile. These should be read and clarified at the beginning of the school year.
Teachers may wish to compile classroom rules in consultation with their class at the start of each school year. Children then sign up to these rules.
The Rules of the School Yard are available in Appendix 8.
The Molanó Code, Anti-Bullying Charter and Classroom Rules are to be displayed in the classroom and reviewed at regular intervals throughout the school year.
Positive techniques of motivation, encouragement and reward should be used liberally in the school.
Teachers may decide on appropriate rewards. Blue Molanó Code Cards may also be given as recognition of good/desirable behaviour. (Available from school secretary)
When a rule is broken, the particular rule is read and explained as necessary. A note in the 'Dialann Scoile' or a Reminder Card may be sent home and an appropriate sanction used.
In extreme cases, boys may be sent to work for a while in another classroom. This should be done sensitively.
Parents/guardians should be kept informed about their child's behaviour. A note in the dialann scoile, blue molanó card, white 'Reminder' card may be used to this effect.
Teachers should keep a written record of incidents relating to unacceptable/disruptive behaviour.
If necessary parents/guardians may be called to discuss their child's behaviour. The child may then be asked to complete a 'daily assessment record' which will be monitored by the class teacher and used for further discussion with the parents/guardians.
A boy who is constantly disruptive or a danger to himself or others may be suspended from attending school. This procedure would be carried out with permission from the Board of Management and in accordance with Dept. of Education and Science Regulations.
See Molanó Code, Anti-Bullying Charter, Supervision Policy:Rules for yard.
See Appendix 9 for samples of Molanó Cards and Reminder Cards.
36. Drama
Teachers are required to implement Drama in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
Drama is part of the Arts Education. Educational drama is a creative process that provides pupils with a wide range of valuable learning experiences.
Teachers are encouraged to use drama in class, particularly integrating it with other curriculum areas.
See Drama Policy
37. Dress Code
Teachers are to be professional in their appearance at all times.
38. Duty of Care
Each teacher has a duty of care towards all pupils, whether on official duty or not.
This duty extends to the yard and school field.
Teachers should never leave their class unattended.
See Child Protection Policy, Covering for Each Other, Supervision in this handbook.
39. Early Collection
In the interest of safety, pupils to be collected early must have a note from a parent/guardian.
40. Electrical Equipment
Each class has a CD player, computer/printer, tv, video/dvd.
Ensure correct and safe use of all electrical equipment.
Ensure all electrical equipment is stored securely during school holidays.
Report any problems to the principal/caretaker/ICT coordinator.
41. End of Year Reports
In June End of Year Reports are filled out on official school report paper, which are duplicated and kept on file. See Appendix 10 for samples.
They are to be signed by the class teacher and the principal.
New teachers may ask the principal and/or a colleague for guidance on how to fill in these reports.
See Assessment and Record Keeping Policy.
42. English
Teachers are required to implement English in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
English is a core curriculum subject in the school.
School policy is set out in the English Language Policy Document.
Teachers should be familiar with the content of the policy, with its aims and objectives and particularly with their own class content.
Every effort is to be made to implement the programme during the school year.
Activities and events such as Book Week, the annual Book Fair and Paired Reading are used to enhance the teaching of English in our school.
See English Language Policy Document.
See Paired Reading in this Handbook.
43. Extra Curricular Activities
Extra curricular activities in St.Marys’s include choir, football, hurling, athletics, French, chess, art club, recorder and speech & Drama.
Parents are to be informed at least one day in advance of when their son may be engaged in extra-curricular activities after school.
Parents are also to be informed when the activities will be finished so that they can make arrangements to collect them.
The teacher involved in the activity should ensure that all pupils involved have left the premises and are collected prior to his/her own departure.
All teachers are welcome to be involved in organising extra-curricular activities for pupils both sporting and non-sporting.
See 'Choir', 'Chess' and 'Cumann na mBunscol' in this handbook.
44. Extra Personal Vacations (E.P.V.)
When teachers have completed a Summer Course they are entitled to EPV Days during the school year as follows: 1 course:3 days, 2 courses : 4 days, Gaeltacht/3 courses:5 days
If teachers have attended a summer course they should inform the Principal in September outlining the following: course done, venue, dates of course and the EPV days they are entitled to.
Applications are to be made to the principal when requesting EPV Days.
The Principal should be given 2 weeks notice, where possible, of a request to take an EPV Day. Please record your request in the EPV book located in the staffroom.
The Board of Management kindly provides substitute cover for E.P.V. Days in our school.
A teacher is obliged to prepare adequate work for their pupils when they take EPV Days. They should leave instructions in regard to this work in their classroom and with the Principal.
A teacher should arrange to swap supervision duty with another teacher if he/she is due to be on yard on the E.P.V. Day.
The Principal will organise for the allocation of pupils among the other classes and the distribution of their work if no substitution cover is available.
See No. 3 Absences – Staff: Brief, Substitution and Covering for Each Other in this handbook.
45. Enrolment Policy
The ‘School Enrolment Policy’ determines enrolments in the school each year.
It was drawn up in accordance with the provisions of the Education Act 1998, Section 15, Subsection 2.
The policy recognises parents / guardians right to enrol their son in whatever school they so wish.
The policy lays down the criteria by which the Board of Management will determine enrolments in any given class, where such applications exceed the number of places available.
See ‘School Enrolment Policy’
46. Fire Drill
The procedures for each class in the event of a fire are practiced in each term throughout the school year.
Fire drills are initially carried out in a planned manner to ensure safety procedures are adequately rehearsed.
Spontaneous fire drills ensure these procedures are correctly in place.
Fire drill notices should be located inside each external classroom door. Familiarise yourself with them.
From time to time teachers are instructed in the use of fire extinguishers.
See Health and Safety Statement and Accidents / Serious Injuries in this handbook.
47. First Aid
The First Aid Box in Room 5 caters for injuries sustained on the yard during break times.
First Aid Boxes are also located in the staffroom and in Rooms 3, 10, 14, 16 and in the office.
These may be used for sports activities and P.E. and can also be taken on school outings and tours.
Boxes are regularly checked and restocked, under the guidance of the Deputy Principal(Health & Safety Coordinator).
Minor injuries can be treated by the S.N.A./teacher in charge. In the case of more serious injuries parents and an ambulance may need to be contacted.
See ‘Health and Safety Statement’.
48. Fund Raising/Charity Collections
The main forms of fund raising in the school is the Voluntary Contribution and the Annual Sponsored Walk held in June of each year lasting over a 3-week period.
Funds collected go towards a variety of purchases which vary from year to year.
Parent’s Council organise these events to raise money for the school.
Money for various charities is raised through no-uniform days throughout the school year. A 'fine' of €2 is usually collected on these days. The Chairperson of Parent's Association is consulted prior to approval of such days.
