Kilgarriffe National School Newsletter

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Week 37 18/06/26

 

International Day

Well done to all pupils for presenting a wonderful International Day event last Monday. Thanks to all parents who helped them with the amazing cuisine produced. This added a tasty extra on food culture to their presentations of choosen countries.  A great event, enjoyed by all our school community with many parents, family & past pupils in attendance.

 

Kilgarriffe Sports Day

Sports Day is tomorrow Friday 19th June’26 from 11:30am to 2pm. Parents, siblings & friends are welcome to attend. The timetable is as follows:

11:30am - 12:40pm Children’s Fun races in their teams.

12:40 -1:20pm Lunchtime (weather permitting picnic together on grass area)

1:20 – 1:50pm Toddler, Parent & past pupils Obstacle Races

1:50 -1:45 Sack Race Relay

1:50 – 2pm Tidy up

2pm Ice Cream treat

2:15-2:30pm Team Medals & Student of the Year presentations

2:30pm Home time

 

School Tour

School tour to Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery (eircode P85 NY82) next Mon 22nd June’26. Children will need to be delivered to Smugglers Cove by 9:30am and collected there by 2pm.

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Please ensure your child brings a backpack with:

• a full change of clothes

• a coat

• drinks

• good packed lunch

Sunscreen applied before arrival & NO school uniform required.

 

Any children who usually walk to school and need a lift, please meet at 9am outside Clonakilty Hotel and staff will bring them.

There will be no school bus operating on Monday.

Anybody else needing lifts please ask other parents to assist.

 

RNLI Water Safety Webinar & lessons

Pupils will take part in a Water Safety Webinar in school next Tuesday 23rd  June’26 and some PAWS water safety lessons over the next few days as part of their SPHE lessons.

 

Swimming Lessons

Last swimming lesson next Tuesday 23rd June, with collection afterwards from the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre lobby at 3pm.

 

School Reports

End of year school reports have now been shared on Aladdin for parents to view.

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Graduation Day

Next Wednesday 24th June is 6th Class Graduation Day. This will start at 10:30am & all family members of 6th Class pupils are welcome to attend. Weather permitting, we hope to have this ceremony out in the school garden area. Otherwise it will take place in the Senior classroom. All classes are to wear their full school uniform that day. After Graduation, all pupils are free to go home about 12 noon.

Reminder to 5th Class pupils/parents: it’s your turn to provide some snacks for 6th class graduates & their family to be served on Wednesday at graduation. Please send into school on Tuesday or Wednesday morning. Thank You.

 

Summer Holidays

Next Wednesday 24th June is our last day of school for this school year. Collection at 12 noon please. School reopens on Wed 26th August’26.

Have a lovely Summer break everyone.

 

Board Of Management

BOM report from meeting 08/06/26

• Well done to representatives in the Cork City Sports.

• Good luck in Ahamilla.

• Congratulations to Tina Holland (SNA), our Green Schools Committee and our entire school body on being awarded our first ever ‘Green Flag’.

• Bí Cinealta policy reviewed & updated.

• Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Gideon Cullum.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next Septemer.

 

Dates to remember

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Fri 19th June’26

School Tour: Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery (eircode P85 NY82): Mon 22nd June’26

Swimming Lessons: Tues 23rd June’26

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

School Holidays: Wed 24th June’26 School will finish at 12 noon (all classes)

School reopens: on Wed 26th August’26.

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​Week 36 12/06/26

 

Clonakilty Schools Sports at Ahamilla

Well done to all our pupils who took part in the Clonakilty Schools Athletics yesterday. Congratulations to all the trophy winners:

1st Alex Marks (6th class) 2013 100m

3rd Lila Bullock (2nd class) 2017 60m

2nd Finley Kohler Cullum (3rd Class) 80m small school final

3rd Marat Shabanov (Jun Inf) 60m small school final.

1st Over 11yrs Boys Relay (Ru, Luca, Eduard, Alex)

1st Over 11yrs Mixed Relay (Maya, Alex, Hannah, Eduard)

Some 4th places too: Grace, Vara, Finley & Aela.

4th Under 11 Girls and Boys relays & Over 11 Girls

Great team effort everyone, well done.

 

Fire Safety Workshop

All pupils will take part in a Fire Safety workshop with a Fire Safety Oficer this morning in school.

 

School Tour

Reminder fees for school tour to Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery on Mon 22nd June’26, need to be in next week at the latest.

Infants to 1st Class €20 & 2nd to 6th Class €30.

Thank you to those that have already paid.

 

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

Next Monday 15th June’26 the Junior Infants to 1st Class are invited to bring a ‘Teddy’ to school to take part in a Teddy’s Bear’s Picnic from 9:30-11am along with some new pupils joining us for the 2026/27school year.

 

International Day

Next Monday 15th June’26 we are celebrating International Day in the afternoon. The children will present their projects on various countries of interest to them. Parents are invited to be part of this day from 2-3pm in the school classrooms. All welcome.

 

Kilgarriffe Sports Day

Sports Day is next Friday 19th June’26 from 11:30am to 2pm. Parents, siblings & friends are welcome to attend. The timetable is as follows:

11:30am - 12:30pm Children’s Fun races in their teams.

