St. Patrick's NS, Slane

A Visit From The President

Tuesday 11th May was a very special day for our school. Not only was it our Green Day, but Uachtaráin na hÉireann, Mary McAleese paid us a visit.

To join in the celebrations of our achievement of winning our 4th Green Flag for our work on transport and also to commemorate the 250th year of Slane as a planned village, President McAleese was delighted to accept our invitation.

From the day we received word of the upcoming visit, preparations began in earnest. From cleaning to making art displays to finalising an exhibition about Slane, it was a very busy place here.

The day itself began earlier than usual for this one day. The children were asked to arrive for school a little earlier so that they could be in place before the president arrived. While waiting for the big moment, the pupils and distinguished guests were treated to a musical performance by several of the school's musicians.

At 9:45 as planned, President McAleese arrived with her husband Dr. Martin, and members of her staff. Mrs. Sheridan greeted the president at the gate and lead her into the school.

The president was introduced to some of the members of staff as well as members of the board of management before being shown to the computer room where 4th class were waiting. Aisling and James talked about the use of ICT in our school and also of their class' involvement in the Dissolving Boundaries programme where schools in the Republic are linked with schools in Northern Ireland.

Next, President McAleese was shown to our Slane exhibition and several of the pupils spoke about many of the features of Slane from the four houses to the old mill to the Slane concerts.

Following this, there were more introductions as the president met with the rest of the school staff and members of the Green Team before entering the hall to see all the pupils.

See Mrs. Sheridan's introduction here.

After a rendition of our green transport song, 'Hot 'N'Cold', President McAleese spoke very nicely to the children who were very attentive during the whole visit.

See President Mary McAleese speak to the children here.

See Fr. Deegan respond to the president's speech here.

After just a mere 45 mins with us, it was time to leave. Mrs Sheridan escorted the president out to her car and thanked her again for her visit. We were very honoured to have such a distinguished guest. Well done to all involved in the preparation and in particular a very well done to the pupils for their excellent behaviour and attentiveness. Now Green Day starts!