FCJ open night a huge success
FCJ BUNCLODY threw open its door recently for the annual open day to showcase the facilities at the school.
The open day was attended by a large number of parents and primary school children as well as the general public.
Primary school children and their parents got the chance to view the school’s excellent facilities and to see first hand how students of all abilities are supported and nurtured to achieve their full potential. The mission statement of the school speaks of experiencing enjoyable education, and this ethos was certainly evident among the various displays and exhibitions on show.
By happy coincidence the 30th reunion of the class of 1986 took place the same weekend and many of the former pupils popped into the open day to see how things have changed in their alma mater.
Deputy principal Brendan Daly addressed a packed study hall in the d’Houët Building. He welcomed everyone to the school in its 155th academic year and said: ‘We retain the traditional academic provision of a convent school while developing one of the widest ranges of practical subjects in the south east’.
Mr. Daly spoke about the variety and depth of how the school meets the learning needs of the 21st century child, saying ‘every child is welcome and we nurture each child towards excellence’.
He talked about what sets the school apart and referenced academic excellence; wide range of subjects; FCJ ethos; strong Anti-Bullying policy; learning support; every child is known and tracked; outstanding campus and all students are kept on campus at all times.
‘We keep the child at the centre’, he said ‘and involve all stakeholders. We aim to keep it simple and straightforward’.
Mr. Daly said that the school has all modern technology but keeps it in its place adding that relationships are key while outlining that clear structures and systems are in place.
‘We are always keen to review and improve’, he said.
The Head Boy and Head Girl, Michael Rossiter and Alice O’Dowd, also spoke of their experience of the school.
One of the first things the crowds saw was a presentation about the new school app.
Displays were set up in every hall way and classroom and included Computer Games in Irish, 1st Years baking scones, artists at work, all kinds of Science experiments, including dissections; terrific displays on how the school secured its Active school flag, Green School flag and Anti-Bullying Blue Shield – the first presented to a second level school in Ireland.
There were also amazing displays of woodwork, sewing and technology as well as treasure hunts. The schools captains also showcased the trophies won during the year, including the school’s first ever U16 Leinster Football Cup.
Transition year students took the opportunity to display and sell their mini-company products while one room was dedicated to the school’s work on CAS (Cycling Against Suicide).
There was Irish Dancing and music by the school’s traditional music group, French displays, agricultural science demonstrations, which included live poultry as well as sporting displays of all kinds in the gym, with the opportunity to join in. The final event of the afternoon was a recital given by solo and group musicians and singers in the concert hall.