Wednesday letter April 30th 2025

STANDARDISED TESTING MAY 2025

Standardised testing will begin in May for classes 2nd- 6th as per the Department of Education’s recent circular to schools. 2^nd -6^th will have tests in spelling, reading and maths.

1^st classes will only have the spelling test, as whole-class standardised testing in 1^st is not recommended.

These tests are just one method of assessing a pupil’s performance, and we know that it is just a snapshot on a particular day that can be affected by numerous circumstances.

Standardised tests give us information to guide our teaching and learning for the next academic year. It also helps us to identify pupils who may benefit from additional support.

For further information, please check out this link on the NCCA website.

understanding-standardscores_eng.pdf (ncca.ie)

Annette Lynch (Deputy Principal & SEN Coordinator)

Bí Cineálta

St. Patrick’s BNS, Hollypark, is committed to preventing bullying behaviour. Following the new Bí Cineálta (Be Kind) documents from the Department of Education, we are devising a new Anti-Bullying Policy.

The school is required by the Department of Education to survey parents to gather the required data to support and guide the school in the development of the Bí Cineálta Policy.

Thank you to those who have completed this survey. If you have not, please complete it at the link below by this Friday, May 2nd.

 https://forms.office.com/e/16v4FeFjtN

STARS OF THE FUTURE

Congratulations to Colm, 3rd class, who came second in the World Irish Dancing Competition held last week. Colm dances with the Chaney Farrell Academy in Foxrock. On April 15th, Colm danced with his friends in the U11 mixed ceili 8 hand of the World's Irish Dancing Competition. We are very proud of Colm and his marvellous achievement.

HOLLYPARK ABÚ

Well done to Liam and Oscar in 6th class who recently represented Dublin at half-time in the Dublin V's Meath match. Both boys have exciting futures ahead of them. 

OUR JEFF, OUR ROLE MODEL!

A huge congratulations to Mr. Jeff Jones, our dedicated caretaker, who was recently honoured by Foróige at a special ceremony in the Mansion House. Jeff has been a committed mentor in the Big Brother Big Sister programme for the past 3.5 years, offering guidance, support, and friendship to his mentee. This incredible initiative matches adult volunteers with young people in need of a positive role model, and Jeff truly exemplifies the values at its heart. His kindness, generosity of spirit, and quiet leadership extend far beyond the programme — he is a true role model to our Hollypark students and a valued member of our school community.

LET'S VOTE FOR CAROLINE

Tonstixpops is running a lollipop person award via Instagram. Let's show appreciation for Caroline Dunne, our dedicated school warden who has been a vital part of the Hollypark BNS community since 2008. Come hail, rain, or shine, Caroline stands faithfully at her post, ensuring the safety of our children with a warm smile and unwavering commitment. Her presence each day brings not only security but also a sense of community and care that has become an integral part of school life. Caroline’s dedication, reliability, and friendly nature have made her much more than a warden — she is a cherished member of the Hollypark family.

Scan the QR code below to vote for Caroline!

SACRAMENTAL DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOYS!

This week is a special week for these boys: Rian Kennedy, Samuel Radford, Hugo Doyle, Jamie Walsh,  Calum Hughes, Freddie Maher, Sam Tierney, Scott Johnston & Joshua Sullivan. 
We hope you enjoy the celebrations! 

BOOKLIST & INSURANCE FORMS

Booklist and Insurance forms for 2025-26 were given out the week before Easter. All booklists and insurance forms must be returned to your son's teacher this week. Thank you. 

Beir bua agus beannacht,

30.04.2025