Welcome to the Parents' Council Webpage of CBS Kilkenny
Parents' Council 2013-14
The Parents’ Council meets on the first Thursday of every month. The meetings are generally very informative and easygoing, and usually last for about an hour.
The Council plays a very important role in the promotion of co-operation between home and school. Being a member on the Council makes us more aware of what is happening in the school and hence we become more involved in our sons’ education and school life. There is a mutual respect between the school and the Council, and as a Council we do not interfere in the day to day running of the school where such responsibility rests with the school Principal. Also, we do not use the Council as a forum for complaints or problems relating to individual students.
Some of the activities that we undertake include: organising a speaker for the AGM, organising the Study Skills day in the school, assisting with teas/coffee at the Parent Teacher Meetings during the year, presenting the best Junior and Leaving Certificate students with a prize at the end of the year, and presenting the 6th Year students with a momento of their time in the school. In latter years this has taken the form of laminated certificates using the crest of Blessed Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers, with the students names printed on the back. We also acknowledge the retirement of staff members.
Go to archives for news from other academic years.
The Council plays a very important role in the promotion of co-operation between home and school. Being a member on the Council makes us more aware of what is happening in the school and hence we become more involved in our sons’ education and school life. There is a mutual respect between the school and the Council, and as a Council we do not interfere in the day to day running of the school where such responsibility rests with the school Principal. Also, we do not use the Council as a forum for complaints or problems relating to individual students.
Some of the activities that we undertake include: organising a speaker for the AGM, organising the Study Skills day in the school, assisting with teas/coffee at the Parent Teacher Meetings during the year, presenting the best Junior and Leaving Certificate students with a prize at the end of the year, and presenting the 6th Year students with a momento of their time in the school. In latter years this has taken the form of laminated certificates using the crest of Blessed Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers, with the students names printed on the back. We also acknowledge the retirement of staff members.
Go to archives for news from other academic years.
Parents' Council members (2014-15)
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Claire Mahony
Eileen Mcgrath Mary Delahanty Martin Stapleton Liz Holohan Carol Keenan Tim Ryan Donal Higgins |
John Bourke
Donna Brennan Margie Buckley Margo Holden Claire Keogh Alison Kehoe Trish White Ann Kelly |
Mairead McMorrow
Mary Gildea Pat Breen John Manning Jo Brennan Kieran Kinchella Evelyn Murphy Susan Doherty |
PARENTS' COUNCIL News 2014-15
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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
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April 2015 News
Mr Clarke gave us a lengthy report:
Exams 2015
Fundraising:
Trips:
Easy Payment System:
Book Lists: 2015/2016 are now on website.
Study Skills: Ms Ryan will carry out research and Study skills maybe compulsory for 2nd year students going forward, perhaps an option for other students.
Dates for the diary:
Awards night 13th May: Guest Speaker Mr David Beirne, CEO of Whitfield Clinic and former CBS student.
Thursday 21st May: LC Mass
Transition Year may have an Awards afternoon Thurs 14th from 3-5pm (to be confirmed)
Themed Weeks:
School Books:
Discussion took place on how best students could pass on /sell books to others. Perhaps students could set up stalls? Nothing finalised but the school takes in books and provides them to students who may need them.
Teachers Report: Caroline Mercer gave a detailed account of all the ongoing activities in the school.
Correspondence: National Parents council running workshops Sat 18th April in Dublin and Limerick –no takers.
AGM Speaker- research is ongoing to find a suitable speaker.
Mr Clarke gave us a lengthy report:
Exams 2015
- Oral Exams ongoing
- Practical LC and JC ONGOING
- Focus on motivation and stimulation
- LCert Support programme in place for students identified as requiring extra help-outside class time
- Importance of attendance in school stressed
- Letter on way to parents re attendance to the end of term
- Building Programme: Work to begin after orals-next week. Holidays will be taken during the period of the State exams in June. Work will continue until Christmas.
Fundraising:
- Golf Classic May 15th. Details being finalised, very active committee.
- Fun Run –funds for dressing rooms April 23rd. Students have cards.
- Pitch-outstanding loans paid off but ongoing maintenance costly.
Trips:
- First year trip with Mr Aherne May Bank holiday weekend-30 students, 3 teachers
- LCert History trip to Dublin wih Ms Walsh.
Easy Payment System:
- New system for collection of money, mock exams, trips, voluntary contribution etc
- Better system for administration and teachers
Book Lists: 2015/2016 are now on website.