12:30 -1:30pm Lunchtime (weather permitting picnic together on grass area)

1:30 – 1:40pm Toddler & Parent Obstacle Races

1:40 -1:45 Sack Race Relay

1:50 -1:55 Tidy up

2pm Ice Cream

2:15-2:30pm Team Medals & Student of the Year presentations

2:30pm Home time

 

RNLI Water Safety Webinar & lessons

Pupils will take part in a Water Safety Webinar in school next Tuesday 16th June’26 and some PAWS water safety lessons over the next few days as part of their SPHE lessons.

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons continue every Tuesday for the next 2 weeks, with collection afterwards from the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre lobby at 3pm.

 

Dates to remember

Swimming Lessons: Tues 16th, 23rd June’26

Teddy Bear’s Picnic: Mon 15th June 9:30-11am Junior Room and incoming new pupils.

International Day: Mon 15th June’26 1:30-3pm. Parents welcome to attend.

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

School Holidays: Wed 24th June’26 School will finish at 12 noon (all classes)

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Community Notes

Clonakilty Street Party: Saturday 13th June’26 on Main Street.

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Agreed Report Kilgarriffe N.S Board of Management 08.06.26

• Well done to representatives in the Cork City Sports.

• Good luck in Ahamilla.

• Congratulations to Tina Holland (SNA), our Green Schools Committee and our entire school body on being awarded our 1st ever green flag.

• Bí Cinealta policy reviewed and updated.

• Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Gideon Cullum.

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Week 35 04/06/26

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Bí Cineálta

Our Bí Cineálta (Be Kind) anti Bullying Policy is having its yearly update. Please can the ‘parent voice’ questionnaire in schoolbags, be completed & returned to school office or teachers by this Fri 5th June’26. Thanks.

 

Cork City Sports

Congratulations to all our Cork City Sports team for their outstanding participation & sportsmanship last Thursday. Each and every athlete took part to the best of their ability, to make our team a joy to be with for the day, whether you won a trophy or not…. Well done. Many thanks also to the parents & past pupil who travelled with us and who help on the day. We couldn’t have managed without you.

Our trophy winners were: Lila Bullock 2nd & Alex Marks 1st in flat sprint races. Our Boys relay (Bodhi, Luca, Ru & Alex) 1st receiving individual trophies & a large team plaque. Alex then went on to won his County quarter 100m sprint & later finished 4th in the overall all County Cork 100m final. A huge achievement that nobody in Kilgarriffe NS has ever managed before. Well done Alex!

 

Cycling Skills

Many thanks to Ulick for all the fun cycling last Thursday & we will have another day of cycling skills & thrills with Ulick this Friday 5th June’26 to look forward to.

 

Clonakilty Schools Sports at Ahamilla

Next Thursday 11th June’26, the Clonakilty Parish Schools Athletics will take place at Ahamilla (GAA sports rounds), Clonakilty. This Sports involves flat sprint & relay races between the 6 Clonakilty schools and all our children will be taking part throughout the day.

Please arrive at Ahamilla between 9-9:15am & collect again to go home by 2pm from Ahamilla. Children who normally travel on the school bus will be brought to & collected from there by their school bus. There will be nobody at school that day.

All need to wear shorts, t-shirt, sun hat/cap, tracksuit bottoms, warm hoodie/sweatshirt, coat & sports shoes. Sun cream to be applied before arrival. Please also bring a good healthy packed lunch & drinks. No phones or other electronic devices to be brought on the day please.

There will be a small sweet/ ice cream shop there, so a few euros needed if desired!

If any of the children who usually walk to school need transport to Ahamilla Sports grounds, please let your teacher know & we’ll try to organise this for you. There is also a large, safe footpath all the way there for anyone who wishes to cycle there.

 

Standardised Tests

Maths standardised tests are being completed this week. All results will be on children’s end of year school reports.

 

School Tour

Reminder fees for school tour to Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery due as soon as possible. Infants to 1st Class €20 & 2nd to 6th Class €30.

 

Clon Show Competitions

Well done to all who completed an entry in the Clonakilty Agricultural Show Art, Computer aided drawing & Hand Writing competitions this weekend. We had 2 winners Lucy Buttimer 1rst in Hand Writing and Tobi Gondas 3rd for Computer Aided design. These will be on display at the Clonakilty Show this Sunday 7th June at the showgrounds beside the Clonakilty Park & prizes can be collected there.

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons continue every Tuesday for the next 3 weeks, with collection afterwards from the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre lobby at 3pm.

 

Dates to remember

Swimming Lessons: Tues 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic: Mon 15th June 9:30-11am Junior Room and incoming new pupils.

International Day: Mon 15th June’26 1:30-3pm. Parents welcome to attend.

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

School Holidays: Wed 24th June’26 School will finish at 12 noon (all classes)

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Community Notes

Clon Agricultural Show: This Sunday 7th June’26 at the showgrounds.

Clonakilty Street Party: Saturday 13th June’26 on Main Street.

KidsCraic is completely free for parents and currently has 215 live listings across swimming, dance, music, gymnastics, drama, summer camps, STEM, martial arts, horse riding and more — including a dedicated Inclusive Activities section for children with autism, ADHD, sensory needs and additional needs.

