.A junior infant on her first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
PARENTS and children arrived in the brilliant sunshine at Scoil Eoin in Balloonagh on Friday morning for their first day at school.
While the pupils had been brought in for a small period over the past two days, it was a case of lunches packed and uniforms on this morning for a full morning of activities.
They’ll have plenty of friends over the years as the largest primary school in Tralee has three classes of juniors, with teachers Ms Donovan, Ms Griffin and Ms Reidy making sure they all settled in quickly. Scroll down for photos…
Junior Infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior Infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior Infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Donovan’s junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday with SNA Margaret Moore. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.A junior infants on her first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Griffin (back right) with her junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday with SNA Margaret Moore. Also included is Grace Hobbert O’Halloran SNA. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Reidy’s junior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday with SNA Catherine Donohue. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school in Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
.lan O’Regan with his mom Brenda O’Regan, dad Alan O’Connor, nan Breda O’Regan teachers Carol O’Donoghue and Triona Daly and Principal Kieran O’Toole.
PUPILS from the first and second classes at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh were called to the School Hall on Monday where the Student Council, Mr. O’Toole and Mrs. O’Donoghue awaited them to announce the ‘School Spirit Award’ winner for 2023/24.
The Scoil Eoin School Spirit Award was devised by the Student Council along with Mr. O’Toole in 2016. This award is not academic award, rather an award in recognition of a pupil who promotes inclusiveness and fairness, is a good role model and displays exemplary behaviour.
Each teacher nominates a pupil from their class. The nominations were read out by Mrs. O’Donoghue to the Student Council members at a meeting, without naming the pupils in the interest of fairness.
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The Student Council members weren’t aware of the identity of this year’s winner until the announcement this morning.
The winner, chosen by unanimous vote, was Alan O’Regan from Ms. Daly’s 2nd class. He was nominated because of his enthusiasm and energy.
Alan O’Regan with his classmates in Ms Daly’s class.
Alan is known for his great sense of humour and his kindness knows no bounds. Alan got a massive surprise when Mr. O’Toole called out his name and presented him with the trophy. Alan’s mom, dad and nan were hidden away and came into the hall once the announcement was made.
Everyone in Scoil Eoin is in agreement that Alan is a deserving winner. Alan’s name will now join Grace, Luke, Tomás, Leon, Philip, Ella and Rían on the School Spirit Plaque.
Alan O’Regan, Scoil Eoin School Spirit Award winner..
.Fiadh O’Sullivan with Adam, Fergal, Ava and Sarah O’Sullivan and family at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE weather gods were truly smiling once again on Tralee schoolchildren for a very special occasion on Saturday.
The pupils from three second classes at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh made their way in the sunshine to Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church to receive First Holy Communion.
Fr Padraig Walsh — assisted by Deacon Sean Murphy — was the celebrant for three separate ceremonies as pupils from the classes of Triona Daly, Nora O’Sullivan and Siobhan Daly received the sacrament.
It was a lovely occasion for all the families who no doubt enjoyed the celebrations afterwards. Scroll down for photos…
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Paige Quillinan with Wayne Sophie, Jamie and Mags Quillinan at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Róisín Coffey, with Derek, Aoife, Sadhbh and Orla at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAmelia Kerins with Chris, Allie, AJ and Andrea Kerins at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Abbie Savage with Ciara Savage and Shane Breen at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanEabha Cotter with Jennifer, Tim, Siobhan and Jessica Cotter at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Oisin O’Donnell with Grace, Irene, Norma, John, Hugh and Mike O’Donnell at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanMia Doyle with Aisling, Amy, Mary, Frank and Sarah McLoughlin at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Leah Ruane with Deirdre and Paul Ruane at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAmelia O’Connor with Thomas, Clodagh and Tracy O’Connor at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Dara O’Regan with Norma, Cian, Eve and Brian O’Regan at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanFionn Smith with Seamus, Tadhg and Nicola Smith at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Robyn O’Hara with Sinead Healy, Craig and Willow O’Hara at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanDonnacha Brosnan with Michaela, Denis and Laura Brosnan and Margaret Leen at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Grace Horan with Alan, Louise and Adam Horan at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanShane and Tadhg Murphy with Gillian, Darragh and Conal Murphy at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanSophie Ross Quirke and family at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Logan Long with Porschia Long, Ger Moran, Hunter Long, Hazel Moran, Cassidy Long, Trish Moran, Dolly Molloy and Cillian Moran at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanJames Norton with Neil, Billy and Grainne Norton at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Gabija Kuraite and familyy at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanLayla McCannon with Ronin and Jason McCannon, Jean O’Shea, Eimear Bruton and Shane Fitzgerald at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanConor Long with Niamh, Aoibhín and Darragh Long at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Hannah O’Carroll with Tara and Fionán O’Carroll at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanRegan Herlihy with Darragh Deasy, Pat Herlihy and Yuqing Wu at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAlan Slanicki with Monika Slanick and Adam Slaniciki at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Fiadh O’Sullivan and family at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanOlivia Laide with Deirdre, Joyce, Katie and Barry Laide at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Michael McCarthy and family at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanColman O’Donoghue and family at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanKate Jackson with Elaine, Conor and Peter Jackson at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Isabel O’Leary and family at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanOlivia Laide with Deirdre,Joyce, Katie and Barry Laide and grandparents Phil Daly and Mary Laide at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanNora O’Sullivan’s class from Scoil Eoin Primary School who made their First Holy Communion at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church with Deacon Sean Murphy and Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo by Dermot CreanTriona Daly’s class at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church with Deacon Sean Murphy and Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo by Dermot CreanSiobhan Daly’s class at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church, with Deacon Sean Murphy and Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo by Dermot CreanSaudah O’Brien, Kathleen Ryan and Helen O’Hara at Scoil Eoin Primary School First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.
.Scoil Eoin pupils looking forward to the Festive Fair later this Sunday.
LOOKING for something for all the family to do tomorrow afternoon?
Well Scoil Eoin is hosting its second Festive Fair from 12 noon to 4pm. It promises to be a great day out to get into the magical spirit of Christmas. The event is being organised and run voluntarily by the Parents Association with the help of Scoil Eoin staff staff.
The event is open to everyone, not just school patrons, and will include a variety of festive novelties, gifts, decorations, handmade crafts, baked goods, hot chocolates and treats.
