Active School Awards
It was an early 6am start to the day as six pupils along
with Ms Boreland and Mr Oliver set off to Dublin to take part
in the National finals of the Active School Awards in the
Helix, Dublin City University.
Photos, display boards, videos and project booklets were loaded
up and off we went towards 'the big smoke'. We arrived at
the Helix at 10.30am and had just enough time to hurriedly
set up our display stand before the judges set off on their
rounds, After a lengthy questioning, our active healthy ambassadors
were not going to allow judges to leave before they had told
them what an 'active school we have in Ballyraine' (R. L.
in 6th Class - you played a blinder!) It was time for lunch
and before long, we were assembled in the Helix for the afternoon
performances on stage of the secondary school finalists. We
were of course totally impartial saving our loudest cheers
for the only other Donegal finalists from Ballyshannon who
gave a very energetic and creative display of sport skills
through movement and dance.
The M.C. for the Awards ceremony was Mary Kennedy from R.T.E.
while Minister for Education and Science got 'active' beside
us with some 'nifty dance moves'
There was a huge cheer when R. L. was presented with a Gold
Certificate and a cheque for €1000 for Sports equipment.
The overall honours went to Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo (Primary
Section) and Glanmire, Co. Cork (Secondary School Section)
After the Awards the Minister met all our gang at their display
stand. And the highlight of the trip?…. the journey into
town on a double decker bus.. 'the Spire' on O'Connell St…
street traders in Moore St and a whistle stop tour of Jervis
St. Shopping Centre. With 'energy' to spare on the long journey
home we were planning lots of PE equipment for our new gym
and with collective creative talent told our story in a rap.
We returned to the bus station exhausted but very proud to
have flown the Ballyraine flag at a National Awards ceremony.
Congratulations to everyone who brought 'the gold' back to
Letterkenny.
|
