.
At Coláiste Gleann Lí for the presentation of Certificates of Achievement for Adventuring were, from left: Donal Dowd, Norma Thompson, John Creagh, Saoirse Hussey, Michelle Hrachovinova, Holly Touhy, Daniel Chung, Paul McCarthy and Mary Nash. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
THREE Coláiste Gleann Lí took part in a gruelling three day challenge in the south Kerry wilderness that pitted them against nature.
Holly Touhy, Daniel Chung and Saoirse Hussey hill-walked and kayaked 25 kilometres across South Kerry, camping in the wild and living off the land.
The senior cycle students were presented with their well-earned Certificates of Achievement for Adventuring recently.
The certificates were presented by Director of ‘Kerry Outdoor Education Training Centre’ Mr Donal Dowd on Tuesday at the school.
They mark the students’ outstanding achievement in outdoor pursuits on a three-day outdoor trail, while living off the land, without modern conveniences.
“I appreciate the things I have like a home, bed and fridge more now than I used to,” said 6th year student Daniel Chung.
“I would highly recommend the expedition to everyone as it was the opportunity of a lifetime, It doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing, it’s the people that make it good,” said Daniel.
All students from Kerry ETB programmes were given the opportunity to participate, the expedition forming part of the Kerry ETB Active Schools Initiative.
Participants had spent a day training in Cappanalea Outdoor Education Training Centre (OETC) in February learning about pitching tents, using camping stoves and packing a rucksack etc. in preparation for the expedition.
The excursion highlights Coláiste Gleann Lí’s commitment to delivering a quality, holistic education to its students. It is hoped that the success of this venture will lead further development in this area in partnership with excellent resources such as Cappanalea OETC.
The adventuring expedition was directed by Donal Dowd and Mary Nash from Cappanalea OETC, Jeremy Wrenn from Kerry ETB.
John Creagh, Physical Education teacher from Coláiste Gleann Lí, also joined the expedition for the last leg to Beginnish.