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There will be spot prizes kindly donated by local businesses given out throughout the event with raffle tickets bought on the day. Most of the classes in the school will also be putting on special performances at the fair to add to the Christmas atmosphere.
Santa Claus will be there in his special grotto where families can get a professional photo taken, at a very reasonable price, by photographer John Walsh who is very kindly donating his services.
There will be music, fun and activities for kids to enjoy. The organisers ask that all children attending be accompanied by an adult at the fair.
Scoil Eoin pupils looking forward to the Festive Fair later this Sunday.
.Scoil Eoin pupils looking forward to the Festive Fair later this month.
AFTER the huge success of last year’s event, Scoil Eoin is excited to launch their upcoming Festive Fair which is taking place on Sunday, November 26 from 12 noon to 4pm.
It promises to be a great day out for all the family to get into the magical spirit of Christmas. The event is being organised and run voluntarily by the Parents Association with the help of Scoil Eoin staff staff.
The event is open to everyone, not just school patrons, and will include a variety of festive novelties, gifts, decorations, handmade crafts, baked goods, hot chocolates and treats.
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There will be spot prizes kindly donated by local businesses given out throughout the event with raffle tickets bought on the day. Most of the classes in the school will also be putting on special performances at the fair to add to the Christmas atmosphere.
Santa Claus will be there in his special grotto where families can get a professional photo taken, at a very reasonable price, by photographer John Walsh who is very kindly donating his services.
There will be music, fun and activities for kids to enjoy. The organisers ask that all children attending be accompanied by an adult at the fair.
Scoil Eoin pupils looking forward to the Festive Fair later this month.
.A junior infant on her first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
THAT Friday feeling was certainly in evidence yesterday morning as families of the new arrivals made their way from the sunshine into the town’s largest primary school.
Scoil Eoin in Balloonagh had 70 junior infants divided into the three classes under the expert supervision of Ms Aileen Griffin, Ms Laura Reidy and Ms Veronica Donovan.
All went well of course and the little ones settled in straight away making new friendships that will last years. Scroll down for photos…
Junior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanA junior infant on her first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanJunior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Junior infants on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Aileen Griffin (right) with her junior infants class on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Also included are SNAs Anne O’Donnell and Peggy Sweeney. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Veronican Donovan (right) with her junior infants class on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Also included is SNA Margaret Moore. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Laura Reidy (right) with her junior infants class on their first day at school at Scoil Eoin on Friday. Also included is SNA Grace Hobbert. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Siobhan Daly, Madeleine McCarthy and Fiona Sheehan at a gathering for Scoil Eoin Balloonagh staff on Friday night at Benners Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE school year is coming to an end for primary school children and they’re eagerly looking forward to that summer break.
So too are their hard-working teachers and they deserve a night out after a year of nurturing a love of learning, creativity, sport and much more in our children as well as wiping away a few tears along the way.
That night out was exactly what they were enjoying when we bumped into a Scoil Eoin Balloonagh and Kilflynn NS teachers in Benners Hotel on Friday night. We hope all teachers have a great summer. Scroll down for photos…
Staff from Scoil Náisiúnta Treasa Naofa, enjoying the end of school year night at Benners Hotel on Friday night. Front from left; Nora Falvey, Mary O’Brien and Siobhan Kearney. Back from left; Deirdre Laide, Joanne Regan, Margaret Quinlan and Maria Cunningham. Photo by Dermot Crean.Robert Kennedy, Carol Anne O’Donovan, Siobhan Meehan and Sean Farrell at a gathering for Scoil Eoin Balloonagh staff on Friday night at Benners Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanGrace Hobbert, Aileen Hill, Deirdre Lyons and Katie O’Connor at a gathering for Scoil Eoin Balloonagh staff on Friday night at Benners Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean.Nora O’Sullivan, Triona Daly and Eileen Stack at a gathering for Scoil Eoin Balloonagh staff on Friday night at Benners Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanMary V Dennehy, Veronica Donovan and Kerry McCord at a gathering for Scoil Eoin Balloonagh staff on Friday night at Benners Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean.Emma Poff, Therese Greaney and Lorna O’Neill at a gathering for Scoil Eoin Balloonagh staff on Friday night at Benners Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Ryan Nix with Martin, Stephanie and Melissa at the Scoil Eoin sixth class graduation on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT was a glorious Thursday morning as the sixth class pupils of Scoil Eoin Balloonagh made their way to the school hall for a final farewell to their primary schooldays.
The 75 pupils celebrated their eight years at the school with a special graduation ceremony attended by their families and it proved an emotional experience for all.
A Mass celebrated by Fr Padraig Walsh was followed by an address from Principal Kieran O’Toole who congratulated them all and wished them well as they embark on another journey in secondary schools around the town.
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After a short break for refreshments, pipers led the students back in the hall where special presentations were made to them and their favourite memories of the years spent at the school were shared.
The students then concluded with their graduation song, ‘I’ll Always Remember You’ by Miley Cyrus and there were very few dry eyes in the house after that! Scroll down for photos…
Hannah Reidy with Vincent Reidy and Jennifer O’Carroll Reidy at the Scoil Eoin sixth class graduation on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Mr Kennelly’s sixth class pupils which were Ms O’Connor’s juniors back in 2015.Ms O’Connor’s junior infants back in 2015. Photo: Dermot Crean.Mr McSweeney’s sixth class pupils which were Ms Daly’s juniors back in 2015.Ms Daly’s junior infants back in 2015. Photo: Dermot Crean.Ms Foley’s sixth class pupils which were Ms Sheehan’s juniors back in 2015.Ms Sheehan’s junior infants back in 2015. Photo: Dermot Crean.Theo Wattam with aunt Pamela Hunt at the Scoil Eoin sixth class graduation on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanAmelie O’Sullivan with John Kinsella, Tina Kinsella, Elaine Kinsella and Cian O’Sullivan at the Scoil Eoin sixth class graduation on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Kelly Hayes with Rachel Hayes, Luke Stanley and Bernie Hayes at the Scoil Eoin sixth class graduation on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Millie Costello with Keith, Penny and Pamela Costello at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean
SUNSHINE greeted families arriving to Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday morning for three separate First Holy Communion ceremonies.
The big day had finally arrived for second class pupils from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh and teachers Ms O’Sullivan and the two Ms Dalys (Siobhan and Triona) had them well prepared to receive the sacrament.
