Chalk Talk: Wilkinstown NS marks launch of school's new anti-bullying campaign
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Parents Emma Matthews, Emma Wiewior and Neil Marshall pictured at Scoil Naomh Barra’s school assembly.Image 2 of 6
Minister Helen McEntee gave all students a Homework pass.Image 3 of 6
Parents pictured at Scoil Naomh Barra’s school assembly, from left: Aimée Clarke, Jade McGarry, Ann Owens and Lynda Murphy Smith.Image 4 of 6
Parents Nina Solomon and Linda Reilly at School Assembly.Image 5 of 6
Minister Helen McEntee and principal James Minnock pictured with members of the Scoil Naomh Barra Student Council: Ruby Rose Clarke, Cain Gorman, Oran Doughty, Ben Owens, Harry Flanagan, Freya Primrose, Elsie Corrigan, Darragh Ginnitty, Siophia Riozzi and Jack Perdisatt.Image 6 of 6
Scoil Naomh Barra (Wilkinstown NS) welcomed local Minister Helen McEntee to its monthly school assembly on Friday, October 2nd, as pupils, parents and staff came together to mark the launch of the school’s new KiVa anti-bullying programme.
The initiative aims to promote kindness, respect and inclusion among pupils, while helping to ensure that every child feels safe, happy and valued in school. During the assembly, pupils were introduced to the importance of standing up for one another and playing their part in creating a positive and supportive school environment.
The assembly also provided an opportunity to celebrate the many achievements of pupils across the school. Students of the Month were recognised for their hard work, kindness, determination and positive attitude towards learning. The school’s Gaeilgeoirí na Míosa were also acknowledged for their efforts in speaking Irish and promoting Gaeilge throughout the school.
Attendance was another highlight, with certificates presented to pupils who achieved full attendance during the third term of the previous school year. Special recognition was also given to Caoimhe who achieved an incredible milestone by not missing a single day throughout the entire 2025/26 school year.
Following the assembly, Minister McEntee enjoyed a tour of the school and had the opportunity to see the excellent facilities available to pupils, including the new GAA pitch, sensory room, school library, astro-pitch and the school’s new extension.
The school’s astro-pitch, which was developed in recent years, provides pupils with an additional space to enjoy sport and physical activity. Finishing touches are currently being completed on the new full-size GAA pitch, which will further enhance the school’s outdoor sporting facilities.
Principal James Minnock thanked Minister McEntee for taking the time to visit Scoil Naomh Barra and for meeting with pupils and staff. He also acknowledged the continued efforts of the entire school community in making Scoil Naomh Barra such a welcoming, inclusive and supportive place for children to learn and grow.
The children were also delighted when Minister McEntee announced that they would have no homework on Monday — a decision that was met with plenty of excitement from pupils!
It was a wonderful occasion for the Scoil Naomh Barra community, combining an important message about kindness and inclusion with an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of pupils and showcase the fantastic facilities and spirit of the school