Children are invited to donate to the Shoebox Appeal and St.Vincent de Paul Food collections in the weeks before Christmas.
Teacher in charge of fund raising for charity is the Principal. Any suggestions or requests for fund raising should be directed to him/her. He/she will consult with Chairperson of Parent's Association.
See Parents’ Council in this handbook.
49. Geography
Teachers are required to implement Geography in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Geography Policy for St.Mary's B.N.S..
See Geography Policy Document
50. Guitar
The school has a guitar which is available for use by teachers/pupils.
It is stored in the computer room and may be borrowed when required. If you wish to borrow the guitar for use with your class, please sign the Loans book in the computer room, noting your name, the date and the piece of equipment you are borrowing.
If you are taking the guitar off school premises, please follow the above procedure and also inform the principal.
Please ensure the guitar is returned to the computer room by 2.30p.m. each day.
51. Harassment
All staff members are entitled to an environment free of harassment, intimidation and bullying in which to work.
Teachers who experience any form of harassment should report it to the principal and/or the Chairperson of the Board of Management.
These reports will be taken seriously and investigated.
See Health & Safety Statement
52. Headed Notepaper
All official letters sent from the school are printed on official school stationery.
If you wish to send a letter home to parents/guardians regarding a tour/upcoming event/parent teacher meeting, etc. please do so on headed notepaper, available with envelopes from the school secretary.
All such letters should be approved by the principal.
See Appendix 11 for a sample of this notepaper.
53. Heating
A gas heating system is used in the school.
Heating temperatures are maintained at DES guidelines of a minimum16°C.
If members of staff experience coldness or too much heat please inform the Principal.
See Circular 21/79.
54. Health & Safety Statement
All teachers should familiarise themselves thoroughly with the Health and Safety Statement at the beginning of the school year.
The school complies with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.
The safety, health and welfare of all the school community and visitors is a stated aim of the school.
The Health & Safety Statement is available in the office and from the Deputy Principal for all staff. This is also on the computer network.
A member of staff is appointed as staff safety officer – See staff list and duties at the front of this handbook.
A member of the Board of Management is the school health & safety officer.
See Health & Safety Statement, Notification of Accidents at Work (Appendix 18)
See Form of Report of Accident by adult in Appendix 12 in this handbook.
55. Health Checks
Teachers should encourage cleanliness and tidiness.
Medical and dental screening is carried out by the Eastern Health Board.
The dentist usually visits children in Rang 2.
If a case of head lice is brought to your attention/discovered in your class, please inform the school secretary, who will provide a letter to be sent home to all parents/guardians in that class.
See Appendix 13 for sample of this letter.
56. History
Teachers are required to implement History in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the History Policy Statement.
See History Policy Document.
57. Homework
Homework is given each night, Monday to Thursday. Regular homework is not given out at the weekends, though optional fun activities or project work may be suggested.
Homework should consist of both written and oral work (inc. tables, songs, poems, prayers, discuss, show and tell, etc).
Homework activities may also include non-written and non-oral homework such as observing the night sky, using fine weather, watching TV(TG4, news, weather, etc.) developing musical and visual arts skills and/or physical exercise(hurling/football skills)
At times opportunities may be given to boys to complete homework during school (eg. a wet breaktime.)
In the event of insufficient effort being made by a pupil in class during the school day, incomplete classwork may be assigned for completion at home.
Homework should be recorded in the Dialann Scoile.
Duration: Infants(when given) - 5-10 mins.
1st / 2nd classes - 15-20 mins.
3rd / 4th classes - 20-30 mins.
5th / 6th classes - 30-45 mins.
See 'Dialann Scoile' in this handbook.
58. Internet
The internet is presently available throughout the school.
It can be used by staff or pupils for educational purposes.
Pupils must be closely monitored by a teacher when using the Internet.
School e-mail address is or marysbns@gmail.com
School website address is www.marysbns.ie
Children should be directed to previously evaluated educational resources or previously sourced safe websites by the class teacher.
See Computers in this handbook and ICT Policy / Plan and Internet Policy.
59. Irish / Gaeilge
Teachers are required to implement Gaeilge in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
The primary resource being used throughout the school is ‘Maith Thú’, which incorporates all of the Irish Strands:
- An ghaeilge a usáid mar ghnáth-theanga chumarsáide.
- Cumas éisteachta agus labhartha an pháiste a fhobairt.
- Cumas léitheoireachta agus scríbhneoireachta a fhorbairt.
- Feasacht teanga agus feasacht chultúr a fhorbairt.
- Taitneamh a bheith le baint as foghlaim na gaeilge.
In St.Mary's, each Wednesday is 'Lá na Gaeilge' when we make a special effort to promote/use Gaeilge by including paidreacha, caint, dán, amhrán, scéal in the daily routine.
Irish reading will formally begin in the third term of second class.
Irish spellings will begin in third class.
Irish is to be used throughout the school day to encourage the children to use it e.g. Various beannachtaí, such as Fáilte Romhat, Dia duit,
Orduithe such as Oscail an doras, Suigh síos.
See Irish Curriculum handbooks.
See Irish Language Curriculum Policy Statement.
60. Laptops
There are a number of laptops in the school which are used for a variety of purposes including special educational needs provision and on mobile digital projector trolleys.
Laptops and mobile trolleys should be returned to the computer room at the end of each school day.
A Laptop may be borrowed by teachers for planning, preparation, etc.
When a teacher wishes to borrow a laptop he/she should sign his/her name and note the date in the book provided for this purpose in the computer room and inform the principal, where possible.
Any teacher borrowing a school laptop should return it to the computer room the next morning as it will be required during the school day.
If you require assistance contact the ICT Coordinator.
61. Learning
St.Mary’s aims to promote learning in all areas of school life.
Teachers are to tap into pupils’ natural sense of curiosity, which can provide the most fulfilling learning experience for the pupil and foster an appreciation of the value of learning.
Learning in the school takes place in many ways:
- The pupil is an active agent of his own learning.
- Using the pupil’s knowledge and experience.
- Environmental-based learning.
- Guided activity and discovery.
- Learning through language
- Integration
- Emotional dimensions
- Higher-order thinking and problem-solving.
- Collaboration
- Individual differences.
You are to encourage your pupils to be active participants in their own learning and teach them to take responsibility for it as outlined in the Molanó Code.
See Curriculum Guidelines Primary School Introduction pages 14 – 17
62. Learning Support - Literacy
All children in Senior Infants take part in a phonological awareness programme with the learning support team as part of early intervention.
Boys diagnosed as having literacy difficulties will be supported by the class teacher and the learning support team.
This support may be given in class, through access to and use of computer programmes eg. Lexia, Starspell, or out of class in a small group/one to one with the learning support teacher.
If a teacher is of the opinion that a pupil is in need of additional Support, the 'staged approach' as outlined in Circular 09/05 should be implemented.