Fr Padraig Walsh was the celebrant on the day and thankfully the weather played ball so families could pose for photos before going off to enjoy private celebrations after the ceremonies. Scroll down for photos…
Lucas Neill with Aine and Rob Neill at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Fr Padraig Walsh with Realta pupils from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh who made their First Holy Communion on Sunday, Jamie O’Flaherty, Liam Shaughnessy and Davin O’Halloran. Photo: Carol Anne O’DonoghueIsabella Walsh with Sinead, Caoimhe, Tony and Dylan Walsh at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Lexi Flaherty with Stephen Flaherty, Priya and Fawn Flaherty and Natasha Brosnan at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanSadie Dennehy and family at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Riley Browne with Robert Browne and Danielle Curtin at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanBrendan O’Sullivan with Jennifer, James and Chris O’Sullivan at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Sarah McAuliffe with Liz, Jack and Noel McAuliffe at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanElla Dowling with Laura Reidy, Paudie and Alex Dowling at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Serena Bulman with Noel McCord, Madison Bulman, Ryan McCord and Kerry McCord at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanRiley Stokoe with Eric Duffin holding Noah, Claudia and Declan and Vivienne Stokoe at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Grace Griffin with Susan, Conor, Gavin and Aidan Griffin at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanMichael Collins with Tara, John, Evan and Damien Collins at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ollie Nolan with Kenneth, Trish Oisin, Grace and Luke Nolan at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAva Healy with Darragh, Danielle, Taylor and Rain Healy at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanRiley Stokoe with Shane Canty and Clodagh Brosnan at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanElizabeth Williams with Femi Williams and Doris Williams at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanOscar Houston with Martin and Dympna and children Robin and Edward at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanFaith Prendiville with Ruth and Derry Prendiville, children Robin, Kerry and Matt and grandad Kerry Keane at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanAva Duffin with parents Garrett and Mary Duffin and Isabella, Sophia and Leah at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanEllie Madden with Helen and Caoimhe Madden, Jodie Kirchner and Kevin Madden at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Triona Daly’s second class at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Also included is Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo: Carol Anne O’DonoghueMs Siobhan Daly’s second class at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Also included is Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo: Carol Anne O’DonoghueAvery Hussey with Gary, Noah, River, Gray, Phoebe and Helen Hussey at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanMs O’Sullivan’s second class at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Also included is Aine Baker SNA (left) and Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo: Dermot CreanSarah McAuliffe and family at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot CreanIsabella Walsh and family at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh’s First Holy Communion Day on Saturday at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Alice O’Connor with mom Ellen McGillicuddy, Tadhg Ó Sé, Tommy Ó Sé and Marc Ó Sé at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810
PUPILS from Tralee’s largest primary school had a lovely Confirmation day, despite the wind and showers on Thursday.
Smartly-dressed families gathered in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church and the short ceremonies (around 35 minutes) were celebrated by Fr Padraig Walsh.
Mr Kennelly, Mr McSweeney and Ms Foley had their classes well prepared and everything went off smoothly. Here’s some more photos from the day (click here if you missed our earlier photos)…
Cara McElligott with mom Paula, siblings Paddy, Ruby and Dan and dad Pádraig at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Sophie Teahan with mom Eilish and dad Aidan Teahan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Alex O’Flaherty with mom Sandra, dad Brendan, siblings Adam and Rory O’Flaherty and Kathleen Moriarty at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Conor Hanafin with mom Jean, dad John and sister Jennifer with Jack Egan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Kelly Hayes with mom Rachel Hayes and dad Luke Stanley at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Paul Kennelly’s sixth class pupils from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh on Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Also included is Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Allie Kerins with mom Andrea, sister Amelia and dad Chris at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Keelan O’Sullivan with mom Laura O’Sullivan and dad Trevor Murphy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Michael Carmody with mom Patricia and dad Pat at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Amelie O’Sullivan with dad Cian O’Sullivan and mom Elaine Kinsella at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Emma Onyekwere and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Lilly Evans with grandad John Baddeley, brother Philip, Fr Padraig Walsh, mom Hayley, dad Junior, grandmother Marian Evans and brother Adam Evans at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Hanna Reidy with dad Vincent, brother Oisín and mom Jennifer O’Carroll Reidy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Eve O’Regan with mom Norma, brothers Cian and Dara and dad Brian O’Regan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Ms Clodagh Foley’s sixth class pupils from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday, with Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo by Kayrena Bolger..
.Saoirse McCarthy with mom Trish, siblings Róisín and Daniel and dad Justin at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810
THERE was little respite from the wind and rain yesterday, as the pupils from Scoil Eoin received the sacrament of Confirmation.
Three ceremonies took place at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church in the morning and afternoon with large crowds attending the milestone event in the children’s lives.
Fr Pádraig officiated at all three ceremonies (assisted by Fr John Ahern) and everything went off according to plan for the pupils and their families, who left afterwards to enjoy the rest of the day. Scroll down for photos (more to come later)…
Ella O’Sullivan with dad Sean, mom Amanda Wynne and brother Jack at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Ryan Nix with dad Martin, grandmother Susan Nix and mother Melissa Nix at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Adrian McSweeney’s sixth class pupils from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh on their Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Also included is Fr John Ahern and Fr Padraig Walsh. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Jack Maguire with Liam, Harry and Sinead Maguire at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot CreanRóisín Sheehy with Mikey, Paddy, Caragh, Ailbhe and Suzanne Sheehy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Seamus Keenan with Huey, Róisín, Maureen and Catherine Keenan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Caoimhe Shanahan with mom Susan, brother Jack and dad Brian at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Ethan Carne, with dad John, brother Owen and mom Jenny Carne at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Sophie Quillinan with dad Wayne, siblings Paige and Jamie and mom Mags Quillinan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.John Riordan with dad Niall, sister Ellen and mom Maeve at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Seamus Keenan and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Holly Foran with Claire, Robert and Patrick at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810Ben Jorgji with Fatmir, Anila and Orgito Jorgji at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.Ben Deegan and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ali O’Brien with Tamara and Diana O’Brien at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean. Prints available — call 087-9384810.
.Colette Raymond with Donna Monson and Cian Monson at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
SCOIL Eoin Balloonagh hosted a hugely successful Festive Fair in the school hall on Sunday with hundreds attending throughout the afternoon.
The event, held for the first time, was organised and run voluntarily by the Parents Association and a group of teachers from the school.
