Claddagh National School celebrates 80 years

Claddagh National School’s 80th anniversary celebrations begin this evening, Friday, 14th June, with the launch of a book of stories and photos spanning the 80-year history of the school.

The week-long festivities also include a “Back to School Gathering” on 21st-22nd June and a mid-summer’s night party for all past and present members of the school community in the Salthill Hotel.

In the eight decades since it first opened in 1933, Claddagh School has grown steadily to become a truly modern school in which all children can learn and play together in a safe and happy environment.

Highlights of that journey have included the creation of the famous Claddagh School Band, amalgamation of the previously separate Boys’ and Girls’ Schools and the pioneering of inclusive education for children with a variety of special needs. In recent decades, a dedicated Craft Centre opened, the school itself was extensively expanded and renovated, and children and parents from all over the world have been welcomed into the school community.

Book Launch

Claddagh National School: 80 Years of Words and Pictures artfully weaves the eight-decade history of the school together from stories and photographs of past-pupils and staff.

The book will be officially launched at 7 p.m. this evening, Friday, 14th June, in Claddagh Hall. Refreshments will be provided, and all are welcome.

Anybody with any connection to the Claddagh School, or Claddagh itself, will be fascinated and entertained by this beautiful, high-quality, full-colour book.

Retailing at just €15, this great-value publication will be available at the launch, in local bookshops and from the school itself.

Kenny’s Bookshop will also stock the book, delivering anywhere in the world, completely free of charge, through www.kennys.ie.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.