Down Syndrome Day is marked in school with colourful campaign
ST Aidan’s Primary School in Enniscorthy marked this year’s World Down Syndrome Day with a novel, but very successful event.
The school asked all the staff members and pupils to wear odd socks on the day, to acknowledge the significance of the date.
The event took place after parent, Anita Jordan, asked the school if it would be interested in holding an event to mark the occasion.
A spokesperson for St Aidan’s told this newspaper: ‘We took it as a great opportunity to spread awareness and understanding, and to celebrate all our differences as individuals.’
The spokesperson went on to comment that the socks were representative of human chromosomes.
‘Most of us are born with 23 pairs of chromosomes,’ she said.
‘People with Down Syndrome are born with one extra chromosome that doesn’t have a pair, symbolised by the odd socks.’
She went on to comment: ‘We are lucky enough to have two fantastic pupils with Down Syndrome here in St. Aidan’s and all of the pupils and staff enjoyed learning more about them and celebrating with them on the day.’
The school works hard at promoting an inclusive ethos where everyone is valued and World Down Syndrome day gave everyone in the facility the opportunity to highlight that fact.
‘A special thanks has to go to Darragh Jordan and Fay Byrne, and their families, for allowing us to celebrate the day with them,’ said the spokesperson.
The ladies from St Aidan’s sewing group were also acknowledged agreeing to sow a large amount of socks onto bunting at short notice to coincide with the event.