There was a variety of festive novelties, gifts, decorations, handmade crafts, baked goods, hot chocolates and treats on show with numerous spot prizes kindly donated by local businesses
Santa Claus was there in his special grotto, while pupils from the classes also sang Christmas carols. Proceeds from the event will go towards science and sports equipment for the children of the school. Scroll down for photos…
Carol Anne and Colman O’Donoghue at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Laura Healy, Madeleine McCarthy and Muireann McCarthy at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanPat Herlihy with Naana and Regan Herlihy at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Kathryn Galvin with AJ O’Sullivan and Kyle Cummins at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanStephanie Ronayne and Paula McElligott at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Kevin and Chloe Silles at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanKate Crowley and Claire Crowley at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Youngsters at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanJoe McMahon, Clodagh Foley and Paul Kennelly at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Anna Sosnowska and Slawomir Sosnowski at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanMarisa Hanafin with James, Karolina, Nathan and Maya Leahy at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Carol singers at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanStephen, Stephen and Tara Kennedy at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Penny Brigss and Tony O’Sullivan with Poppy and Lily O’Sullivan at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanClaire O’Toole, Olivia Keary, Vivienne Keary with Grace and Emily Keary at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Janna Foley, Dominick Foley and Tracy Hurley at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot CreanMaureen Keenan and Melissa Nix at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Rachel Corridon, Laura Reidy and Stacy Reidy at the Scoil Eoin Festive Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Joining Santa Claus for the launch of the upcoming Festive Fair at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh were Tracy O’Connor and Paul Ruane of the Parents Council, teacher Veronica Donovan, Principal Kieran O’Toole, Maureen Keenan of the Parents Council, teacher Sinead Curtin. Photo by Dermot Crean
SCOIL Eoin Balloonagh will host their first ever Festive Fair in the school hall on Sunday, November 27 from 12-5pm.
It promises to be an enjoyable day for all the family to get into the magical spirit of Christmas. The event is being organised and run voluntarily by the Parents Association and a group of teachers from the school.
The event is open to everyone, not just school patrons, and will include a variety of festive novelties, gifts, decorations, handmade crafts, baked goods, hot chocolates and treats.
There will be spot prizes kindly donated by local businesses given out throughout the event with raffle tickets bought on the day. Most of the classes in the school will also be putting on special performances at the fair to add to the Christmas atmosphere.
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Santa Claus will be there in his special grotto where families can get a professional photo taken, at a very reasonable price, by photographer John Walsh who is very kindly donating his services.
There will be music, fun and activities for kids to enjoy. The organisers ask that all children attending be accompanied by an adult at the fair.
The members of the Scoil Eoin Parents Association with support from the teachers have been organizing the event for quite some time and many other parents of children in the school have got involved by volunteering their time to help run the fair.
It is a school community effort and the parents hope that everyone can come along on the day to support the school. This is a fundraising event and proceeds will go towards science and sports equipment for the children of the school.
.Ms Claire Fitzgerald’s (left) junior infants class at Holy Family on their first day at school. Also included is Principal Maria O’Regan and SNA Mary Kerins. Photo by Dermot Crean
SMILING faces were in abundance at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh and Holy Family NS for the junior infants first day at school on Thursday.
Ms Donovan, Ms Griffin and Ms Reidy will have around 70 pupils in their three classes at the town’s largest primary school, Scoil Eoin.
Meanwhile, across the road in Holy Family, 36 boys and girls will be taught in Ms Daly and Ms Fitzgerald’s classes in the year to come.
It didn’t take long for them all to settle in and get to know a set of friends which they’ll see a lot of over the coming years. Scroll down for photos…
Ms Veronica Donovan’s junior infants class at Scoil Eoin on their first day at school. Also included is SNA Catherine Donohue (left). Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Reidy’s junior infants class at Scoil Eoin on their first day at school. Also included is SNA Therese Greaney (left). Photo by Dermot CreanMs Laura Daly’s (centre) junior infants class at Holy Family on their first day at school. Also included is Principal Maria O’Regan and SNA Denise McGrath. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ms Aileen Griffin’s junior infants class at Scoil Eoin on their first day at school. Also included is SNA Peggy Sweeney (left). Photo by Dermot Crean.
.One of the pieces of art from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh students.
THE National Gallery of Ireland has announced that a Kerry school is a winner in their Jack B. Yeats Schools Competition.
Scoil Eoin, Tralee, won the Munster Primary School category for its artwork ‘Our Community Remembers the Rose of Tralee’.
Eight winning schools nationally will each receive an exciting prize package worth €1000, supported by Key Capital.
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In their project, the Scoil Eoin students used their iPads to interview family members about their experiences at the Rose of Tralee Festival.
You can see their project here…
To celebrate its landmark exhibition Jack B. Yeats: Painting & Memory, the National Gallery of Ireland devised this art competition for primary and post-primary schools on the island of Ireland.
Championing the diverse communities of Ireland, it offered schools the opportunity to engage more deeply with the themes of place and memory in the work of iconic Irish artist Jack B. Yeats.
Schools were invited to work as a team to create a collaborative artwork inspired by the memories of people in their local area.
Each school could choose to create their artwork in any form. The finished artwork was photographed and submitted digitally to the Gallery for judging.
Judges for the National Gallery of Ireland’s Jack B. Yeats Schools Competition were Brian Ranalow, artist; Catherine O’Donnell, Education Officer, National Gallery of Ireland, and Brendan Rooney, Head Curator, National Gallery of Ireland.
.Teacher Carol Anne O’Donoghue and SNA Catherine Donohue coordinated the Team Hope project this year at Scoil Eoin with first class pupils and principal Kieran O’Toole
SCOIL Eoin pupils put together an amazing 366 shoeboxes in their annual appeal this year.
The school has been taking part in the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal for years now and this year has been the most successful to date.
“We were absolutely overwhelmed with the response,” said teacher Carol Anne O’Donoghue who coordinated the appeal at the school with SNA Catherine Donohue .
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“The Scoil Eoin community never ceases to amaze us with their generosity. We are well aware of the time and cost involved in putting a box together. This appeal really helps to make children aware of others who have very little,” added Carol Anne.
Team Hope is an Irish, Christian, International Development Charity working to help children affected by poverty in Eastern Europe and Africa.
Shoeboxes are sent across the world to poor communities including Belarus, Eastern Europe and six countries across Africa.
Team Hope delivers the boxes straight into the hands of little boys and girls who are living in bleak conditions in orphanages, street shelters and homes.
