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C.E.L.E.B.R.A.T.I.O.N in Carn
22.11.10
by Caoimhinn Barr,
Inishowen Independent
THERE'S a buzz about St. Patrick’s Girls School in
Carn as the pupils and teachers get ready to
celebrate a special anniversary to mark 25 years in
their newly renovated building.
Relocated to the Derry Road in 1985, the girls’
centre for learning was first established in the
Convent in Carn in the summer of 1871, when local
nuns were charged with education.
Now, almost 140 years later, principal Ailish Tully
is spearheading a campaign to celebrate years gone
by at a school with a bright future. She said the
silver anniversary is based on the theme of the word
‘celebration’ - with every letter signifying a
different aspect of the novel project. The entire
community is getting behind the school’s plan. |
“We have had great
support from parents and there is a great sense of
excitement around the school at the moment. I think
the planned celebrations have generated a sense of
pride in our entire community.
“People have been more than willing to put their
names forward to help in anyway they can and we have
been overwhelmed by the effort shown. The school is
important to Carn and the celebrations allow the
girls to meet many of the curriculum needs in a
novel, fun way,” Ailish added.
Launching a plea for anyone with old photos or
stories to contact the school, Ailish said the girls
were set to become part of something really special.
Joining the St. Patrick’s Girls NS staff in 1989,
Ailish became |
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St. Patrick's Girls NS celebrate. |
school principal after
replacing Bernadette McElhinney in September 2006.
She said the silver anniversary is based on the
theme of the word ‘celebration’ - with every letter
signifying a different aspect of the novel project.
C - Concert
There will be a gala variety show featuring all 186
pupils at the school in the Colgan Hall on December
9 and 10 next. The special showcase also involves
many past pupils of St. Patrick’s.
E - Exhibition
On March 11 next year a special exhibition will see
old memorabilia, stories and photos on display in
the school hall.
L - Landscaping
Work on the school grounds is continuing with local
heritage specialist Colm Grant. Children and parents
alike have planted flower-beds, spring bulbs while a
new playing pitch is currently being readied for
action.
E - Entire
A single photo of the girls, taken last September,
was thought to be the only one ever commissioned
until principal Ailish was given an entire shot of
all the pupils from 1929.
B - Book
Old photos, stories, poems and memories will be
gathered in a new book, which is being compiled by
past staff members, Bernadette McElhinney, Joanie
McLaughlin, Bridie Kelly, Pat Burns, Ann Farren and
Mary T. McLaughlin.
R - Recycling
The girls are hoping to make it a double celebration
next year by scooping a Green Flag.
A - Appearance
The Board of Management have contributed to the
school’s gala year by commissioning a major interior
and exterior renovation project.
T - Thanksgiving
A Mass prior to the exhibition on March 11 next will
pay tribute to all those who have contributed to the
St. Patrick’s Girls School success story.
I - Interactive
The school will soon feature state-of-the-art
interactive whiteboards in the classroom to help
with the girls’ learning process.
O - Outside
A new playground project will see outdoor furniture
installed in St. Patrick’s Girls School next year.
N - Newspaper
The senior classes are set to produce a special
supplement looking back at one of the most important
years in the school’s history. If you would like to
help with the school’s celebrations or have old
photos etc. - email:
girlsns@live.ie
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