Knocktemple pupils honoured for promoting Irish language

Primary school pupils from Knocktemple National School, Virginia attended an awards ceremony last week in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, where they were presented with a Gaelbhratach.

Phrases of the day, a dialogue competition and quizzes are just some of the activities set up and run by the student committee in Knocktemple National School 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.

A total of 163 flags were awarded to primary schools this year – over double the figure from last year – in recognition of the students’ efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish. In May of this year, a further 140 flags were presented to students from post-primary schools.

As part of the celebrations at the awards ceremony students from Cavan enjoyed interactive games led by former Gaelbhratach committee members Máire Ní Churraoin and Barry Ó Siochriú. Entertainment by Giggles the clown and games included an obstacles course, tug of war, a céilí and a well-earned ice cream to wrap up the day.