The shoeboxes are a ‘box of love’ as such and are often the first present these children have ever received bringing joy and excitement to those living in difficult situations.
“Thanks to Mr. O’Toole for allowing us to go ahead with the appeal this year,” said Carol Anne. “Thanks to my first class pupils and Catherine Donohue for their help all week and for remaining nonchalant while their class was being overrun with Shoeboxes. Thanks to Ms. Curtin’s 6th class pupils who helped us to stack the boxes this morning. To anyone who helped in any way thank you.”
Team Hope representatives Brigid and Paddy Hegarty called to collect the boxes on Friday. and had to make two trips from Listowel because of the amount of boxes.
.Ava O’Sullivan with Fergal (holding Adam), Sarah and Fiadh O’Sullivan, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
FR PÁDRAIG Walsh was a busy man on Saturday as he welcomed Scoil Eoin pupils to Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church for their First Holy Communion Day.
There were three separate ceremonies to accommodate each class and the weather stayed dry so the families could to take some photos in the church grounds before heading off for private celebrations. Scroll down for photos…
Róisin McCarthy, with Trish, Daniel, Saoirse and Justin McCarthy, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanFinn MacKenzie with Rachel, Keith and Hannah MacKenzie at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanCian O’Regan with Norma, Dara, Eve and Brian O’Regan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Riah Bowler with Amber, Rachel, Joan, Martin, Joanne and Maisie Bowler at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanJamie Quillinan with Mags, Sophie, Paige and Wayne Quillinan, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Kate Murphy with Ciaran, Moira, Conor, Eoghan and Ciarán Murphy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Siobhan Daly’s Class at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Also included is Fr Padraig Walsh and Sheyenne Keogh. Photo by Dermot Crean.Oisín Priestly with Lisa, Tim and Callum Priestly, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanJames Kelly with Loretta, Conor and Richie Kelly at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Ruby McElligott with Paula, Paddy, Caragh, Dan and Pádraig McElligott, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanConor McCannon with Mike, Seán and Joyce McCannon, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Cian O’Donoghue with Mary Barrett, Luke, Leza and Barry O’Donoghue, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanClodagh O’Connor with Thomas, Tracy and Amelia O’Connor, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Mya Dennehy with Isla, Linda, Sadie and Mike Dennehy, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanCaoileann O’Carroll with Helen Tobin, Jerry O’Carroll, Karen O’Carroll, Naoise O’Carroll, Tiernan O’Carroll, Maurice O’Carroll, Donal Tobin and Anne O’Carroll, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Mary V Dennehy’s Class with Fr Padraig Walsh at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Alexis Gaynor with Mike, Bailey and Nicole Gaynor, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanHarry Collins with Mary Goodall and David Collins, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanDarragh Magner, with John, Marie, Ellie, Jonathan, Sean, Grace and Ruairi Magner with Eileen and Kevin Dukes at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanAdam Horan with Alan, Grace and Louise Horan, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanDonnacha O’Brien with David and Tara O’Brien at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanSophie Pigott with Breda, Chloe, Kayla, Joleyne and Gene Pigott at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanOisín Nolan with Trish, Grace Angela, Ollie and Kenneth Nolan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanShane Costello Reidy with Eileen Reidy, Jane Costello, Chris Reidy and Sarah Costello Reidy, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanBen O’Leary with Karen, Isabel and Brian O’Leary at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanFiona Sheehan and Fr Padraig Walsh with the pupils of Scoil Eoin Balloonagh on their first holy communion day in Our Lady & St Brendans Church, Tralee on Saturday. Photo: Joe Hanley
.Jayden and Alanna Moriarty, with Johnny and Angelina Moriarty, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT was a long time coming, but Confirmation Day finally arrived for the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Class of 2021 on Saturday.
Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church hosted three separate ceremonies to accommodate each of the classes taught by Ms Sugrue, Ms Daly and Ms Curtin.
The ex-pupils wore the uniforms of their new schools and it was clear the vast majority are now attending Mercy Mounthawk!
The weather was beautiful on Saturday which made for an even better occasion for the families. Scroll down for photos…
Luke O’Donoghue, with Leza and Barry O’Donoghue, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Patrick Wojtalik, with Luke and Monika Wojtalik, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanEmily Flynn, with John and Michelle Flynn, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Amber Ryan, with Colin and Kay Ryan, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanDavid Mullins, with Paul and Jacqueline Mullins, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanDean Moriarty, with Breda Flaherty and Yvonne Moriarty, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Sean McCannon, with Mike and Joyce McCannon, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanJake Coffey, with Mary Anne and Conor Coffey, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanTemera Dagasen, with Sean O’Connor (godfather) and Alan Dagasen, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Tríona Daly with her class from last year at the Social Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Also included is Fr Amos and Fr Pádraig. Photo by Dermot CreanSusan Sugrue (teacher) with her 6th class (2020/21) of Scoil Eoin Balloonagh after Fr Padraig Walsh P.P. assisted by Fr Amos Confirmed them in Our Lady at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church Tralee on Saturday. Photo: Joe HanleyFionn Hassett, with Patrick and Amy Hassett, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanTiberius Gryglewicz and Fabian Horvath, with Marcin Gryglewicz and Joanna Nowak, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanLauren and Clodagh O’Dwyer, with John and Geraldine O’Dwyer, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanCillian McGrath, with Denise and Edgar McGrath, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Sinead Curtin with her class from 2020/21 at the Social Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Also included is Fr Amos and Fr Pádraig. Photo by Dermot CreanJack O’Sullivan, with Seán O’Sullivan and Amanda Wynne, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanEvanne Carroll, with Lorraine Carroll and Christopher Moriarty, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanChloe Mason, with Sarah and Keith Mason, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanBianca Qatja, with Alkeda Mucaj and Anila Mucaj, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanMelanie Py, with Caitriona Py Collins and Guillaume Py, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
GARDAI said there has been a worrying rise in young people gathering in groups and engaging in anti-social behaviour in Tralee.
On Sunday night at about 6.45pm, there was an incident at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh where up to 20 youths gathered on the roof. CCTV footage is being examined and gardaí are investigating. Damage was also caused to the railings at the school.
This follows on from anti-social behaviour issues involving youths which has increased significantly over the past number of weeks.
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Gardai identified particular areas which have become popular gathering points including Strand Road, Tralee Town Park, Casements Avenue, the riverwalk and the greenway.
