The Curriculum

The school provides a well structured and balanced curriculum within the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum as laid down by the Education Reform Order.

In planning the curriculum the staff are aware that each child is unique and that the potential of each child is to be developed to the full.

The children will have a number of learning experiences offered and staff aims to provide a differentiated learning environment which takes account of pupil’s individual needs.

LITERACY	SCIENCE
NUMERACY	GEOGRAPHY
HISTORY	PHYSICAL EDUCATION
TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN	ART
MUSIC	RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

And Educational Themes:

CULTURAL HERITAGE
EDUCATION FOR MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING (EMU)
HEALTH EDUCATION
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Each classroom is equipped with computers and all children have access to CD ROM’s situated centrally outside classrooms. Pupils also have access to Laptop and Internet facilities.

Statutory Assessment in English and Mathematics was carried out at the end of Key Stage 1 (P4) and Key stage 2 (P7). The majority of pupils at the end of each key stage (P4 and P7) are expected to have achieved a ‘Level’ in both English and Math’s (P4 – Level 2, P7 – Level 4)

HOMEWORK

As reinforcement to class teaching children are given relevant homework on a regular basis. This seen as an integral part of every pupil’s learning. Guidance is set out in the school’s homework policy, which is available at the school.

THE RELIGIOUS PROGRAMME IN OUR SCHOOL

As a catholic school St. MacNissi’s plays an important part in the complex process of Christian education. At the centre of the child’s development is faith in Jesus, therefore the place of Religious Education as part of our curriculum is of great importance. Religion permeates the whole curriculum and our programme based on the “Children of God” series is intended to lead each child to an awareness of God’s love and to help foster and deepen their own faith.

Three mornings a week the school comes together to pray and throughout the year classes present their own assemblies. Pupils from Primary 3 to Primary 7 attend Mass on a weekly basis and have the opportunity to participate fully by helping to prepare the Liturgy.

Throughout the year there are regular liturgical and sacramental celebrations. St MacNissi’s is part of St Mary’s on the Hill Parish and contributes to the life of the parish. Together the teachers, parents and school Chaplin provide the support and security that our children need to grow and develop in caring community.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Through careful observation of the children early in their school life staff become aware of the difficulties a child may face. Where children need extra support and have special educational needs this is catered for by the class teacher who is supported by the Special Needs co-ordinator drawing on all resources available. If necessary, support is requested from the specialist services of the North-Eastern Education and Library Board.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

It is hoped that all pupils would benefit from the activities which the school has to offer. Pupils have many opportunities to show their talents through such activities as School Plays and Concerts, Inter-School Sports, Field Trips and outings, football, Irish Dancing and a Top of the Form Inter School Quiz.

The school’s very accomplished choir takes part in a variety of activities. Apart from its involvement in Christmas, end of school year productions and liturgical services the children are involved in a number of cross community projects. Opportunities for violin and cello tuition are offered by a Northern Eastern Education and Library Board Specialist.

The school is also involved with ‘Youth Sport’ which aims to encourage young people to participate and enjoy sport. Activities such as basketball, Hurling, Gaelic Football and Rugby are proving to be very popular and successful. Children from primary 4 – primary 7 also have the experience of working with Irish football Association Coach.

Through all extra curriculum activities offered we aim to help and support the learning and development of each child.

EDUCATION FOR MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING (EMU)

Throughout our EMU programme we are linked with Mossley Primary School and a number of pupils are involved in Educational Visits, Sporting Events, and Cross Community Projects with local schools. On such occasions Parental involvement with teachers and pupils encouraged.

CHARGING FOR ACTIVITIES

A copy of the North Eastern Education and Library Board’s charging and remissions policy is available at the school for inspection by parents. At St MacNissi’s we follow this policy and have always invited voluntary contributions towards such things as trips, concerts, etc. This seems to have proved successful in the past and with your support we propose to continue in this manner.

PASTORAL CARE

Our school is a community where we encourage children to live together to work and play in a friendly atmosphere, one which is based on good relationships between staff, children and parents.

We have caring staff who work within the principle that the class is a family where the potential of each child is developed to the full. As staff we work closely together respecting the role that each has in the overall developed to the full. As a staff we work closely together respecting the role that each has in the overall development of the children in our care. We value the role and contribution made by parents and therefore always makes the effort to welcome parents and encourage them to become more aware of their child’s education.

The school places great importance in the fostering of the personal and social development of each child through pastoral care. A copy of the school Pastoral Care Policy is available at the school.

SCHOOL DISCIPLINE

At St MacNissi’s we take the view that bullying behavior, whatever form it may take is totally unacceptable. A positive approach to discipline and the pastoral care of pupils – emphasizing praising and rewarding good behavior – is adopted and encouraged throughout the school.

Our school discipline policy aims to make children understand that discipline comes from within and is based upon Christian standards and behavior and with this in view the staff attempt to give constant positive encouragement to all children. The class teacher aims to develop in each child a sense of self-worth and encourages the development of the pupil’s confidence, self-esteem and self-discipline. The children are made aware of certain rules which help to create and maintain a caring, truthful and respectful community in which they can learn effectively. Copies of the School Discipline Policy, procedures for dealing with Child Protection and Policy to Combat Bullying are all available at the school. Acceptance of admission to the school implies the parent’s acceptance of the school’s discipline policy.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

All the pupils at St MacNissi’s are expected to wear the school uniform, to allow the children to be identified with the school.

BOYS	Red School Sweatshirt or Grey Jumper, Grey or white Shirt or School Polo Shirt, Grey Trousers, Red Tie.
GIRLS	Red School Sweatshirt or Grey Jumper, Grey or White Shirt or School Polo Shirt, Grey Skirt or Pinafore, Red Tie

GAMES AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

All classes have PE and children from Primary 4 – Primary 7 attend swimming lessons. Pupils must participate in these lessons unless they are unable to do so for medical reasons. Children should have suitable clothing for P.E. and games lessons:

POLO SHIRT, SHORTS AND GYM SHOES

For Safety, jewellery must be removed whilst the children participate in P.E. and games.