Sunday 30 August 2009

FUN LEARNING ON THE FARM


The Gaelscoil's first ever summer scheme came to an end with the children exploring the new organic farm that has been established for families of Irish speaking children in Derry. They were able to learn about, plant and harvest various plants and vegtables as well as feed the hens, ducks and donkeys on site. Plots will be made available for children and families from the Irish Speaking community from this year and it is hoped that it will become an exciting and valuable new resource for Irish Medium Education.

SUMMER SCHEME


The Gaelscoil ran its first ever summer scheme this year, creating a veritable Gaeltacht in the heart of Springtown/Ballymagroarty for two whole weeks. The activities ranged from fun days to cultural trails and from a little farming to educational visits. The first week was enjoyed by the junior end of the school while the older children attending a second week packed with activities through the Irish language.

SCHOOL HISTORY

Despite the existence of two Gaelscoils in the town, it was found that very few of the children attending the Ballymagroarty nursery, Naíscoil Mhaol Íosa, were transfering to them as they were too far away. With the support of the existing parents, the school committee brought in new classrooms and opened the school officially in September 2005. The opening duties were performed by Derry City manager, Stephen Kenny who had a child at the nursery, while Oisín MacEo' was appointed as the first school principal.
In the subsequent years, a further two teachers have been appointed, new classrooms added, the nursery has filled to capacity, a partnership has been entered into with Sure Start to open a creche and the Irish language community in the area has expanded.