Magazine 2015

1Scoil Chrost R Magazine 2015

Scoil Chrost R

5th & 6th Class

Magazine 2015


ContentsPrincipals Message

Welcome everyone to 5th& 6th Classs school magazine for 2015. This magazine is Scoil Chrost Rs Junior Entrepreneur business idea which the school gladly supported and invested some money in. I really enjoyed being one of the dragons during Dragons Den in 5th&6th class where four groups presented their business ventures. The children gave very professional presentations and while it was a difficult choice, I believe we made the right decision investing in the school magazine. I think everyone will agree that this yearbook is a fantastic publication and it represents everything that is great about our school. This Junior Entrepreneur Programme really opened the minds of our 5th and 6th class children to the joy of having their own business at a time in their lives when they are full of imagination and open to new possibilities. The children have worked so well as a team in producing this magazine and I want to thank their teacher Mr. Harrison for doing this very worthwhile project with the class. I hope you sell many copies and happy reading everyone!

Gearid RoughanPrincipal

Junior Entrepreneur pg 3Programme 2015 Summary

Aistear pg 6

Literacy Lift Off pg 7

Mathletics pg 8

First Steps pg 9

Dancing pg 10

Cookery pg 11

GAA pg 12

Problem Solving pg 14

Accelerated Reader pg 15

Scratch Programming pg 16

Lego Education pg 17

STUDENT PROFILES Pg 18BT Young Scientist Competition pg 20

Gaeilge pg 21

pg 22

pg 24

pg 26

pg 23

pg 25

pg 28

My Future Poem pg 28

Class Photos pg 29


JuniorEntrepreneur

Programme 2015 Summary

Scoil Chrost R was one of 20 primary schools in Clare that participated in the Junior

Entrepreneur Programme (JEP) 2015, a 10 week entrepreneurial education programme for primary school pupils. The JEP programme is embedded in the principles of the Primary School Curriculum and utilizes an integrated teaching and project-based approach to teach many strands of the curriculum. This innovative programme opens the minds of primary school pupils to the joy of entrepreneurship at a time in their lives when they are full of imagination and open to new possibilities. The programme helps participating pupils to develop a number of skills including literacy, writing, presentation, drawing, technology, research skills, numeracy, financial, consumer awareness, storytelling, listening skills, creative thinking, problem solving, team building and collaboration skills. The programme has a significant personal development impact on participating pupils, building confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem, and an appreciation of individual skills and talents.

5th and 6th class pupils were introduced to the concept of entrepreneurship at the beginning of the programme and researched famous entrepreneurs from around the world. McDonalds, Ben and Jerrys ice-cream, and Ikea are just some of the worldwide brands that pupils learned about that all started with

an entrepreneurs idea that grew and grew. Pupils then began to explore their own individual ideas for an entrepreneurial project and identified the qualities and strengths of successful entrepreneurs. These classroom displays identify the personal qualities of the class and the strengths needed to become an entrepreneur.

Tree of Strengths and Qualities

Helpful Hands of Personal Qualities

Each pupil brought their individual ideas to one of four groups for discussion. The four groups debated and negotiated which idea they would present as a possible class project for JEP. Once each group had reached a consensus on their best idea, the groups got to work on making their pitch to The Dragons, Mr. Roughan, Mr. Garry and Ms. OGorman. The four ideas presented to the Dragons were Loom Bands, Tie-Dye T-Shirts, A School Shop and A School Magazine. Each group gave a presentation on their idea and detailed how their idea could be a successful JEP project. The project ideas were all well received by The Dragons, and after considerable thought and reflection The Dragons chose the School Magazine as the class project for JEP 2015.

Having selected the class project for JEP, the next step was to invite a local entrepreneur to our class to give a talk about entrepreneurship. Adrian Fleming CEO of Accuvio, a C02 management company, and director with The Deliveryguys.ie, visited our class and gave us fantastic insight into life as an entrepreneur. Adrian simply told us that Entrepreneurs are problem solvers. They find a problem and come up with solutions to that problem.

How could we use this advice to help with our School Magazine idea? Pupils identified that a school magazine could record what events, achievements, and programmes that take place in the school each year. Parents, pupils, teachers and the Cloughleigh community could be interested in buying this magazine and finding out what happens inside our classroom walls. How could we find out and make sure a school magazine would be a success?


This next stage of the JEP involved finding out would there be a market for a school magazine. The class designed a market research survey and questioned every pupil in the school. The results indicated a strong demand for a school magazine amongst pupils.

Now we had proof there was a market for a school magazine, we had to set about making the product and assigning roles for everyone in the class. Based on the talents and strengths of every individual, pupils were assigned to one of the following teams: Marketing Team, Sales Team, Finance Team, Story Telling Team, and a Design and Production Team.

Adrian Fleming talking to the class.

have a showcase day at school before the Easter holidays to launch the sale of the magazine. Copies will be available from the school, online at www.crostri.weebly.com and from OBriens shop. The Finance team have been busy working on price with Real Print in Ennis and making sure our project earns a profit. They are also keeping record of our sales figures, our expenditure, and price promotions. Based on the Finance team reports, 5th & 6th have decided to donate some of the class projects profit to charity.

The entire JEP project has been a very educational, enjoyable and very worthwhile experience. The pupils have had great fun and learned valuable life skills throughout the programme. With the exception of this article, the magazines content has been produced by pupils and has been a pupil led project. I want to congratulate the pupils in 5th and 6th for the effort and work they have created. Thank you to the staff of Real Print for their time and expertise in helping pupils with the project. Thank you to Adrian Fleming for his visit to Scoil Chrost R and giving his valuable time helping the pupils with the initial stages of the project. Finally, I would like to finish by thanking all the staff in Scoil Chrost R. The teachers can be very proud of the part they have played in the lives of this class. There is a fantastic spirit of cooperation and learning in the school. I hope you the readers can get a sense of this from our magazine. Enjoy!

Conor Harrison

5th & 6th Class Teacher.

Once the roles and responsibilities were assigned to everyone in the class we could begin the hard work of making our school magazine. We devised a list of topics that the magazine would cover and set about collecting photographs, carrying out interviews and organizing the content of the magazine. The Design and Production team planned out the look of our magazine with Edel Skerritt of Real Print in Ennis.

Our Marketing and Sales Teams are busy promoting and finding outlets to sell this magazine. We plan to


Finance TeamFrom Left: Dominik, John, Robbie,

Jordan and Gabriel

Sales TeamFrom Left: Derick, Vanessa, Omar,

Bryan, and Rachel.

Design & Production TeamFrom Left: Godwin, Alex, Amanda, and Bernadette.

Story Telling TeamFrom Left: Candice, Darlene, Fatoumata and Julia.

Marketing TeamFrom Left: Hellen, Kate, Robyn and Serodie.

MeetThe Team


Aistear Junior Infantswith Ms OConnor & Ms O Gorman What is Aistear?

Aistear is the curriculum framework for children from birth to six years in Ireland. It provides information, for adults to help them plan for and provide enjoyable and challenging learning experiences, so that all children can grow and develop as competent and confident learners. Aistear, the Irish word for journey, is a programme where pupils lifelong learning journey begins in Scoil Chrost R.

What subjects are taught through Aistear?

Pupils in Junior Infants experience Reading, Writing and Oral language through Aistear. Children also experience Maths, S.E.S.E., S.P.H.E., Visual Art and Drama through Aistear three times per week. The children absolutely love Aistear as they love learning through play.

What are the main benefits of Aistear?

Children get the opportunity to practice skills and language taught throughout the day. They get opportunities for talk and discussion, use concrete materials, as well as perform role-plays. Aistear promotes communication and social skills, language acquisition, Discovery Learning, and greater pupil engagement.

Where did you get the toys for Aistear?

In September we wrote a letter to parents appealing for toys. We received a huge response from them. We also received money from the Parents Council to buy more. Thank you to the Parents Council and to all the parents who donated toys.

Amanda NiedreRobyn Molloy

Bernadette McDonagh


Literacy Lift Off Senior Infants

with Mrs. Troy & Mrs. McGann What is literacy lift off?

Literacy lift off is an early intervention programme which aims to increase each childs competency in oral language, phonics, reading and writing. It is an intensive programme of reading and writing, which gives the pupils lots of opportunities to read books at their own level of competency. It gradually lifts the complexity of what they can do in both reading and writing by equipping them with the necessary problem-solving skills.

How does it work?

Senior Infants divide into four different activity stations. One group focuses on familiar reading, another on letters, words, phonics and sounds, a third group practices writing and the fourth group on a new book. The aim of Literacy Lift-Off is to make pupils constructive learners. It teaches them how to problem-solve independently. The result of using Literacy Lift Off is the development of reading skills. This happens because reading strategies are taught. Children learn how to tackle word identification. Writing skills are promoted.

What are the main benefits of Literacy lift off?

The main benefits of the Literacy Lift Off are that each child is reading at a level appropriate to their current ability. Children become confident readers more quickly and enjoy reading. Every pupil experiences success and this develops confidence and a love of reading. Children develop a love of reading as their reading skills improve. It helps their work in other subjects also such as Maths, S.E.S.E. and Science. Children have an opportunity to read hundreds of books at a level that guarantees success.

Rachel McDonaghVanessa Holubova


Mathletics First Class

with Ms. De Barra

About Mathletics

Mathletics is an educational on-line learning resource which helps students enjoy mathematics and improve their results. Mathletics includes a Full Curriculum section where students practice hundreds of math topics in 10-question increments, a Live Mathletics section where students race with math problems against other students around the world in real-time, maths games, Rainforest Maths, printable resources, video tutorials, and a reporting system.

The benefits of using Mathletics?

The benefits of using Mathletics are experienced by pupils, teachers and parents. Mathletics is interactive, fun, and very easy to use. Students are engaged and motivated to learn. Maths questions are tailored to ability of individual

students so they can work through the curriculum at their own pace. Students have 24 hour access at both home and school and they can earn weekly certificates.

Mathletics provides a link between home and school. The programme generates individual and class reports, and provides instant feedback for students and teachers on students progress. Mathletics improves students maths results while also enhancing IT skills.

1st Class have practiced problem solving, addition and subtraction using Mathletics. Pupils have generated a positive attitude towards math in general. Mathletics has helped develop self-confidence in pupils own math skills. Each week pupils work to earn over 1000 points to achieve bronze, silver or gold certificates. Pupils also practice their mental maths skills against students from all around the world. They do this using Live Mathletics which enables pupils to practice their mental maths in a fun and competitive way.

Serodie Luyinduladio

1st Class pupils from Ms. De Barras class with their Mathletics certificates.


First Steps First Class

with Ms. Carroll

First Steps in 1st class

First Steps comprises a range of literacy strands in the areas of Reading, Writing, Spelling, and Oral Language. It is designed for schools to improve student literacy outcomes at primary level. 1st Class use First Steps as a way of teaching English using oral language, reading and writing in a collaborative manner. Pupils love using First Steps and it has really improved pupils independent writing.

The benefits of using First Steps

Pupils in 1st Class learn how to write various different texts such as stories, recipes, letters, procedures and fact files. They also learn different types of comprehension skills such as predicting, questioning, connecting and inference. Pupils learn how to read a piece of writing and understand it fully by using their comprehending strategies.

Alex Akujobi

1st Class pupils making predictions using First Steps.

How to Weave? A procedure writing example from 1st Class.

1st Class pupils making connections using First Steps.

A sample of procedure writing in 1st Class using First Steps.


Dancing Second Class

with Ms. Behan

Interview with Ms. BehanTell us about brush dancing in 2nd Class

As a part of the P.E. strand dance, 2nd Class teacher Ms. Behan decided to teach pupils set and brush dancing. Every Tuesday and Thursday both 2nd Classes come together and learn new steps, dances and have fun. Pupils started set and brush dancing after the Christmas Holidays and really love it.

Is it hard to learn the steps?Ms. Behan knows that it is quite hard to learn new steps. She feels that it is important to teach each student slowly and carefully keeping an eye on each child as some children can pick it up faster than others. Ms. Behans past pupils help out teaching the basics to beginners in 2nd Class.

What inspired you to teach 2nd class brush dancing?

Ms. Behan teaches dancing outside of school and when she was a child loved dancing. We are delighted Ms. Behan is sharing her talents with the children of Scoil Chrost R.

Candice Brennan


CookerySecond Class

with Mrs. Tiernan

Tell us about Cookery in 2nd Class.

Cookery is a monthly reward in 2nd Class. Mrs. Tiernan teaches pupils how to make delicious treats from very easy to follow recipes. Apple crumble, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate biscuit cake, pancakes, Christmas tree cakes, and Shepards Pie are just some of the recipes that 2nd class pupils get to bake and try out.

What are the main benefits of teaching

Cookery?

Children can learn so much from cooking or baking. Children learn about making food which is a very important life skill. They experience weighing and measuring which pupils enjoy and helps develop important maths skills. Children learn how to follow and carryout procedures another important life skill. 2nd Class pupils practice procedure writing based on the recipes that they are making. Pupils also learn about the importance of hygiene in the kitchen and when preparing food.

Mrs. Tiernan loves cookery and so do the pupils of 2nd Class. One of the main reasons this is according to Mrs. Tiernan everyone relaxes when they are cooking. Have a go everyone and see if you agree. Try this recipe for Chocolate Chip cookies with an adult yourself.

Ingredients

175 g. soft margarine

225 g. caster sugar

2 eggs

350 g. self-raising flour

100 g. chocolate chips

Method: (What you do)

Pre-heat the oven to 180 C/350F/Gas 4.

Lightly grease 3 baking trays

Measure all the ingredients into a medium bowl and mix

thoroughly until smooth biscuit dough is formed.

Place large spoonfuls of the mixture well apart on the prepared baking trays and flatten slightly using the back of a spoon.

Bake in the pre-heated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool on a wire tray, then store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!!

Julia Koziol

Chocolate Chip Cookies


GAAThird Class

with Ms. Whyte

Every Thursday Gerry Fox, Clare schools G.A.A.coaching officer, comes and coaches hurling and gaelic football with 3rd Class. Pupils really enjoy Gerrys coaching. They are learning the skills of both games, getting fitter, and stronger. Everybody is trying their best and loving both games.

Some pupils a have joined our local G.A.A. clubs, The Banner and ire g, as a result of Gerrys coaching. Hopefully more will do this year. Our school has a great tradition in G.A.A. and has had great success recently in boys and girls competitions. Thanks to Gerry and all our teachers that help promote G.A.A in the school.

Fatoumata Diallo


Back row: (left to right): Ms. Flanagan, Fatoumata Diallo, Chisom Ugwueru, Hellen Ameyaw Gyamfi, Samantha West

Darlene Oyenjekwe, Mr. HarrisonFront row: (left to right): Ami Karimu, Robyn Molloy, Candice Brennan,

Raisa Mbou, Amanda Niedre, Leanna Brennan.

Back Row: (Left to Right): Serodie Luyinduladio, Fatoumata Diallo, Ami Karimu, Hellen Ameyaw Gyamfi, Precious Ogunnaike, Chisom

Ugerwu, Samantha West, Darlene Oyenjekwe, Megan SweenyFront Row: (Left to Right): Leanna Brennan, Kamsy Ugerwu, Kadijat

Karimu, Raisa Mbou, Candice Brennan, Robyn Molloy, Amanda Neidre, Roisin Mbou, Jessica McDonagh, Terasa Marshall

Back Row: (Left to Right) LudwigsJekabson, Jordan McCarthy, Omar Ndow, Patrick Sholarin.

Front Row: (Left to Right) Patrick McCarthy, Bryan Gannon, Ronan Herbert, Jonathan Ryan.

Teachers Celebrate Football

Success 2014 (Left to Right):

Paul Crehan, Joe Garry,

Caoimhe De Barra, Garry Walsh

& John Griffin.

Back Row: (Left to Right) Simon Shonibare, Chibikem Michael Eze, Patrick Sholarin, Derick Sholarin, Dominik Holub, KoziUgweru, Jordan McCarthy.Front Row: (Left to Right) Ronan Herbert, Brian Gannon, Robbie Gormley,

Adewale Shonibare, Martin McCarthy, Eric ONeill , Patrick McCarthy.

Camogie Cumann na mBunscol Champions 2014

Ladies Footaball Cumann na mBunscol Champions 2015

Boys Indoor Hurling Team 2015Footaball Cumann na mBunscol Champions 2015


Problem SolvingFourth Class

with Ms. Cullinan

4th class do a lot of games to practice mental maths and problem solving. They use various games, concrete materials and maths resources on a daily basis. Pupils play card games in pairs to help with number, dice to explore tables, dominoes games to practice 2D shapes, blackjack to practice fractions and fun puzzles to help with problem solving. 4th Class are using a brilliant method called RUCSAC to help with problem solving.

R- Read the problem carefully

U-Understand question and what you need to do

C- Choose the right operations and calculations.

S- Solve the calculations.

A- Answer the question in the right units

C- Check your answer so it makes sense.

Try using RUCSAC to solve these!

18 eggs are needed to make an omelette for 6 people. How many eggs are needed to make an omelette for 4 people?

I have read 213 pages of my 1004 pages book. How many pages shall I read to reach the middle?

Now these puzzles!

Each question is made up of a number followed by some initials - there is a connection! Can you work these out? i.e. 4 = S of the Y Answer 4 seasons of the Year.

7 = D of the W 2 = P in a P 12 D of C 24 = H in a D7 = D and S W 5 V in the A 101 = D 29 = D in F in a L Y28 = D in F 8 L on a S 1000 = W that a P is W 52 = C in a D

Godwin Amouzou


Accelerated ReaderFifth Class

with Mr. Crehan

Accelerated Reader.Accelerated reader is a graded reading programme that caters for every students reading level. Accelerated Reader promotes reading for pleasure and independent reading in Scoil Chrost R.

The programme works on 3 basic steps:

1. Children choose a book within their level.2. They read it at your own pace.3. Take a quiz and score some points.

A culture of independent reading practice and a love of books have developed in Scoil Chrost R as a result of Accelerated Reader. Pupils enjoy trying their best to reach their targets each term.

What kind of books do 5th Class read?5th Class love reading. They especially love Harry Potter books. On February 5th 2015 the class went to the Ennis library and took part in a Harry Potter themed quiz. When we arrived at the library, the Sorting Hat divided the children of fifth class into the four Hogwarts house teams- Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw. The quiz was closely contested by all four groups. The winning team left with book token prizes and each child was presented with a Harry Potter themed certificate. The event was designed to promote and re-kindle interest in J.K. Rowlings wonderful books. It is eighteen years since Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone captured the imaginations of children and adults for the first time.5th class pupils are reading experts on Harry Potter.

Bryan Gannon.

Cian Fawl and David Onwudiwe choosing books to read from our school library.

The sorting hat divided pupils into four teams for the Harry Potter Quiz.

5th Class pupil at the Ennis Library Harry Potter Quiz.


5th Class pupils with their Scratch completion certificates from the Irish Computer Society.

Omar Ndow logging onto the Scratch website.

Scratch ProgrammingFifth & Sixth Class

with Mr. Harrison

What is Scratch?

Scratch is a visual programming language that makes it easy for young people to create their own interactive stories, animations,

games, music, and art and share their creations on the web.

What are the benefits of Scratch to your class?

Using Scratch allows students to develop creative and critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills as they work collaboratively or

individually on Scratch projects.

How do 5th & 6th class use Scratch?

Scratch encourages children to use their imagination and be creative. 5th & 6th class use Scratch across a variety of subjects. We use Scratch to make projects based on stories and novels we read in English. We make animations and short cartoons predicting what will happen next. We also create chapter summaries and make animations based on what we read. We have used Scratch to create conversations as Gaeilge and create short animations in Irish. Finally, Scratch promotes problem-solving and teaches children mathematical skills. Many of our projects have taught children about coordinates, coding and lines and angles.

Omar Ndow


Lego EducationFifth & Sixth Class

with Mr. Griffin

Lego EducationLego Education helps teachers encourage students to become critical thinkers while using the skills they need for a digital future. Children use technology to learn more around the subjects of, Maths especially and also other subjects such as English, Science and Geography. Mr. Griffin helps 5th & 6th explore different lessons using Lego education and we love creating using Lego.

The benefits of using Lego Education

Lego Education allows children to solve problems by working in pairs following set instructions. It also links back well with various areas of the school curriculum. LEGO Education gives students a unique combination of challenges and practical experiences that are adapted to their particular level. When students are challenged at just the right level, they become involved in a step-by-step development process, in which each step encourages them to continue to the next. This is how children are motivated. When they create meaningful/recognisable works with their own hands, they build up experiences that they remember. LEGO Educations learning concepts give students motivation and lasting experiences which are the fundamental elements in a good learning environment.

How do 5th and 6th class use Lego Education

Working in pairs, children are assigned a specific task each week. (For e.g. the Goal Kicker, interacting with the software children work on their creations) When completed children are challenged with an extension activity which links well with what is being done in class. (For e.g. in the Goal Kicker extension exercise children are asked to measure distance. This links well with the topic of Length in our Maths programme.

Derick Sholarin

Lesson 1 Dancing Birds created using Lego Education

Dominik Holub follows the step by step instructions to create his project

Jordan McCarthy and Bryan Gannon work together to create their project.


Name John Sweeney Favourite hobby To play soccerAmbition To become a professional boxerFavourite memory 3rd Class school tour to Athlone

Name Jordan McCarthy Favourite hobby To play soccer.Ambition To become a famous soccer player.Favourite memory Winning league for Avenue.

Name Kate McMahon Favourite hobby MusicAmbition To become an interior designerFavourite memory My First concert-One Direction

Name Bryan GannonFavourite hobby Gaelic FootballAmbition Playing gaelic football for Clare or DublinFavourite memory Winning the league for Avenue.

Name Serodie LuyinduladioFavourite hobby Drawing.Ambition To become a doctorFavourite memory: Winning the Gaelic football final

Name Amanda Niedre Favourite hobby SportsAmbition To become a teacherFavourite memory 3rd Class school tour to Athlone

Name Omar Ndow Favourite hobby Computer gamingAmbition To become a scientist Favourite memory Making all my friends in Junior Infant

Name Vanesa HolubovaFavourite hobby Singing Ambition To become a famous singerFavourite memory First concert with Rockleigh in Glr

Name Amanda Niedre Favourite hobby Sports.Ambition To become a teacher.Favourite memory 3rd Class school tour to Athlone.

Name Fatoumata Diallo Favourite hobby SportsAmbition To become a doctorFavourite memory 3rd Class school tour to Athlone

5th & 6thClass

Pupil Profiles


Name Julia KoziolFavourite hobby SwimmingAmbition To become a teacherFavourite memory The Junior Entrepreneur Project

Name Bernadette McDonaghFavourite hobby Playing GuitarAmbition To be a beauticianFavourite memory Playing in Glr.

Name Gabriel Cesar AbregugajdaFavourite hobby Playing video games.Ambition To become an engineerFavourite memory My 9th birthday

Name Robbie Gormley Favourite hobby Playing SoccerAmbition To become a soccer playerFavourite memory Winning the gaelic football final

Name Darlene OyenjekweFavourite hobby Playing soccerAmbition To become a professional soccer playerFavourite memory When we won gaelic football final

Name Alex AkujobiFavourite hobby Playing soccerAmbition Soccer playerFavourite memory 3rd class school tour in Athlone

Name Godwin AmouzouFavourite hobby DrawingAmbition To become an artist Favourite memory Bake Sale in 3rd class

Name Hellen Ameyaw GyamfiFavourite hobby Playing G.A.A.Ambition To be the best I can beFavourite memory Winning the gaelic football final for a second time

Name Rachel CorbettFavourite hobby MusicAmbition To become a music teacherFavourite memory Playing in Glr.

Name Robyn MolloyFavourite hobby Camogie Ambition To become a teacherFavourite memory 3rd class school tour in Athlone

Name Candice BrennanFavourite hobby SportsAmbition To be a P.E. teacherFavourite memory Winning the gaelic finals

Name Dominik HolubFavourite hobby Playing soccer Ambition Soccer playerFavourite memory Winning the gaelic final


BT Young Scientist Competition Sixth Class

with Mr. Garry

Mr. Garry, Kevin Amouzou, Jelena Cirkovic, Holly Hassett, & Mr. Griffin at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition.

6th Class Young Scientist competition entry- What Are the Optimum Conditions to Make Bubbles in a Bubble Bath?

The BT Young Scientist Competition

This year was Scoil Chrost Rs first year in the young science competition. At the end of the 2013-2014 school year, 6th Class held a science day where the class worked in pairs to present various science experiments to the school. It proved to be a major success. Everyone involved wanted more. This year Mr. Garry and 6th class decided to enter the BT Young Scientist competition.

6th Class decided on a project entitled What Are the Optimum Conditions to Make Bubbles in a Bubble Bath? Three pupils, Kevin, Jelena and Holly took on the project and together with Mr. Griffin prepared 54 experiments to establish the best condition for bubble making. The entry qualified for the area final and the group had a wonderful day at the exhibition at Intel in Shannon.

Not only did they three pupils involved directly in the entry benefit, the whole class got to be part of the interview process. Every pupil got to ask a question to the Intel employees when they came to visit 6th class. Entering the BT Young Scientist competition brought science to life for all the pupils. 6th class are looking forward to science class in secondary school and who knows possibly a career in science also.

Robbie Gormley


Gaeilge Sixth Class

with Mr. Griffin

Tell us about Gaeilge in 6th class?T Gaelge an-thbhtach i rang a s. I rith coics na Gaeilge, denfaimid iarracht maith Gaelge a chuir chun cinn agus bainfidh gach duine an taitneamh bheith ag caint as Gaeilge taobh amuigh den seomra ranga. Is cltr , cltr na ngaeil, is ta an, an mhas agam sa theanga.

How do 6th class promote the Irish language?

Deanaimid an-iarracht cluich, trth na gCeist mar shampla a dhenamh tr mhean na Gaeilge .T crannchr againn an tseachtain seo i gcir na dalta a bhfuil ag caint taobh amuigh den seomra. Canaimid amhrin agus t meas mr againn go lir ar na h-amhrin n gColiste Lurgan.

What are the main benefits of learning Irish?

Tgann s seans iontach dinn, r gcultr, r n-eireannachais a ceiliradh. Go minic n bhonn an mheas ceart againn air go dt go fhgfimid an tr. So dan do dhcheall! Tr gan teanga, tr gan anam!

Mle buochas do Maistir Mac an Fheartaigh agus gach minteoir i Scoil Chrost R a thgann gr an teanga Ghaeilge dinn.

Domonik Holub


How long have you been a teacher in Scoil Chrost R?

I have been a teacher in Scoil Chrost R for 35 years.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

My former teacher Miss Murphy inspired me to become a teacher. We all loved her.

Did you always dream of becoming a teacher?

No. I wanted to become an engineer when I was a kid. When I became a teenager I wanted to be a librarian.

What did you enjoy most about being a teacher?

The best part about my job was the children. I loved seeing their happy faces every day.

What was the worst part about your job?

The paper work was the worst part about my job.

Who were your heroes growing up?

My heroes are anyone that works for people with special needs and Mary Robinson.

What were your childhood dreams?

My childhood dreams were to be good at art, singing and play music.

What was your best moment in Scoil Chrost R?

My best moment was my retirement mass. It was so emotional and beautiful.

What do you miss most about Scoil Chrost R?

I miss the children most.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I have received it to treat everyone equally.

What advice would you give to 5th and 6th class?

The advice I would give is not to think that you are better or worse than anyone else.

Everyone at Scoil Chrost R would like to thank Mrs. Power for all her years teaching and years as principal. We wish Mrs. Power all the best for her retirement.

Robyn, Fatoumata, Amanda & Bernadette

Interview with Mrs. PowerRetired Staff


Interview with Ms. BarryHow long did you teach in Scoil Chrost R?

I taught in Scoil Chriost Ri for 34 years, it was my first job and my only teaching job.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I didnt always want to be a teacher. When I was younger and I was in secondary school I wanted to be a doctor, and then as I came to the end of secondary school I decided to study psychology so my degree is actually in psychology. So I spent three years in university. I qualified in psychology. I did a post-graduate in Mary Immaculate College. I suppose it was because of my work in psychology, I became interested in being a teacher, because I had to test some children in schools in Dublin while I was studying. I got interested in teaching and then I thought I might like it. So I spent a year in Mary I as a primary teacher.

Had you ever thought of a different career?

Yes I did think of becoming a doctor you couldnt do a postgrad in Ireland so thats why I really didnt carry on with psychology.

What was the best part of your job?

There were a lot of good parts to my job. I loved this school. I grew up in this area, so it was home to me. Everybody in this school was special to me. The teachers were always very fantastic. Over the years the teachers that came and went, to the teachers here now, are very good friends and very supportive, and the children here are amazing. Theyre the best kids I ever came across and its been a pleasure to have taught them.

What was the worst part of your job?

There wasnt really a worst part. The thing that I didnt like was giving out to the children and having to punish people but that was part of the job so I had to do it but I really didnt like it.

Did you have any heroes?

I suppose heroes are all around us, your hero could be your next-door neighbour or the guy sitting beside you in school or your teacher. So I suppose from that point of view, it was everywhere. My interpretation of a hero is somebody who gives their time freely to help others, and there were lots of people who do that around the world. If I was asked to choose one in particular, I suppose one lady that comes to mind for me is Christina Noble. She was a lady that grew up in Dublin in very difficult circumstances. She was homeless as a young girl and she suffered terribly under both of her parents. She has turned out to be a fantastic girl. She works with street children in Vietnam so shes giving her time freely. She would be one of my heroes. If I was asked for other heroes I suppose in the sports world would be Usain Bolt because I was an athlete myself. I was a sprinter. Another hero of mine is Diego Flrez. Hes got a beautiful voice.

What were your childhood dreams?

My childhood dreams were always to be happy, to travel a lot, and to help other people as best as I could.

Do you feel that you had an impact on the students you taught? If so, in what way?

I was teaching for a very long time. 34 years is a long time and I would like to think I had an impact on the children I taught. I would like to think that they grew up to be respectful people and I think they have. I have met them quite regularly and they stop to speak to me, tell me how theyre getting on, and that they have achieved their dreams. I think a lot of them have done that. Im very proud of all of them that Ive ever taught and theyve all achieved something in their own right. Some of them have gone on to achieve good things and that makes me very proud. Im proud of everyone Ive ever taught. Theyre all wonderful people in their own ways and theyve all made the world a better place.

Retired Staff


What was your best moment in Scoil Chrost R?

My best moment in Scoil Chriost Ri was back in 1993. I trained the girls camogie team and they had been playing in matches for years and never won anything. We were in division 2 in 1993 and they won the division 2 final. That was a great moment because the principal Bobby Burke was retiring at that stage and it was a going away present for him, just as some of ye played in the camogie the final this year and that was my going away present. They were two very memorable moments for me, but there were lots and lots of very good moments in Scoil Chrost R. I couldnt tell you all of them it would take me all day

What will you miss most in Scoil Chrost R?

Ill miss all the teachers, and the friends I made here were very good friends. Ill miss the children. I still see ye quite a bit around and you all salute me and you stop for a chat, but I live nearby so I can call in every now and then. Ill miss the whole of the Scoil Chrost R family, it is a great place, and ye are very privileged to be here.

What is the best advice you ever received?

The best advice is to do your best in life. Take it moment by moment, and to give as much as you can for other people.

What advice would you give to people in 5th and 6th class?

To the students in 5th and 6th class, I would say to you dont be afraid to be yourself. Always stand on your own two feet, and if you have ideas and beliefs then strive to achieve them. Dont let anyone or anything stand in your way. You can do whatever you want to do, all you need is to make-up your mind and to work hard at it. Always do it with a smile on your face so if you smile at someone theyll smile back. If you scowl at somebody theyll scowl back. Do your best and nobody can stand in your way. You can do it. Go for it!

Everyone at Scoil Chrost R would like to thank Mrs. Barry for her 34 years of service and wish her all the best for her retirement.

Hellen, Vanessa, Rachel & Serodie.

David Reidy with Mr. Roughan and the U/21 All-Ireland trophy.

David Reidy in action against Wexford in the 2014 U21 All-Ireland final.

Past PupilDaviD ReiDy

Age: 21

Club: ire g

Schools: Scoil Chrost R, St. Flannans, Limerick Institute of Technology.

Achievements: 2 times All-Ireland U/21 Champion. 2 Times Munster u/21 Champion.

Position: Corner Forward

Favourite Hurler: Joe Canning

Toughest Opponent: Liam Rushe

Favourite Game: All-Ireland U/21 final v Wexford 2014

Scoil Chrost R is very proud of Davids success with the Clare U/21 teams in 2013 & 2014. David is now breaking onto the senior Clare hurling team and has a fantastic career ahead. The pupils in Scoil Chrost R have a fantastic role model in David Reidy and he is an example for all to try and emulate.

Candice Brennan


Confirmation ClassBack Row: (left yo right): Derick Sholarin, Holly Hassett Liddy, Julia Koziol, Candice Brennan, Kate McMahon, Cathrina Danquah, Robbie Gormley, Chibikem Michaeleze, Robyn Molloy.

Middle Row: (left yo right): Bernadette McDonagh, Hellen Ameyaw-Gyamfi, John Swenny, Chisom Ugwueru, Darlene Peter-Onyejekwe, Jack Dobbin, John McDonagh,.Front Row: (left yo right): Alex Akujobi, Alba Arra, Ryan OConnell, Samantha West, Dominik Holub, Leane McDonagh.

Confirmation 2015The Confirmation was on the 6th of March 2015 and the mass started at 3pm. It was held in Chrost R church in Cloughleigh. The celebrant was Fr. Tom OGorman. It was his first time confirming a class without a bishop and he did a brilliant job. Twenty-two pupils made their Confirmation from both 6th classes. The choir and the musicians played their instruments beautifully. A number of children making their confirmation read prayers of the faithful and readings.

Everybody thought that the ceremony went really well. All the teachers were very proud of the confirmation class and the children that participated in the ceremony. We would like to say thanks to Mr. Harrison, Mr. Garry & Mr. Roughan who prepared the confirmation class for the special day. Also thank you to Fr. Tom OGorman who took his own time to confirm the confirmation class. Thanks to Ms. Vaughan, Ms. Troy & Ms. Behan who practiced every day to get the choir & musicians ready for the day. Ms. De Barra took beautiful pictures of the day and Ms. Flanagan recorded a video. Thanks to Ms. Touhy who helped to decorate and prepare the church. Thank you to the choir and musicians from 3rd, 4th and 5th class. They sang and played beautifully at the ceremony.

Bernadette McDonagh & Gabriel Abregu Gajda


Q: Tell us about Music in Scoil Chrost R?

A: Music plays a big part in the school life of Scoil Chrost R. Its great fun and gives you goose bumps especially when you hear all the kids 180 playing together in Band on Fridays. Its a privilege for me to be able to teacher music to such a lively, talented group of children. Music is pouring out of every inch of the kids in this school! Im not sure how it all happened, and it certainly wasnt over night, its been a journey, but a great one so far! When we all play music in band, there are some moments that you just want to say someone stop the clock. Music leaves you with powerful thoughts and emotions and really relaxes you. The best part I suppose for me is that every single child from first to sixth class has the chance to play music in our school.

The most important reason I think that music is so successful for the children in Scoil Chrost R is I feel because of the team of music teachers that we have here in the school. Mr Creehan heads up the hugely successful Rock Band Rockleigh and he has taught and started all the guitarists in this school. Ms Beehan teaches all the traditional instruments the same as myself and has done huge work over the years to keep it all going with me. She is also a superb Irish dance teacher teaching you all sean nos, brush dancing and set dancing. Ms Flanagan has always played a big part in starting off all our fiddlers here at school, and is a superb musician. Mrs Troy keeps us all together

and on the straight and narrow with very enjoyable choir classes also, so all in all we have a fantastic Music Team!

When children are playing music, there is a calmness about them all together, and it makes my tummy feel funny! I get butterflies when the children learn a new tune, and they get it and its makes me feel so excited! It must sound funny, its hard to explain but I get a warm, fuzzy feeling when children are able to play music from what you teach them! Im privileged to teach in this school and to have the chance to teach a subject that I feel so passionate about! The peer to peer music classes in the Halla on Wednesdays and Thursdays are so fabulous watching older children teaching the younger children how to play their new instruments. Its very special!

The music scholarships are the icing on the cake for music teaching here at the school. We are so lucky that St Vincent De Paul give us this musical fund. There are children on scholarship classes for banjo, fiddle, button accordion, piano accordion, singing, rock guitar, bass guitar, drums an concertina.

Last summer the Trad Rock Camp was superb fun. The music team here at school were all involved in making this a hugely successful musical experience where 90 children got to play rock, trad, percussion, dance Hip Hop and Rap for the week with other outstanding musicians from Co Clare. Huge thanks again to Music Generation and CLDC for the Funding for the event.

Q: Why is Music Important?

