Dear all
As we enter our second week of remote learning, I would like to highlight some important information that relates to our educational provision and the welfare of all our pupils and their families.
Staff are continuing to set work and communicate with students through online learning platforms and a great many young people are engaging with this. Our hope is that young people use this facility to continue some of their studies, as well as bring structure to their day – getting up in the morning, dressed and completing a couple of hours of work, if possible. We are also mindful, that the health and well-being of pupils and families is the priority at this time and educational matters will be secondary to that.
Form teachers and class teachers are available for communication each day and I would encourage our students to say hello to teachers, to keep in touch, and use the strong pastoral relationships that we have built up over the years.
We are very aware that this is a stressful time for families, for young people and for us all. To that end, I include some links to important and useful information, which I hope you will find of value.
As we continue making our way through these challenging times, I hope you are keeping well, looking after yourselves and each other. The school remains ready to respond to opening for children of key workers, should the demand arise, and we will continue to answer any questions, queries or provide technical support through contact with our school email address: info@crossandpassion.ballycastle.ni.sch.uk
Best wishes and we are looking forward to enjoying normal school days again soon
Paul McClean
Developing Health Communities
Our Hub provides information related to; supporting good mental health, changing circumstances for families and workplaces and community responses.
https://www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/live/community-services/covid-19-community-support
Mindwise – New Visions for Mental Health
How to have an open conversation with young people about Coronavirus
Bloom – Resource Library
https://mentalhealth-uk.org/partnerships/bloom-resource-library/
Familyworks – Independent Counselling Service for Schools
To refer a young person to the school counselling service, please click on the following link. Please note, there is currently a waiting list for this service, any urgent referrals should be directed to your family GP.
https://mentalhealth-uk.org/partnerships/bloom-resource-library/
Education Authority Autism Advisory and Intervention Service (AAIS)
Staying Safe – Dealing with COVID-19. A booklet for Post-Primary Pupils
https://www.eani.org.uk/services/pupil-support-services/autism-advisory-intervention-service-aais