IT was a time for celebration and reflection at Moyderwell Mercy Primary School on Thursday evening, as sixth class pupils graduated after eight years of hard work and fun times.

Principal Moira Quinlan spoke very highly of the pupils and presented them with a certificate and medal to mark their graduation as their families looked on in the assembly hall.

Then a slideshow of photos showing the pupils at varying stages of their school life was projected on to a big screen, much to the amusement of the pupils.

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Principal Moira Quinlan told TraleeToday.ie that the 32 pupils will be missed.

“They were big class but one which every teacher loved. They were such a great group to work with, no discipline problems, they were a pleasure to teach and that was the way throughout the years.

So it’s a bittersweet night for everyone?

“Of course it is, but as I say to the parents, who are always emotional about their child moving on to secondary school, they need to thank God that their child is ready to move on. Because that is what you want for them. They are ready to move on and face new challenges and the new opportunities that secondary school brings for their further development,” said the Principal.

The 32 pupils will be split between Presentation, Mercy Mounthawk, Colaiste Gleann Lí, Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí, CBS and St Ita’s and St Joseph’s next year, but for the next week they’ll savour the last week of the eight years they’ve spent together and no doubt those friendships will last a lot longer than that. Scroll down for photos…