Third Class Tour of the Old School

Mr Lynch`s Third Class took the time machine back to the old school in Donacarney recently. Back all the way to 1872, in fact. 

The foundations for the old school were laid in 1872 and it opened up to boys and girls in our area in 1873. Of course, it is still in use as a community hall and as a playschool and it was the playschool staff who eagerly showed us around the amazing building.

The children in the playschool were delighted to meet with the "big boys", some of whom had attended the playschool just a few years ago. They have already been on a visit to our school this term and some of them will be joining us in Junior Infants in August. After saying "Good-bye" to the young children, our boys walked down the short corridor to the community hall.

Signs of the old classrooms are clearly seen there. The boarded up fireplaces was once the only source of heating for the large classrooms. The original doorways and wainscoting are both still intact, as are the windows and their brass fittings.  And the windows with their lovely vaulted features, were high enough to prevent curious young eyes wandering too far away from their books! 

Noise carried easily in the room but the boys were reminded that back in the olden times children were encouraged to be seen and not heard! Very different times indeed.

All agreed that it was a very interesting visit! Thank you Helena, Pamela, Gráinne, Joanne, and Dolores! Hope to see you all again soon!