Embedded Files
Our Famine Stories- Portumna Workhouse
We were thrilled to be a part of the 'Our Famine Stories' exhibition that was launched in Portumna Famine Workhouse on the 10th of May, 2026. The children in 5th and 6th classes read 'Under the Hawthorn Tree' and in response to this completed a unit of work on the famine. We tied it back into our own heritage by looking at the Welch letters collection on the Milltown Heritage website. These are a rare collection of letters from a mother in Milltown to her children who have emigrated to America. We listened to the podcast and to the beautiful readings of the letters. The children then drew mind maps showing what they had learned. This was a powerful way to connect to our local heritage and the impact the famine had on families in Ireland. They made small famine cottages from clay and these along with their written work and artwork was displayed in Portumna for the launch. A video depicting our learning was shown at the event to a wonderful round of applause.
We welcomed Pauline and Margaret from Milltown Heritage Group to the school and the pupils showcased their learning to them.
GLOBE Weather Workshop
GLOBE Weather Workshop
We took part in the GLOBE precipitation project in January and submitted our daily recording of rain to the GLOBE/NASA website. We were delighted to welcome Aileen, Ashling and Orla to the school on Friday the 16th of May to carry out a weather workshop.
The children recorded the weather on the day, identified cloud types and their signifance in weather forecasting. Everyone learned a lot and we are excited to take part in another GLOBE project next year.
The Living Bog in Mountbellew
Looking out over Cor na gCapall bog
We caught a lizard!
A great day out learning all about the living bog in Mountbellew
Learning all about how they are conserving this raised bog
An Gorta Mór
An Gorta Mór
5th and 6th classes are reading the novel 'Under the Hawthorn Tree' as part of their History and English lessons. They are exploring life in the workhouse, songs inspired by the events of the famine and local links to this time.
Confirmation Retreat
Confirmation Retreat
Preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation saw the children in 5th and 6th class visit Ballintubber Abbey for a retreat. This was a lovely time for them to rest, learn, play and prepare for the next step in their spiritual journey.
Irish Sign Language
Irish Sign Language
Learning one of Ireland's recognised languages is very important to us in Belmont N.S. The children in the Senior Room took part in the Say Yes to Languages project and had ten lessons with Cuileann before Christmas. They learned so much and really enjoyed the classes. The children wanted to continue the learning so the school paid for an extra four lessons in February. We hope that this is the start of a life long interest in ISL and something the children can use going forward.
Banksy
Banksy
Our Senior pupils have been diving into the world of contemporary art this week, exploring the mysterious work of the street artist Banksy. After discussing his unique style and the messages behind his work, the children took to the "streets" (well, the classroom!) to design their own street art. It was fantastic to see their creativity and social commentary come to life through drawing.
Lots of Learning
Native Irish Mammals watercolour drawings
We read Kensuke's Kingdom & imagined what the island looks like. Some children drew maps, some made a Wanted poster for Michael & some drew pictures in response to the story.
Learning about Space in English
Astronaut drawings
Mock Elections
Presidents of Ireland
Presidents of Ireland
We learned all about the past Presidents of Ireland. We read three stories about our current President and drew pictures of him.
At the Ballot Station
At the Ballot Station
We held a mock election. Democracy in action.
Voting
Voting
Who is getting our #1?
Happy birthday TomIrish Sign Language
Irish Sign Language
This video features pupils demonstrating their new skills in Irish Sign Language (ISL) by signing "Happy Birthday" to their classmate, Tom!
This module is being delivered by tutor Cuileann Bourke as part of the school's participation in the national Say Yes to Languages project. The project aims to give children an introduction to a new language and raise awareness of the linguistic diversity within their school community.
We are so proud of the children for embracing ISL! 🤟
High Cross Hero Eddie
High Cross Hero Eddie
On Wednesday, the 24th of September we welcomed Ms Murphy and Ms Tracey from High Cross College to our school. They brought their school dog, Eddie. We all loved meeting him and hearing all about High Cross College.
FCÁT
FCÁT
We are looking forward to participating in the FCÁT project whereby PE lessons will be delivered through Irish. We are committed to promoting the Irish language and making it fun for everyone!
Culkin’s Hill.movCulkin's Hill
Culkin's Hill
Following a project on the Ash tree on Culkin's Hill, we took a trip up there. Thanks to Breda and Mary for allowing us access and sharing stories with us.
The Ash Tree.movThe Ash Tree
The Ash Tree
Listen to this poem by Fionnuala which captures the essence of our project on the Ash tree.
Farewell 6th Class
Farewell 6th Class
We said a fond farewell to our wonderful sixth class. We wish them the best of luck as they take the next step!
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