February 2026 Newsletter.

Scoil Mhuire hosts the Féile Fichelle Festival of Chess.

February 12th was a wonderful day when we welcomed seven other schools, (160 children in total) to participate in Féile Fichelle.  St. Joseph’s NS, Scoil Náisiúnta na Rinne, SN Baile Mhic Airt, Kilbrien NS, St. James NS. Stradbally, Our Lady of Mercy, Stradbally and St. Declan’s NS. Ardmore. Scoil Mhuire had 4 teams of 8 participating in this great event. There was marvellous excitement in the run up to the big day. All children were practising their game in school and at home. Many thanks to the parents for their support and for adding an edge to the training at home. After school chess club has now moved on to 4th class. Mrs. Power and Mrs Barry report that the new group is very keen.

Top Performances from our Credit Union Quiz Teams.

Here in Abbeyside we have a terrific tradition of participating in quizzes. This month the spotlight was on our u11 and u13 Credit Union teams. The eight children competed among all schools in West Waterford. The standard was extremely high and the questions were beautifully challenging.  To our delight Scoil Mhuire were the outright winners of Competition A and Runners up in Competition B.  They have now qualified for the Chapter Level, Quiz in March.  Congratulations to them and their coach Ms. Walsh on this fine achievement.

Safer Internet Day.

All pupils in Scoil Mhuire proudly participated in Safer Internet Day 2026 on February 10th. Organised by Webwise.ie, the day promotes the safe and responsible use of the internet among young people. The theme this year was AI Aware: Safe, Smart and In Control.

Throughout the school, pupils engaged in interactive, age-appropriate lessons focused on staying safe online, being kind and respectful in their digital interactions, and understanding the potential risks of having an online presence. Children designed colourful posters to share key safety messages and each pupil received a Safer Internet Day wristband to mark the occasion.

The Wizard of Oz.

Our performers at Scoil Mhuire are busy rehearsing for our summer musical “The Wizard of Oz.” The cast and chorus have been working very hard singing, dancing and acting.  This will take place on  May 25th-27th inclusive.  Believe it or not  the tickets have been selling steadily (Yes Already!) Ms. McCloskey, Ms. Lake and Mr De Paor are very pleased with eveyone’s progress so far.  Going on our form,this will be epic!

First Penance and Ceremony of Light.

Second and Sixth Class pupils have been preparing for the sacraments. Sixth class pupils and their families attended and participated in their  Ceremony of Light. Second class pupils recieved the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These are signifiicant events in their sacramental preparation. Fr. Hassett and Fr James guided the pupils and supported them in their spiritual understanding.  Ms Looby, Mr. O’ Dea, Mrs. Power, Mrs. Looby and Ms. Walsh continue this preparation as Confirmation and First Holy Communion Days are approaching.

Scoil Mhuire Sport.

 As usual there is lots of variety in the sport going on at Scoil Mhuire. 4th class have swimming lessons in Clonea Sports and Leisure Centre, James Lacey is providing GAA coaching to 4th, 5th and 6th class. DKAM continues to provide gymnastics sessions. Members of the school soccer teams are attending a soccer blitz in SETU today. More details on that in the next newsletter.