Gorey Educate Together celebrates 20 years as school goes from strength to strength
The event at the school grounds on Kilnahue Lane, was attended by a large group of parents, current and former staff members, and other community representatives, including Malcolm Byrne TD and representatives of the Educate Together National Office.
The evening opened with a musical performance by staff members and pupils. This was followed by speeches from Colm O'Gorman, former director of Amnesty International and one of the school's founders; Joanne Bolger, Chairperson of the Parent Teacher Association; Dr. Emer Nowlan, CEO of Educate Together, Ireland; and school principal Raymond Swan.
Deputy principal Mairéad Jordan thanked all attendees and highlighted the extensive preparations for the event by students and staff.
Guests had the opportunity to visit an expo in the hall, which included a photographic and video display marking the school's journey over the past two decades as well as the school's edible garden and the two commemorative murals, painted by staff members Pádraig Parle, Catríona Lane, Deirdre Hogan, Ewa Minias and the school's two fifth classes.
Gorey Educate Together National School first opened its doors in 2005 at St. Waleran's in Gorey, with just 26 pupils. It moved to its current permanent location on Kilnahue Lane in 2008 and currently has an enrolment of 384, including three classes for children with Autism.
Food and drinks on the evening were sponsored by school meals company 'Fresh Today' and the Kitchen Restaurant, Gorey.
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