The first few months of the school year have been bursting with activity, learning, and community spirit at The Quay School. From medals and maths to coding and kindness, here’s a look at everything we’ve been up to from September through December!
🏃 Cross Country Stars Shine Bright
September kicked off with sunshine and strong performances at the West Mayo Cross Country Finals in Murrisk. Big congratulations to Aaron, Meghan, Lola, and Kira for winning individual medals, and to our 3rd/4th class boys and girls teams, who both placed third.
In October, our runners continued to shine at the Mayo Cross Country Finals in Ballina, with standout finishes from Meghan (7th), Lola (10th), Aaron (3rd), and Darragh (10th). The 3rd/4th class boys’ team came 2nd overall and advanced to the Connacht Finals.
By mid-October, they raced in Loughrea, Co. Galway, where Aaron placed 8th out of 125 runners, and the boys’ team brought home bronze medals! We are incredibly proud of their hard work and achievement. Thank you to Mr Joyce, Annmarie, and all our supportive parents and staff.
💻 Coding Creativity with Galway Uni
In October, 5th and 6th class explored coding through Scratch and Microbit in a hands-on Primary Coding Workshop. Huge thanks to Sally and the University of Galway for making tech so exciting!
📚 Books, Authors & Buddy Reading
3rd class had a special visit with author Shane Hegarty at Westport Library.
Meanwhile, in November, 2nd Class welcomed Transition Year students from Rice College for a Buddy Reading session, diving into The Twits with confidence and support.
🌍 Green Schools Kickoff
Our Green School Committee 2025/26 began their mission in October with a visit from Sharon Cameron of Mayo County Council. The team discussed current efforts and future goals as we work toward a new Green Flag for Global Citizenship – Litter & Waste. 🌱
🎓 SNAs, Teachers & TY Heroes
In September, we celebrated SNA Appreciation Day and shared our gratitude for Anne, Annmarie, and Pauline. Thank you for all the love and support you give to our students each day.
And in November, a big thank you goes to the Transition Year students from Rice College who joined us for Buddy Reading. Our 2nd class pupils loved learning with you!
🏐 Mini 7s Magic
Our girls’ Mini 7s team played with huge heart and made it to the finals, narrowly missing out to a strong Lankill side. We are so proud of your teamwork and sportsmanship.
Just a few days later, our boys’ team took the win, beating Brackloon in the final! Well done to all, and thanks to Kilmeena GAA, Richie, and our amazing teachers and SNAs for their support.
📐 Maths Week Fun for All
From Junior Infants to 5th class, Maths Week 2025 was full of fun!
Thanks to our brilliant 6th class, everyone enjoyed games, trails, challenges, and an Active Walkway. It was great to see older and younger pupils working together to make maths meaningful, and fun!
🎃 Spooky Obstacle Course
Thanks to our Parents Association, the school was filled with laughter and squeals during our spooky-themed obstacle course. Every class had a blast! What a great Halloween treat!
🎨 Creative Class Moments
- 2nd class started their Christmas art early, painting their own versions of The Grinch!
- Senior Infants explored 3D shapes by building tall towers, great teamwork!
- Junior Infants joined in maths games, the Active Walkway, and obstacle fun with lots of energy.
✏️ Creative Writing with Fighting Words
5th class had an amazing creative writing workshop with Fighting Words, the charity founded by Roddy Doyle. With guidance from Paul and Catherine, the class invented imaginative characters like Ben the Burger and Fred the Fries, building exciting stories and cliffhangers. Some students turned their ideas into comics and illustrations. What a fantastic display of storytelling and creativity!
📚 Book Fair Success
A heartfelt thank you to all parents and children who supported our Scholastic Book Fair. Thanks to your generosity, the school earned €1,642 to spend on new books for our library and classrooms.
We’ve already added a great selection of new titles for all age groups. Special thanks to Ms Barrett for organizing this wonderful event!
🎁 Toy Show Treats & Fundraising Magic
A big thank you to Lola and Holly for organising Christmas treats for the Toy Show. Between pyjama day and all the festive cheer, we raised over €650 for the Castlebar Children’s Ward. What a generous and joyful effort. Well done, girls!
🌿 Garden Visit & New Clubs
- 3rd class enjoyed a peaceful visit to Quay Community Garden.
- 1st and 2nd class launched the first Lego Club session of the year, we can’t wait to see what they build!
🥍 Hurling & Camoige Season Begins
Training is underway for 4th, 5th, and 6th class players preparing for the upcoming camogie and hurling season. A big thanks to Mr Nugent for leading the charge!
🎁 Shoebox Appeal Success
Thanks to our amazing school community, we collected 125 shoeboxes for the 2025 Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal. These gifts will bring big smiles to children around the world this Christmas. 🎄
🎄 12 Days of Kindness Begins
We launched our 12 Days of Kindness Challenge, encouraging pupils to spread joy and kindness throughout our school community each day. From writing kind notes to helping grown-ups at home and sharing smiles, each day brings a new challenge! Keep an eye out on our Facebook for more moments of positivity.
🎅🏼 Cosy Moments & Christmas Cheer
- First class enjoyed a hot chocolate treat in their pyjamas to get ready for the Late Late Toy Show!
- Third class received a hamper of art supplies from Westport Credit Union. Thank you to Noreen for the special delivery!
- 1st, 5th and 6th class shared their festive spirit through carol singing during the Santa Fest at The Quay, followed by a brilliant Christmas performance. Huge thanks to Ms Hoban and Ms Chambers for preparing the pupils, and to all the parents for your support!
We had a special visitor to The Quay school today. Santa took time out from his busy schedule to visit the boys and girls from junior infants to 6th class.
We were del…
As we step into the festive season, the halls of The Quay School are starting to sparkle with decorations, laughter, and the joyful spirit of Christmas.
Wishing all our pupils, families, and staff a peaceful, joyful, and well-deserved break. Happy holidays and a wonderful season to you all! 🎄
Check out our photo gallery to see all the fun and festive moments!
