We have an author in the school!
A huge congratulations to Harshad Sai from second class who has become an author at such a young age. Harshad has had his first book titled: ‘The Boy Who Set Fire To The Moon’ published by Grosvenor House Publishing House. The book is available on Amazon to buy and having read the book, it is most definitely worth reading.
Parents Association
I would like to extend a massive welcome to the new Parents Association. I am really looking forward to all the events that are planned for the coming year. I would also like to thank the outgoing Parents Association for their time and dedication over the academic year of 2024/25.
Term One Events:
- October 7th Grandparents Day for second class
- October 10th PJ Day
- October 23rd Hallowe’en Dress Up
- November 20th Cake Sale
- December 1st Putting Up of Christmas Decorations
- December 8th Beginning of Selling of Raffle Tickets
- December 18th Christmas Raffle Draw
- December 15th Santa Visit to the School
Junior Infant Admissions
Admissions for the 2026/27 Junior Infants classes are now open and all information can be found on the school website:
https://www.StThomasJNS.com/page/School-Admission/3622/Index.html
There are 130 spaces and the closing date for application is the 14th of November 2025.
Redeveloped Primary School Curriculum
The Primary Curriculum Framework was launched by the Minister on 9 March 2023. This Framework is for all primary and special schools and will guide teachers and school leaders in their work to enhance learning, teaching and assessment for all children through the new curriculum. The voices from the consultation on the framework, in particular, the voices of children, indicate the need for a curriculum that supports all children, celebrating their current childhood experiences, and preparing them for their future experiences. The Framework sets out the vision, principles and components of a redeveloped Primary School Curriculum.
For more information, please go to: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-education/policy-information/new-primary-curriculum/#parents-and-guardians-and-the-new-curriculum-for-primary-and-special-schools
Hallowe’en Camp in the school
Halloween camp in St. Thomas’ J.N.S will run from Tuesday 28th of October – Friday the 31st October.
Ms. Carragher, Ms. N. Ryan, Ms. Daly and Ms. Christian will be playing lots of spooky games, making creepy crafts and creating scary baked goods.
It costs 95 euro and runs from 9:30 – 14:00 each day.
If you would like to join the camp please send your child’s full name and room number to eskercamplucan@gmail.com
Rainbows Support Programme
Rainbows is a national service designed to provide group support for children navigating significant changes due to bereavement, parental separation, or divorce. St. Thomas’ JNS is proud to be a registered Rainbows programme centre.
Programme Details:
• Duration: The Rainbows programme spans nine weeks.
• Group Structure: Separate groups are formed for bereavement and for separation/divorce from 1st and 2nd classes only. Each group consists of a minimum of four to a maximum of eight children, supported by two trained volunteer facilitators.
• Schedule:
o Expression of Interest Forms: Distributed each year.
o Start Date: The programme begins in March*
o Timing: Sessions are held after school hours and are completely free of charge (From 2:40pm – 4:00pm)
*Depending on numbers only certain groups may go ahead at any one time.
Benefits of Rainbows:
Rainbows provides children with a safe space to explore and discuss their shared experiences of loss. Participants often express feelings of relief and connection, saying things like:
• “I’m not the only one.”
• “We are not the only family.”
Parents have noted positive changes in their children, including increased ease, reduced anxiety, and improved communication following the programme.
Contact Information:
For more information, visit Rainbows Ireland or contact the Rainbows coordinators at St. Thomas’ JNS:
• Megan Carragher
• Aine Murtagh
• Email: rainbows@stthomasjns.com
We encourage families to consider this valuable support service for children facing challenging times.
Le meas,
Mr. Coleman