St Kenny NS celebrates 35 years
While it’s unlikely that its most famous pupil will make an appearance, preparations are well advanced for the May 13 festivities to celebrate St Kenny National School’s 35 years at the heart of community life in the Ballinea area.
In September 1980, St Kenny NS opened its doors for the first time after Glascorn, Walshestown and Ballinea primary schools amalgamated. Since then more than 1,000 pupils have passed through the doors, including Mullingar’s most famous son – Niall Horan.
The One Direction superstar is far from the only past-pupil to enjoy success in the world of music. Voice of Ireland contestant Michaela Hogg and West End star Mark Irwin also attended the school. A large number of former pupils also went on to attend the Schola Cantorum in St Finian’s.
Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, principal Arthur Fallon said that music plays a big part in the life of the school.
“Anne Caulfield put on shows such as Joseph and Oliver before I was here and we have a music instrumental programme.
“A lot of our teachers have a big interest in music. Johanna Fagan sang in Riverdance on Broadway, a number of teachers sing in the Cathedral Choir, while two members of the staff are past members of Anúna, the Irish language choir.”
St Kenny NS had around 150 pupils and five teachers in its first year. This year, the school has 234 pupils, 15 teachers (two part-time) and three special needs assistants.
Mr Fallon became the school’s sixth teacher in 1990 and replaced Frank Conway as principal in 1998. He says the school has a special relationship with the communities it serves.
“The people associate themselves with the school. Because of its size, I know every pupil and their families. Although there would be around 150 families with children in the school now, you’d get to know them and know them well.”
The organisers of May 13’s anniversary Mass in the Cathedral of Christ and following social in The Mullingar Park Hotel are expecting between 400 and 500 people to attend.
The Mass is at 7.30pm, while the social begins at 8.30pm. Tickets (€20) are available from the school office, 044 9348156.