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6th September, 2011

Dear Parents/Guardians,
Welcome back to another school year.  I hope that you had a pleasant summer and that the return to school has gone smoothly for you and your child/children.  As the new term begins the staff and I am looking forward to working closely with you all for another year.    
A good start is very important in ensuring that your child has a productive and fulfilling year in school.  As the Irish seanfhocal says, "Tús maith, leath na hoibre" (A good start is half the task).  Ensuring that your child has a proper diet gets sufficient sleep and takes plenty of exercise contributes greatly to his/her readiness and capacity to learn from the outset of the year.   In addition, all students should establish a proper study regime at this point, completing homework to the highest standard and ensuring that all deadlines for project work are met.
The new Code of Behaviour was agreed by all partners in June 2011 and it is vital that all parents/guardians are familiar with this code.  A copy of the code is being issued to all parents/guardians this week with an acceptance slip which must be signed and returned for your child’s file.  The code is also available in the policies section of the website.  This year staff and students will spend some time teaching and discussing the code and we will be inviting all parents to attend information evenings where this will be one item for discussion.
Good habits lead to good results which will enable your child to reach his or her potential.  The following top ten tips will assist you in supporting your child and helping him/her to be as successful as possible in Ashbourne Community School.

1.      The school journal will keep you fully informed of your child’s progress. Check and sign the journal each week. Read the information in the front section of the journal with your child.  This information is particular to our school and informs you of the most important policies and practices. Sign all the relevant sections of the journal.

2.      Attendance and Punctuality
A note must be written in the school journal in the event of your child being absent or late for any reason. This year we will continue with the texting service which advises you of your child’s absences immediately.  Please notify the school of any changes in contact numbers, addresses etc. so that our database can be kept up to date.  All students should be in school at 8.40 am in order to be on time for tutorial at 8.50 (except on Tuesdays when they should be in school by 9.40 at the latest).

3.      Parent-Teacher Communication
If you wish to meet any of your son/daughter’s subject teachers, you are asked to make an appointment by contacting the school office.  An appointment system ensures that classes are not left unsupervised.  Any concerns or complaints should be discussed in the first instance with the relevant subject teacher.  Formal Parent-Teacher meetings are scheduled throughout the school year.

4.      Homework
Please familiarise yourself with the policy guidelines as set out in the school journal.  If your child fails to complete the homework assignments within the recommended time span on a regular basis, parents are requested to let the tutor know.   It is best if this issue is dealt with early in the year.  We strongly recommend that students should not engage in part time work during the school term.

5.      Lunches: Students are encouraged to eat nutritious food and their lunches should be as healthy as possible.  The school shops sell a range of locally produced and healthy meals including sandwiches, filled rolls and hot pasta dishes.

6.      Uniform policy
Full school uniform must be worn during the school day and to and from school.  The current uniform, including the school jacket and black shoes, is compulsory for all students.  Students who come to school without being in full uniform will be asked to return home. Long hair should be tied back for health and safety reasons. We would urge parents/ guardians to use the school shop which is run by parents on a voluntary basis when buying the uniform and all proceeds raised in this venture go directly back into the school for your child’s benefit.   Check the school website for opening times.

7.      Health and Safety
All students driving to school must comply with the law and have a full driving licence or if on a provisional be accompanied by someone with a full licence for the required length of time.  At all times students should drive in a safe manner appropriate to a very busy school environment.  The vehicle must not be parked in either staff parking areas to the side or rear of the school building.  The vehicle must not be moved during the school day and under no circumstances should other students be transported while on school grounds.

8.      Mobile Phones
The school’s purpose is to create the best learning environment for all of our students.  Phones must be switched off.   Confiscated phones can only be collected by Parents/Guardians from the main office.   Ashbourne Community School cannot accept liability for loss of or damage to any item of personal property.

9.      Monitor your child’s use of Internet Social Networking Sites.  Cyber bullying can be part of our children’s lives.

10.  Insurance
This year, the Board of Management has opted to provide compulsory 24 hour Pupil Cover for 365 days of the year for all students of Ashbourne Community School.    Details of the insurance cover are available at www.pupilcover.ie – see the compulsory option section or contact the school office for further details.

Looking forward to working with you in the forthcoming year.  Should you have any queries in relation to the above items, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

Kindest regards,
Aine O’Sullivan