 

Inclusive Rugby Camp: Munster is running a Inclusion Rugby Summer Camp in Clonakilty RFC from 11th to 13th of August. Please see link below for more information.https://www.munsterrugby.ie/domestic/rugby/camps/inclusion-camp/

Volleyball Camp: Rise Strong Volleyball Camp this July for boys and girls aged 8–12, focused on introducing children to volleyball in a fun, active, and encouraging environment. Camp Details: Leap Hall: 13–17 July, 1PM–4pm Ballydehob: 20–24 July, 1PM–4PM. Cost: €100 for the week. Registration: 089 4277833

Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 34  28/05/26

 

Green Flag Presentation

Luca & Grace had a lovely afternoon last Tuesday 26th at Fota Wildlife Park education Centre, representing our school & receiving our ‘Green Flag’. Well done to all involved in this 2 year process to secure our first Green Flag.

 

HSE Healthy Eating School Policy Survey

Please could the rest of the ‘ HSE Quick survey for Parents’ be returned to school by next Tuesday 2nd June at the latest. We need these as part of updating our school ‘Healthy Eating Policy’. Thanks to those who have already returned.

 

June Bank Holiday

Reminder no school next Monday 1st June.

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons continue every Tuesday for the next 4 weeks, with collection afterwards from the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre lobby at 3pm. Well done especially to all the 2nd & 3rd class pupils who are so kind in helping the Junior classes on and off the bus, looking after their bags & helping within the changing rooms. Fantastic to see the care & kindness shown to the youngest members of our school.

 

Musical Recital Afternoon

Yesterday Wed 27th May’26 we had a lovely Musical afternoon in school. Well done to all pupils who took part singing, playing ukuele and especially to Alice and Olivier who played many tunes so beautifully on the keyboard.

 

Cork City Sports

Today Thursday 28th May our team of 23 children travel by bus to the annual Cork City and County Primary Schools Sports in MTU Bishopstown, Cork. This is a huge athletics event attended by most of the Cork county primary schools, with each school being allowed to enter a small running and relay team across the age groups. Good luck to all participating & have a great day.  Bus leaves school at 9:30am and will return by 4pm for children to be collected at school.

 

Cycling Skills & Art fun

Today for all the children not at Cork City Sports, Ulick took groups for cycling skills & tricks whilst Sheila organised fun Art & Craft sessions for everyone. Hope all had fun.

 

School Tour

Reminder fees for school tour to Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery due as soon as convienient. Infants to 1st Class €20 & 2nd to 6th Class €30.

 

Standardised Tests

English standardised tests were completed this week & Maths will be next week. All results will be on children’s end of year school reports.

 

Clon Show Competitions

Lots of Art, Computer aided drawing & Hand Writing has been completed by all classes for the Clonakilty Agricultural Show competitions. These will be on display at the Clonakilty Agricultural Show June at the shoon Sunday 7th June at the showgrounds beside the Clonakilty Park. Good luck to all with your enteries.

 

Dates to remember

Swimming Lessons: Tues 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Cycle Days with Ulick: Thurs 28th May &  Fri 5th June (all classes)

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic: Mon 15th June 9:30-11am Junior Room and incoming new pupils.

International Day: Mon 15th June’26 1:30-3pm. Parents welcome to attend.

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Community Notes

KidsCraic is completely free for parents and currently has 215 live listings across swimming, dance, music, gymnastics, drama, summer camps, STEM, martial arts, horse riding and more — including a dedicated Inclusive Activities section for children with autism, ADHD, sensory needs and additional needs. Feel free to scan the QR code to find out what’s available near you:

 

Inclusive Rugby Camp: Munster is running a Inclusion Rugby Summer Camp in Clonakilty RFC from 11th to 13th of August. Please see link below for more information.

https://www.munsterrugby.ie/domestic/rugby/camps/inclusion-camp/

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Volleyball Camp: Rise Strong Volleyball Camp this July for boys and girls aged 8–12, focused on introducing children to volleyball in a fun, active, and encouraging environment. Camp Details: Leap Hall: 13–17 July, 1PM–4pm Ballydehob: 20–24 July, 1PM–4PM. Cost: €100 for the week. Registration: 089 4277833

Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 33  21/05/26

 

HSE Healthy Eating School Policy Survey

Quick survey for Parents to complete will be sent home today. Thanks

*Chewing gum is not permitted in school*

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons continue every Tuesday for the next 5 weeks, with collection afterwards from the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre lobby at 3pm.

 

Green Flag Presentation

Next Tues 26th May’26 two members of the Green Flag committee, Luca (6th class) and Grace  (Senior Infants) will attend the Green Flags presentation afternoon in Fota to receive our schools first Green Flag along with staff Susan & Tina. Many thanks especially to Tina for all her work with the Committee, the Green School initiatives & all the process & paperwork that goes into achieving  & securing these flags.

 

Musical Recital Afternoon

Next Wed 27th May’26 we are having a Musical Recital afternoon in school from 2:15-3pm. Any pupils learning instruments are invited to take part & show their peers what they’re learning & how to play. The senior room will also play some Ukuele tunes they have been learning with Mr. Lynch.

