Using technology can help elderly feel more involved

island and its residents. Aside from the Nativity there is a great morale in the school, with siblings often sharing a classroom.

Ms McVeigh said: “The children are very, very caring towards one another.

“And they are a lovely bunch, a really happy bunch of children.”

Never mind the challenges of teaching one year group — what is it like to prepare to teach all seven year groups in one room?

“You have to be really super organised,” explained the head teacher.

“You know exactly what you are doing every day. I do really, really detailed planning, and lots of resources.”

Ms McVeigh, who is originally from Armagh, now lives on the island.

She said: “I love Rathlin — it was a complete change from where I taught before and it’s been very rewarding and challenging at the same time.”

Following last week’s success, Ms McVeigh said she was “so proud” of the pupils.

She added: “The children were absolutely outstanding.”

Technology helps people connect ENCOURAGING the older generation to use Skype, FaceTime and Netflix can make them more involved at Christmas and beyond, an expert said.

Jason Axford, one of Care UK’s lead experts on older people’s wellbeing, said apps like Shazam and streaming services like Amazon Prime and Netflix can connect the older generation to music, TV shows and films from their youth.

Mr Axford told the Press Association: “Music, songs and films are wonderful ways for families to connect and for memories to be reawakened.

“The festive season gives us some great ways to have fun that can establish patterns of reconnecting for the coming year.”