Update

Hello everyone,

I hope you are all settling well into "home-schooling" mode. When I sent out the last parent letter, outlining all the plans and details for the new school, I could not have imagined the events that have unfolded in this past fortnight. Each day has been a challenge for everyone and brought with it difficult decisions. I know it is overwhelming at times but if we all take responsibility for our actions and follow the guidance, we can get through this challenging time.

Hopefully by now everyone has had a chance to check out their class page and read some additional information posted by their teacher. Please feel free to keep in touch with our school community/ your teacher through either the school email (info@braidsideintegratedps.ballymena.ni.sch.uk) or your specific teacher if possible. We want to hear from you, find out what you're up to, how you're getting on with the work and help where we can.

Your teachers may have already directed some information on some good websites/ resources for you to have a look at:

1. TWINKL - Free one month of Twinkl with video to show how to get started
   https://www.facebook.com/258135775027/posts/10157244803815028/
   
   2. PHONICS PLAY - Free access to PhonicsPlay
   https://www.phonicsplay.co.uk.
   
   3. GO NOODLE - movement and mindfulness videos created by child development experts. 
   https://www.gonoodle.com/?disable_redirect=true
   
   4. 100 CHALLENGE IDEAS FOR HOME LEARNERS - https://www.teachingpacks.co.uk/100-challenge-ideas-for-home-learners/

On our school Facebook page there was also info about the daily Joe Wicks' PE lesson, a session with Gathering Drum, David Walliams daily audio story, Jo Jingles sessions on Facebook, Lego challenges and numeracy ideas too! We know there's lots to keep you busy!

These are totally unprecedented times- the work teachers have provided and suggestions are just guidelines, so just do what you can. Having a routine for the day will probably be very helpful for children and parents alike.

Finally please remember this simple key message:

Protect yourself, Protect others, Protect the NHS and STAY AT HOME.

I wish you all good health in the days and weeks ahead.

Take care,

J McAuley