 

Cork City Sports

Next Thursday 28th May’26 a team of 23 children will travel by bus to the annual Cork City and County Primary School Sports in MTU Bishopstown, Cork. Bus leaves school at 9:30am and will return by 4pm for children to be collected at school.

€15 per person to be sent into school BEFORE next Thursday 28th May please to contribute towards the cost of the bus.

The teams are:

2013 (100m) Alex Marks, Luca Kohler Cullum, Hannah Buttimer

2014 (80m) Maya La Trobe-Hogan, Sophie Huggins

2015 (80m) Cillian Barrett, Bodhi La Trobe-Hogan, Ada Marks

2016 (80m) Finley Kohler Cullum, Slava Stepaniuk, Evie Kingston, Alice Garde

2017 (60m) Luke Buttimer, Jakub Kicinski, Aela Graham Hughes, Lila Bullock

2018 (60m) Sam Buttimer, Xavi La Trobe-Hogan, Varvara Kushyn

2019 (60m) Robin Lennon Rynne, Grace O’Donovan

Boys Relay: Bodhi La Trobe Hogan, Luca Kohler Cullum, Ru Barrett, Alex Marks

Girls Relay: Lucy Buttimer, Maya La Trobe Hogan, Ada Marks, Hannah Buttimer

A few parents are travelling with us on the bus to support children & help staff with the team on the day. There are 3 more spaces if any more wish to travel, please let us know via school mobile 083 0658096 ASAP

 

School Tour

This year all classes will go to Smugglers Cove in Rosscarbery on Mon 22nd June’26. Infants to 1st Class €20 & 2nd to 6th Class €30 can be sent into school as soon as convienient. This outing is partly subsidised this year from the proceeds of the Whist Raffle. Anybody unable to go, please let us know ASAP so correct numbers can be submitted to Smugglers Cove. Thank you.

 

Standardised Tests are being administered to 1st-6th class next week in English and the following week in Maths. All results will be on children’s end of year school reports.

 

Dates to remember

It’s becoming a hectic term, please note all the forthcoming events over the next 6 weeks leading up to the end of the school year:

Swimming Lessons: Tues 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Green Flag Presentation: Tues 26th May’26

Musical Recital Afternoon:Wed 27th May’26 2:15-3pm for all pupils learning instruments to show their peers what they’re learning & how to play.

Cork City Sports: MTU Bishopstown Thurs 28th May’26 (Team selection)

Cycle Days with Ulick: Thurs 28th May &  Fri 5th June (all classes)

June Bank Holiday: Mon 1st June’26 No School

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic: Mon 15th June 9:30-11am Junior Room and incoming new pupils.

International Day: Mon 15th June’26 1:30-3pm. Parents welcome to attend.

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Community Notes

Around the World in 80 Keys: Uplifting Concert  presented by professional musician, Oli Garde this Friday 22nd May 8pm at Kilgarriffe Church, Clonakilty. Entry by Free Tickets available through Eventbrite.

 

Inclusive Rugby Camp: Munster is running a Inclusion Rugby Summer Camp in Clonakilty RFC from 11th to 13th of August. Please see link below for more information.

https://www.munsterrugby.ie/domestic/rugby/camps/inclusion-camp/

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Volleyball Camp: Rise Strong Volleyball Camp this July for boys and girls aged 8–12, focused on introducing children to volleyball in a fun, active, and encouraging environment. Camp Details: Leap Hall: 13–17 July, 1PM–4pm Ballydehob: 20–24 July, 1PM–4PM. Cost: €100 for the week. Registration: 089 4277833

 

Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

 

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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​Week 32  14/05/26

Used Clothing Collection Fundraiser

Used Clothing was collected last Monday 11th May’26.

Thank you to all who donated. A total of €136 was raised for school.

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons for all classes are starting next Tuesday 19th May’26. These will continue every Tuesday for 6 weeks. Tuesday 19th, 26th May and 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June from 2-3pm.  All children will need swim wear, hat, goggles & towel. Infants may wear their swimwear under their uniform coming to school (don’t forget underwear in swim bag!).

This is an important part of the PE curriculum & all children are expected to participate fully. Anyone unable to attend on any of the days, MUST be collected from school by 1pm.

On swimming days, children will travel by bus from school to the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre and are to be collected from inside the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre at 3pm after swimming. School bus children will travel home on bus as usual.

Parents of younger children may arrive early at 2:50pm to help their child with dressing.

 

Cork City Sports

Cork City Sports training is in progress several times a week to prepare for the upcoming event in MTU on Thurs 28th May’26. Permission forms have been given to team participants today. Please can these be signed with your child & returned ASAP.

Thank you.

 

School Tour

This year all classes will go to Smugglers Cove in Rosscarbery on Mon 22nd June’26. Infants to 1st Class €20 & 2nd to 6th Class €30 can be sent into school when convienient. This is partly subsidised this year from the proceeds of the Whist Raffle. Anybody unable to go, please let us know ASAP so correct numbers can be submitted to Smugglers Cove. Thank you.

