Glenswilly National School is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a number of events today, which will include the ribbon being cut on its new extension.
The school first opened in September of 1973, following the amalgamation of five local schools at the time – Rashedoge N.S, Keelogs N.S, Templedouglas N.S, Trankeel N.S and Leitir Liag N.S.
The school has seen massive expansion in the proceeding five decades, growing from a six teacher school following the amalgamations, to a 16 teacher school today, with 6 SNAs, 260 students, and a new ASD class.
There have also been three Principals in charge during the school’s tenure, beginning with Mr Hugh Herrity, who was proceeded by Mr Liam McGowan, and current school Principal Joseph Gallinagh.
The grounds of the school themselves have also grown, with two new classrooms being added in the eighties, before a raft of more recent works being completed – including a new car park, astro turf pitch and running track in the last decade or so – and the long-awaited new extension, which was completed in 2022.
Celebrations of the 50th anniversary, as well as the ribbon-cutting on the new extension, will be on today from 12-4pm.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 1pm, and the school community will plant a tree in honour of deceased pupils at 1.30pm. Refreshments and other entertainment will also be available.
Below are a few photos celebrating the past of Glenswilly National School:
