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Members of our School Council, who represent all children in our school, have been instrumental in highlighting the dangers of parking at the school gates. They have composed a letter for parents, which pointed out the need for considerate and careful parking, to help keep everyone safe. They welcomed two banners, now displayed on the school railings, which remind everyone to think about where they park and be aware of our children's safety at all times.
We are delighted to announce that we have undergone a rigorous assessment from UNICEF and have been awarded the Silver Rights Aware Award, the next step on our Rights Respecting journey. We are constantly developing as a school where children’s rights are at the heart of our ethos and culture, improving well-being and developing every child’s talents and abilities to their full potential. As part of this plan we are working towards recognition as a ‘Rights Respecting School’.
Unicef is the world’s leading organisation working for children and young people and their rights. In 1989, governments across the world agreed that all children have the same rights, by adopting the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). These rights are based on what a child needs to survive, grow, participate and fulfil their potential.
Our pupils learn about their rights by putting them into practice every day. A Rights Respecting School models rights and respect in all its relationships. Our Ambassadors met with the UNICEF Assessor and were able to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of rights and how they are upheld in our school and what we can do to help others enjoy their rights. The children were outstanding and were an absolute credit to themselves, their parents and our school. We will soon proudly display our banner. Thank you to all the parents who discuss Rights with their children and to the school staff who are duty bearers, upholding the Rights of the child. We hope that you will continue to support us on our journey. For further information about Rights Respecting Schools please visit: www.unicef.org.uk/rrsa
Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnerships have funded stand alone traffic signs, which will be part of an ongoing PSNI backed awareness campaign for all drivers within the proximity of schools at peak times. The signs will be outside our gates for the next few weeks and will remind everyone of the dangers of stopping in this area. Our children's safety is of paramount importance and we are asking all drivers to park away from the school entrance.
International Credit Union Day was October 18th. We would like to remind you that Downpatrick Credit Union continues to operate in school. Children (and parents) are encouraged to begin saving and develop good financial awareness now and into the future. Come along every Friday morning from 8.40 am and meet the friendly staff!
Soccer Aid for Unicef is the world’s biggest celebrity football match and has been changing children’s lives since 2006. From Zola to Zidane, and Michael Sheen to Usain Bolt, some of the world’s biggest celebrities and footballing legends have teamed up over the years to raise over £30 million for Unicef’s work for children. As a Rights Aware School, we defend the right of every child to play. We hope you were able to watch the brilliant match and take the opportunity to discuss Rights with your child. For more information on the work of UNICEF see https://www.unicef.org.uk/soccer-aid-for-unicef-gala
The Northern Ireland Parents’ Parliament project is all about giving parents a voice and to hear their views on key topics concerning education in Northern Ireland. There will be five forums held in each of the education authority regions, and will end with a meeting at the Northern Ireland Assembly.
We have already held our first Parents’ Parliament, and it was hugely successful. “It is extremely important as parents to have a voice in our children’s education and wellbeing. I’m really excited to be involved in the first NI Parents Parliament and looking forward to see this new partnership grow”
Parent, Bangor
The Parents’ Parliaments will be held on the following days from 6-9:30pm:
- Tuesday 26th February in Magherafelt
- Tuesday 2nd April in Newry
- Tuesday 14th May in Omagh
- Tuesday 17th September in Belfast
To join any of these events and take the opportunity to have your say, sign up on our website at: Parentkind.org.uk/NIParentsParliament
https://www.parentkind.org.uk/Research--Policy/Projects/Northern-Ireland-Parents-Parliament
On 6th February, we celebrated 100 days of school. We took part in activities based around the number 100. Some of us were thinking about what we would look like at 100 years old. Some were seeing how long 100 pennies would be, and some were thinking of how they would spend £100! Our activities spanned all areas of the curriculum and we all had a fun day celebrating being 100 days smarter!
Congratulations to Emme! She designed our lovely Rights Respecting mascot Mighty Mouse. Emme's design was chosen by the school council, who judged a whole school competition. Mighty Mouse will be used to highlight children's rights throughout our school.