 

Dates to remember

It’s becoming a hectic term, please note all the forthcoming events over the next 6 weeks leading up to the end of the school year:

Swimming Lessons: Tues 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Green Flag Presentation: Tues 26th May’26

Musical Recital Afternoon:Wed 27th May’26 2:15-3pm for all pupils learning instruments to show their peers what they’re learning & how to play.

Cork City Sports: MTU Bishopstown Thurs 28th May’26 (Team selection)

June Bank Holiday: Mon 1st June’26 No School

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic: Mon 15th June 9:30-11am Junior Room and incoming new pupils.

International Day: Mon 15th June’26 1:30-3pm. Parents welcome to attend.

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

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Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Community Notes

Inclusive Rugby Camp: Munster is running a Inclusion Rugby Summer Camp in Clonakilty RFC from 11th to 13th of August. Please see link below for more information.

https://www.munsterrugby.ie/domestic/rugby/camps/inclusion-camp/

​

Volleyball Camp: Rise Strong Volleyball Camp this July for boys and girls aged 8–12, focused on introducing children to volleyball in a fun, active, and encouraging environment. Camp Details: Leap Hall: 13–17 July, 1PM–4pm Ballydehob: 20–24 July, 1PM–4PM. Cost: €100 for the week. Registration: 089 4277833

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Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

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Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 31  07/05/26

 

Middle Room Outdoor Adventure Day

2nd & 3rd class pupils had a great time on their Outdoor Adventure day yesterday & the good weather made it all more enjoyable. Spent the morning in Castlefreke Woods orienteering & doing a scavenger hunt. Next viewed Basking Sharks feeding off Owenahincha view point. Afternoon spent in Inchydonney Dunes running, racing, playing capture the flag & building candcastles. No doubt they slept well last night!!

 

Welcome

Welcome to our new Kolisnyk family and pupils Matvii (3rd Class) & Filip (Jun Infants) to our school this week & we hope they’ll settle easily into our school community.

 

Bus Éireann School Bus

School Transport Application Process for 2026/27 School year is now open on www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport. Anyone wishing to apply for school bus for next school year 2026/27 needs to apply by tomorrow Fri 8th May 2026.

Anyone needing help with this process, please contact Heather or Clodagh in school.

 

Used Clothing Collection Fundraiser

Used Clothing will be collected next Monday 11th May 2026

Please put any donations  of used clothing in a black sack & deliver to school. Thank you.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

School Tour

This year all classes will go to Smugglers Cove in Rosscarbery on Mon 22nd June’26. Infants to 1st Class €20 & 2nd to 6th Class €30 can be sent into school when convienient. This is partly subsidised this year from the proceeds of the Whist Raffle. Anybody unable to go, please let us know ASAP so correct numbers can be submitted to Smugglers Cove. Thank you,

 

Dates to remember

It’s becoming a hectic term, please note all the forthcoming events over the next 7 weeks leading up to the end of the school year:

 

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

Swimming Lessons: Tues 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Green Flag Presentation: Tues 26th May’26

Musical Recital Afternoon:Wed 27th May’26 2:15-3pm for all pupils learning instruments to show their peers what they’re learning & how to play.

Cork City Sports: MTU Bishopstown Thurs 28th May’26 (Team selection)

June Bank Holiday: Mon 1st June’26 No School

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic: Mon 15th June 9:30-11am Junior Room and incoming new pupils.

International Day: Mon 15th June’26 1:30-3pm. Parents welcome to attend.

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 30  30/04/26

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Whist Drive Fundraiser

A huge thanks to all those who helped and supported the Whist Drive fundraiser last Monday evening. Our raffle there raised €573.40

 

Before & After School Club care

Meeting last night with Marie from Curious Minds was very positive and informative. Forms are being sent home today and need to be in by next Tuesday 5th May. If you have any interest whether it be a one hour slot or the whole week for the 2026/27 school year, please fill out the form and return to school by Tuesday.

 

May Bank Holiday

Next Monday 4th May there is NO School. School reopens Tuesday 5th May’26

 

Middle Room Outdoor Adventure Day

Next Wednesday 6th May the 2nd & 3rd class pupils are going on an Outdoor Adventure day for a special extra curricular day out to the beach & woods for doing so well in their section of the Fís film awards. All details will be sent out on Middle Room Whats App group tomorrow.

 

Bus Éireann School Bus

School Transport Application Process for 2026/27 School year is now open on www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport. Anyone wishing to apply for school bus for next school year 2026/27 needs to apply by next Fri 8th May 2026.

Anyone needing help with this process, please contact Heather or Clodagh in school.

 

Swimming Lessons

Fees of €50 per child for Swimming lessons  are now due. Please can this payment be sent into school as soon as possible. Thank you to those who have already done so.

