Local school of excellence

The Convent Primary School in Rochfortbridge was one of only 14 schools in Westmeath to receive a School of Excellence award for their participation in the Discover Primary Science (DPS) programme.The presentation of the award took place on Tuesday, June 16 last and speaking about the programme, coordinator Ms Helena Farrell said each child had to participate in a wide variety of experiments:'Every child in the school, from juniors right up to sixth class, took part.It was an entire year"s work, so on Tuesday, we had a presentation of certificates to all the children and a big celebratory party afterwards,' said Ms. Farrell.Discover Primary Science is a national programme to foster interest in science and engineering among children in primary schools. Participating schools carry out a range of science activities in the classroom and are also encouraged to undertake additional explorative activities and projects.DSE"s overall objectives are to increase the numbers of students studying the physical sciences, to promote a positive attitude to careers in science, engineering and technology and to foster a greater understanding of science and its value to Irish society.One of the additional projects undertaken by the pupils of Convent Primary School, and one which they are very proud of, was the design of a school garden containing a vegetable patch, wild flowers and sensory garden consisting of herbs and perennials.Third class were part of a national project under the DSP called the Green Wave programme, recording the science of Spring, which the pupils uploaded onto a unique website which followed how how fast Spring developed nationally.St. Brigid"s Hurling Club notesIntermediate Hurling ChampionshipPlease note that the intermediate championship match versus Delvin in now on Saturday, June 27 at 6.45pm in St. Loman"s GAA, Mullingar.JuniorThe lads had a good challenge during the week in Tullamore and came out with a draw.This was a great work out for the older members who showed the young ones a few new skills!