See Resource Teacher in this handbook.
See Special Educational Needs Policy Statement.
See Learning Support Guidelines.
63. Learning Support – Numeracy
Children who show signs of dificulty in developing numeracy skills, resulting in poor attainment, will be supported by the class teacher and the learning support team.
This support may be given in class, through the use of ICT eg. Math Games, Maths Programmes, etc., or out of class in a small group/one to one with the learning support teacher.
Effective supplementary in mathematics involves diagnostic assessment, individual programme planning and instruction, as well as record keeping.
If a teacher is of the opinion that a pupil is in need of additional Support, the 'staged approach' as outlined in Circular 09/05 should be implemented.
See Appendix 19 – Staged Approach Stage 1 Monitoring Form.
See Resource Teacher in this handbook.
See Special Educational Needs Policy Statement.
See Learning Support Guidelines.
64. Letters to Parents.
Letters are sent out to parents on a variety of different topics. Make sure you distribute to pupils when you receive them.
Occasionally, letters may be sent out in sealed envelopes. These should not be opened by pupils.
Should you require a letter to parents for any reason, eg. class tour, give details to the school secretary who will draft a letter for you. All letters being sent out to parents should be approved by the principal teacher.
If a pupil is missing when letters are distributed write his name on it and leave it in your roll-book. Give him the letter when he returns to school.
When pupils receive letters they should place them immediately in the Dialann Scoile on the page currently in use.
Copies of all letters to parents are kept in the office. You may access these if you wish.
65. Library
Each classroom has a well-stocked library.
Books can be taken on loan from this.
Two/Three boys from each class should be given responsibility for ensuring the library remains tidy and in good order.
From time to time (funding permitting) each library is supplemented by the class teacher.
In Term 1, class libraries will be given an allocation of books from South Dublin County Library. These are usually collected and distributed by the Learning Support Teacher(s).
Teachers will receive an allocation of commission from the school book fair. This is used to select books from the fair for his/her class library or used to order books to that value from the catalogue.
Pupils are allowed to bring books home.
See English Language Curriculum Policy Statement and Library Policy.
66. Lights
Classrooms should be adequately lit throughout the school day if natural light does not meet requirements.
Pupils should be taught to conserve energy by turning off lights when natural light makes them unnecessary.
When leaving the classroom at breaktimes and at the end of the day, turn the lights off. This ensures energy is conserved and electricity bills are cut.
If a fluorescent tube is malfunctioning or not lighting inform the caretaker.
67. Litter
We aim to be a Litter-free school.
Pupils are encouraged to bring lunch waste/litter home.
Boys should use the bins provided in the classrooms for disposing of litter. They should not be allowed to litter the floor/shelves/etc.
Each classroom should have 2 bins – 1 for paper, 1 for other waste.
Teachers should incorporate anti-litter and recycling classes in their teaching, emphasising the importance of a litter-free environment.
Pupils in a spirit of concern for the environment are to be encouraged to pick up litter when they see it thrown on the ground.
See Geography Curriculum Policy Statement and Science Policy Statement
68. Lunches
The school operates a Healthy Eating Policy and healthy eating practises are encouraged.
Parents and pupils are made aware of the policy at the beginning of their school career. This is taught to pupils as part of the S.P.H.E. Programme. Please remind boys that this means chocolate bars, crisps, sweets fizzy drinks, etc. are to be excluded from the lunch box.
Lunches are eaten in the classroom before boys go out to the yard each day where the class timetable permits. (10.35-10.45a.m. and 12.20-12.30p.m.)
No food or drinks are permitted in the yard.
Litter from lunches should be brought home.
A small 'Sweet Treat' is allowed on Friday.
69. Lunchtime Announcements
It is sometimes unavoidable that a teacher will need to make an announcement to staff during breaktimes.
It is the responsibility the teacher making an announcement during breaktimes to inform members of staff who are not present in the staffroom at the time the announcement is made, eg. Teachers on yard supervision duty.
The staffroom whiteboard may be used for this purpose.
70. Mathematics
Teachers are required to implement Maths in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
The Mathematics Curriculum is underpinned by the following key areas:
Use of concrete materials.
Development and correct use of mathematical language.
Real life problem solving.
Co-operative group work.
Oral Mathematics.
Estimation.
Written Computation.
Integration with other subjects.
Mathematics is taught everyday using various resources. The Mathemagic Books are used throughout the school.
See Maths Policy Statement and Mathematics Curriculum handbooks.
71. Medicines
Teachers do not generally administer medication to pupils. In exceptional cases parents may apply to the Board of Management for this to be done. This request must be made in writing.
A register of pupils with acute medical needs will be updated at the beginning of each school year and distributed to teachers. This should be kept in the front of the roll book.
Teachers should note any special medical needs as highlighted on the pupil info. Sheet at the start of each school year.
See Health and Safety Statement for Administration of Medicines in School Policy.
See also First Aid in this handbook.
72. Memoranda to Staff
Memoranda are distributed to teachers from time to time.
Teachers should read these memoranda carefully, as they often pertain to issues of immediate concern.
You should keep all memoranda in a file/folder in a secure place and refer to them as the need arises. They should not be left lying round.
73. Mobile Phones
In accordance with the Catholic Primary Schools Management Association regulations the use of mobile phones by pupils on school premises is forbidden.
Children in breach of this regulation will have to leave the phone in the office to await collection by an adult on his behalf.
74. Money
Money is collected for a variety of purposes throughout the school year.
Pupils will normally give money with a form e.g. book list section 1 at the beginning of the school year. This helps us to keep track of money collected.
Please note the name of pupils giving money, the amount given and method of payment(cash/cheque) on a class list sheet. Receipts are issued to pupils, if they are requested. Daily totals should be noted by the teacher.
All monies collected should be sent to the office for banking in the plastic zip folder provided by the school secretary for this purpose.
If you have to leave money in the classroom make sure it is locked away in a secure place, noting how much there is.
Money should never be left in the classroom overnight.
School Money should never be brought home.
75. Motto
The school motto is 'Mol an Óige agus tiocfaidh sí.' - 'Youth responds to praise.'
This forms the basis for our system of discipline.
See 'Vision statement', 'Discipline' and 'Molanó Code' in this handbook.
76. Music Education
Music Education is part of the Arts Education Programme in the school.
Teachers are required to implement music in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
Music should be timetabled every week.
A variety of resources is available from the music coordinator, to help teachers implement the curriculum, including CD’s, instruments and books.
Teachers may wish to purchase resources for use in his/her classroom from the allocation of funds from the Parent's Association.
Boys in Rang 3 & 4 learn to play the recorder as part of their music programme.
Boys in Rang 5 & 6 learn to play the tin whistle as part of their music programme.
See Music Education Curriculum Policy Document.
