General Policies

Playground

St Patrick’s NS is fortunate to have the facility of a large playground. In the interest of safety, different areas are allocated to class groups during break times, eg infants play under the trees and at the back of the school. The playground is supervised during breaks by staff who are assisted by parents who volunteer on a rota basis. Details of the designated play areas are available from the school secretary.

A bonus from the effective implementation of the healthy lunch policy is a great reduction in the amount of litter generated throughout the school each day.

School Tours

Tours and outings of educational merit are regularly organised by the school. Such occasions usually require some extra adult supervision, and we are always grateful for the help and support of parents/guardians on tours.  Full policy details are here..

Holidays

Families are requested to arrange holidays outside school term in order to cause minimum disruption to the children’s school routine.

Library

The library is at the heart of St Patrick's NS, and is used by pupils throughout the school, as well as all staff and is generously supported by parents.   It is resourced to the highest of standards, due largely to the generosity of donations and the efficient management of the school librarian, Ms Lorna McCrodden...  Full policy info here...

Personal Belongings

All children must bring a pair of light shoes to be worn in the classroom. It is essential that items such as coat, shoes (outdoor and indoor), schoolbag, lunch box, drinks flask, pencils, etc. are clearly marked with your child's name for easy identification.

Children are expected to arrive at school in a quiet and dignified manner and to go directly to their classroom. they should come to school with all books, materials and lunch needed fot the day. Anything else which is required by a child during the day, should be handed in to the school office to avoid classroom interruptions. The school expects all pupils to show courtesy to their peers, to staff and to visitors and to show respect for their property and the property of others.

Electronic Devices

It is recognised the electronic equipment can be intrusive and distracting in all situations in particular schools.  Hand-help/portable entertainment equipment is not required nor permitted in the school under any circumstances.   See full policy here...

Books

School text book lists for each class are issued in june. Pupils should have all books on their list when they begin the new school year in September. Books should be covered and clearly marked with the owner's name. Please note that many texts are available second-hand from members of the previous class. all copy books are ordered by the school and an account for each child is supplied in September.