St. Patrick's National School had a very enjoyable visit from the newly appointed Minister for Education, Helen McEntee, today.

Pupils from the Wellbeing team, Green School Team agus an Cóiste Gaelbhratach met her at the school gate and introduced themselves, before inviting her in to the school. On the way, senior classes had lined up on both sides of the path to clap her arrival. Minister McEntee also met staff, Parents' Association and Board of Management members and local Councillor, Wayne Harding, before getting to the hall for some words from Mr. O'Donnell and a question and answer session with the pupils.

Mr. O'Donnell thanked the pupils, staff, Parents' Association members, Board of Management members and the wider school community for all they do to make St. Patrick's National School a great place to learn and work in. Minister McEntee dealt with a range of pupil questions, including her favourite subjects at school (history and art), her opinion on homework (some but not too much), how education has changed over the last number of years (technology and new subjects for example), and how she can help to reduce the number of trucks going past the school (hopefully the proposed bypass will proceed shortly). Minister McEntee also explained how she got in to politics and asked the children what they would like to be when they grow up (a very varied range of occupations!)

Minister McEntee then got a tour of the school including updates on green school, wellbeing and gaelbhratach activities from pupil committee members. She visited the outdoor play area, where younger pupils were playing and saw our school hens. Finally, we discussed our application for a special class in September 2025.

A huge thank you Minister McEntee, Alison in her office for all her communication in advance, and to all the pupils and staff members who put so much work into making the day such a success. Some pictures from the day are available here

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