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St. Mary's Gortnaghey Primary School, Gortnahey Rd, Dungiven, Co. Derry

Stars Of The Week 09.05.2025

9th May 2025

We were lucky to enjoy beautiful weather throughout the week, the children enjoyed a wonderful mix of outdoor learning and imaginative play. During break and lunch time, the pupils from different year groups spent time exploring and creating in our outdoor spaces. It was fantastic to see their creativity shine as they worked together to design water tunnels and channels in the sand, carefully guiding the flow of water through their self-made structures. These hands-on activities encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and a real sense of wonder at how things work.

This week we marked the International Week of Deaf People, a meaningful occasion to celebrate inclusion and raise awareness. We are incredibly proud of one of our brave Primary 2 pupils, who confidently spoke to his classmates about his own experience wearing a hearing aid. His courage, openness, and willingness to educate others was inspiring and helped his peers better understand the importance of empathy and inclusion.

Our Primary 1 and 2 pupils were very excited to welcome some new friends—a group of caterpillars! They’ll be caring for them in the coming weeks, watching closely as they transform into beautiful butterflies. It’s been a lovely, hands-on way to learn about nature and life cycles.

Skill School Club ran on Tuesday, helping pupils build their PE and football skills in a positive and energetic setting.

On Wednesdaywe celebrated Outdoor Learning Day, and the children thoroughly enjoyed taking their learning beyond the classroom walls. With the sun shining, it was the perfect opportunity to embrace a different environment and engage in hands-on, active learning. Our P5 and P6 pupils took part in another Shared Education event—a fantastic Forest School session at MaGilligan Field Centre. They loved working with children from other schools, exploring the outdoors, and learning in a whole new environment.

Thursday brought more energy with our Gaelic and Fundamentals Club. As well as singing with Aoife Mullan and tin whistle with George Murphy.

On Friday, our camogie players took to the pitch for the All County Camogie Championships. Well done to all involved—you represented the school brilliantly! A big thank you to Shannon, Serena, and Mrs Mullan for taking the children. 

Our Primary 1 and 2 pupils also had a lovely time engaging in some indoor play with our kind and caring Primary 7 children—it was heartwarming to see the age groups learning and playing together so positively.

We were also thrilled to welcome two new members of staff, Miss Amy Quigg and Mrs Orlagh Devine, to our school community. We’re so pleased to have them with us and know they’ll bring wonderful enthusiasm and support to our classrooms.

Finally, a big well done to our Stars of the Week, who were recognised for their brilliant work and positive attitude. You should be very proud of yourselves! And as a treat for a brilliant week, everyone got a special treat to the park, which brought smiles all around.

We hope everyone has a lovely weekend and enjoys the sunshine!