Presentation Junior take on ‘Challenges for Change’

This year marks a significant milestone in the history of Presentation Convent Junior School, as we will proudly celebrate 200 years of education, growth, and community spirit in October.

As part of this historic year, the students took part in the Challenge to Change project – a meaningful initiative that connects education with global responsibility.

Sponsored by the Presentation Sisters and closely linked with the Green-Schools Programme, Challenge to Change encourages young people to engage with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and take action on issues such as climate change, sustainability, and social justice in an age appropriate way.

The Challenge to Change project continues to inspire young learners and provides them with a platform to become active, informed citizens – ready to shape a better, greener future as we honour the proud past.

On May 6, the Green-Schools Committee travelled to Tullamore to present their work alongside many schools from across the country. Projects on the day highlighted efforts to reduce waste, promote biodiversity, and raise awareness about plastic pollution. This year the entry from Presentation Junior focused on the history and sustainable education for all.

Thanks to Mrs Gavin, who leads the Green-Schools involvement each year with passion and dedication. She works closely with the children to develop projects that are educational and action-oriented, helping students understand their power to make a difference in their world at an age-appropriate level.

Well done to all the children who worked on the project, it was a special challenge this year; the project was entitled ‘Empowering Presentation, Empowering Futures’.

This year, it was especially meaningful, as it forms part of a wider celebration of two centuries of Presentation education. Founded on the values of compassion, justice, and care for the Earth, the school’s ongoing commitment to sustainability is a modern reflection of its founding mission, which is central to the school ethos today.

The project focused on the story of Nano Nagle, founder of the Presentation Sisters, the school history and Presentation connections across the globe.

We will host celebration events in October 2025 to mark this historic time.

Mrs Loughman’s Junior Infants welcomed the mother and grandparents of one of the pupils in the class, Tiana. They spoke about what school was like and how much it has changed since they attended Presentation Junior as children.

Currently the school community are working to transform the cherished school building.

Construction of a lift and new toilet facilities began in October 2024 and while its completion is greatly anticipated, the project has come with its fair share of challenges – but with determination, vision, and the unwavering support of the whole community we’ve come this far.

The patience, encouragement, and support have been fantastic throughout the project, from children, staff, board of management and parents.

There are good days and more difficult days as it is tricky to operate a live building site and manage daily school life; however, dusting has become a huge part of my daily routine as Michael Ennis, the builder, will appreciate. We hope that the project will be complete by October 2025.

– Natasha Miskell, principal.