Junior Infants and their 5th/6th Class buddies took another trip to the Phoenix Park on Friday. This time we practised some of the activities that will take place on Sport’s Day, such as the egg and spoon and sack race. We also played some parachute games and even made a tent!
The children from 6th Class were again invited to attend the annual state commemoration ceremonies in the Church of the Most Sacred Heart Arbour Hill, Dublin.
This was attended by President Michael D. Higgins and An Taoiseach Enda Kenny among other state representatives. Ellie and Kacper confidently brought up the gifts during the mass in front of a large crowd. As an inter faith ceremony, representatives from the Jewish and Islamic communities and the Catholic, Methodist, Church of Ireland and Coptic Christian churches were in attendance and offered prayers at the graveside of the 1916 leaders. Here, President Higgins laid a wreath and and led a minute of silence. The Defence Forces concluded the ceremonies at the graveside.
The pupils of St. Gabriel’s really enjoyed the chance to attend these ceremonies. As a school community, we have children from many different cultures, races and faiths, all of which are embraced by pupils and teachers alike. This atmosphere of respect was shown by the children at these ceremonies. as it is shown everyday in our school. All the pupils take great pride in our school and they are a credit to St. Gabriel’s NS.
After many exciting matches over the last few weeks, the finals of the St. Gabriel’s World Cup soccer competition took place in Aughrim Street Sports Centre before a lively crowd. Ian Hill of the Football Association of Ireland was on hand as referee with help from Mr. Smyth and Ms. Hyland.
The semi- finals saw Nigeria come up against Ireland. While it was a close game, Nigeria came out the victors at full time. The second semi-final was another closely fought game with India and Scotland battling it out for a place in the final. After a number of excellent goals scored by both sides, Scotland eventually came out on top.
The finalists – Nigeria and Scotland – somehow found the energy to deliver an enthralling final match with Nigeria the eventual winners. All the teams that had taken part showed great sportsmanship throughout and were gracious in both defeat and victory. Well done to all involved.