 

Used Clothing Collection Fundraiser

Our next used clothing collection fundraiser will be on Monday 11th May 2026

Please put any donations  of used clothing in a black sack & deliver to school. Thank you.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Dates to remember

May Bank Holiday: Monday 4th May’26 No School

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

Swimming Lessons: Tues 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Green Flag Presentation: Tues 26th May’26

Cork City Sports: MTU Bishopstown Thurs 28th May’26 (Team selection)

June Bank Holiday: Mon 1st June’26 No School

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 29  23/04/26

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Whist Drive Fundraiser

A whist drive will take place in the Parochial Hall (P85 XC64) next Monday 27th April at 8.30pm as a fundraiser for our school. We would be grateful of any donations of raffle prizes for this school fundraiser. Please drop to office or to teachers. Thanks

 

Reminder School Closure: next Tues 28th April 2026

Due to a Staff Training Day in Dunmanway, school is CLOSED next Tues 28th April’26

 

Aladdin Musical

All the children from 2nd to 6th Class attended & enjoyed a production of Aladdin by Bandon Grammar School today. €8 per child required to help cover the cost of the bus please. Thanks to those ho have already contributed.

 

Before & After School Club care

We have made contact with a company interested in starting a ‘Before & after school Club’ in our school. If interested in before and or after school care from Sept’26 for your child/children, please let us know. Flyer and interest poll gone out to all families. Feeedback needed to proceed. Thank you.

 

Bus Éireann School Bus

School Transport Application Process for 2026/27 School year is now open on www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport for New Applicants to apply by Fri 8th May 2026. Existing bus passengers will be sent a renewal e-mail. All bus fares MUST be paid online by Fri 8th May’26. Currently €100 per child to max of €200 per family per school year.

Eligibility criteria: In order to qualify for school transport, your child must be living at least 3.2km from their nearest primary school, considering the school’s ethos (kilgarriffe is C of I) and language.

Children who are not eligible for school transport but complete the application and payment process on time, wil be considered for any spare ‘concessionary’ seats available after eligible children have been accommodated.

Further information is available on www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport.

The telephone number to contact Bus Éireann is 0818 919 910.

Anyone needing help with this process, please contact Heather or Clodagh in school.

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons for all classes are starting in May. The dates are Tuesday 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26 from 2-3pm. Lessons will take place at the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre. The cost of these lessons is €50 per child for 6 weekly lessons including bus fare to the pool from school. Please can this payment be sent into school as soon as possible. Thank you to those who have already done so.

 

Used Clothing Collection Fundraiser

Our next used clothing collection fundraiser will be on Monday 11th May 2026

The following items will be accepted :

Men’s, ladies & children’s clothing.

Paired shoes (tied together)

Handbags, ties, belts & hats,

Soft Toys

Uniforms (without logos)

Towels, sheets, curtains & blankets (in separate bag)

NO Duvets, pillows, cushions, rugs, mats, soiled or worn out clothes as these are NOT ACCEPTED.

Please put any donations in a black sack & deliver to school. Thank you.

 

Say Yes to Languages: French Lessons

French lessons continue every Thurs afternoon in the senior Classroom (4th to 6th class) until Thurs 4th June’26.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

Board of Management Agreed Report (from Mon 20th April’26)

1. We formally congratulate Sheila on having a daughter with 3  Irish international caps in rugby.

2. Our school solar panels are showing a reduction of 57% in light and heating costs in under a year.

3. Congratulations to Tina Holland (SNA), our Green Schools Committee and our entire school body on being awarded our 1st ever green flag.

4. As part of our play scape we are planning to buy 2 climbing frames and climbing hand grips.

5. Best of luck to those participating in Cork City Sports 28th May’26

 

Dates to remember

Whist Drive School Fundraiser: Mon 27th April 26

School Closure: Staff Training Day Tues 28th April 2026

May Bank Holiday: Monday 4th May’26 No School

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

Swimming Lessons: Tues 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

Green Flag Presentation: Tues 26th May’26

Cork City Sports: MTU Bishopstown Thurs 28th May’26 (Team selection)

June Bank Holiday: Mon 1st June’26 No School

Clon Sports, Ahamilla: Thurs 11th June’26 (All classes)

Kilgarriffe Fun Sports Day: Thurs 18th or Fri 19th June’26 (weather dependant)

School Tour Smugglers Cove, Rosscarbery: Mon 22nd June’26 (all classes)

6th Class Graduation: Wed 24th June’26 (10:30-12 noon)

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

‘French Folies’: A wonderful entertaining evening  of French Harpsichoird Music by Oli Garde (parent) will take place this Friday 24th April’26 at The Church of the Ascension, Timoleague P72 T282 at 8pm. Entry only by free Tickets available on Eventbrite.

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Week 28  16/04/26

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Green Flag Update

Great news yesterday to hear that Kilgarriffe NS has been awarded it’s ‘Green Schools Flag’. Congratulations to everyone who has contributed to this over the last two years. Special thanks to Tina Holland (SNA) and the Green School Committee for all their hard work and commitment to getting this finalised. The Flag will be presented on Tues 26th May at Fota Wildlife Park at a special presentation ceremony.

 

Bus Éireann School Bus

School Transport Application Process for 2026/27 School year is now open on www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport for New Applicants to apply by Fri 8th May 2026. Existing bus passengers will be sent a renewal e-mail. All bus fares MUST be paid online by Fri 8th May’26. Currently €100 per child to max of €200 per family per school year.

Eligibility criteria: In order to qualify for school transport, your child must be living at least 3.2km from their nearest primary school, considering the school’s ethos (kilgarriffe is C of I) and language.

