Newsletter
29 08 2025
Welcome back everyone
Good afternoon, parents and guardians,
We’ve had a lovely start to the week, despite the downpour on the first morning. A very warm welcome to all our new families who are joining us this year. We look forward to you being part of our school community for the next eight years. I am delighted to report that our Junior Infants have settled very quickly into their new routines.
It was also wonderful to welcome everyone into the building this morning and give you the chance to see your child’s new classroom. I know that Friday morning entry can feel a little congested, but I am sure you will agree it is worth the effort! We have the entry, exit system running like clockwork at break and lunchtimes, especially with our new lines.
Just a few reminders as we begin the term. Dogs are not allowed on school grounds. Please remember to lock all bikes and scooters, particularly if you are leaving them unattended. I even spotted someone trying to reach over the gate for my bike this week, so it’s worth taking extra care. Creative Groups, including Play Therapy, will begin on Monday. We are delighted to let you know that Bus Éireann has now found a contractor to transport our children with additional needs to school. we hope this will start mid week. Finally, please don’t forget to label all clothing. When items are labelled, we can always return them quickly, but unlabelled clothes do build up. As we did last year, once lost property reaches a certain point, we will allow children to select and take home unclaimed items.
Secretaries & Caretakers Strike
As you are aware, the industrial action is ongoing. Fórsa has prepared a leaflet for parents which you can view and download at the Strike Hub on Fórsa.ie.
Your support is greatly appreciated. If you are able, please consider contacting your local public representatives to highlight the importance of resolving this dispute as soon as possible. Every voice adds weight to the campaign.
We are very grateful for the support and solidarity you are showing our trusted and valued colleagues.
While this continues, please be reminded to be on time for school as the gates and phones are unattended.
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Homework Club Update
We’re pleased to let you know that Homework Club will start again on Monday 8th September.
Further details will be shared in an email next week. If you are not currently on our mailing list but would like to receive updates, please email d7ethomeworkclub@gmail.com to be added.
Consultation on Admissions Policy (Technical Review)
Please find attached the Technical Review of our school’s Admissions Policy. This document reflects our current priority categories exactly as set out in the existing policy.
D7ETNS Board of Management is legally required to consult with parents and staff when making changes to the Admissions Policy. In this case, the Department of Education has advised that the review represents a technical update only, which includes the addition of an eligibility criterion relating to an NCSE (National Council for Special Education) letter.
We are sharing the draft policy with you and inviting your feedback.
If you wish to submit comments or suggestions, please send to gráinne@d7educatetogether.com by next Friday September 5th
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After-School D7 Dungeons and Dragons Club
Enda, one of our 6th class teachers, will be continuing the after-school D7 Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) Club.
This year the club is expanding to include 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th class pupils.
Final days and times will depend on interest and numbers but it is expected that 3rd and 4th will attend Wednesdays, 5th on Thursdays and 6th on Fridays.
The club will run once per week at a cost of €10 per session from the week of Monday 8th of September. Spaces in the club will be limited so please register your interest as soon as possible through the link below. Further information will then follow.
https://forms.gle/WAvuLSSSn3dyckQ4A
Further information on the club is below.
What is D&D?
D&D is a collaborative tabletop role-playing game where players embark on epic quests in fantastical worlds. Guided by a Dungeon Master, participants create unique characters, navigate challenges, and tell a story together. It’s all about imagination, strategy, and camaraderie.
What are the benefits?
The game is a fun way for children to explore creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking. Additionally, players engage with math and logic as they use dice and stats for decision-making, enhancing numeracy in a fun and engaging way. For more information on the educational benefits of D&D in schools you can watch this link -> here.
Does my child need to buy anything?
No. Pupils who already have their own books, character sheets, counters, maps and more are encouraged to bring them to the club, but there is no requirement for pupils to purchase anything to take part in the club.mportant Notice for Parents of 6th Class Pupils
St. Dominic’s Secondary School wishes to bring to your attention the attached flyer about it’s upcoming Open night.
Playful Parenting Workshop
Regina, who runs Creative Groups in our school has asked me to pass on this information to you.
Please see below.
Have a lovely weekend everyone,
Fionnuala