Families First North West Awards
Finalists
At St Theresa’s we were proud to say we were a finalist at the Families First North West Awards in the Limavady Roe Park Estate on the 22nd October and it was a lovely night to share the success of the school.
Awards
After the judges had read the glowing comments left by our school community when voting, the school was recognised and given an award for 'Encouraging Positive Behaviour' in the Primary School's category. This highlights what a fab school community we are and everyone in St Theresa's is very proud of the award.
We were also in with a chance of winning 'Best Primary School' but we congratulate Ebrington Primary School who won this category.
Let us not forget our neighbours Country Kids DayCare, Fiona and all her staff, as well as Joanne, in winning their awards too.
Comments
Here is a flavour of those comments and we thank you considerably for how you regard our wee school in the Glebe:
1. I think St.Theresa's should win this as the staff were always there when we needed them during lockdown, when they were at home during a challenging time for everyone. They had live classes which my child enjoyed as they all got to meet fellow pupils that they hadn't seen in a long time. The seesaw lessons had daily videos and walkthroughs to help kids out. I was well impressed.
2. I think St Theresa’s Primary School should win because it’s a great school and my son, he’s autistic was in year three during the first lock down and his teacher Miss Duffy went above and beyond for him making sure he was coping at home not having his usual routine. I genuinely mean this is a GREAT and caring school.
3. This is the school I went to as a child and just three weeks ago I was walking through those same gates once again to drop off my own little boy, same class room and same teacher! This school was and still is a safe space. The teachers and staff are so kind, so friendly and a lot of them are still there from even before me. I can imagine it’s a brilliant school to work in. There is still the same teachers/classroom assistants and receptionist. To still be there is so amazing! More than deserving, some of my best years in that school. My little boy loves it and I couldn’t recommend this school enough. It’s a small close knit school that makes it a home away from home for the boys and girls that attend St. Theresa’s.
4. A great school with great teachers. Always able to approach the teachers. Beautiful kept school spotless.
5. This may be a small rural school but it has a huge impact on all who attend and the wider community! They are simply one big family! Whilst the pandemic has been extremely challenging for all, the staff at St Theresa’s were always there for every child. I was privilege to facilitate live Art Sessions with most year groups and my computer screen was always filled with happy smiling faces….in fact the older/younger members of the families joined in along with parents! This experience was supported hugely by the support and guidance of IT experts among the staff. I believe these and other live sessions was crucial to the emotional, well being of every child. St Theresa’s went beyond the call of duty and are so deserving of this wonderful award. Good luck all!
6. St Theresa's PS is located in the heart of the village and from within the school walls you'll find a team of people who nurture and nourish the children in their care. They say it takes a village to raise a child and I can say that St Theresa's PS contribute very much to each individual child who come through their doors. It is a welcoming place with its heart and passion devoted to each and everyone of it's children.
7. Over covid my daughter struggled alot with school work and having no contact with people outside. The teachers went above and beyond for my daughter. They made her feel special and loved. Even now she is finding it hard being back at school and Mr Brogan the headmaster is making her feel like the smartest girl in the world absolutely amazing to see.
8. Miss Duffy is an absolute gem in this school. My boy has been struggling and I can honestly say she, the Principal, and Vice Principal have been massively supportive in ensuring my son has the support he needs. They have gone above and beyond. My son is 4 weeks into his first term of P2 and is like a different child from last year. He is happier and actually wants to go to school. They are really supportive to his needs and also to us as a family.
9. St.Theresas' is an excellent school with hard working supportive staff. The teachers are very conscientious and caring. The extra curricular activities are excellent and varied. Each child is encouraged to be the best version of themselves possible and help others on their journey. Everyone looks out for one another and they strive to find each individuals unique talent and skills which are applauded and encouraged. The headmaster and teachers did an excellent job during the pandemic ensuring every child had access to seesaw and electronic devices, they were very supportive to parents who didn't have technical skills and ensured all students got extra tuition if needed when they returned to school. The school has a lovely atmosphere and a variety of teaching strategies and techniques. The PTA and summer scheme was also excellent. My child enjoys the school very much.
10. St Theresa's School is a great school and have a great variety of everything, from fairy garden to the muga. Teachers and secretary are excellent, nothing is a bother to them they give great support to all the kids and their families. Mr Brogan is a fantastic Principal as is Mr Mc Nulty the Vice Principal. Both are extremely easy to chat to if something ever needs to arise. The school has a great website and they message us on a regularly basis to remind us which I think is great. This is an extremely excellent school.
11. As a teacher who works in the school I can see all the work that goes on behind the scenes and the dedication of all staff. St. Theresa’s truly is one big family, where everyone knows everyone and everyone looks out for each other. Once you have been part of the St. Theresa’s family you always want to come back, as it evident by the number of past pupils who always want to come back on work experience or placement. We have fantastic children who have always been commended for their respect for others and their manners when out on school trips. Their behaviour is exemplary. Our children are what makes the school a wonderful place to work and a deserving recipient of this award.
12. I have had the great pleasure of working in St Theresa’s Primary School. Each member of staff here works endlessly to provide each and every child with the absolute best education and opportunities available. From external coaches and tutors, to clubs - St Theresa’s has something for everyone. They have a true understanding of how every child is different and how everyone has different interests, and they work hard to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to develop a range of different skills. St Theresa’s is at the heart of the local community. It prides itself in working closely with the families in the area and encouraging their involvement within the school. I can’t think of a more deserving school for this award.
13. This school has a reputation for encouraging and investing in ALL pupils, irrespective of their abilities. Each and every child has a gift and this is both recognised and developed to the best of their abilities. They have developed excellent communication with parents and the general community too. They are very much invested in the ethos of 'giving something back' and are often to be found organising charitable events and activities. Strong, positive leadership is the driving force behind a happy, dedicated and committed school team.
14. The teachers, caretaker and assistants take so much pride in the school and its pupils, it feels like they are family.
St Theresa's Primary School, Glebe, Garvan Park, Sion Mills, Strabane BT82 9NZ Telephone: (028) 81 65 8438