Back on track in Ballynoe
You can’t beat the real thing. This is the feeling of the region’s national schools’ pupils, some of whom made their way back to their classrooms this week, writesJohnAhern.
The ‘Ballynoe Buzz’ was certainly evident on Monday morning, as the school’s youngest pupils, filed through the main entrance. On hand to meet the ‘new’ students were principal, Hugh Cronin; teachers Sharon Beirne, James Burke, SNA, June Bolger and ever efficient secretary, Siobhan McCarthy.
ONLINE LEARNING
Youngsters have been away from their schools for almost 11 weeks, during which time, they’ve utilised the popular SeeSaw educational app. According to principal, Hugh Cronin, children adapted well and with the support of parents, what he describes as ‘emergency education’ was able to continue.
“Parents were very understanding and the online learning worked well. In addition to the core curriculum, we were able to organise some guest lecturers, including Cork hurler, Mark
Coleman; camogie player, Laura Hayes; MEP, Billy Kelleher and racing analyst, Jane Mangan. Children around here are very knowledeable about horses and they were really interested in what Jane had to say,” Mr Cronin told TheAvondhu.
BALLYNOE BUDDIES
Having received a very warm welcome, we were invited to join children - socially distanced - on their morning break. Physical education may not receive the attention it deserves in some schools, however, in Ballynoe, Mr Cronin has his young charges in tip top shape. When it comes to running, jumping, chasing and avoiding ‘getting tagged’, Ballynoe students are all top of the class.
THE WONDER OF HUMAN INTERACTION
Home is home, but it’s hard being away from your friends, and the universal reaction from returning pupils this week was their joy at once again linking up with ‘old’ friends.
“Young people learn so much from play and interaction, as you can see for yourself, the playground can be as much an educational setting as the classroom. I believe that in the playground, pupils master the hidden curriculum,” the principal said.
ANOTHER NEW YEAR
Having not returned from their Christmas break, it has taken until March, to get our schools up and running again. Mr Cronin says the re-opening of schools is the start of a ‘New Year’.
“It’s the start of something really exciting, the mood is upbeat and we’re looking forward to seeing all our pupils back in a few weeks time, today (Monday) represents the start of a new year for students, parents and teachers”.
NOW ENROLLING
Ballynoe National School is now enrolling - visit www.ballynoens. scoilnet.ie; Twitter @ Ballynoe_NS or phone 058-59411 for further information.