Speaking on Radio Kerry’s ‘Talkabout’ programme on Monday afternoon, Garda Mary Gardiner said this behaviour is totally unacceptable.
She said there have been between 20 to 30 youths gathering in these areas causing annoyance to residents.
Garda Gardiner said where youths are found in such circumstances, Fixed Charge Notices (fines) will be issued.
They will be referred to the garda youth diversion office who will in turn decide on proceedings for the youth in question. She said parents have a large part to play in this regard and asked them to know where their children are.
.Mike Dennehy and Liz Dennehy, Helen Madden and Kevin Madden at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
AS we told you earlier (click here if you missed it), ladies and gents stepped out in style at Ballygarry House Hotel for the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Valentines Night Gala Ball fundraiser.
The event was a huge success with over 250 guests enjoying music and entertainment on arrival a gin reception, a delicious five course meal with wine on a fabulous night for the school, followed by music from Arklight followed by Manus Leane D.J.
It was all to fundraise for playground development and equipment in tandem with the major renovation and building works currently underway. We brought you some of the glamour earlier and now here’s the rest of our photos…
Louise and Michael Slattery at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Helen Hussey and Gary Hussey at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanMary and Joe McMahon at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Brian Farrell and Linda Galvin at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanNeily Courtney, Mary Courtney, John O’Dwyer, Geraldine O’Dwyer and Fr Padraig Walsh at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanGerard Hill, Aileen Hill, Catriona Hobbert and David Hobbert at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Brenda Litchfield, Kevin Cotter and Fiona Kirby at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanBenny Murphy, Claire Murphy, Martin O’Connor, Maura O’Connor, Jimmy Rogers and Kevin Rogers at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanAudrey Lane, Jennifer O’Rourke, Grainne Kirby and Fergal Kirby at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Nora O’Sullivan, Marie Kelly and Lillian Healy at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanSally Ryle and Lucy Crowe at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Justin and Madeleine McCarthy at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanGiles and Aoife O’Connor at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanChristina Slattery and Catherine Ryan at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanBarry and Maura O’Shea, Breda and Michael McMahon, Ger and Vivienne O’Brien and Oliver and Claire Molloy at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanElaine and Mike O’Sullivan with Shona Murphy and Elaine Kinsella at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanCatriona Py Collins and Guillaume Py at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Padraig McElligott and Paula McElligott, Norma O’Regan and Brian O’Regan at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE Scoil Eoin Balloonagh community was out in force on Friday night and didn’t they all look stylish!
Local businesses, parents, boards of management, parents association, staff members past and present, families and friends gathered at Ballygarry House Hotel & Spa to celebrate Valentines Night with a Gala Ball.
Guests were entertained on arrival with the antics of ‘The Tall Gent’ – Malachy Kelly and by the gifted Deirdre Millane (a teacher in Scoil Eoin) on piano in the foyer.
A gin reception sponsored by Garnish Island Gin set the night off in great spirits before everyone was treated to a very impressive 5 course meal and wine.
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A raffle sponsored by Ned O Shea & Sons Construction Ltd for one nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast in Adare Manor Hotel was also held before guests kicked back their heels to dance the night away to the wonderful Arklight followed by Manus Leane D.J.
“The Valentine’s Ball was organised as the first of many events planned over the next 18 months to fundraise for playground development and equipment in tandem with the major renovation and building works currently underway,” said principal Kieran O Toole, as he addressed the gathering on the night and thanked everyone for their generosity and support for the school.
The school has set a target of €55,000 over the next 18 months and hoped to raise in the region of €15,000 with this event.
Mr. O Toole described the night as “a credit to the organising committee (Áine Baker, Sinéad Curtin, Noreen Rusk, Veronica Donovan, Carol Anne O Donoghue & Tina Conway) and a sign of the generosity of the local businesses and school community that we have gathered in excess of €25,000 to date.” Scroll down for photos…
Kieran and Carol Anne O’Donoghue at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Alan Freeman and Laura Freeman at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanUna and Donagh O’Mahony at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Tommy Healy, Laura Healy, Sandra O’Flaherty and Brendan O’Flaherty at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanAine Baker and Billy Baker at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Margaret Hoare and Eileen Stack at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanMarie Hill and Emma Poff at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Gary Meehan and Siobhan Meehan at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanTina O’Gorman and Siobhan Daly at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Paul Kennelly and Sinead Rath at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanPat and Patricia Carmody at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanRobert and Caroline Kennedy at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanJohn Flynn and Michelle Flynn at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanKayrena Bolger, Mary B Murphy, Kate Fitzgerald and Mary V Dennehy at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanAine Baker, Therese Greaney, Veronica Donovan and Sinead Curtin at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanPatrice and Graham Gleasure at the Scoil Eoin Valentine’s Ball in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Looking forward to the Scoil Eoin St Valentine’s Ball.
WE know it’s early, but if you’re making any plans for St Valentine’s night, you might consider this fundraiser from Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh.
There is a great buzz of excitement around the school as they monitor the progress of their new building and the fundraising committee are organising a Valentine’s Ball to raise funds to develop playgrounds and playing areas around the new structure.
“We are so aware of the benefits of play and exercise for our children, that we want to ensure that we are providing them with the best we can, as we face into a new decade,” says principal Kieran O’Toole. Plans for the proposed new playgrounds are due to be unveiled this week.
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“We are hoping to be joined by our past pupils, parents of past pupils, members of our school community and indeed anyone who would like a good night out”.
He also added that he hoped the night might appeal to groups of singletons, looking for a glamorous night out.
The Valentine’s Ball will be held in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday, February 14. Proceedings will begin with a Garnish Island Gin reception accompanied by classical pianist Deirdre Millane.
This will be followed by a five course meal and then dancing to Arklight followed by a disco by DJ Manus Leane. Tickets priced at €100 each are available from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh reception. Cocktail/black tie attire is optional.
.Some of Ms Lyons’ fifth class pupils with ‘Abba Fever’ ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE excitement was palpable on Wednesday when we called to Scoil Eoin to catch the pupils preparing for the annual Christmas concert.
Taking place over Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, it’s always a huge undertaking with hundreds of pupils taking part every year and teachers have been getting their charges ready over the past few weeks to entertain family members in the audience.
