Hello students, staff, parents and guardians,
At this time, it is important that we all follow the advice of the Taoiseach, his government and the medical professionals.
We note that students and teachers have really embraced the challenge of remote learning and we say a Big Thank You and Well Done to all involved. In normal circumstances, next Friday would mark the beginning of the Easter break and that means that there is one week of school left. Some families have found learning at home and even teaching at home a very positive experience and some have found it a challenge. Some students have produced great work and some are a little overwhelmed by it. We have been in contact and consultation with our Senior Leadership Team and, based on their advice, we believe that this is how we should proceed:
1st Years and 2nd Years: Teachers may assign you work on Monday ONLY (no more than 1 hour per exam subject). This work and the work you have already been given should be completed and returned by 1.20 p.m. on Friday, April 3rd. Then, you should take a break and rest over the normal Easter period.
3rd Years: In preparation for the Junior Cycle Exam, teachers may assign you work on Tuesday ONLY (no more than 1 hour per exam subject). This work and the work you have already been given should be completed and returned by Tuesday, April 21st. If you wish to do more, you should revise work done in 2nd and 3rd years so far. You should take a break and rest over the normal Easter period.
4th Years / Transition Years: Teachers will NOT assign you work. You are expected to complete your Folder of Excellence and have it ready for Tuesday, April 21st.
5th Years: Teachers may assign you work on Monday ONLY (no more than 1 hour per exam subject). This work and the work you have already been given should be completed and returned by Tuesday, April 21st. You are older and more independent than Junior Cycle students. It is at your discretion how you manage your time, between helping at home, doing school work and taking a break and rest over the normal Easter period. We trust you to do this as best suits your personal circumstances.
6th Years: Teachers may assign you work on Wednesday ONLY (no more than 3 hours per exam subject). This work and the work you have already been given should be completed and returned by Tuesday, April 21st. If you wish to do more, please feel free to contact teachers in the normal way over the course of this week. You are mature, young adults. It is at your discretion how you manage your time, between helping at home, doing school work and taking a break and rest over the normal Easter period. We trust you to do this as best suits your personal circumstances. Please ensure that you pace yourself and, on days of your choosing, take a complete break from exam preparation.
No matter what year you are in, this is a time to look after your health and wellbeing and, where appropriate, provide support to your parents / guardians / carers.
We compliment you on what you have done so far and look forward to seeing you when this global crisis has passed and school can resume as normal.
Sincere best wishes,
E. Gaughran, A. Wafer and the Whole School Community.