Athenry News & Views Summer 2026

Athenry News & Views

NEWS

The past few months have been a busy and exciting time at Lisheenkyle National School, with pupils and staff enjoying a wide range of educational, sporting and community activities. As the school year draws to a close, there is still much to look forward to, including school tours, Sports Day, the annual Jumble Sale, Sixth Class Graduation and many other end-of-year events. The school community would like to wish everyone a happy and safe summer holiday. Seachtain na Gaeilge March saw the school celebrate Seachtain na Gaeilge with plenty of sport, music and fun. One of the highlights was the annual Lá Glas, where pupils proudly showcased their green outfits on the catwalk. The celebrations continued with impressive displays of Irish dancing, a lively céilí mór and traditional music performances from the school’s talented young musicians. Féile Fichille Lisheenkyle NS was delighted to host the Féile Fichille chess competition on 19 March. Students from Athenry Primary School, Ballymana NS, Brierfield NS, Gaelscoil Riada, Kilnadeema NS and Lisheenkyle NS competed in six rounds of matches. The large attendance reflected the growing popularity of chess among young people. One of Lisheenkyle’s senior teams successfully progressed to the next stage of the competition, which too place at Gaelscoil Mhic World Down Syndrome Da The school community marked World Down Syndrome Day on 20 March with a colourful Lots of Socks Day. Pupils and staff wore brightly coloured odd socks and raised €400 for Down Syndrome Galway. The celebrations concluded with the entire school gathering on the astroturf to sing Rockin’ 21 and Killeagh, creating a memorable and uplifting occasion for all involved. CPR Training Sixth Class pupils participated in a practical CPR training session, learning essential lifesaving skills including chest compressions, placing someone in the recovery position and responding effectively during emergencies. The hands-on workshop gave pupils valuable knowledge and confidence that could one day help save lives. Boston Scientific STEM Outreach Fifth Class welcomed representatives from Boston Scientific as part of the STEM School Outreach Programme. Pupils learned about the Galway-based medical device company and had the opportunity to examine pacemakers and various stents used in medical treatments. The visit provided a fascinating

insight into science, engineering and healthcare careers. Rainbow Day The school celebrated Rainbow Day for Autism Awareness on 24 April. Pupils and staff wore colourful clothing to promote inclusion and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual. Throughout the day, classes explored stories and activities that encouraged kindness, understanding and acceptance, culminating in a vibrant whole-school Students enjoyed an action-packed Active Schools Week, participating in scavenger hunts, HIIT classes, tennis coaching, additional PE lessons and dance activities. The week encouraged healthy lifestyles while providing plenty of fun and enjoyment for all age groups. Grandparents’ Day A special Grandparents’ Day was held on 12 May, bringing together pupils, parents and grandparents for a memorable celebration. Fr. Benny McHale celebrated Mass, while pupils participated through readings, prayers and singing. Afterwards, families gathered in the school hall for refreshments and an opportunity to spend time together. Sporting Achievements May and June have been particularly busy months on the sporting front. Pupils represented Lisheenkyle NS in hurling, camogie and athletics competitions across the county, including parish blitzes, Cumann na mBunscol events and County Sports competitions. The school is immensely proud of all students who represented their school with commitment and enthusiasm. Junior Achievement Ireland – Energize Programme Sixth Class pupils have been participating in the Energize Programme through Junior Achievement Ireland. Stephen Doggett from Dexcom in Athenry delivered a series of workshops exploring science, health, energy, safety and wellbeing. Delivered in partnership with Gas Networks Ireland, the programme encourages students to continue studying science and highlights future career opportunities. Glanua Engineers Visit Third Class pupils put their engineering skills into practice during a visit from engineers from Glanua. The pupils learned about the water cycle, water treatment processes and the important role of water engineers. Following the presentation, they worked in teams to design and construct miniature gathering outdoors. Active Schools Week

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