Over the past number of years our school has grown from strength to strength. The Board of Management, the Principal, Orla Collins, Deputy Principal, Aileen Moriarty and Post Holders play a key role in creating and sustaining an environment that underpins high quality pupil care, teaching and learning. Waterpark draws on a large pool of talent, wisdom and expertise, by including teachers, students and parents in decision making processes. This sharing of responsibilities in Waterpark has made the school more inclusive and self-reflective because more people are exchanging important information, discussing issues and making decisions collaboratively. The Parents Association play a vital role in promoting the interests of the students through fundraising and through the organisation of various events. Pupil voice is valued and celebrated at Waterpark National School and our innovative student council are also involved in the decision-making process. They have introduced many new initiatives which promote and enhance the wellbeing of our school community.
At Waterpark, there is an excellent school spirit as teachers are passionate and dedicated. They are also professionally alert and align curriculum, instruction and assessment to facilitate and foster students’ learning. All pupils, especially those with special educational needs experience success and affirmation. Intellectually stimulating learning environments are maintained for students where they are made to feel engaged and invested in school. Our teachers endeavour to design, implement and reflect on teaching strategies and resources and are constantly striving for progress. In addition, teachers are constantly monitoring student progress and adjusting instruction accordingly to meet the needs of all pupils under their care.
Our school takes pride in promoting the holistic development of our pupils and the pupils’ wellbeing is centred in everything we do. In the past, we have celebrated success in various health promoting initiatives including Green Schools, Active School Flag and Health Promoting schools. Last year we engaged in the Curious Minds STEM Programme for the first time. This not only developed STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) learning and engagement but we also received recognition for the amazing work being done. Waterpark pupils also enjoy participating and developing their sporting talents in various activities including soccer, hurling, camogie, gymnastics, orienteering and basketball. Active week is also celebrated annually and pupils participate in a variety of sports and also enjoy a whole school visit to Tramore Beach.
Our pupils’ immense creative abilities were also harnessed as each and every child became an esteemed author with the publication of our whole school book titled We are Writers. This is something that families will treasure for a lifetime. Pupils also showcase their talents at our annual Carol Service in St. John’s Church. The children shine on this special occasion which usually marks the beginning of the festive period at Waterpark. In addition, the school choir played a pivotal role in our Fundraising Concert. They were supported by the Barrack Street Concert Band and the event was an great success.
Above all, we have a clear mission and vision for our school. All staff understand this core vision, where it springs from and where it leads to and how we are contributing to the future educational potential of our pupils. Waterpark National School is a Co-Educational, Catholic Primary School which aims to help each child enjoy the learning process, acquire self-esteem, self-discipline and reach his/her full potential within a happy, caring and secure environment.
‘ENCOURAGE, EMPOWER, ENJOY’