A: Music is good for the soul. There is a saying NO MUSIC .NO LIFE KNOW MUSIC KNOW LIFE youll have to think about that one! Thats my motto! Music shows children another side to life its a totally different experience to be able to play music. It calms the mind and makes you feel good! When you play music, your mind cant think about anything else only what your fingers are doing, playing the right notes, keeping the rhythm, maintaining the beat. It brings out another side in people. Its a special gift that all children in Scoil Chrost R now have.

Q: What inspired you to love music?

A: When I was a little girl, my mammy used to sing to us all the time. She used to play the piano accordion a little bit and sing songs to us every day when we were small. I loved it so much my mammy is an amazing singer. My daddy always used to play Irish music tapes in the car ever since I could remember and when mammy bought me a whistle when I was six, I started to teach myself the whistle and all the songs and ballads that I used to listen to just started to some out on my fingers! My first and favourite Music teacher was Gus Tierney (RIP). He was the leader of the old Kilfenora Ceil Band. He was my hero, a fantastic music teacher and encouraged and inspired me always to be better and better! Also the other important inspirational musical people

with Ms VaughanMusic Interview

Kate McMahon on harp, Candice Brennan on fiddle and Mrs. Vaughan playing during Confirmation ceremony 2015


in my life were John Leary, Gerard OLoughlin and The Killourhy brothers who were very good to me growing up, helping me to get started in sessions and gigs. They are all gone to heaven now, God rest them.

Q: Tell us about some memorable performances with the school band.

A: There have been many great moments with the band. Every Friday is brilliant for me! But, if I had to choose there are three memories in particular.

The first one was the day we played for the Fleadh Nua in 2013 up at the monument with Frank Custy, Michael Butler, Ann Wren, Mary Custy and Frank Wheelan. We also had lots of past pupils join us to play for the day. This was a proud moment for our school showcasing all the musical talent of the children with our Irish Traditional Music. People were blown away with the children from our school and still talk about it.

Another amazing performance was from the Pan Celtic Band with San Bn Ab in 2014. I will never ever forget the night last year in April when we won the Pan Celtic. Oh My God! I can still clearly remember sitting there listening to the results thinking ..the poor kids, they wont get placed, the creatures and they were brilliant, .. fourth place, third place, second place and still no mention of us but the next minute Aongus McNally the Judge said and now we come to first place ..I would just like to speak about children and music well when I heard this I jumped up off the chair so high - we had won! I burst out crying .. I couldnt believe it I will never forget that moment as long as I live Mr Gary and myself were jumping up and down shouting and crying and hugging the life out of each other what a night! and the winners are Scoil Chrost R everyone was jumping, screaming and crying, the kids were beside themselves, Mr Creehan couldnt talk! We were all in bits - I rang Mr Roughan straight away and I couldnt believe the news we had for him! Amazing memory..

My final amazing musical moment was this year when we played in Glr for the opening of Music Generation in October. The musicians in our school are top class. They played rock, trad, percussion and danced sean ns and brush dancing superbly. We were so proud of them all again. They even went world wide on the telly! The musicians in Scoil Chrost R never ever let us down! People talk about them all over about how talented our kids are.

Q: In the futurewhat would you like to see happen with music in primary schools?

A: I would love to see music play an important roll in every school like it does here. A dream I would love to see come true in my life time would be so to see musical instruments being taught to every child in every primary school in Ireland. Some children will never get the opportunity to play music unless they get the opportunity at school. This is because the majority of children all over Ireland will never go to music

classes outside of school. So this means that there are hundreds of thousands of other children out there that have a musical talent that they will never know about! They havent discovered it yet, and never will unless they get a chance to experience instrumental music classes! Hopefully Music Generation, which is becoming part of the Department of Education in Ireland will start to change all of this one day which will give every child in Ireland a chance to play an instrument in primary school. I believe there is music in all of us, you just need to un-tap it, encourage it and play in groups because this is the key, to have an enjoyable social side so you can play music with your friends. Music is a gift for life that you can give to children from a young age. But its never too late you are never too old to learn!

Bernadette McDonagh on guitar, Hellen Ameyaw Gyamfi and Ryan OConnell on accordion

6th Class musicians playing at Confirmation 2015

Kate McMahon


David McCarthy receiving a sports Award from Mchel Muircheartaigh.

Past PupilDaviD MccaRthy

What soccer teams do you play for?Newmarket Celtic and Clare FC.

What soccer team do you support?Manchester United

Favourite position Right Wing.

Favourite Player Wayne Rooney.

Favourite goal youve scoredA Penalty To Win The Fai Soccer League With Clare.

Any previous clubsCloughleigh Utd and Avenue Utd.

Other sports Golf

What player did you look up to growing upEric Cantona

Everyone at Scoil Chrost R is very proud of Davids sporting achievements and the positive role model he has become. We are very proud to call David our uncle.

By John Sweeney & Jordan McCarthy

My FutureBy 5th and 6th

To the child wondering what they should become:The Optimist said:

You can be anything if you try.The Pessimist said:

The perfect job will be impossible to find.The Teacher said:

Education is the key to success.The Newspaper Reporter said:

HEADLINE- CHILD CONSIDERING FUTURE.

The Clairvoyant said: I see a bright future ahead of you.

The Joker said: If your future doesnt work out you can

always become a comedian.The Realist said:

Youll need a good job to fulfil your dreams.The Proud Parent said:

I am proud of you. You can be whatever you chose.

The Coach said: Never give up. Always try your best.

The Friend said: I believe in you now you believe in yourself.

But the child wondering what to become in the future said simply

Ill try to be the best I can be.

29Scoil Chrost R Magazine 2015 29Scoil Chrost R Magazine 2015

Mr. Garry Back row: (left to right): Alba Arra, Cathribna Danquah, Chibiken Michaeleze, Amidati K

arimu, Adewale Shonibare.

Middle row: (left to right): Kevin Amouzou, Jelena Cirkovic, Precious Ogunnaike, Chisom Ugwueru, Jack Dobbin, Holly Hassett-Liddy.

Front row: (left to right): Raisa Beryl Tiku Mbou, Maurice Abdalla, Samantha McDonagh, Ryan OConnell, Leanne McDonagh.

