H.S.C.L. Niamh Forristal
Niamh Forristal is our new shared Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) co-ordinator in St. Brigid’s, appointed in October 2014. A few words from Niamh…
“My name is Niamh Forristal and I am the new Home, School, Community, Liaison Coordinator for St. Brigid’s and St. Fergal’s. A big part of my job is to visit you, the parents in their homes.
I promise I will do my best to call on as many families as possible just to say “Hello” and introduce myself. I will also be arranging classes here in the school but also in St Fergal’s, St. Oliver Plunkett’s, St Michael’s, Mother of Divine Grace, St Finians, St. Brigid’s Infant school and Colaiste Eoin. The classes are free and we have a variety to choose from, so have a look through our brochure and you might find a course that suits you.
Please take time to come in and relax in our lovely parent’s room, make yourself a cup of tea and catch up with other parents in the school. Any questions or if I can help you with anything please don’t hesitate in contacting me.”
Niamh Forristal – Home, School, Community, Liaison Coordinator – 086 888 7693
The aim of the HSCL scheme is to promote partnership and cooperation between home, school and the community, ‘to enhance pupils’ learning opportunities and to promote their retention in the education system’.
Niamh’s main role is to work with and support parents and families of our pupils and to organise ways in which parents can become involved in their child’s schooling. She may also visit you in your home and organises classes and courses, along with the other HSCL co-ordinators in local schools.
Each year you will receive a flyer explaining what courses are available. The HSCL scheme recognises parents as the primary educators of their children and welcomes the involvement of parents in all aspects of school life. The HSCL coordinator is there to support and empower you, the parent, and assist you in your role as parents and educators.
Check out the HSCL Notice Board in the School Foyer to see what is happening. The latest initiatives which we’ve had parents involved in include:
- Maths for Fun
- Literacy for Fun
- Cookery Class with Paul Callery
- Art/Craft Class with Tina Poole
For the last few years we have also organised a special hairdressing and party-preparation class for parents of those in the First Communion and Confirmation Classes. There are also other courses organised in our local schools cluster group, which are also available to our school community. (Personal Development; Knitting & Crochet; Parent & Toddler Group; STEPS; Book Club; Yoga; Choice Theory; Computers with Digital Multimedia & Project Maths Fun Board Games).
Courses are open to parents/guardians/grandparents/family members.
Our previous H.S.C.L. Co-ordinator Susan Spillane refurbished our Parents’ Room before the summer, providing a warm and welcoming space for you to meet other parents for a chat, and also learn new skills. Feel free to pop in!
Remember: You can contact Niamh in the HSCL room in the school, on 01 8342416, or 0863773583 at any time during school hours. If there are any other parents’ classes that you would like in St. Brigid’s, just talk to Niamh or Ms. Cahill!!