PICTURES: All smiles in Newbridge as ribbon is cut on newly extended school

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Last Thursday was a red letter day in the 70 year history of St Conleth’s Infant School and St Conleth and Mary’s National school in Newbridge as Minister Norma Foley cut the ribbon on new refurbishments and an extension.

Established by the Holy Family Sisters, the schools have a shared history and campus. So it was fitting that their state of the art new schools, provided at a cost of more than 20 million Euro, should be formally opened by Minister Foley in a joint event.

And what a day it was for the almost 700 pupils, 80 staff, former staff, members of the parent associations and current and former members of the boards of management.

Earlier in the day, foreboding clouds threatened what was planned as an outdoor event. But as the time for Minister Foley’s arrival approached, the clouds dispersed, and the sun shone as it were to spotlight the celebrations.

For almost four years, the schools had to operate in trying circumstance, in the middle of a building site, with all classes at one time or another having to relocate to prefabs. Besides, there was no parking on site and this hugely inconvenienced staff and visitors alike.

On Thursday, the birth pangs of the construction project were forgotten and everyone took pride in the new buildings, furnishings, technologies and playgrounds that are a new beginning for two schools with a history of providing top class primary education to Newbridge families for three score years and 10.

In welcoming the Minister and guests, Aisling Romano (principal of St Conleth and Mary’s) and Anne-Marie O’Connor (Principal of St Conleth’s Infant School) highlighted the enduring links with the Holy Family Order and acknowledged the attendance of Sr Colette, a former principal.

They also complimented the resilience and dedication of all staff in ensuring that the care and education of the pupils were not adversely affected by the construction project. Both principals expressed pride in the way the two schools operated on the campus and made specific reference to the 4 classes for children with autism, classes that now have the most
modern facilities possible.

The role that former principals played over many years in making this day possible was also acknowledged.

Of course, no school celebration would be complete without the pupils playing a starring role. On this occasion, the pupils of St Conleth’s Infant school gave a lovely rendition of a beautiful song called ‘Happier’, written by teacher and song writer, Mairead Carroll.Not to be outdone, St Conleth and Mary’s pupils, which included 36 different nationalities, gave a stirring performance of the old Irish folk song, ‘Peigín Leitir Móir’.

In her address, Minister Foley thanked everyone involved with the two schools for all their work and dedication in ensuring that their pupils have the best possible start in life.

Minister Norma interacted charmingly with the pupils and answered some intriguing questions from them. One pupil even wanted to know how much money she earned and, while she did not divulge her salary, she said she was very happy with it.

One pupil, David who was celebrating his birthday, had the unforgettable experience of having the Minister for Education lead the singing of ‘happy birthday’ to him – though the Minister admitted that singing is not her forte and she got everyone to help her in wishing David happy birthday.

As is customary, Fr Ruairí Ó Domhnaill P.P. blessed the two schools. For enrolment information for both schools please visit our websites – www.stconlethandmarys.ie and www.stconlethinfantschool.ie