27-05-2025
Wicklow's St Catherine's Special School hosts garden party to mark 50th anniversary
The joyful garden party held under clear blue skies was brought together by past and present staff, students, and supporters.
The day was filled with music, dance, and heartfelt reminiscence as attendees reflected on the school's journey from humble beginnings in 1972, operating from a borrowed room in Newcastle Hospital, to its present-day status as a vibrant and growing educational community with 89 students and a new purpose-built campus in Kilcoole on the horizon.
Kilcoole Thrift Shop surprised the St Catherine's Special School community with a very generous donation towards the running costs of their school bus.
Social Democrats TD for Wicklow, Jennifer Whitmore, was part of the celebrations, and praised everyone involved in the success of the school over the past five decades.
She stated: 'There was such warmth in the air, in the smiles of students, the stories of long-time staff, and the pride of parents. It's a reflection of what this school has meant to so many people across Wicklow. It's not just a school, it's a symbol of determination, compassion, and the unwavering belief in every child's right to an education that supports and values them.
'I want to congratulate everyone who has been part of this incredible journey, from the visionaries who first gathered in the Royal Hotel in Arklow over sixty years ago, to the current staff and school leadership who are carrying that legacy forward.
"Principal and staff at St. Catherine's continue to demonstrate what is possible when education is rooted in care, courage and community. I am particularly excited for the future of the school, with the announcement of a state-of-the-art new facility in Kilcoole. It's a testament to the continued commitment to giving every child the space, support, and respect they deserve.'
The stars of the show at the garden party were the schools 'Lámh to Dance' group and singing group. The family and friends of staff member Anne Reburn donated the celebration cake along with some fabulous bunting and decorations as a gesture of appreciation for all the love, encouragement and support their treasured Vicky got from everyone in St Catherine's, during her time with the school.
The Verve donated the deck chairs, gazebos, bean bags and parasols which enriched the atmosphere of the garden party, while Gaelscoil Inbhear Mor were thanked for lending the marquee that was used.
Fresh Today donated all of the refreshments served on the day, and The Coffee Place, Newtown, provided the cakes and sweet treats. Pupils from St David's School, Greystones, gave up their first-day of the summer holidays to help out with all the parking on the day.