Of course, the show is different every night because of the amount of pupils involved and on Wednesday, Mrs Donovan’s Junior Infants assisted by Margaret Hoare opened the show with ‘So Many Superheroes’ featuring Batman, Flash, Santa Claus, princesses and teachers and SNAs, accompanied on piano by Ms Daly.
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Next up were Mrs Hill’s 1st Class with “Save the Bees”, followed by the third classes of Mrs. McCarthy, Ms. Hill and Mrs Kennedy — ably assisted by Sally Ryle and Lilian Culhane — presented ‘A Christmas Medley’ of carols accompanied on piano by Ms Daly.
Sally Ryle’s orchestra assisted by Kathryn Moore entertained with ukuleles, kazoos and tambourines to play Christmas festive favourites, while the final act of the night was Ms Lyons’ 5th Class with “ABBA Fever” – an entertaining lively selection of ABBA songs to song and dance along to.
The fun continues on Thursday night with many more pupils taking the stage with a different show but the same amount of enthusiasm and fun. Scroll down for photos…
Some of Ms O’Donovan’s ‘Superhero’ Junior Infants ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Ms Lyons’ fifth class pupils with ‘Abba Fever’ ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanSome of Ms Kennedy’s third class pupils who performed ‘A Christmas Medley’ at the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Ms O’Donovan’s ‘Superhero’ Junior Infants ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanSome of Ms Lyons’ fifth class pupils with ‘Abba Fever’ ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Mrs McCarthy’s third class pupils who performed ‘A Christmas Medley’ at the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanSome of Ms Hill’s third class pupils who performed ‘A Christmas Medley’ at the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Ms Hill’s third class pupils who performed ‘A Christmas Medley’ at the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanSome of Ms O’Donovan’s ‘Superhero’ Junior Infants ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Ms Lyons’ fifth class pupils with ‘Abba Fever’ ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanSome of Ms Lyons’ fifth class pupils with ‘Abba Fever’ ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Ms Lyons’ fifth class pupils with ‘Abba Fever’ ready for the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanSome of Ms Hill’s third class pupils who performed ‘A Christmas Medley’ at the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean.Some of Mrs McCarthy’s third class pupils who performed ‘A Christmas Medley’ at the Scoil Eoin Christmas Concert on Wednesday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanThe Scoil Eoin Ukulele Orchestra under the tutelage of Sally Ryle (assisted by Catherine Moore) preparing to go on stage at the Christmas Concert on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Scoil Eoin pupils with Principal Kieran O’Toole and teacher Carol Anne O’Donoghue.
SCOIL Eoin Balloonagh took part in the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal once again this year for Team Hope and hundreds of boxes were made up.
The project was undertaken by the Student Council with the help of their coordinator Mrs. Carol Anne O’Donoghue. They were overwhelmed with the response and generosity of all the parents and pupils of Scoil Eoin year in year out.
Putting a box together is time consuming and expensive so all efforts are greatly appreciated. In total over 356 were collected and Team Hope representatives Mick O’Connell collected the boxes this morning. All boxes will shortly be en route to these children in need.
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Team Hope is an Irish, Christian, International Development Charity working to help children affected by poverty in Eastern Europe and Africa.
Last year 270,000 boxes were collected and sent across the world to poor communities including Belarus, Eastern Europe and six countries across Africa.
Team Hope delivers the boxes straight into the hands of little boys and girls who are living in bleak conditions in orphanages, street shelters and homes.
The shoeboxes are a ‘box of love’ as such and are often the first present these children have ever received. Every single box makes a huge difference. Each box is different because every child is different. Shoeboxes are given based on need alone and bring joy and excitement to these children living in difficult situations.
.Catherine Sugrue (centre with husband Joe, son Joseph, daughter Emma and son-in-law Brendan Poff at her retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT was a night of celebration and reflection as a much-loved teacher was joined by family and work colleagues at her retirement party.
Taking place in Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night, Catherine Sugrue was saying farewell to teaching after 37 years in Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh.
Originally from Lohercannan, now living in Caherslee, having qualified as a teacher, Catherine spent one year in St Ita’s and St Joseph’s before moving across the road to the school at Balloonagh.
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Catherine, who officially finishes up this Friday, said she would miss her colleagues and the pupils, but said she would keep in touch and would no doubt meet the teaching staff out socially.
She was joined at the party by her husband Joe, son Joseph and daughter Emma with her husband Brendan Poff. A buffet of delicious food was laid on and a great night was had. Scroll down for photos…
Mary McMahon, Frances Fitzgerald and Linda Dennehy at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Emma and Brendan Poff, Carmel O’Flynn and Deirdre Millane at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanCaroline Kennedy and Laura Reidy at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Carol Anne O’Donoghue, Fiona Sheehan and Kayrena Bolger at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanDenise O’Dowd, Kathleen Houlihan and Carol Johnson at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Catherine Ryan and Christina Slattery at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanDeirdre Millane, Mike O’Toole, Therese Greaney, Veronica O’Donovan, Principal of Scoil Eoin Kieran O’Toole and Deirdre Lyons at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean.Aine Baker and Sinead Curtin at Catherine Sugrue’s retirement party at Ballygarry House Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Staff at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh, wish retiring Deputy Principal Rena O’Connell (seated centre) the best in her retirement at the school on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
SHE’S pretty much been there since she was four years old, but it was time for Rena O’Connell to say goodbye to Scoil Eoin in Balloonagh on Thursday.
As the junior infants were beginning their educational journey, the deputy principal was ending her time teaching after 39 years.
Originally from Ballymac, now in Ardfert, Rena actually went to Balloonagh primary and secondary school before studying in Mary Immaculate College to become a teacher. She got a job at her alma mater and has remained there since.
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It was an emotional day for Rena and tributes were paid to her by her colleagues and the Principal Kieran O’Toole at a special party at the school on Thursday afternoon to mark the occasion.
“She’s been here all her life really. Rene has been deputy principal for the past five years and did an absolutely tremendous job. She’s been fantastic with the children and will be sorely missed,” said the Principal.
Principal of Scoil Eoin Balloonagh, Kieran O’Toole and retiring Deputy Principal Rena O’Connell at the school on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Rena’s family had the Kerry Bookshop on Bridge Street and she said she came to the school even before she started primary.
“We used to deliver the papers here and I’d be in the back of the Morris Minor, so I can’t remember when I first came to the school,” she said.
“It’s the end of an era for me,” said Rena. “I’ll miss it, but I’ll pop in now and again to help out.”