77. Notes from Pupils / Parents
A variety of notes are required from pupils. These include:
If he has to leave the school during school time.
When he needs to be exempted from P.E. or Swimming.
If he is overly late for school.
If he fails to complete homework.
If he is not wearing his uniform / tracksuit.
A note must be made available when a pupil returns to school after being absent.
See 'Early Collection', 'Roll Book' and 'Absences: Pupils' in this handbook.
78. Noticeboard/Whiteboard
The whiteboard in the staffroom is a very important means of communication in our school. The whiteboard is updated daily and notes any reminders/issues for consideration/events taking place during that day, school week or in the near future.
Teachers should read the whiteboard before the start of each school day.
Agenda for the teacher's meetings/féilire for the upcoming month will be displayed above the whiteboard for a period of time and teachers may feel free to add to the content of either.
Please consult the main Staffroom Noticeboard for a variety of notes throughout the school year.
The noticeboard is renewed regularly with current incoming literature/post.
Notices requiring immediate attention will be posted on the 'Inniu' Noticeboard.
79. Outside Facilitators/Coaching Instructors/etc.
When fortunate enough to have a facilitator/instructor/sports coach/etc. working with his/her class, a teacher remains in the classroom/field with the class at all times.
See Supervision Policy.
80. Paired Reading
Paired reading between junior and senior classes takes place on the first Thursday morning of each month.
A bell will ring at 10.10a.m. on these mornings to signal Paired Reading Time.
Half the senior class walk to the junior classroom, while the remainder await the arrival of half their paired junior class who will be escorted by 2 senior boys sent for this purpose.
Paired reading takes place daily at this time during book week.
81. Parents
All parents of new pupils are issued with the Parents’ Handbook – 'A Guide for Parents & Guardians to St.Mary's B.N.S. Rathfarnham.'. A copy is available in the office.
This handbook aims to answer parent's/guardian's general questions about our school.
A school calendar, which outlines major school events, closures and holidays for the coming year is provided at the start of the school year. In addition, parents are sent a reminder closer to the actual event.
There is an open night for parents of Junior Infants in September/June when the principal addresses those present to advise them on the nature of our school and our hopes and expectations for the children. The teachers of these infant classes are present at this meeting and in their classrooms after this address to allow parents to introduce themselves.
The Parents’ Council holds an Annual General Meeting to which all parents are invited. At this meeting parents can put themselves forward to serve on the new council, should they so wish.
In addition to these formal occasions, parents are welcome to contact the school principal or class teacher by means of their child’s Dialann Scoile, telephone or e-mail to arrange a meeting should they have need to do so.
See 'A Guide for Parents & Guardians to St.Mary's B.N.S. Rathfarnham.'..
See other matters relating to parents in this handbook.
82. Parents’ Association
The Parents’ Association holds its Annual General Meeting at the start of each school year. All parents are invited to attend this meeting.
The Association usually meets on a monthly basis. The principal and an elected teacher representative normally attend these meetings.
The Parents' Association informs parents of developments in education and in the school.
The Association undertakes fund raising events and utilises the funds raised to sponsor school needs, events and activities.
The members of the committee play a major role in organising and running school events such as the School Concert and Sports Day.
The Parents' Association provides education for parents when required.
See 'A Guide for Parents & Guardians to St.Mary's B.N.S. Rathfarnham.' p.30-32
83. Parent/Teacher Meetings
The annual Parent/Teacher meetings are scheduled for late in the first term, usually in November.
School closes at 2.30p.m. on these days and all parents are allocated a 10 minute meeting with their son’s class teacher and any specialist teachers the child may attend.
Teachers consult one another prior to sending home appointment times to accommodate parents of siblings or those who have a child attending more than one teacher. These meetings are normally scheduled for the first day of meetings.
It is necessary for both parents and teachers to prepare adequately for these meetings.
Keep a record of any decisions made during the meeting.
Parents/Guardians and/or teachers may request other meetings during the school year. An appointment should be made for these meetings.
84. Penmanship
Teachers should endeavour to achieve the highest standard of penmanship in their own class.
This may include penmanship exercises on a regular basis.
Teachers may organise or participate in Handwriting Competitions during the school year. eg. INTO Handwriting Competition.
See English Language Policy
85. Personal Insurance
The school participates in the Pupil Personal Insurance Scheme, operated by Allianz Insurance.
Annual premium is €8.
It is obligatory for each pupil and provides cover 24/7, insuring for both school and non school activities.
Pupils who suffer injuries and have to attend for treatment may make a claim on the form, which is available in the office.
If a pupil has to make a claim refer his parents, / guardians to the principal or secretary.
86. Photocopying
The photocopier is located in the entrance hall, outside the computer room.
You should get your photocopying done outside of class hours.
Photocopying may also be left, with clear instructions, in the basket provided beside the photocopier. It will be done for you at the times specified.
If you have to photocopy during class time you can send up 2 pupils to the secretary who will do it for you, if time permits.
Take care when operating the photocopier. If you encounter a problem contact the secretary.
You are asked to be responsible in your use of the photocopier and paper. While it is an invaluable tool in the classroom, it is expensive to run.
Boys are not permitted to use the photocopier at any time.
87. Physical Education
Teachers are required to implement P.E. in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
All teachers should timetable weekly P.E. lessons in accordance with the recommendations of the Curriculum Guidelines.
At the onset of each school year, each class teacher is allocated two 30 minute time slots per week. Teachers may use field/halla/yard at this time. If you require any change to your timetable for P.E., please contact the P.E. Coordinator.
Ensure you know location of closest first aid kit.
See Physical Education Policy and Physical Education Curriculum Books.
See Physical Education Equipment Below.
88. Physical Education Equipment
P.E. Equipment is located in the store room in the halla.
Pupils are not allowed into store, unless authorised and supervised by the teacher.
When returning the equipment, please put it back where you got it.
If you lose or misplace equipment please inform P.E. Coordinator.
An inventory of P.E. Equipment is available in physical education policy document and should be on display in the P.E. store.
89. Policies
The teaching staff has compiled whole school policies in a number of areas and continues to develop and review these on an ongoing basis.
All policy documents will be available to view on the school computer network, in the school office, from The Deputy Principal or from individual postholders with responsibility for that policy.
Teachers should ensure they are familiar with all these policy documents at the beginning of each school year as they will influence planning yearly schemes of work in each curricular area.
90. Post
Incoming post will be sorted and distributed/displayed by the special duties postholder responsible for communication.
Resource packs and/or post relevant to a specific subject area will be passed to the postholder responsible for that curricular area.
Literature/post of general interest/concern will be pinned on the noticeboard in the staffroom for a time. It will then be stored in the postbox located in the staffroom for the remainder of the school year.
See also Circulars in this handbook.
See Appendix 5 – Postholders and their Duties
91. Posts of Responsibility
There are 11 posts of responsibility in the school.