Children who are not eligible for school transport but complete the application and payment process on time, wil be considered for any spare ‘concessionary’ seats available after eligible children have been accommodated.

Further information is available on www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport.

The telephone number to contact Bus Éireann is 0818 919 910.

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons for all classes are starting in May. The dates are Tuesday 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26 from 2-3pm. Lessons will take place at the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre. The cost of these lessons is €50 per child for 6 weekly lessons including bus fare to the pool from school. Please can this payment be sent into school as soon as possible. Thank you to those who have already done so.

 

Say Yes to Languages: French Lessons

French lessons continue every Thurs afternoon in the senior Classroom (4th to 6th class) for the next few weeks.

 

Used Clothing Collection Fundraiser

Our next used clothing collection fundraiser will be on Monday 11th May 2026

The following items will be accepted :

Men’s, ladies & children’s clothing.

Paired shoes (tied together)

Handbags, ties, belts & hats

Soft Toys

Uniforms (without logos)

Towels, sheets, curtains & blankets (in separate bag)

 

Duvets, pillows, cushions, rugs, mats, soiled or worn out clothes are NOT ACCEPTED.

Please put any donations in a black sack & deliver to school. Thank you.

 

Whist Drive Fundraiser

A whist drive will take place in the Parochial Hall (P85 XC64) on Monday 27th April at 8.30pm. We would be grateful of any donations of raffle prizes for this school

fundraiser.

 

Sixth Class Hoodies

Our sixth pupils are wearing their new personalised hoodies they received during the week. They chose black with a purple hoodie trim which is very stylish.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

           

Staffing 2026/27

Class teachers: Susan Hanbidge, Clodagh Nicholson and Elaine Buttimer

SET teacher: Sheila Hoare

SNA’s: Joyce Buttimer & Tina Holland

 

Dates to remember

Whist Drive School Fundraiser: Mon 27th April 26

School Closure: Staff Training Day 28th April 2026

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

Swimming Lessons: Tues 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Easter & Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

‘French Folies’: A wonderful entertaining evening  of French Harpsichoird Music by Oli Garde (parent) will take place on Friday 24th April’26 at The Church of the Ascension, Timoleague P72 T282 at 8pm. Entry by free Tickets available on Eventbrite.

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Week 27  26/03/26

Easter Holidays

Reminder school closes for Easter Holidays tomorrow Friday 27th at 12 noon.

School reopens Monday 13th April’26.

 

Easter Egg Hunt

All classes will take part in an Easter Egg Hunt tomorrow morning.

Have fun everyone and Happy Easter to all.

 

Daffodil Day

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Daffodil Day collection for the Irish Cancer Foundation. We collected €108 for this worthy cause.

 

Say Yes to Languages: French Lessons

French lessons continue this afternoon in the senior Classroom (4th to 6th class).

 

History Projects

Well done to many in the Senior room who have produced excellent projects on ‘The Normans’ over the last few weeks. Great research, editing, display & delivery skills in evidence. Very impressive!

 

Cork City Sports Teams

Our teams for the Primary School Cork City Sports on Thursday 28th May’26 are:

2013 (100m) Hannah Buttimer, Ida Radicini, Alex Marks, Luca Kohler Cullum

2014 (80m) Daniel Buttimer, Maya La Trobe Hogan, Sophie Huggins

2015 (80m) Cillian Barrett, Bodhi La Trobe Hogan, Ada Marks

2016 (60m) Slava Stepaniuk, Finley Kohler Cullum, Evie Kingston, Alice Garde

2017 (60m) Luke Buttimer, Jakub Kicinski, Aela Graham Hughes, Lila Bullock

2018 (60m) Sam Buttimer, Xavi La Trobe Hogan, Vavara Kushyk

2019 (60m) Robin Lennon Rynne, Grace O’Donovan

Boys Relay: Eduard Ulianov, Ruadhán Barrett, Luca Kohler Cullum, Alex Marks

Girls Relay: Hannah Buttimer, Maya La Trobe Hogan, Ada Marks, Lucy Buttimer

 

School Activities Fees

We would be very grateful for the following fees to be paid please, as soon as possible. Thank you to all that have already.

• Cycle sense €10 per family (3rd -6th  Class) 

• Chess €5 Per Child (2nd-6th)

• Swimming Lessons €50 per Child ( Junior Infants -6th Class) Start 19th May.

If anyone is unsure what they owe, please contact Heather in the office via the school phone 8834965 or mobile 083 0658096 Thursdays or Fridays.

 

Staffing 2026/27

Class teachers: Susan Hanbidge, Clodagh Nicholson and Elaine Buttimer

SET teacher: Sheila Hoare

SNA’s: Joyce Buttimer & Tina Holland

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Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

           

Dates to remember

Easter Holidays: Friday 27th March (12 noon close) to Mon 13th April’26

School Closure: Staff Training Day 28th April 2026

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

Swimming Lessons: Tues 19th, 26th May. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd June’26

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Easter & Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 26  19/03/26

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Daffodil Day

This Friday 20th March is National Daffodil Day for the Irish Cancer Society. All children are invited to wear yellow and/or green to school on Friday & donate a small amount to this worthy cause if possible. Donation bucket will be in classrooms.

