WORK STARTS ON KILBEHENNY SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT

Major plans are currently in place to provide state of the art facilities in Kilbehenny National School. The extension and refurbishment has been made possible by a generous grant provided by Minister Hanafin’s Department of Education and Science.

Presently the three teacher school consists of three classrooms. The completed project will provide two additional en-suite classrooms, a large en-suite general purpose room which will include kitchen facilities. Linking the existing building and the new extension will be a modern naturally lit reception area.

The enhanced facilities will contribute significantly to the implementation of the modern curriculum. The project marks a new milestone in the long history of education in Kilbehenny. In the early to mid 19th century a number of hedge schools catered for the needs of the area until state education commenced in 1875.

The first school in the area was sited at the chapel in Knockrour and remained so until 1941 when the present school was built on an adjacent site. The new extension marks the latest chapter in the school’s proud history.

Local building contractors Patrick and Mossy English from Anglesboro, trading as Pen Q Ltd have been appointed to complete the works, assisted by former Kilbehenny school pupil Mossy Fitzgerald. Preparatory works are currently underway and Patrick is delighted to be involved in this major project.

The architect involved in overseeing the design and implementation of the structure is Cathal Quinn of Quinn, Savage and Smith Architects. The school benefits from the generous support of an active Parents’ Association which contributes to the provision of a wide variety of activities for the school children. These activities include dancing, swimming, tennis, music and French lessons.

The Board of Management also plays a key role in ensuring the smooth running of the school. The school has a strong science culture which is reflected by its current status as a holder of three green flags. The pupils are also actively engaged in working for their third Discover Science Primary Excellence Award.

Furthermore, the students enjoy various other interests including participating in quizzes and are the current holders of the Catriona Coughlan Memorial Cup. Mrs Verling, principal of the school, is eager to emphasise that the positive culture in the school is due to the vision, co-operation, dedication and pursuit of excellence of the staff and management.

The school community is excited and looking forward to seeing the work completed and turning the key later this year.

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