Mr. Harrison Back Row: (left to right): Godwin Okpe-Amouzou Rachel Corbett McDonagh Darlene Peter-Onyejekwe Hellen Ameyaw-Gyamfi, Robbie Gormley, Derick Sholarin, Bernadette McDonagh, Kate McMahon, Julia Koziol, Candice Brennan, Bryan Gannon.Front Row: (left to right): Omar Ndow, Amanda Niedre, Robyn Molloy, Alex Akujobi, Dominik Holub, John Sweeney, Jordan McCarthy, Vanessa Holubova,

Serodie Luyinduladio, Gabriel Abregu-Gajda.

6th Class

5th & 6th Class


Ms. Cullinan Back row: (left to right): Chrystal McDonagh, Brandon Ryan, Antonio McDonagh, Aman

da McNamara, Sophia Parker Custy Sousa ,

Rolla-Roisin Tehoupou, Amber Milford, Kamsiyochukwu-Glory Ugweuru, Kosisochukwu-Praise Ugweuru, Brandon McDonagh, Briana Maxwell.

Middle row: (left to right): Kate Marie Ward, Saoirse Kenny, Erika Brady Hakizimana, Lucy Fitzsimons, Padraig Dinan, Grzegorz Domek,

Kadijat Karimu, Oran Lyons, Eric ONeill, Stephanie Akujobi.

Front row: (left to right): Sara Hassett Liddy, Simon Shonibare, Aleksandra Cizio, Ivana Cirkovik, Leanna Brennan, Lena Michelle Casey,

Courtney Boylan, Michael Akujobi, Hanan Achtouk.

Mr. Crehan Back row: ( left to right ): Paul Crehan , Joshua Boylan, Laura Gasparova , Jack Fitzsimons , Shauna Marie Kenny, David Onwudiwe , Eliska

Dunova , Cian Fawl , Shauna Jade Mounsey, Patrick Sholarin. 2nd Row: ( left to right ): Jessica Mc Donagh, Ludvig Jekabsons, Teresa Marshall , Martain Mc Carthy, Kayla ODonoghue , Johnathan Ryan, Juilie-Anne Mc Donagh , Dennis Johnson.

4th Class

5th Class


Ms. Whyte Back Row: (left to right): Julie Ann Gabrielle Keenan, Rebecca Keane, Shannon Corbett-M

cDonagh, Mark Robert Lupton,

Makayla Coote, Ladislav (Leo) Curi, Callum Meaney.

Middle Row: (left to right): Patrick Moloney McCarthy, Victor Amouzou, Patrick McDonagh, Ronan Herbert, John Osage Ikiebey, Sen Dinan, Silvester

Onwudiwe, Michelle White (teacher)

Front Row: (left to right): Rhys Custy, Kaden Deegan-Herlihy, Julie (Jim) Keenan, Mikayla Clohessy, Elisha Kearse, Brittney McDonagh.

Mrs. Tiernan Back Row: (left to right): Amber McNamera -Curtin , Sam Shonibare , Alhamin Karimu , Katie Comyns, Ava Christine Ryan , Brian Mcdonagh , Ava Wilkie.Front Row: (left to right): Sean Franks, Adam Cusack , Daniel Tomaczwicz , Lauren Keane , Khawla Souih , Melissa Milford , Leon Custy-Sousa.

3rd Class

2nd Class


Ms. De Barra Back Row: (left to right): Daniella Mankayi, Giyaath Boladale, Bridget McDonagh, Alice O

Donoghue, Leanne Touhy, Hannah Saidi.

Front Row: (left to right): Ryan McDonagh, Mariama Diallo, Alfie Fitzsimons, Jamie Dobbin, Reia Mounsey, Kevin Curi, Amal Jdair, Kayla Wilkie.

Ms. Behan Back Row: (left to right): Ezinne Chantelle Michaelze , Colm Flynn McNamara, Kayeigh ODonoghue,

Dianna McDonagh, Annabel McDonagh, Ksawery Domek.Front Row: (left to right): Leah Toughy, Elva Harvie Hakizimana, Alan OCallaghan, Jassim Achtouk, Cleo Mahoney, Noah Deegan-Shannon.

1st Class

2nd Class


Ms. Caroll Back Row: (left to right): William Keenan, Devon Fawl, Tael Luyinduladio, Victoria McDo

nagh, Allie Murphy, Maura Carroll, Jasio Cizio.

Front Row: (left to right): Ruth Ikeibey, Ryan Moloney McCarthy, Eoin Dinan, Noah Maxwell, Emma Fawl, Angel Amouzou, Leah Purtill McGhee.

Mrs. McGann Back row: (left to right): Sebastain Mirga, Zack Ryan, Joshua Steadman, Mrs. McGann, Bernie McDonagh , Martin

McDonagh, Rihanna Michaeleze , Jan Krista. Front row: (left to right): Mehdi Souih, Lauren Franks, Rachel Keane, Liam Franks, Nicholas Benak, Alisha McDonagh,

Tracey-Marie McDonagh.

1st Class

Senior Infants


Ms. OConnor Back Row: (left to right): Sebastian Cldraru, Netania Cosmos, Jenah Leigh Mahoney Jo

hnston, Eileen McDonagh,

Jorja Deegan-Herlihy, Mohamed Ahmed.

Front Row: (left to right): Kadiata Diallo, Gabrielle lee, Kevin Mounsey, Lauren Purtill, Charlie ODonoghue, Lucy OCallaghan.

Mrs. Troy Back Row: (left to right): Nikolas Holub, Ali Ahmed, Rihanna Joyce, Rebecca McNamara, Tom Joyce, Emmanuel Onwudiwe, Chris Landoukpo.Front Row: (left to right): Holly Slattery, Mayara Sousa, Noah Lavery, Yassin Achtouk, Peter Cizio, Saorise Fitzpatrick, Callum Steadman.

Junior Infants

Senior Infants


Ms. OGorman Back Row: (left to right): John Paul Ward, Jason ODonoughue, Matej Gaspr, Elliot Maxw

el , Melody Mankayi, Patrick Holub, Maire McDonagh.

Front Row: (left to right): Caitlin McInerney, Chelsea Ward, Marie OLoughlin, Caitlin ODoherty, Isabel Ikiebey, Benett Szabo, Danny OSullivan.

Left to Right: Alex Akujobi, Amanda Niedre , Hellen Ameyaw Gyamfi & Candice Brennan at the school magazine showcase day.

Bryan Gannon and Amanda Niedre giving a presentation on the JEP 2015 project

Junior Infants

Magazine Showcase


Mag

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Documents

Magazine 2015