Please see the attached information regarding "IMPORTANT INFORMATION IN RELATION TO ONLINE MARKING, EXAMINATION

PAPER DESIGN AND STATIONERY DESIGN 2025"

Two of our dedicated teachers, Ms. Dredge and Ms. O'Sullivan, are currently immersed in an exciting Erasmus+ Course in the heart of Madrid. The course focuses on exploring the power of drama in the classroom. This fantastic opportunity, co-funded by the European Union, allows them to learn innovative teaching techniques making lessons more engaging, creative and interactive.

While abroad, they are connecting with educators from across Europe, exchanging ideas, and embracing new cultures. This enriching experience is not just about professional growth—it’s about bringing back fresh, dynamic approaches to share with our entire school community. As lead teachers, delivering the Drama, Film and Theatre Studies Curriculum, they will use their training to inspire both students and fellow teachers, making learning more expressive and impactful. We can’t wait to see hear about their experiences on return to school.

Check out today's edition of The Nationalist to read an interview with three of our students who share their experiences and insights from the conference they attended in Belgium.

We were delighted to be invited to Maynooth University this week to celebrate the achievements of Class of 2024 CPC student Roisin Brannock. Roisin was awarded The Entrance Scholarship by Maynooth University - the scholarship is awarded to students who achieved 575 points or more in their Leaving Certificate. The President of Maynooth University, Professor Eeva Leinonen, noted that these students are in the top 6% in the country - a fabulous achievement. 

In attendance were Mr Leonard (Principal), Ms Hanratty (Roisin's former English teacher), Roisin's proud parents Ann Marie and Austin and Roisin's brother Ross, also from the CPC class of 2024 and studying in Maynooth University. 

Congratulations to Roisin and wishing you continued success in your studies - Roisin is studying Law and enjoying settling into university.

This morning we were delighted to welcome the town twinning delegation from Saint Contest to our school, where they received a warm and friendly reception. They enjoyed traditional music, played by the very talented violinist Mikey Arthur and an Irish reel performed by Marybeth Delaney. Our students and teachers had plenty of engaging conversations with the visitors, sharing stories and experiences. The French guests were curious to find out about the Irish school system, asking insightful questions about how our education works. It was a lovely exchange of culture and ideas. We wish our guests a pleasant and enjoyable stay in Kilcullen. 

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded certificates for their Perfect Attendance at school over the last number of months. 

Well done to Aaron Westermann, John Bissett, Katie O Donnell, Rocco Roche, Darragh Maher, Joseph Hayes, Noah Mahon, Shantayan Banerjee, Conor Clarke, Marybeth Delaney, and Rhys Byrne.

School attendance is crucial because it ensures consistent learning, helps students stay on track with their education, and fosters discipline and responsibility.

This is a great achievement. Well done all!

Ms Mills

We were delighted to gather and present our 5th year Students of the Month for January with their certificates this week. 

The Student of the Month Award is conferred on a student who demonstrates a variety of positive behaviours such as academic achievement, diligent work ethic, helpfulness, respectful interaction with all within the school community etc. This student is someone who adds to our school community in a positive manner.

Congratulations to the following students: 

5A Lucy Dowling Talt and Danny Mahon

5B Micheal Behan and Adam Barry, 

5C Ailbhe Cashin and Niamh Liston

5D Eleanor Steed and Mikey Arthur

5E Marybeth Delaney and Sarah Maher

5F Grace Carroll and Eoin O Connell

Well done 5th Year Students of the Month for January.

Keep up the great work!

We are all very proud of you.

Ms Mills

" Switcher.ie. have provided some resources to mark Safer Internet Day and this year’s theme is about empowering young people to Prepare, Protect / Thrive: Navigating Algorithms and Influencers.

The link to the new 2025 guide is here - https://switcher.ie/broadband/guides/how-to-keep-your-children-safe-online/ -  to help parents and children who may need some extra support.

Excessive internet use is spiralling, with most young people now constantly online: recent CSO figures reveal that nearly 8 in 10 are on the internet almost all day, every day.

The AI era has well and truly arrived, too, ushering in a host of unseen dangers for our children, from smarter, AI-powered online grooming to deepfakes: AI-generated, explicit photos that bring cyberbullying to an entirely new level. 

Coupled with powerful social media algorithms serving teenagers with high levels of harmful content, it’s never been more important to recognise the risks and keep children safe online.

Switcher.ie’s comprehensive guide includes things like: 

• Keeping on top of new, potential online risks 

• The 4 biggest dangers of Artificial Intelligence

• The best parental control apps right now & prices

• How to reduce the risks and keep children safe  

Revealed: 8 tips to protect children online, from AI dangers to toxic social media content 

1. Recognise new risks: The internet is changing rapidly, posing new dangers to teenagers and children. It’s important to know what AI tools and websites your children may be using and be aware of risks such as toxic social algorithms, doxxing, deepfake, and AI-powered online grooming. 

1. Brush up on AI: With the advent of AI comes a host of new tools and terminologies. Staying abreast of evolving apps, phrases and risks - from ChatGPT to DeepSeek, AI algorithms and AI bias - will mean you’re better equipped to protect your child from potential pitfalls.

1. Discover the best parental control apps:  Parental control apps allow you to monitor and restrict your child’s internet and phone use across multiple devices. The best ones offer features like screen time and call/texting limitations, website and app blocking, location tracking and harmful search restrictions. Take time to research features and pricing across each app to find one that best suits your needs. 

1. Set screen time boundaries: Excessive internet use by children can impact their well-being and behaviour. As 80% of our young now spend almost all day online, explaining and setting clear boundaries is important. Use parental control apps to set screen time or device limitations or filter by website so children can access educational sites but not social media. 

1. Set social restrictions: New research by the Dublin City University anti-bullying centre in 2024 revealed that high levels of harmful content - from toxic masculinity to misogyny - were being served to teenage boys across TikTok and YouTube.  Fortunately, each social media platform has privacy settings and safety tips for 

parents. Check them out before you let children have their accounts. 

1. Be clear on do's and don'ts:  Be clear about the non-negotiables.  For example, teach your child not to share personal details or photos with strangers and instruct them not to click links to unknown websites or texts. Do encourage your child to question what they see and only accept friend requests from people they know.

1. Protect against viruses: Install antivirus software on family devices to minimise the risk of cyber attacks or scams. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security on your online accounts. This can also stop children from signing into services they're not allowed to use.

1. Be open and supportive: Let your children know you’re on hand for advice should they need it. Creating a relaxed, positive environment helps build trust and means you won’t be left in the dark should any issues arise. 

There are some great resources like Webwise.ie, internetmatters.org, and Cybersafekids.ie, which can help you recognise and reduce online dangers and seek advice if you think your child is experiencing cyberbullying or is at risk online."

Well done to 5D and their teacher Ms O Flaherty for running a successful fundraiser for Pieta House. 

Students prepared and sold hot chocolate during their lunch breaks for a number of days raising €348.40 for Pieta House. 

Students showed great commitment throughout this fundraiser and gave it a fantastic effort. 

Well done all!

Ms Mills