Study Skills: Ms Ryan will carry out research and Study skills maybe compulsory for 2nd year students going forward, perhaps an option for other students.
Dates for the diary:
Awards night 13th May: Guest Speaker Mr David Beirne, CEO of Whitfield Clinic and former CBS student.
Thursday 21st May: LC Mass
Transition Year may have an Awards afternoon Thurs 14th from 3-5pm (to be confirmed)
Themed Weeks:
- Mental Health Week 13th to 17th April-speakers , workshops etc
- Seachtain na Gaeilge held in March
- Math week held in Oct
- Literacy week planned for September.
School Books:
Discussion took place on how best students could pass on /sell books to others. Perhaps students could set up stalls? Nothing finalised but the school takes in books and provides them to students who may need them.
Teachers Report: Caroline Mercer gave a detailed account of all the ongoing activities in the school.
Correspondence: National Parents council running workshops Sat 18th April in Dublin and Limerick –no takers.
AGM Speaker- research is ongoing to find a suitable speaker.
February 2015 News
During a well-attended meeting some topics for discussion were School Policies, Teacher’s report, Building program and some parent’s concerns.
Policies need to be reviewed as deemed necessary and draft copies are distributed to the relevant groups for discussion and comment. These can be confusing at times and by going through them as a group we get a better understanding of the difficulties and issues the can occur when dealing with such issues appropriately.
Teacher’s report; There was no Teacher’s report this month due to the unavailability of a Teacher.
Building Program; the school is waiting on confirmation to begin construction as soon as possible.
Other items; we are looking for a speaker for our AGM meeting and suggestions would be most welcome. We received an email from the National Parents Council enquiring if we would hold a Training session for other Parent Councils but we decided against it. Debs Fundraising issues. There are concerns among parents that these events are being run in Pubs and we received confirmation that the schools in Kilkenny are working together to see what can be done about these.
Next meeting is scheduled for April.
During a well-attended meeting some topics for discussion were School Policies, Teacher’s report, Building program and some parent’s concerns.
Policies need to be reviewed as deemed necessary and draft copies are distributed to the relevant groups for discussion and comment. These can be confusing at times and by going through them as a group we get a better understanding of the difficulties and issues the can occur when dealing with such issues appropriately.
Teacher’s report; There was no Teacher’s report this month due to the unavailability of a Teacher.
Building Program; the school is waiting on confirmation to begin construction as soon as possible.
Other items; we are looking for a speaker for our AGM meeting and suggestions would be most welcome. We received an email from the National Parents Council enquiring if we would hold a Training session for other Parent Councils but we decided against it. Debs Fundraising issues. There are concerns among parents that these events are being run in Pubs and we received confirmation that the schools in Kilkenny are working together to see what can be done about these.
Next meeting is scheduled for April.
January 2015 News
Claire had received a letter from Matt Breen, Chairperson of the BOM in reply to our request for clarification on the potential noise during the State Examinations in June 2015. Mr Breen confirmed in his letter that there would be no noise arising during the 2015 Exam period.
Teacher’s and Principal’s Report: Caroline Mercer and Ann Walshe joined the meeting. Caroline presented a detailed report of the various activities currently being held throughout the school and this report is attached to these minutes.
Ann Walshe noted that the house exams which were held in the last week of last term were well attended and reports would be posted to parents very shortly.
Mock JC and LC will be starting on 2nd February for 2 weeks.
TY Trip:
There are 63 going on the TY trip to Germany on 13th February. The total cost of the trip is as in previous years averaging approx. €700.
Subject Choice:
There will be a meeting in early February for the subject choice for TY students and Ann explained that the banding process is adjusted each year by Ms. Ryan to ensure that as many students as possible get the subjects they have chosen.
School Policies:
Ann gave the meeting an overview of the type of school policies in place and the process taken to introduce and update policies. This process is included in the School Planning document for 2014/2015.
Some policies are legal requirements, eg Child Protection while others are desirable eg Homework, Assessments. Every year the Behavioural policy is reviewed and changed with the whole school community having an input as opposed to just the Principal.
The school has used a recent Croke Park day to review more over 8 current policies with a view to having draft amended versions in place by June 2015. It is hoped that these can be brought to the Parents Council for review prior to BOM sign off. Ann will provide the Parents Council with a list of the policies currently under review for finalisation by June 2015.
Building Programme:
Ann informed the meeting that it is still at the Tendering process.
