OPENEVENINGAT ARDEESCHOOL
THE annual open night took place in Ardee CS recently, an opportunity for all those pupils in the local primary schools to go in and view the facilities on offer. Many family groups attended and were greeted at the reception upon arrival by teachers and prefects.
Maps and information leaflets were distributed, however, visitors could also avail of guided tours provided by senior students who are also mentors in their daily school life. Many visitors availed of this opportunity and were pleased to experience the students’ perspective of school.
Two information sessions were also held in the Dalton room (named after the first school principal, Mr Tomas Dalton, whose tenure lasted from 1974-1990). Ms. Jackson, principal, addressed the audience and encouraged parents to send their children to the school in the ‘community’ which caters for all needs, cultural, academic, sporting and pastoral. She also referred to the building project, involving a school extension, which is due to open in April 2018. The original building is undergoing a complete refurbishment.
The guests were also introduced to Head Boy, Cormac Rafferty and Head Girl, Katie Commins, who spoke about their personal school experiences and how honoured and privileged they both feel to represent their school. Both of them mentioned how academic success is their priority and they are currently studying for their leaving cert, yet how cultural activities have always been a major part of their school lives. Katie spoke about peer mentoring in the school and acting as a role model for the students. Cormac spoke about the work of mentors + prefects in the school. He also mentioned the importance of sport in his school life.
Niamh Crawley , chairperson of the Student Council, also gave a speech. As Chairperson, she represents the student body, chairs meetings and liaises with management to make the school ‘ the best it can possibly be’. Niamh spoke about the fundraising activities which the council gets involved in, including raising €1200 for
the oncology unit in the Lourdes Hospital and €500 for the Dara Conlon benefit fund.
The open night also involved an exhibition of recent Junior Cert projects, including art, woodwork, metalwork and home economics.
All rooms were open to the public, where they could see the dissection of hearts in the science laboratories, taste culinary delights in the home economics rooms, lino print in the art room and join along in traditional
music sessions and choral renditions in the music rooms. Teaching staff were available to chat to guests and answer any questions. Enrollment forms were also made available. Photographic displays provided an insight into the history of the school, portraying its many successes and highlights over the past 43 years. Many stands and exhibitions were on display, showing the wide range of programmes, sports and extra-curricular activities on offer.