28/08/2026
🌟 WELCOME BACK TO BALLYHOLLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL! 🌟
This morning, we welcome back all of our P2-P7 children after the summer break. 💚
However, today is a special morning as Mrs McAlinden welcomes some of our newest little learners, our Primary 1 children, to Ballyholland Primary School, where they begin their wonderful journey with us here in B.P.S.
We know that while today is filled with excitement for our new P1 children, it can also be a very emotional day for their parents and families. 🥹
Here’s a little thought for any parent who has a child starting school this year…
Dear Teacher,
I know you’re rather busy, first day back, there’s just no time,
A whole new class of little ones and this one here is mine.
I’m sure you have things covered and have done this lots before,
But my boy is very little, he hasn’t long turned four.
In his uniform this morning, he looked so tall and steady,
But now beside your great big school I’m not quite sure he’s ready.
Do you help them eat their lunch? Are you quick to soothe their fears?
And if he falls and hurts his knee, will someone dry his tears?
And what if no-one plays with him? What if someone’s mean?
What if two kids have a fight and he’s caught in between?
You’re right, I have to leave now, it’s time for him to go.
I’m sure he’ll learn so much from you, things that I don’t know.
Yes, I’m sure they’ll settle quickly, that he’s fine now without me.
I know he has to go to school, it’s just so hard to see.
You see, it seems like just a blink ago I first held him in my arms.
It’s been my job to love, to teach, to keep him safe from harm.
So, when I wave goodbye in a moment and he turns to walk inside,
Forgive me if I crumple into tears of loss and pride.
I know as I give him one more kiss and watch him walk away,
That he’ll never again be wholly mine as he was before today.
Are you blubbing yet? 🥹
If not, the teacher’s reply should definitely set you off…
💚 THE REPLY 💚
Dear Parent,
I understand that you are scared to wave your child goodbye
And leave him in a teacher’s hands — don’t worry if you cry!
I’m used to weeping parents, it’s hard to leave, I know.
But it’s time to share him, just a little, to help him learn and grow.
Let me reassure you that I’ll give your child my best.
I’ll wipe his tears, soothe his fears and change his dirty vest!
If your darling child is full of cold, I’ll blow their nose all day.
Just like you, I’ll care for them in a very special way.
I’ll treat them like I would my own, I’ll catch them from a fall,
And if there is ANY problem, I’ll be sure to tell you all.
It’s true they’ll grow to love us, they’ll talk of school a lot.
It doesn’t mean they hate you — so please don’t lose the plot! ❤️
I’ll tell you a secret… when your child is here,
They talk to me as much of you, so please have no fear.
You’ll always be their mother, whilst teachers come and go.
To them, you are their number one — this I truly know.
Soon you’ll see some changes in your little girl or boy.
They’ll become more independent, and to see this is a joy!
I’ll teach them all I have to give — to share, climb and to write,
But to you they’ll safely return to tuck them in at night.
With love,
The Ballyholland Primary School Team 💚
Today marks the beginning of a very special journey for our newest P1 children as the join us over the next week. We hope they have a wonderful first day and to all our P1 parents… you’ve got this! Welcome to the B.P.S. family! 🏫