Debs Fund Raising:
We queried whether the school was involved in the fund raising for forthcoming Debs nights which are being held in local pubs. Some pubs do not appear to have a strong approach to tackle underage drinking.
Ann confirmed that the school has nothing to do with Debs night organising however it is a concern. She will speak with Mr.Clarke with a view to having our concerns raised at the local Principals and Deputy Principals meeting. It was felt that a collective approach could then be made to the local Vintners with regard to this problem.
AOB:
Upcoming 5th Year Parent Teacher meeting on 3rd February.
Fund raising for Zambia: Claire spoke with Pat Downey and at present there are no plans to return to Zambia until 2017.
Next meeting takes place Thursday 12th February 2015.
Claire had received a letter from Matt Breen, Chairperson of the BOM in reply to our request for clarification on the potential noise during the State Examinations in June 2015. Mr Breen confirmed in his letter that there would be no noise arising during the 2015 Exam period.
Teacher’s and Principal’s Report: Caroline Mercer and Ann Walshe joined the meeting. Caroline presented a detailed report of the various activities currently being held throughout the school and this report is attached to these minutes.
Ann Walshe noted that the house exams which were held in the last week of last term were well attended and reports would be posted to parents very shortly.
Mock JC and LC will be starting on 2nd February for 2 weeks.
TY Trip:
There are 63 going on the TY trip to Germany on 13th February. The total cost of the trip is as in previous years averaging approx. €700.
Subject Choice:
There will be a meeting in early February for the subject choice for TY students and Ann explained that the banding process is adjusted each year by Ms. Ryan to ensure that as many students as possible get the subjects they have chosen.
School Policies:
Ann gave the meeting an overview of the type of school policies in place and the process taken to introduce and update policies. This process is included in the School Planning document for 2014/2015.
Some policies are legal requirements, eg Child Protection while others are desirable eg Homework, Assessments. Every year the Behavioural policy is reviewed and changed with the whole school community having an input as opposed to just the Principal.
The school has used a recent Croke Park day to review more over 8 current policies with a view to having draft amended versions in place by June 2015. It is hoped that these can be brought to the Parents Council for review prior to BOM sign off. Ann will provide the Parents Council with a list of the policies currently under review for finalisation by June 2015.
Building Programme:
Ann informed the meeting that it is still at the Tendering process.
Debs Fund Raising:
We queried whether the school was involved in the fund raising for forthcoming Debs nights which are being held in local pubs. Some pubs do not appear to have a strong approach to tackle underage drinking.
Ann confirmed that the school has nothing to do with Debs night organising however it is a concern. She will speak with Mr.Clarke with a view to having our concerns raised at the local Principals and Deputy Principals meeting. It was felt that a collective approach could then be made to the local Vintners with regard to this problem.
AOB:
Upcoming 5th Year Parent Teacher meeting on 3rd February.
Fund raising for Zambia: Claire spoke with Pat Downey and at present there are no plans to return to Zambia until 2017.
Next meeting takes place Thursday 12th February 2015.
December 2014 News
1.Building Programme: We discussed the proposed new construction proposed and who it will affect our students both during and after the construction phases and especially around exam times.
2. Invitation to BOM reps to Council Meetings: A board of management member is being invited to attend our meetings.
3. School Policies: Alcohol and drug policy being reviewed at present and a list of school policies being compiled.
AOB:
1.Building Programme: We discussed the proposed new construction proposed and who it will affect our students both during and after the construction phases and especially around exam times.
2. Invitation to BOM reps to Council Meetings: A board of management member is being invited to attend our meetings.
3. School Policies: Alcohol and drug policy being reviewed at present and a list of school policies being compiled.
AOB:
- Members introductions (as the CBS Parents’ Council has new members)
- Claire outlined the activities of the CBS Parents’ Council; Fundraising, Newsletter, WSE, Study Skills Workshop, AGM inspiring speakers etc.
November 2014 News
There are two Parent Teacher meetings in November. The 3rd Year meeting was be held on Tuesday 11th November and the meeting for 1st years will be held on Monday 17th November.
Well done to the school Senior Choir who represented their school so well at the All Island Schools Choir Competition. It was a great experience for them.
The Annual Conference of the National Parents’ Council post primary (NPCpp) will be held in Tullamore Court Hotel on Saturday 15th November 2014, 9.30a.m. to 4.00p.m.
