Small school with large heart brings seasonal cheer to Emper
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Liz Maguire (secretary), Orla Kenny (SET) and Fiona Brennan (principal). Thomas GibbonsImage 2 of 14
Bernie Rhattigan, SNA, and Kevin Lynch, vice-principal. Thomas GibbonsImage 3 of 14
Muireann Maxwell Duggan (fourth class), Catherine Kathryn Kiernan (sixth class), Jack O’Rourke (sixth class) and Matthew Mulligan (fifth class). Thomas GibbonsImage 4 of 14
Nevah McCarthy, Hannah Mulligan, Meibhinn Maxwell Duggan and Brodie McCarthy from the junior room. Thomas GibbonsImage 5 of 14
Justin Ryan from Music Generation and Tomás Maxwell Duggan. Thomas GibbonsImage 6 of 14
Assumpta Byrne, Dermot O’Rourke and Aidan O’Rourke from Emper. Thomas GibbonsImage 7 of 14
Laoise, Fergal and Emmett Walsh from Ballynacargy. Thomas GibbonsImage 8 of 14
Liam McCarthy, Noel McCarthy, Jade Maguire and Zane McCarthy from Emper. Thomas GibbonsImage 9 of 14
Iwona Borepsk, Ann Phelan and Anna Kiernan before the concert. Thomas GibbonsImage 10 of 14
Sarah and Maria Murtagh from Milltown. Thomas GibbonsImage 11 of 14
Brigid McNamee from Emper and Eilish Ledwith from Churchtown at the Emper school concert last week. Thomas GibbonsImage 12 of 14
Michael Molloy (board of management chairperson) with Fr Fitzsimons. Thomas GibbonsImage 13 of 14
Paddy Maguire, Diarmuid Maguire, Bartle Garry and Mick Phelan played at the concert. Thomas GibbonsImage 14 of 14
Thomas GibbonsEmper NS was filled with festive cheer last week when the community gathered in the hall for the Christmas Concert, a fantastic evening, of talent, music and drama.
The pupils had been practising diligently since returning to school in November and their hard work was evident on the night.
They performed a wide selection of musical songs and also showed their creativity by writing and performing a special original song to mark the 60th anniversary of the current school building.
Drama was the highlight of the evening, and the children performed two plays – the Nativity and Oliver Twist – both of which were warmly received by the audience.
The concert also featured a display of local talent. Patrick Byrne entertained everyone with a humorous skit, and past pupil Tómas Maxwell-Duggan delighted the audience with his singing, as did Brendan Burke.
The Emper Traditional Music players performed beautifully and were joined by Aoife Dunleavey, All-Ireland champion banjo champion, whose contribution was greatly appreciated.
The Emper Church Choir sang Christmas carols, joined by the pupils of Emper NS, and the audience enthusiastically joined in. That created a magical atmosphere and provided a beautiful ending to a special night.
Emper NS is a small, two-teacher school, which allows plenty of opportunity to nurture the talents of the pupils.
Principal Fiona Brennan said it was heart-warming to see the community come out in such strong numbers. “We are grateful to everyone who donated spot prizes, baked delicious treats, and helped out in any way. Tea and refreshments were enjoyed by all after the concert, adding to the sense of togetherness and celebration.
“Our school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, pupils were focusing on computer coding, and we look forward to entering the VEX Robotics competitions in the new year.”
Emper NS open day
Emper NS host an open day in February for families interested in learning more about the school. Further information is on the website, emperns.ie, or by email from: principal@emperns.com.