Santa joins prospective pupils and parents at Hollybush Primary School open day

A sunny but brisk Tuesday morning saw Santa Claus welcome prospective pupils and their parents to Hollybush Primary School where they received presents, were treated to hot drinks and biscuits before settling down to the Principal’s Address from Mr. Feargal Friel.

Over 100 attended the annual event and were also given a tour of the school, enjoyed some ‘Santa Drama’ with the P5s and then a number of festive tunes from the school’s choir.

Hollybush Primary School, situated on the outskirts of the city at Culmore, has grown significantly in recent years due to its reputation and the building of homes in the wider Culmore area. The school also attract pupils from well beyond their own catchment area.

Addressing parents, Mr. Friel gave a brief history of the school, the number of classes and pupils and set out the plans for the coming years. He also explained the extra-curricular activities and asked parents to take time to visit the classrooms and speak to the staff.

The school motto is Bonum Videre Optimum Educer and that translates as ‘to see the good in, and get the best out of,’ our pupils and Mr. Friel added ‘We love and value our pupils, and strive to get the very best out of them in every sense.’

IN PICTURES: Santa welcomes families to Hollybush Primary School open day

Principal highlights traditional teaching and strong community links at open event

VOX POP: Hollybush Primary School pupils on their favourite thing about the school

The students of Hollybush Primary School tell The Derry News what their favourite thing is about the school and what they would say to encourage a friend to come to the school

The Hollybush Principal added: ‘We are a school that responds to innovative practice in education, but we have retained many of the traditional teaching styles that have served so many of our past pupils well since the school opened on its old site in 1891. Our academic record is second to none, and we are proud of the achievements of our pupils.

‘We are a Catholic school, but open to all. We foster strong links with the parishes of Culmore and Steelstown, and the faith life of the school is very important to us.

‘I’m delighted today to see so many parents and children taking time to come along and see what Hollybush has to offer and would stress that anyone not able to make it, to contact the school and make an appointment to visit.

‘When you select Hollybush for your child, your family become members of a strong and proud school community with a deep-rooted and successful history in this beautiful area.

Anyone looking to view the school is asked to contact the office by telephone 02871 352202 or info@hollybush.derry.ni.sch.uk