Today we welcomed our twenty new Junior Infants to St Fergus’ National School for their Introductory Day. The children were introduced to their teacher and their classroom while parents were informed of the day to day running of the school and the Infant routine. This day is such a special one in the life of our school. The excitement and enthusiasm of the new entrants gives us the badly needed energy boost as we enter the final, exhausting few weeks in the school year. We are reminded exactly why we do the wonderful job that we are so lucky to have! We look forward to seeing you all again in August!

Dear Teacher 

I know you’re rather busy                                                                                                                                                          
First day back, there’s just no time
A whole new class of little ones 
And this one here is mine

I’m sure you have things covered
And have done this lots before
But my boy is very little
He hasn’t long turned four 

In his uniform this morning
He looked so tall and steady
But now beside your great big school
I’m not quite sure he’s ready

Do you help them eat their lunch?
Are you quick to soothe their fears?
And if he falls and hurts his knee
Will someone dry his tears?

And what if no-one plays with him?
What if someone’s mean?
What if two kids have a fight 
And he’s caught in between?

You’re right, I have to leave now
It’s time for him to go
I’m sure he’ll learn so much from you
Things that I don’t know

Yes, I’m sure they settle quickly
That he’s fine now without me
I know he has to go to school
It’s just so fast, you see

It seems like just a blink ago
I first held him in my arms
It’s been my job to love, to teach
To keep him safe from harm

So, when I wave goodbye in a moment 
And he turns to walk inside 
Forgive me if I crumple
Into tears of loss and pride

I know as I give him one more kiss
And watch him walk away, 
That he’ll never again be wholly mine
As he was before today.