Keen competition among Offaly schoolchildren in credit union table quiz

THE Tullamore Credit Union Primary Schools Quiz took place in the Tullamore Court Hotel on Wednesday last, February 11.

A total of 25 local schools sent 235 primary school students into battle in what has become one of the most hotly contested competitions in the local school calendar.

Siobhain Arnold, Marketing Officer with Tullamore Credit Union, opened the proceedings by welcoming everyone and sharing some interesting insights about the organisation. She highlighted that Tullamore Credit Union is the fifth largest in the country, proudly serving nearly 40,000 members.

As part of the evening’s celebrations, each participating child received a €5 voucher upon registration to lodge into a new or existing Credit Union account, an initiative designed to encourage the development of positive saving habits from an early age.

Caitriona Lawlor, Member Engagement Controller, also addressed the audience, outlining several exciting upcoming initiatives.

These included the Credit Union Raise Your Voice Quiz taking place on Friday 20th February at the Thatch in Rahan, along with the return of the much loved School Garden Competition. Strong support from parents and teachers on the night added greatly to the warm sense of community.

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Quizmaster Ger Scully prepared 60 brain teasing questions that left many of the adults scratching their heads, but not the students!

The standard of general knowledge was outstanding, as reflected in the final scores.

The competition was divided into two sections: students from 3rd and 4th class took part in the Junior Competition, while 5th and 6th class students answered an additional two rounds to compete in the Senior Competition.

The Junior section required a tie breaker to determine 3rd and 4th place, while the Senior section saw a tie breaker needed for 2nd place, highlighting just how closely contested both competitions were.

The evening was filled with excitement and plenty of fun as staff, management, and members of the Board joined together for a lively pancake flipping competition introduced by Deputy CEO Caroline Collins Murphy.

Students enthusiastically took on the role of judges, carefully counting each flip and cheering on the participants.

Caroline also encouraged the children to drum out playful “drum rolls” on the tables, adding an extra burst of energy to the room. he friendly rivalry sparked laughter and encouragement throughout the event, while the children’s rhythmic drumming amplified the vibrant atmosphere.

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It was a wonderful celebration of community spirit, light hearted competition, and genuine enjoyment, leaving everyone already looking forward to next year’s event.

The winners were:

Senior Competition

1st Killeigh NS

2nd Ballinagar NS

3rd Tullamore Educate Together

4th Geashill NS

Junior Competition

1st Ballinagar NS

2nd Daingean NS

3rd Mucklagh NS

4th Tullamore Educate Together NS

First place winners took home a stunning engraved glass award for each team member, a matching school award, and €100 voucher each. Second place earned €75 vouchers, third place received €50, and fourth place collected €35 per student. Schools placing 2nd, 3rd, and 4th in both the Junior and Senior sections also received engraved glass awards.

The four winning senior teams will represent Tullamore Credit Union in the C.U.D.A National Final in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Saturday, February 28, at 11am.