St. Brendan's Boys Primary School

Mr. Kennedy’s class during their science classes made parachutes. They had to design their own parachutes using very light materials. They had to balance the parachute with weights and string and then drop it from a height making it open and float to the ground. Their scientific skills were put to the test with this project.

Mr. McCann’s class used their computer skills to make a wonderful Power Point Presentation on the Rainforest.They developed their presentation using the computer facilities in the school and showed it on their interactive whiteboard. They showed their presentation to other classes detailing the flora and fauna of the region. Well done to all involved.

The pupils from junior infants enjoyed some C.A.P.E.R. Reading this term. C.A.P.E.R means Children And Parents Enjoying Reading together. Ms. Mellsop demonstrated to parents/guardians how the scheme worked and a large turn out of parents/guardians came into the classroom and read with the pupils. Well done to Ms. Mellsop, Margaret Murphy and all the parents/guardians who participated in the project.

Various classes from the school visited the Oxmantown Theatre to see a wonderful Indian Dance Show and a science based show on Electromagnetism.

In preparation for their Confirmation the pupils of sixth class travelled to Castletown Retreat Centre for a day of reflection, prayer and meditation. The sessions were conducted in a fun manner with the boys singing, playing instruments and participating in a prayer service. The whole class really enjoyed the day. We all wish them well as they continue to  prepare for their Confirmation.

Maths for Fun this term began in first and third classes. Thanks to all parents/guardians who helped out with the project. Maths Lift Off brgan in second class and senior infants. The boys enjoy developing their mathematical skills in small group situations. Thanks to all teachers invilved in all projects.

The Book Fair was a great success again this year giving the pupils a great opportunity to look at and read a vast array of books on a variety of topics. It always creats a great literary atmosphere in the school. Thanks to all parents/guardians who supported the Book Fair raising €1430 of which €858 goes to the school school.

This year again our pupils participated in a Dance Project. For a period of six weeks under the tuition of Vanessa the boys performed their dance drills involving rehersed moves, free dance, co-ordination exercises, balancing drills, moving to music, rhythmic exercises and moving as individuals, in small groups and performing in a large group. The boys will perform all their dance skills in a show later in the month. The boys thoroughly enjoy the project.

Congratulations to all the boys who recently participated in the county finals of the Community Games Art competition. In the u/8 boys art Ciarán Abbott came first. In the u/10 boys art Darragh Cleary come 2nd and Pádraig Kelly came 3rd. In the u/14 boys art Morgan Watkins came 3rd. In the Model-Making u/10 Alex Byrne got the gold medal and andrew Coakley got bronze. In the u/12 boys Alex Smith won gold as did Nicholas Turtak in the u/14 section. Well done to all the boys and the gold medalists in each section will represent Offaly at the National Finals in May.

As part of a Cool Dudes Cooking Programme the boys from 6th class participated in a 6 week long cooking programme. They were instructed on how to make such dishes as chicken curry, fruit salad and spagetti bolognaise. The boys really enjoyed the programme.