 

Say Yes to Languages: French Lessons

French lessons start this afternoon Thursday 19th March, in the senior Classroom (4th to 6th class) for 10 weeks.

 

Easter Holidays

Reminder school closed for Easter Holidays from next Friday 27th (12 noon) until Mon 13th April’26.

 

School Activities Fees

We would be very grateful if any family that has yet to pay for the following school activities please do so, as soon as possible.

• Cycle sense €10 per family (3rd -6th  Class) 

• Chess €5 Per Child (2nd-6th)

• Swimming Lessons €50 per Child ( Junior Infants -6th Class)

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

           

Dates to remember

Easter Holidays: Friday 27th March (12 noon close) to Mon 13th April’26

School Closure: Staff Training Day 28th April 2026

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Easter & Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 25  12/03/26

 

Junior Room Trip to Darrara College Farm

Yesterday the Junior classroom (Infants & 1st Class) had a great morning out at Teagas Darrara Agricultural College Open Day. They got to see all around the farm, meet baby lambs and calves, drive a tractor simulator, climb aboard real tractors and a forklift and much more. They were lucky to have a lovely fine sunny day & the excitement ended with yummy fresh milk & a rice krispie bun treat.

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Seachtaine na Gaeilge

Next week we will celebrate Seachtaine na Gaeilge in school, with lots of extra ‘Irish related activities. All children will be encouraged to use their ‘cúpla focail’ a little more throughout the school day.

 

School Activities:

We would be very grateful if any family that has yet to pay for the following school activities please do so, as soon as possible.

• Cycle sense €10 per family (3rd -6th  Class) 

• Chess €5 Per Child (2nd-6th)

• Swimming Lessons €50 per Child ( Junior Infants -6th Class)

 

St. Patrick’s Day

Reminder school is closed next Tues 17th March’26 for St. Patrick’s Day.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

           

Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s day to all mum’s this Sunday 15th March’26.

 

Dates to remember

St. Patrick’s Day: Tuesday 17th March’26 School closed.

Easter Holidays: Friday 27th March (12 noon close) to Mon 13th April’26

School Closure: Staff Training Day 28th April 2026

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Easter & Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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Week 24  05/03/26

 

Green Flag

This week as part of our Green School flag: Litter and Waste application, the school welcomed a visit from David Macilwraith, An Taisc Green Schools officer. The Green School Committee showcased all the work taking place in the school to eliminate litter and reduce waste. David was very impressed with the wonderful work and the committee’s enthusiasm. A big well done to the children on the Green School Committee, who represented our school so well.

 

Achievements

Congratulations to our 6th Class pupil Eduard on achiceving a 1st in ‘Kick Light’ and 3rd in ‘Light Contact’ in an International Kickboxing Competition which took place in Dublin last weekend.

 

Soccer Blitz

Well done to the fantastic team that represented Kigarriffe NS in the FAI schools Soccer tournament yesterday in Drinagh. It was reported back that phenomenal soccer was played & they were only narrowly beaten in the quarter final after extra time. Well done to all players Alex, Ada, Hannah, Cillian, Ru, Daniel & Eduard.

Many thanks to Mr. Lynch for organising, Caroline for coaching sessions & Graham for driving and supporting.

 

Junior Room Farm Trip

Next Wednesday 11th March’26 the Junior classroom (Infants & 1st Class) will attend a Schools Open Day at Darrara Agricultural College from 11-12:30pm. They will get to see lots of aspects of a working farm & animals including lots of new Spring lambs and calves & possibly some tractors & machinery too. They will travel there and back from school accompanied by 3 staff members. Please can all children have a car booster seat, wellies or old boots & a warm, waterproof jacket in school that day.

 

Engineers Week

Lots of fun activities for our budding engineers happening this week.

 

World Book Day

Today Thursday 5th March’25 is World Book Day. Great book characters attending school today & loved hearing about their favourite books.

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Fís Awards  

On Tuesday our Fís award winners had their photo taken with our ‘Adventure Boat’ by a professional photographer Martin Walsh. Look out for them in the Southern Star

 

Staff Update

Welcome to Aoife Connor who joined our staff last Monday to teach the Junior classes until Susan is fit to return to school, after her unfortunate accident. Wishing Susan well and a speedy recovery. Clodagh Nicholson is acting Principal whilst Susan is absent.

 

Kilgarriffe NS Enrollment

There are available places in all classes for the next school year 2026/27.

Please spread the word to any friends, family, neighbours, etc. who may be interested in enrolling a child in our school for next September.

 

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Dates to remember

World Book Day: Thursday 5th March’26

St. Patrick’s Day: Tuesday 17th March’26 School closed.

Easter Holidays: Friday 27th March (12 noon close) to Mon 13th April’26

School Closure: Staff Training Day 28th April 2026

Next Used Clothes Collection: Mon 11th May’26

 

Community Notes

Star Camp Easter & Summer holiday camps now taking bookings. Flyer on outside Noticeboard.

Cork Good News Residential Summer Camp for 9-12 yr olds. Flyers in office  or contact Matt 086 8483717 if interested.

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