St Joseph's new school building starts next week

It is with great joy and excitement that the Board of Management of St Joseph’s National School, Halverstown can announce that the school extension is due to commence on Tuesday next 18th March, writes Marion Sherlock, Principal at the School.

The project will include two new classrooms, a GP room and a large car-park. Construction should be completed by mid-August in time for the new school year.

Last week was book week and pupils of St Joseph’s National School were busy getting stuck in books. Junior pupils visited Kilcullen Library and met Julie o’Donoghue. Senior pupils went to a workshop in the Riverbank on Monday hosted by authors Debbie Thomas and Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick (The Long March) and illustrator Michael Emberley. The morning was extremely interactive and offered ample food for thought for any budding author. As Senior pupils are currently completing their individual books for the write-a-book project this was perfect timing for them. We wish them luck with their books.

This week is Seachtain na Gaeilge and St Joseph’s has been transformed into a sea of green. Everybody will make their best effort 'as gaeilge' all week and the week will culminate with Lá glas on Friday. This day is traditionally celebrated by children and staff coming to school wearing something green, but you must take part in the Céili. A collection is made for Trócaire on the day.

Grace Coyne and Ross O’ Brien will make their Confirmation in Gormanstown Church with pupils from Brannoxtown School on 20 March. Congratulations to all the children on this lovely occasion. A reception will be held back in St Joseph’s for Grace, Ross and all their families and friends afterwards.

Football training resumes next week for all pupils. Training for the school will commence with pupils from Second class upwards on Mondays.

First and Second Class pupils made handmade mugs during their pottery workshop with Claire Noone last week. The mugs were then kiln dried and glazed, so they can be tested out at home.

Applications are now welcome for next September. Forms are available from the school at 045 485374 or halverstownschool@gmail.com.