Rena, who is married to Sean, and has two children, James and Aoife, has no plans for retirement but plans to meet up regularly with other teachers who have retired recently.
.Leon O’Connor (seated) with his award surround by Student Council members and teacher Carol Anne O’Donoghue.
ONE pupil in Scoil Eoin Balloonagh received a pleasant surprise on Monday morning when he was announced as the 2019 School Spirit Award winner.
All fifth and sixth class pupils were asked to congregate in the halla for the announcement of Leon O’Connor as the recipient.
The School Spirit Award was devised by Mr. O’Toole and the Student Council members in 2016. Every teacher in the school was asked to nominate a child who showed school spirit by promoting inclusiveness in class, by increasing an awareness of fairness in the class, by showing exemplary behaviour and being a positive role model.
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All nominations were read out by the Student Council coordinator Mrs. Carol Anne O’Donoghue, during a meeting last month.
The identity of the pupil and teacher remained anonymous at all times until a consensus was reached. An overwhelming majority voted for this year’s winner, Leon who is in Ms. Lyon’s sixth class.
Leon was chosen because of his kindness, modesty and tremendous maturity. His family had been tipped off and were there to celebrate with Leon.
To say that Leon was shocked is an understatement. Everyone was in agreement that Leon is a deserving winner. His name has been added to the School Spirit plaque with previous winners Grace Bright, Luke O’Donoghue and Tomás Kennedy.
.Róisín Sheehy and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
THERE was beautiful weather on Saturday morning as families arrived for Scoil Eoin’s First Holy Communion Day.
Taking place in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church, three classes of pupils received the sacrament watched by their families in the packed church.
The families also had wonderful weather for photographs. Scroll down for photos…
Amelie O’Sullivan and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Communion girl Ally Kerins with parents Andrea and Chris, Marie Kelly, Stella Kerins, Amelia Kerins Brian Kerins and Emma Nash at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanKelly Hayes and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Brian, Caoimhe and Susan Shanahan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanJack, Sean, Ella and Amanda O’Sullivan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Jean, John and Conor Hannafin, Donal, Denise, Gearóid and Caoimhe Corcoran and Pamela. Cody and Johann Hunt at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanChloe O’Halloran with Laura, Adrienne, Ger and Rory O’Hallloran at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Aidan, Sophie and Eilish Teahon at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanRyan Moriarty with Aileen Powell, Jake Moriarty, Georgia Moriarty, Martin Donovan and Ross Moriarty at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Seamus Keenan with Hughie, Maureen, Catherine and Roisín Keenan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot CreanJack Maguire with Sinead, Harry and Liam Maguire at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh First Holy Communion Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Saturday. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Fifth class pupils from Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh, taking part in the Creative Schools Project. Photo by John Cleary
SCOIL Eoin in Tralee is one of 150 schools chosen from approximately 400 applications to take part in the Creative Schools pilot project.
This initiative aims to put arts and creativity at the heart of children and young people’s lives by developing arts and creativity in schools. Faha National School, Fybough National School, Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine and Presentation Primary School Tralee are the other Kerry schools selected.
For the last six weeks, almost ninety children in Scoil Eoin’s 5th classes have been working together on their first Creative School’s venture, assisted by creative associate Naomi Cahill.
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“I linked the school with a range of professional artists,” explains Naomi, “which gave students the chance to participate in arts and creative workshops. We also created a long-term sustainable plan to increase teachers’ confidence in arts and creative teaching and provide further opportunities to students.”
Fifth class pupils from Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh, taking part in the Creative Schools Project. Photo by John Cleary
Ms. Foley’s class worked with writer Paul Murphy in a number of creative writing workshops. Mr. Kennedy’s class then began visual art workshops with Abe Boland. Mr. Brosnan’s class worked with musician Andrew ‘Skatz’ Scattergood.
The children also enjoyed drama workshops with drama teacher Sharon Costello in preparation of the performance.
Teacher Sinead Curtin also worked with ninety 4th class students to immerse them in a series of creative workshops. Students had the opportunity to work with a range of renowned artistic professionals including: Joan Hickson (Costume Designer), Martin Schaerer (Percussionist) and Clarissa Michaux (Dance Artist).
“My aim was to have this project child-led from start to finish,” says Veronica Donovan, teacher and Creative School co-ordinator. “I wanted the children’s voice and creativity to be heard throughout. The learning was fun, and the process was enjoyed by teachers and students alike.”
The final script was brought to life on stage by the Project Based Learning Class on the school’s first ‘Day of Celebration’.
“You’re not in your shadow,” a delighted student explained after the performance. “You’re not scared to do anything. I felt in my gut that I did that, and I got to say, ‘I did that’.”
“The implementation of the Creative Schools Programme in Scoil Eoin has been hugely successful,” says Mr. O’Toole, Principal. “The children and staff have enjoyed stepping beyond their comfort zones in exploring music, art & drama bringing their work together through a range of creative approaches. The support from our facilitator and artistic practitioners has been top class and the collaborative process has been both imaginative and reflective. We look forward to continued engagement in this highly rewarding programme.”
Creative Schools is an Arts Council-led initiative of the Creative Ireland programme, in collaboration with the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the Department of Education and Skills.
.Pupil Erin O’Sullivan with dad Paul, sisters Megan and Louise and mom Caroline at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
THREE classes from Scoil Eoin Balloonagh received their Confirmation at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday.
Bishop of Kerry, Ray Browne was present along with a number of clergy for the occasion and families packed the church as the pupils received the sacrament. Scroll down for photos…
Ms Sugrue’s sixth class at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Pupil Barry Nagle (centre) with Joey, Eileen, Malachy and Katie Nagle at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanPupil Eoin White with family at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Pupil Rachel O’Mahony (centre) with Donagh, Ava, Una and Grace O’Mahony at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Daly’s sixth class at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Pupil Jamie Lynn Dennehy with godmother Niamh O’Sullivan and mom Louise Dennehy at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanPupil Conor Galvin with Martin and Luke Galvin and Denise O’Connell at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Pupil Meghan Rusk with Brian, Dean and Noreen Rusk at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot CreanMs Baker and Ms Lyne’s sixth class at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.Pupil Deirdre Quigley with James, Siobhan, Sarah, Shauna and James Quigley at the Scoil Eoin Confirmation Day in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean.
GARDAI said there has been a worrying rise in young people gathering in groups and engaging in anti-social behaviour in Tralee.
