Principal’s Message As the Christmas jingles begin to play on the radio and the festive spirit heralds the season of thanksgiving and celebration it is with great pleasure we can look back over some of the events our pupils have excelled at in the short time since the new school year began. I know that what you read in this edition of our newsletter will warm your heart so I encourage you to take a moment out of the hustle and bustle of preparation for the holiday and enjoy the innocence and accomplishments reflected here as a flavour of the winter term. At Halloween our annual production took a more theatrical approach with “Daisy Pulls it Off”. Audiences in the Courtyard Theatre on each of the three evenings were thrilled at the success of what was a shift away from the more traditional musical production. Teams in most sporting pursuits are making their way nicely through the early rounds of competitions and we are delighted that our girls’ 1st XI hockey squad were crowned champions of the Ulster Super-league. Our 6th form formal at the Crowne Plaza hotel was a relaxed evening that epitomised the typically congenial interactions that staff and pupils enjoy side-by-side; our charges grow up all too quickly! Once again cutting edge ICT is at the forefront of our involvement with the community. Newly acquired Digital SchoolHouse status has allowed pupils from some of our feeder primaries to avail of this unique experience. The other staples of the winter term such as our language exchange trips, Remembrance, Winter Honours and Carol Services bring a sense of reassurance that investment in life-long experiences and a culture of respect for each other is as passionate as ever. A whole host of musical, sporting, cultural, social and charitable occasions and events fill the daily calendar as our pupils enjoy both participation and success outside the classroom so we trust you will enjoy the snapshot presented here as the half-way marker of the academic year. On the academic side of life pupils have to date reviewed their progress across all subjects twice with their tutor. We are encouraged by their enthusiasm for this approach to supporting their learning and developing a sense of control over their study habits and attainment. Their next review will be in February after the school exams. It would be helpful if you would have a conversation about how they feel they have handled things so far then ensure they all have some study-free time over the holidays to enjoy the festivities with family and friends and return refreshed and ready for the new term. May you all have a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and Happy New Year. Warmest wishes
Dr M Rainey Principal
Ballyclare High School: Christmas 2017 Newsletter
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