Offaly students flying the flag proudly for the Irish language

STUDENTS from Tullamore College were presented with a Gaelbhratach (Irish flag) at a ceremony in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, this week.

Tea and discussion sessions, biongó trí Ghaeilge, a céilí and a visit to Inis Mór are just some of the activities set up and run by the student committee in Offaly that was recognised for its promotion of the Irish language.

Run by Gael Linn, ‘Gaelbhratach' is a national initiative that encourages primary and secondary school students to speak Irish outside of the formal classroom setting. Students from Offaly attended the ceremony which marked the 11th year of the scheme in post-primary schools.

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A total of 130 flags have been awarded to post-primary schools this year – almost double the figure from last year. Flags were awarded in recognition of students’ efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish.

Commenting on the awards, Edel Ní Bhraonáin, Bainisteoir Gaelbhratach said: “Gaelbhratach gives young people of any age or background the opportunity to use and develop their Irish language skills outside of the traditional classroom setting.

The programme aims to put the student voice at the centre of their learning through the Gaelbhratach committee. The student-led committee plays a central role in guiding Gaelbhratach initiatives throughout the school year, empowering students in Offaly and beyond to take active ownership of their language-use and learning while promoting Irish in meaningful, self-directed ways.

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“The scheme is going from strength to strength, with 65 schools being awarded a flag for the first time this year. It’s inspiring to see young people’s growing passion for the language. The most rewarding part of the scheme is hearing feedback from both students and teachers about how they've woven the language into their daily lives and the positive impact it has made.”