HFSS Covid 19 Impact Survey Results

In October we began the process of assessing the educational impact the Covid 19 pandemic has had on our students. We invited all parents, students, and teachers to share their experience and any key areas of concern they felt was having an impact on academic progress.

Across all our educational stakeholders, 819 people responded. We greatly appreciate all respondents taking the time to share their valuable insight and best equip us with meaningful data.

Summary of results

The survey divided responses into those of teachers, parents and students. There was a large consensus on the biggest issues faced by students in HFSS. Across all three groups, overwhelm/stress and lack of motivation to learn were cited in the top three areas of concern.

Ranked areas of concern

Teachers

1. Concentration -43%

2. Less motivation- 40%

3. Overwhelm/stress – 37%

Parents

1. Overwhelm/stress- 40%

2. Less motivation- 24%

3. School days missed- 22%

Students

1. Stress/Overwhelm – 31%

2. Less motivation- 30%

3. Concentration- 25%

Actions arising from the data

We are currently in the process of many initiatives which we hope will greatly aid students in their ability to excel as confident, motivated and happy learners. These are focused on making strides in the areas for development which the survey data has directed us towards. 

• HFSS is committed to increasing the number of wellbeing hours offered to our students. Wellbeing hours can include additional hours in P.E, SPHE, CSPE, tutor time and digital literacy classes. The senior and middle leadership teams are currently evaluating what would be the best allocation of these additional hours for our students. 
•  Our academic and curriculum review committee have made proposals to reduce the number of subjects studied by our junior cycle students in future exam cycles. Feedback on this is currently being collated. After extensive in school appraisals of these options has taken place by senior and middle leadership, we will invite parents and students to vote on the best option viable for HFSS students moving forward. 
•  Our School Self Evaluation (SSE) committee are piloting a goal setting exercise with their classes to evaluate its impact on student motivation. This is also being trialled in many 1st year maths classes. If this is deemed to be a helpful tool by students and teachers alike, it will be introduced at a whole school level to further aid our students.
• This year we have introduced additional extra-curricular clubs such as rugby, walking, games, drama, debating. We also open the gym at lunchtime for recreational sports. We continually strive to improve the extra-curricular options offered at HFSS to best meet the needs and interests of our students. We strongly urge students to engage with extra-curricular activities, a vital aspect of school life and holistic development.

A reminder that classes will finish at 3.30pm this Thursday 1st December to facilitate the 6th Year Parent Teacher meeting.

Best of luck to 2nd Years Ruby Maher and Olivia Hyland who will be taking part in The Late Late Toy Show tonight.

We wish them the best of luck and we can’t wait to see them perform.

Dear Parents/Guardians

Our annual Christmas Concert will take place in school next Tuesday 29th December at 7pm.

The evening will be a feast of musical treats from our music students and school choir.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

The Parents' Association have organised fantastic prizes for all the family in their annual fundraising raffle for the school.

A card went home to every family yesterday. 

With the funds raised, we can continue to support the school in improving student resources.

Please support.

HFSS Parents' Association

Our fourth annual Festival of Flavours takes place tomorrow, Thursday 24th November. This food festival celebrates the rich and diverse culture within our school. We have 22 countries represented with over 100 students involved in creating this wonderful festival. Entry to the Festival for students is €2. All money collected this year will go to a local chariety - The Dining Room.

Unfortunately, yesterday turned out not to be Holy Family's day when the 1st Year Soccer team from 21/22 were defeated in the All Ireland final by Presentation College, Athenry. Despite a gallant effort the girls were beaten 2-1 after extra-time in Athlone Town AFC. 

The students playing would like to thank all the students, teachers and parents who have given them support over the past few months as they progressed through the rounds in the cup, sealing a Leinster title and before the final yesterday. These girls now move up to Under 15 level and will hope to go one step further this year.

A reminder that classes will finish at 3.30pm tomorrow Thursday 24th November to facilitate the 3rd Year Parent Teacher meeting.

Dear Parents/Guardians

Please note that school will finish at 3:30pm tomorrow, Thursday 24th November, to facilite the 3rd Year Parent/Teacher meeting.