Many of you will know that Mrs O’Neill currently works part-time as Primary RE advisor for Motherwell Diocese and has split her week between her two different jobs over the past two years. Although it’s very sad news for the school, I’m delighted for Mrs O’Neill that Bishop Toal has asked her to work full time for the diocese from mid-February. I imagine this will have been a difficult decision for Mrs O’Neill to make after teaching for almost 25 years in St Bartholomew’s. However, she has been flourishing in her role as RE Advisor and is very excited about the opportunity to devote more time and energy to supporting primary schools across the diocese. Mrs O’Neill’s last day will be Friday 10th February, just before the long weekend. We’ll have the opportunity to say cheerio and wish her well in a couple of weeks and, of course, will still see Mrs O’Neill in St Bartholomew’s every so often as our RE Advisor. Well done on your new full-time position, Mrs O’Neill!

The parish Pray for our School group meets in the oratory tomorrow morning. With me being out of school two days a week, it’s been some considerable time since I’ve had the chance to pop in to chat to members of the group. Please can I take this opportunity, then, to thank this group of parishioners for continuing to give of their time to pray for our school. You play a vital role in the success of St Bartholomew’s.

Finally, just a wee reminder of some important dates this term:

Valentines Disco: Thursday 9th February
Holiday: Monday 13th and Tuesday 14th February
Inservice Day: Wednesday 15th February (school closed to pupils)
Parents Evening: Thursday 9th March
First Reconciliation: Tuesday 14th March (exact times to follow)
School Show (‘A Night on Broadway): Thursday 30th March (afternoon and evening performances)