Time encapsulated in Drumkilly
June 2025 marked a milestone for Drumkilly NS — 50 years at the heart of its community. What began in 1975 as a small school with just four classrooms has grown into a thriving centre of learning and community life, now home to 96 pupils, six teachers, two SNAs and part-time staff, and a legacy built on dedication, values, and a spirit that remains as strong as ever.
To honour the occasion, the school hosted a celebration that embodied the pride and unity of the local area. Months of preparation, led by a 17-person committee and a dedicated network of volunteers, culminated in a day filled with memory, meaning, and joy. Planning began early in the year, recalls principal Ena Corr, with a call-out that brought support from parents, past pupils, teachers, and community members alike.
The day began with a special anniversary Mass, celebrated by Bishop Martin Hayes and Fr Peter McKiernan, and thoughtfully crafted to reflect the school’s history. Symbols carried up by both current and former staff during the Mass included roll books from across the decades, a school jersey, student artwork and aerial photographs of the school. Among these: A treasured memorial cup dedicated to the first principal, David Murphy, representing the unbroken thread of tradition that continues to guide the school. Ena reflects: “Kindness, doing what is right, being a good role model.”
One of the most moving moments came during the lighting of a central candle to honour all past and present staff and students. From this flame, two families lit candles in memory of pupils who had sadly passed away, while attending the school. Music from the children’s choir filled the church, and the Prayers of the Faithful were read by a student from each decade. A plaque unveiling followed the Mass, marking the burial of a time capsule — to be opened in 2075. Among its contents: An issue of The Anglo-Celt, letters from pupils to their future selves, artwork, photographs, and even a school jumper, capturing the essence of 2025 for the next generation.
Back at the school, the celebration continued. Visitors explored decades of memorabilia displayed across classrooms. A highlight for many was seeing children light up as they found their parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles in the old photos. For them, history wasn’t just something dusty in books — it was alive, familiar, and deeply personal. The day also honoured Pea and Lily Dowd, on whose land the school was built on. “A specially inscribed school bell will soon be installed in their memory at the school entrance,” says Ena.
While blackboards may have turned into whiteboards, and the school has grown from four to eight classrooms, the core values — kindness, community, resilience, and a passion for learning — remain unchanged. Now in her 20th year at the school, the principal knows that this legacy is a living one. “The community is very loyal to their area... you’re never stuck for someone’s help here,” she said, capturing a sentiment echoed by every volunteer, parent, and visitor who came through the doors.