There was great excitement in Scoil Bhríde Boys’ National School, Tullamore, as pupils, staff and invited guests gathered to celebrate the raising of the school’s new Green-Schools Global Citizenship Travel Flag and Active School Flag.
The ceremony which took place on Wednesday, June 17 marked the culmination of a tremendous whole-school effort to encourage environmentally friendly travel and promote physical activity among the pupils.
Both flags recognise the commitment, enthusiasm and teamwork shown by the boys, staff, families and wider school community.
Among those present for the special occasion were Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council Councillor Declan Harvey, Councillor Aoife Masterson, An Taisce Green-Schools Travel Officer Laura Tannion, Liam O’Reilly of Offaly Sports Partnership and Caroline Clancy, Environmental Awareness Officer with Offaly County Council.
The school was also delighted to welcome back past pupil and former Irish rugby sevens athlete Jordan Conroy, whose sporting achievements provided great inspiration for the pupils.
Under the guidance of Green-Schools Coordinator Seán McCann, the school worked towards achieving its Global Citizenship Travel Flag by examining how pupils travelled to school and encouraging more sustainable choices.
The Active School Flag was coordinated by teacher Declan Hogan. Throughout the year, pupils were given many opportunities to become more active and to experience a wide range of sports and physical activities.
The double flag celebration demonstrated what can be achieved when pupils, staff and the community work together. Scoil Bhríde BNS now looks forward to continuing its efforts to make active living and environmentally friendly travel a central part of school life.
Photos courtesy of Niall O’Mara.
1. New Offaly Cathaoirleach Cllr Declan Harvey and Scoil Bhride Principal Kieran Dufficy
Niall O'Mara Photography
2. Laura Tannion, Green Schools Travel Coordinator was presented with flowers by Green Schools student representative, Danny Dunne
Niall O'Mara Photography
3. Former Ireland Rugby 7s star Jordan Conroy and Declan Hogan Offaly Football Captain raise the new Active School Flag at Scoil Bhride on Wednesday.
Niall O'Mara Photography
4. Scoil Bhride Students teachers and parents celebrate the raising of their new Active School Flag and their Green-Schools Global Citizenship Travel Flag
Niall O'Mara Photography