-Principal
-Deputy-Principal
-Assistant Principal 1
-Assistant Principal 2
-Special Duties Teacher 1
-Special Duties Teacher 2
-Special Duties Teacher 3
-Special Duties Teacher 4
-Special Duties Teacher 5
-Special Duties Teacher 6
-Special Duties Teacher 7
All teachers should familiarise themselves with the role and duties of each postholder in the school.
As the need arises, responsibility is delegated to individual members of staff for particular projects.
The duties of the principal are in accordance with Circular 16/73, a copy of which is available in the office.
The duties of the post holders 2-11 are in accordance with DES rules and regulations and are agreed between the Board of Management and the post holders. They are subject to review from time to time at the request, in writing, of either party.
Duties for postholders are decided following the 5 steps of consultation as agreed by the teaching staff. These are;
1. Small group discussion to suggest possible duties and responsibilities.
2. Principal will collate suggestions and proposals.
3. Draft List of Duties will be presented to all teachers.
4. Any submissions/comments should be made, in writing, to the principal within 1 week.
5. Teachers review list of duties as a whole group, where any written submissions are raised
and discussed. Duties will be agreed during this meeting by way of majority vote, before
presenting the List of Duties to the Board of Management for Approval.
*Please note this process should be completed within two teacher's meetings, with no
more than one week for each step of the consultative process.
Both the principal and the deputy principal are members of the Irish Primary Principals Network (IPPN). The Board of Management pays the annual subscription.
See Appendix 5 for a comprehensive list of the duties of all post holders in the school.
92. Prayers
It is the responsibility of each class teacher to ensure that the children in their care memorise the prayers recommended by the relevant level of the Alive-O programme.
Class prayers should be said at the following times:
- In the Morning, as class begins.
- At the end of the school day.
From time to time school mass, liturgies or prayer services will be celebrated. These are arranged with the parish priest.
The parish priest will also meet with teachers to make arrangements for boys from Rang 3-6 to attend the Sacrament of Reconciliation, usually at Christmas and/or Easter.
Weekly Tionól begins with a prayer service.
See Religion Education Policy Statement.
93. Preparation of School Work
Each teacher is required to make adequate written preparation for schoolwork, to include:
1. weekly or fortnightly notes
2. a scheme of work for each term or for the school year.
In preparing such notes teachers should take guidance from the Plean Scoile Curricular Policy Documents , the various curriculum policy statements and curriculum guidelines.
Planning should include the teacher's name, subject content, teaching methodologies, pupil learning needs/objectives, resources & textbooks to be used and linkage/integration. There may also be a section for observations/evaluation/recommendations.
At the end of each month teachers are required to make a progress report on work carried out during that period Cúntas Míosúil. These progress reports will form part of the school's record. (Rule 126)
Cúntas Míosúil – a folder will be sent around for the collection of Cuntas Míosúil. These are due by the Friday of the week following a teacher's meeting.
Cúntas Míosúil will be kept for a period of at least one complete school year after the completion of the year to which they relate in the special folder for this purpose in the office.
A standardised Nótaí Seachtaine/ coicise/Cúntais Míosúil format are to be used throughout the school. These are available on the computer network.
See Appendix 14 for a sample of this format.
Schemes of work and progress reports by the Learning Support Teacher and Resource Teacher will be in accordance with best practice as gleaned through courses etc.
See Curriculum in this handbook.
See Curriculum Policy Statements.
94. Programmes for Implementation During the School Year
The Stay Safe Programme is taught in Senior Infants, 2nd and 4th and 6th classes during September – October.
Content covered at these class levels should be reviewed during the same time period in Rang 1, 3 and 5.
See R.S.E. Policy.
95. Protecting Yourself and Pupils
It is imperative that teachers do not put themselves in awkward positions with pupils during the school day. The following guidelines should be adhered to as much as is practicable.
You should avoid being in a position where you are alone with a pupil. When this is unavoidable, you should ensure that you are visible.
When administering First Aid you should do so in the presence of other persons, preferably an adult. Wear the protective gloves provided.
If in doubt about an injury consult the Health and Safety Coordinator.
If a pupil is sick in class, consult the secretary. It is often best to contact his parents/ guardians to take him home.
In normal circumstances it would be ill-advised to refuse a child permission to use the toilet.
Never admonish a pupil where you could be accused of being harsh. Be firm, while keeping his dignity as a person intact.
Never accuse a pupil in the wrong.
Never send a pupil outside the school grounds on a message.
Never ask a pupil to do anything that could compromise his safety.
Never leave your class unsupervised.
Never send a pupil to stand outside the door.
If you do a pupil wrong, apologise.
You should keep a record of any serious incident, noting the pupils involved, the time of the incident, how you investigated it and the results of your investigation.
Inform the parents/guardians of any incident that may occur and arrange for an appointment with them as soon as possible.
Make sure that you report these incidents to the principal and/or deputy principal immediately.
If you encounter a major problem with a pupil(s), it is best to seek help and advice immediately from the principal and/or deputy principal.
You should avoid having to bring a pupil(s) home/to a match/etc in your car. If it is unavoidable it is best to have another adult with you. You should also check out your own insurance and the school's general insurance before doing so.
See Accidents/ Serious Injuries, Caring for Pupils, Duty of Care, First Aid, Supervision and Toilets in this handbook.
See Health & Safety Statement Document
96. Pupil Information Sheets
A Pupil Information Sheet containing contact numbers, and other information is sent home each September. It is extremely important that this form is completed by the parent/guardian and returned to the class teacher, who will keep it in a file in the classroom.
If a child fails to return the form within a few days, provide him with another blank form and ask him to make a note in the dialann scoile requesting it's completion and return as soon as possible.
These forms are available from the school secretary.
97. Punctuality
Teachers should encourage pupils to be punctual.
If a teacher is concerned about a pupil's habitual lateness, he/she should inform the principal who will arrange for a letter to be sent home.
98. Religious Education
Our school is a Catholic Primary School under the Patronage of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Dublin.
Religious Education forms an integral part of the school curriculum and should imbue all curriculum areas.
We follow the Alive-O Programme.
Each teacher should have a full Alive-O kit and posters. These should be taken care of.
Each classroom should have “Sacred Space” to include a candle which may be lit for prayers and/or prayer services.
R.E. should form part of the daily timetable. A bell will ring at 11.55a.m. to signal Alive-O time. Teachers are encouraged to timetable for religious education at this time.
We endeavour to create an atmosphere where cultural and religious diversity is respected.
Children who are not Roman Catholic remain in the classroom while religious instruction takes place, unless parents/guardians have expressed objection to this, in writing. In these circumstances other arrangements may be put in place after consultation with the Principal.
See Religious Education Policy Statement.
See Prayers in this handbook.
99. Resources
A catalogue of resources available for each curricular area should be available in policy documents for that subject.