Theme: “ Parents, your voice, your choice”
If interested, contact 01 8302740 or email npcpp@eircom.net. The conference is free but pre registration is necessary
October 2014 News
The AGM of the Parents’ Council was held on Thursday 2nd October 2014. There was a very good attendance on the night. Guest speaker was Ms. Caroline Seales, Nutritionist, who spoke on the topic, “Less Sugar for Healthy Happy Teens”. Refreshments and healthy (!) snacks were served afterwards.
The Study Skills Course which was held on Saturday 11th October for 2nd Years and 5th years, again received very positive feedback from both tutors and students.
The 6th Year Parent Teacher meeting was held on Thursday 16th October. Thanks to the Council members who helped with the teas and coffees and a big thank you to all those parents who paid the €5 subscription.
September 2014 news
Welcome back! We hope you all had an enjoyable and relaxing summer. Back to business once again!
New Officers
Secretary: Margie Buckley
Treasurer: John Bourke
PRO: Ann Kelly
AGM
The AGM of the Parents' Council will take place on Thursday 2nd October 2014 at 7.30pm in the school. The guest speaker on the night will be Ms Caroline Seales, Nutritionist, who will speak on the topic "Less Sugar for Healthy, Happy Teens". Please come along and support the Parents' Council. Light refreshments will be served after the meeting. All welcome.
Study Skills Course
The annual Study Skills Course for 2nd Years and 5th Years will take place in the school on Saturday 11th October 2014. Half day course for 2nd Years and full day course for 5th Years.
There are a limited number of places remaining. If interested please contact the school office or any member of the Parents' Council.
Subscription
The €5 subscription to the Parents' Council can be paid into the school office, at the AGM, or at any of the parent teacher meetings during the year. The Council appreciates the generosity of parents each year.
Parenting Course
A Parenting Course on Family Communication and Self Esteem for parents of 9-17 yrs will start in Kilkenny on 3rd October 10am - 12.30pm and will run for 8weeks. The course is free.
For further information email Meabh.McGuinness@hse.ie or text your name and details to 0871260979
There are two Parent Teacher meetings in November. The 3rd Year meeting was be held on Tuesday 11th November and the meeting for 1st years will be held on Monday 17th November.
Well done to the school Senior Choir who represented their school so well at the All Island Schools Choir Competition. It was a great experience for them.
The Annual Conference of the National Parents’ Council post primary (NPCpp) will be held in Tullamore Court Hotel on Saturday 15th November 2014, 9.30a.m. to 4.00p.m.
Theme: “ Parents, your voice, your choice”
If interested, contact 01 8302740 or email npcpp@eircom.net. The conference is free but pre registration is necessary
October 2014 News
The AGM of the Parents’ Council was held on Thursday 2nd October 2014. There was a very good attendance on the night. Guest speaker was Ms. Caroline Seales, Nutritionist, who spoke on the topic, “Less Sugar for Healthy Happy Teens”. Refreshments and healthy (!) snacks were served afterwards.
The Study Skills Course which was held on Saturday 11th October for 2nd Years and 5th years, again received very positive feedback from both tutors and students.
The 6th Year Parent Teacher meeting was held on Thursday 16th October. Thanks to the Council members who helped with the teas and coffees and a big thank you to all those parents who paid the €5 subscription.
September 2014 news
Welcome back! We hope you all had an enjoyable and relaxing summer. Back to business once again!
New Officers
Secretary: Margie Buckley
Treasurer: John Bourke
PRO: Ann Kelly
AGM
The AGM of the Parents' Council will take place on Thursday 2nd October 2014 at 7.30pm in the school. The guest speaker on the night will be Ms Caroline Seales, Nutritionist, who will speak on the topic "Less Sugar for Healthy, Happy Teens". Please come along and support the Parents' Council. Light refreshments will be served after the meeting. All welcome.
Study Skills Course
The annual Study Skills Course for 2nd Years and 5th Years will take place in the school on Saturday 11th October 2014. Half day course for 2nd Years and full day course for 5th Years.
There are a limited number of places remaining. If interested please contact the school office or any member of the Parents' Council.
Subscription
The €5 subscription to the Parents' Council can be paid into the school office, at the AGM, or at any of the parent teacher meetings during the year. The Council appreciates the generosity of parents each year.
Parenting Course
A Parenting Course on Family Communication and Self Esteem for parents of 9-17 yrs will start in Kilkenny on 3rd October 10am - 12.30pm and will run for 8weeks. The course is free.
For further information email Meabh.McGuinness@hse.ie or text your name and details to 0871260979
