Carndonagh preschool celebrates 25 years in the community
‘We are now in the position of welcoming back my first pupils from all those years ago, to enrol their own children’
One of Inishowen’s longest-running and most popular preschools is celebrating its silver anniversary.
This year marks a major milestone for Donagh Creche – a beloved cornerstone of early childhood education in Carndonagh – as it marks 25 years in operation.
The facility has been serving local families with dedication, warmth, and a passion for learning through play since it was first established in the year 2000.
Founded by Stella Farren, Donagh Creche Ltd began with just a handful of children and one other part-time member of staff. Over the past two and a half decades, the service has expanded and grown into a vibrant, award-winning preschool, which currently caters for 64 children daily and a staff of 12 talented early years educators.
Donagh Creche Preschool offers top-quality education and care for children aged 1-6 years. The creche caters for a range of care categories, including toddlers as well as junior and senior ECCE preschool classes.
As she reflects on a quarter-century of directing the service, owner Stella says it has been an “absolute privilege” to have cared for and educated so many hundreds of children in the community during their most formative years.
“I believe an important role of an early years teacher is to instill a love and interest in learning in young children and to nurture their individual skills and interests.”
“At Donagh Creche we have always believed that early education is the foundation for a lifetime of success,” she said.
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The Carndonagh preschool celebrated its silver landmark by hosting a special graduation ceremony for its Class of 2025, and a photo exhibition charting its history.
The staff at Donagh Creche have been touched by the many kind words and tributes received from former pupils and families, who have shared their fond memories of their time at the service too.
For Stella, the business has now come full circle after all these years.
“We are now in the position of welcoming back my first pupils from all those years ago, to enrol their own children,” she smiles.
“We are proud of our service and of all our former pupils, families and staff – and we’re excited for what lies ahead. Here’s to the next 25 years!”