A description of the resource as well as the location of the resource is detailed in these lists.
Some equipment is located in classrooms. These are not for a teachers exclusive use and should be shared as needed. Please add such resources to an inventory of resources relevant to each subject and forward to the postholder responsible for that area.
Teachers may purchase resources for use in his/her classroom from funds allocated by the Parents Association each year. These should be stored securely in his/her classroom, added to an inventory of resources and shared at the discretion of that teacher.
Please note: These resources remain the property of the school and should not be taken off the school premises for longer than is necessary for educational purposes.
Some teachers purchase equipment from their own money. These may be stored /used within his/her own classroom.
100. Resource Teacher:
Under the General Allocation Model, some pupils have individual resource hours.
The services of a Resource teacher are available in the school.
The resource teacher works with children with specific learning difficulties, eg. Dyslexia, ADHD, Asperger Syndrome, etc.
Pupils need to attend for psychological assessment by an Educational Psychologist and approval must be received from the D.E.S. before a pupil can get individual hours with the Resource Teacher.
Such hours have to be approved by the Special Educational Needs Organiser.(SENO)
The Resource Teacher liaises with the class teacher, parents and the principal.
See Special Educational Needs Policy
101. Roles
Teachers should familiarise themselves with the roles of the Board of Management, the Parents Association, The School Principal, Deputy Principal, Assistant Principals 1 and 2 and the Special Duties Post holders 1-7 using the relevant documents.
102. Roll Book (An Leabhar Rolla)
The Roll Book (An Leabhar Rolla) is an important school document and must be filled in carefully everyday.
The Roll Book must be filled in by the end of the 3rd week at the start of the school year.
Rolls are called out every morning before 10:30 am and carefully recorded.
Please follow the instruction for filling in the Roll Book as detailed at the end of the Roll Book.(Appendix 15 of this handbook)
Teachers enter their daily class attendance into the special folder sent around before the start of the school day and collected each day at 10.30a.m..
Daily attendance are recorded in the Leabhar Tinrimh laethúil by the school secretary.
Attendances should be totalled at the end of each quarter as follows:
* September
* December
* March
* June
Arrivals during the school year:
- Name and date to be entered on the day the pupil arrives.
- Asterisk * and the boy's name to be written at the bottom of the Daily Attendance
Sheet.
Boys leaving the school should be struck off the roll book the first day he leaves and a capital 'B' to be entered in the column the day on which he is struck off.
The principal is responsible for attendance records and registration. All problems should be brought to his/her attention.
See Appendix 15 for English Translation for Instructions for filling in Roll Book.
See School Attendance Policy.
See Absences: Pupils and Notes in this handbook.
103. Safety
See Health & Safety Statement
104. School Day
School hours are 8.50a.m. - 2.30p.m.
Breaks are from 10.45a.m. - 10.55a.m. and
12.30p.m. - 1.00p.m.
Pupils are supervised in the yard from 8.40a.m. and on wet mornings from 8.30a.m. in the school halla.
This supervision is carried out by the Principal, Deputy Principal and Assistant Principals 1 and 2.
See Attendance at school and Absences in this handbook.
105. Schools in the Area
The school enjoys good relations with all schools in the parish and in the locality.
Discussions and liaison on matters of mutual concern with all schools in the parish are maintained.
Teachers who wish to communicate professionally with teachers in other schools are encouraged to do so. They may organise inter-school debates, games etc.
106. Science
Science forms part of the S.E.S.E. Curriculum.
Teachers are required to implement Science in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
See Science Curriculum Books and Science Policy Document.
107. Secretary
The school Secretary normally works each day from 8:30a.m. – 3.30p.m.
The secretary is responsible for the efficient running of the office and administration in the school, under the direction of the Board of Management and the Principal.
Forms, monies etc. should be handed to the secretary when you receive them.
The secretary is in charge of supplies e.g. markers, stationary etc.
If you have any requests of work/letters for the secretary to do, please give good notice.
The secretary will give priority to the work the principal has given to her/him.
108. Sick Bay
Pupils who are unwell or have an injury which prevents them from going to yard go into sick bay(Room 5) during breaktime.
Pupils must have a note signed by a parent/guardian before being allowed to stay in sickbay during breaktimes.
Any boy going to sickbay should bring a book/ activity/ page and colours, etc to occupy himself during break.
When the handbell rings at the end of break, those boys in sickbay go out to the yard and join their class line.
Teachers should not send boys to sick bay for misbehaviour, unfinished work or homework.
109. S.E.S.E
Social, Environmental and Scientific Education consists of History, Geography and Science.
Teachers are required to implement S.E.SE. in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
See Curriculum Guidelines and Geography, History and Science Policy Documents.
110. S.P.H.E.
Teachers are required to implement S.P.H.E. In accordance with the Curriculum Guidelines and the S.P.H.E Policy Statement of the School.
Specific Programmes under S.P.H.E. include:
* R.S.E. Programme (School Programme).
* Stay Safe Programme
* Be safe (National Safety Council.)
* Walk Tall Programmes
Teachers are encouraged to include 'Circle Time' as part of the S.P.H.E. Programme.
See 1. Curriculum Guidelines
2. Various Programmes
3. S.P.H.E. Policy Statement.
4. R.S.E.Policy
111. Smoking
In accordance with legislation and directions of the B.O.M. the school building and grounds are non-smoking zones.
112. Special Needs Assistants
Following psychological assessment, some pupils are granted S.N.A. hours.
The class teacher in consultation with the principal should decide how to deploy the S.N.A. in the best interests of the named child.
113. Sports Day
The Annual School Sports day is normally held in June.
Senior classes events take place in the evening 6p.m.-approx 9p.m.
It is part of P.E. Curriculum and all pupils participate.
The Parents Association, under guidance of the P.E.Coordinator, have some responsibility for the operation of Sports Day, including the provision of one medal for every child taking part.
Teachers run the events, assisted by parents.
Each child should participate (senior classes - in at least 2 track and 1 field event) and all participants receive a medal.
See Sports and Extra Curricular Activities Policy.
See Physical Education Policy Statement.
114. Staffroom
The staffroom is located at the back of the school building.
Pupils are not allowed to enter the staffroom unless they have permission from their teacher.
Teachers and school staff use the staffroom for break times and staff meetings.
After break times the staffroom should be left tidy. All rubbish should be disposed of in the bins provided and dishes should be put in the dishwasher or stacked at the sink.
If you use the staffroom after school, please clear away your dishes and leave it tidy.
The B.O.M. Provides money for tea/coffee.
115. Staff Development
Teachers are required to attend In-service days during the school year on the Primary School Curriculum, based both inside and outside the school.
In-service is provided for the entire staff or individual members in accordance with D.E.S. Guidelines and the particular needs of the school.
