Preparing for the 200-year anniversary of the Presentation Convent Junior School, (from left) Natasha Miskell, principal, Alma Manny, deputy principal, Eileen Gavin, teacher and celebrations coordinator, Catherine Denieffe, deputy principal, Presentation Senior School, and Claire Dorr, principal, Presentation Senior School.

Presentation Schools issue invite for community Mass to mark 200-year anniversary

Events planned to mark two centuries since Presentation Junior School opened are "a chance to honour our past and celebrate our present", says Natasha Miskell, school principal.

Ms Miskell and her colleagues are busy putting together a programme to commemorate that history, and central to that is a community Mass in the Cathedral of Christ the King on Friday November 7 at 11.30am. Everyone is invited to the Mass, which will be celebrated by Bishop Tom Deenihan.

Earlier that day invited guests will enjoy performances by Presentation Junior School pupils, along with those from the sister school, Presentation Senior, telling the history of the Presentation Sisters in Mullingar.

Ms Miskell said: "The year 2025 is a historic milestone – 200 years since Presentation Junior School first opened its doors to children. From chalkboards and quill pens to smartboards and tablets, education has transformed in ways our founders could never have imagined. What has remained constant, however, is the Presentation values – mission and commitment to curiosity, community, and learning."

Pointing out that massive changes have taken place and shaped the face of education over the two centuries, Ms Miskell said new subjects reflect a changing world, technology reshapes teaching and learning, and there is a necessary focus on creativity and wellbeing.

"To celebrate this remarkable anniversary, we’re hosting a series of special events throughout the year, starting with our community Mass on November 7. All members of our school community, past and present are welcome. Children from the Junior and Senior schools will be performing for guests invited to the school for the day.

"On November 21, Presentation Day, we will have a tree planting ceremony and art competitions will be organised for the children.

"Each event is a chance to honour our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to an exciting future of learning together as we begin another 200 years of learning… we look forward to the next 200 years of education – and to the generations yet to come."