Teachers may attend Summer Courses, which entitles them to E.P.V. Days, depending on the length of the course.
Teachers are encouraged to attend courses during the school year outside of school hours, some of which may be school based. The Board of Management may part fund teachers to attend these courses, subject to funds being made available.
116. Staff Duties
The duties of the principal, deputy principal and special duties postholders are outlined in their contracts. See Posts of Responsibility – Appendix 5.
Other teachers may take on duties as may be decided at staff meetings from time to time.
A staff representative is elected to the Board of Management by the teachers, as per guidelines.
A staff member is also elected as the staff representative for the INTO.
See list of staff and their duties at the front of this handbook for the current representatives.
117. Staff Meetings
Staff Meetings take place in the school on the first Wednesday of each month.
All boys go home at 1.30p.m. on these days.
Cruinniú na múinteoirí usually last for 1 hour from 1.30-2.30p.m. However, the second meeting of each term lasts for 2 hours from 1.30p.m. - 3.30p.m.(October, February, May)
An agenda is provided by Assistant Principal 1.
Teachers have an opportunity to add items to the agenda as agenda will be displayed above whiteboard in staffroom for 2 weeks prior to teacher's meeting.
Teachers take turns to record the minutes at the staff meetings, these minutes are typed up and given out to teachers before the next staff meeting.
Any teacher wishing to add his/her name to the list of people willing to chair these meetings should inform assistant principal 1.
118. Student Teachers/Work Experience Students
It is the individual teachers choice if he/she would like to accept a student teacher/work experience candidate.
119. Substitution
Substitution is provided: for certified and uncertified sick leave, maternity/adoptive leave, jury service, special absences for particular educational purposes approved by the DES and principal release days.
The Board of Management kindly provide substitution cover for E.P.V. days.
A substitute can be employed from day one of absence or as soon thereafter as possible.
Teachers must provide certificates in the case of sickness if absent for more than 3 consecutive days. The DES is entitled to deduct from your salary any payment made to a substitute if a certificate is not produced.
For other entitlements for substitute cover see Absences – Staff: Brief and Absences – Staff: Illness and EPV Days in this handbook.
See Circular 21 / 80.
120. Supervision: General
It is imperative that pupils are supervised while they are on the premises at all times. There is a duty of care on all teachers, while in the school and on all outings related to school.
Pupils should be supervised in their classrooms. If you need to leave the classrooms to talk to someone outside the door, leave the door open and look in at your pupils from time to time.
You should not leave your classroom to do photocopying, as pupils will be left unsupervised. In such cases, send 2 pupils to the secretary with your instructions.
Should you need to leave the room for any reason, usually an emergency, arrange for your neighbouring teacher to watch over your class, leaving connecting doors open.
In your absence, any objects of danger eg.rulers and compasses should be put away in their bags.
See Supervision Policy Document.
121. Supervision: Wet Days
On wet mornings boys go into the halla where they are supervised from 8.30a.m.
All boys should sit down and be encouraged to keep passageways/doorways clear.
In the case of breaktime indoors on wet days or inclement weather, pupils remain in their classrooms.
Teachers on duty will walk from class to class keeping an eye on the pupils, who should be seated and not running around the place.
Teachers should ensure that pupils should have indoor activities to occupy them. eg. board games, jigsaws, paper and colours, a dvd/video, etc.
All items of danger should be kept out of reach of pupils e.g. rulers and compasses.
See Supervision Policy Document.
See Appendix 17 for Guidelines for Mid Morning and Lunchtime Supervision on Wet Days.
122. Supervision: Yard Duty
Teachers on yard duty may take his/her lunch break before/after small breaktime and from 12.10-12.30p.m.
At this time, connecting classroom doors should be left open and the teacher next door will supervise both classes. Any objects of danger should be put out of reach.
All teachers should familiarise themselves thoroughly with the Supervision Guidelines and Policy Document at the beginning of the school year.
See Appendix 3 and Appendix 17 for Yard Supervision Guidelines and Guidelines for supervision on wet days.
See Breaktime, First Aid and Accidents in this handbook.
See also Appendix 8 - Yard Rules
123. Swimming
Boys in Rang1, Rang 2, Rang 3 go to Templeogue College swimming pool for a ten week programme of swimming lessons each year.
All boys are encouraged to take part.
Teachers accompany boys to the pool where trained instructors take the lesson.
Teachers remain responsible for their pupils at all times.
124. Teachers' Charter
The Board of Management is interested in and is fully active in promoting the welfare of all teachers/staff in the school.
The Teachers' Charter is displayed in the staffroom.
See Teachers Charter Appendix 16.
See Staff Development in this handbook.
See Harassment in this handbook.
125. Telephone
The school telephone is to be used for school purposes only.
Teachers should minimise their use of mobile phones and only use them when absolutely necessary or at break times.
Pupils are not allowed to use mobile phones on school premises, or on school tours.
Should a pupil need to make a phone call, he should be sent to the office where the secretary will contact a parent/guardian.
A directory of all pupils' phone numbers and addresses is available in the office. Teachers will be given a list of their class' contact details at the beginning of the school year.
It is important that pupil information forms are filled and returned at the start of each new school year. These should be kept in a folder in the top, middle cupboard just inside each classroom so that they can be located even in the absence of the class teacher.
See also Mobile Phones and Pupil Information Sheets in this handbook.
126. Television and Video
Most classrooms have access to a television/video/dvd player.
A mobile trolley with tv, video and dvd player is located in room 14.
If you need to borrow this trolley, please book your use of the television 24 hours in advance as courtesy to the teacher in room 14.
Return the television/video to room 14 after use.
If you encounter a technical problem, inform the principal.
See Videos/DVD's in this handbook.
127. Textbooks
Pupils are required to have the textbooks prescribed by the teacher at the beginning of the school year.
Each June textbooks are chosen by the class teachers. This is done in a coordinated way and in consultation with the relevant postholder and the principal, to ensure that there is continuity throughout the school.
Textbooks and workbooks are chosen by set criteria, as laid down for each subject and in accordance with the Curriculum Policy Statements.
128. Tidiness in the Classrooms
Teachers should ensure that pupils keep their classrooms tidy at all times.
Pupil should not leave pencil shavings on their desks, but should pare them into the classroom bin.
Litter to be placed in bins or taken home in lunchbox.
At the end of art classes a proper clean up of materials should be organised.
At the end of the school day pupils should put their chairs onto the desks and place any remaining books on shelves. Any litter should be cleared from the floor.
In arranging classroom furniture make sure there is a passageway from door to door. This in the interest of Safety and Fire Evacuation procedures. It also facilitates the easy movement of equipment from class to class.
For health and safety reasons, pupils should keep school bags, etc under the table, leaving passageways clear.
If you have chairs/table/furniture surplus to requirements please arrange with the caretaker to have them brought to the outdoor resource centre(shed).
Ensure you have the right size desk and chairs for your room as follows:
2nd Class: Yellow
3rd / 4th Class:Red
5th Class: Blue
6th Class: Green
Libraries, presses, cupboards should be kept tidy. Their contents should be examined from time to time and missing materials replaced or replenished.
129. Timetable
Each teacher should have a timetable for each day of the week. This should be kept with your notes and in the front of roll book. This enables you to organise your day, and, should you be absent and a substitute can follow your timetable.
Timetabling for each curricular area should be in accordance with your class and the Curriculum Guidelines as set out on pages 67-70 in the Primary School Curriculum Introduction.
See Appendix 18 - Primary School Curriculum Guidelines to Timetabling for each curricular area.
A disruption may occur in timetabling due to extraordinary events e.g. concerts or sports day.
130. Tionól
Tionól normally takes place on a Friday morning at 10a.m. All classes Rang 1 – Rang 6 usually attend.
Classes carry chairs to the halla and sit in their class' designated area.
Boys should be attentive and respectful to those on stage.
Teachers should ensure boys carry the chair correctly (ie. with chair legs pointing towards the floor, one hand under the seat and the other holding the back support) which will ensure a safe and speedy entrance and exit to/from the halla.
All classes are encouraged to take part in Tionól.
The postholder responsible for Tionól will develop a rota for classes taking part in Tionól. This will cover Prayer Services and class presentations of work done in the classroom.
Other offerings are always welcomed, please let the tionól coordinator know in good time if you intend to put something on.
Special Tionóls are normally held at Hallowe'en, Christmas and Easter. Junior and Senior Infants join the rest of the school for these.
131. Toilets
Every classroom has its own individual toilets.
Pupils should be encouraged to go to the toilets before they go outside to the yard at breaktimes.
In normal circumstances it would be ill-advised to refuse a child permission to use the toilet.
At breaktime the children must ask the teacher on yard duty for permission to go to the toilet.(5th class)
The toilet areas for pupils is not a play/talking area.
Remind pupils to flush toilets after use and to wash their hands.
Teachers should encourage pupils to keep toilets as they would like to find them.
132. Tours
See Tour policy.
133. Uniform and School Tracksuit
Pupils are expected to wear the St.Mary's school uniform.
The school tracksuit is worn on P.E.days with a plain t-shirt or polo shirt in navy, sky blue or yellow.
Teachers will make pupils in his/her class aware of their tracksuit days at the start of the school year.
The school uniform consists of navy trousers/shorts, dark coloured shoes, navy v neck jumper with school crest, pale blue shirt and school tie.
On match/P.E. Days, school shorts and socks may be worn under tracksuit/ uniform trousers to facilitate a quick change.
A change to the tracksuit day may be made, in extraordinary circumstances, at the discretion of the class teacher. eg. Class outing, missed P.E. Lesson due to staff meeting, etc.
134. Videos/dvd
There is a selection of videos in the corridor outside the staffroom covering a variety of curricular areas.
These may be used where appropriate.
When showing videos/dvds make sure they are age appropriate.
Make sure you return the video after use.
135. Vision Statement
The school Vision Statement is
'Our aim is for each boy to reach his potential in a centre of educational excellence.
The provision of the necessary resources to support quality education is a way forward.
Working together in a supportive, respectful, partnership within an inclusive school environment is central to our vision.'
The school's vision statement forms the basis by which the school operates. All policies should refer to this when being formulated.
Teachers should familiarise themselves with the Vision Statement and let it influence how they conduct their affairs in school each day.
136. Visual Arts
Teachers are required to implement Visual Arts in accordance with Curriculum Guidelines and the Policy Statements as outlined by the school.
In St.Mary's we promote and celebrate the children's participation and achievements in all strands of the Visual Arts during P.Y.P.I.A. Week which takes place every 3 years.(Play Your Part In Arts)
See Curriculum Guidelines and Visual Arts Policy Statement.
137. Visual Art Resources
Each class should have a supply of art material, which can be used from year to year. These include scissors, paintbrushes etc.
Some materials will be shared among classes. These include boards for pottery and racks for hanging paintings to dry etc. These will be stored centrally. See art policy list of resources for name and types of resources available and their location.
Every year pupils are levied for Art and Craft supplies. Money collected should be spent on consumables such as: papers, paints, pastes, crayons, pencils, markers, pastels, charcoal, clay, card, ink etc. Receipts should be kept for all expenditure and given to the secretary so that teachers can be reimbursed from his/her class art money.
The Star Supplies Catalogue is available in the office and/or from the art coordinator. Teachers may browse and order from the catalogue. The secretary will fax your order through.
When Star deliver your order, please cross check contents with delivery documents/invoice and return to the secretary who will arrange payment from your class art fund.
There is a supply of books on art. The Art Coordinator stores these and you may browse/borrow these. Should you wish to purchase supplementary books/posters/manuals/shared resources please speak to him/her in relation to available funds.
See Circular 15/01 re Arts Grants in Primary Schools. Guidelines for schools.
138. Yard Equipment
Each class will be given a quantity of yard equipment for play at breaktimes.
The postholder with responsibility for ordering this, will give teachers an opportunity to order equipment suitable for his/her class at the beginning of each term.
Yard Equipment should be labelled with the class and room number it belongs to and pupils should be encouraged to look after their equipment.
139. Where Do I Find Them~Resources, Equipment, Rooms
Items
Place
Art Materials(books, pictures,handbooks)
Secretary's office press inside the door
Calculators
ESL room shelf
Circle Time Resources
Shelves outside staffroom
Cleaning materials, including black sacks
Washroom beside JI rooms.
Computer Software
Computer Room/ classrooms.
DES Circulars
Staffroom, Principals office. DES Website
Extra Furniture
ORC at the back of the school
Firepoints
Throughout the school
First Aid Kits
Staffroom, rooms 3, 5, 10, 14, 16, and Office
Keys for Outdoor Resource Centre
Caretaker
Laser printer
Computer room/resource room
Lost property
Outside office
Management Books
Principals office
Mathematical Equipment
Coordinators room
Music Equipment
See resource
PE Equipment
Store room at back of Halla, ORC.
Photocopier
In corridor outside computer room
Colour laser printer
Beside photocopier
Plean Scoile
Principals Office/Deputy Principals Office.
Requisites
Secretary's office
School Delph
Staffroom/Servery
School jerseys, bibs
PE Store
School policies
Network places
Science Equipment
Science Coordinator
Spare clothes, towels, t-cloths
Washroom
Staff toilets
Outside Staffroom/Adjacent to office
Stay Safe Programme/RSE Programme
SPHE coordinator/ class rooms
Tools, gardening equipment
Aoifín Shorten
Videos/ DVD's
Staffroom
When you are finished with a resource or piece of equipment please return it to its proper place.