Castlebar secondary school announces centenary celebration plans
ST. Joseph's Secondary School in Castlebar has announced details of its centenary celebrations planned for next month.
They take place over the weekend of October 27 and 28 when it is hoped that past pupils going back over many generations will gather to honour 100 years of service to the community of Castlebar.
Saturday, October 27, will see an open day at the school with exhibitions, old photographs and historic memorabilia on display, enhanced by music recitals from our present students.
The events on Sunday commence with Mass at 3 p.m. at the Church of the Holy Rosary, celebrated by Fr. Conal Eustace, P.P., and this will be followed by the Gala Centenary Dinner at Breaffy House Hotel at 6.30, featuring music from our students and followed by dancing to Hipnosis. Tickets for the centenary dinner are on sale at Castle Book Shop, Castle Street, Castlebar.
It is hoped that past pupils and staff, who attended St. Joseph's down the years, will take the opportunity of renewing their ties with their former school, and reuniting with their classmates over this historic weekend.
On Wednesday, October 24, Festival Folk returns to the TF Royal Theatre with St Joseph’s School Choirs and traditional groups, St Angela’s School Traditional Group, Brave Giant, Eleanor Shanley and Julie Feeney will perform.
An event is also planned for Mercy Day, September 24, when students, staff and parents celebrate the opening of the 100th school year.
Speaking at a press conference today, Marie Mac Cabe, principal , announced the Department of Education and Skills has granted approval for a seven-classroom extension and a home economics kitchen for the school's 600 plus students.
She stated since this school was first opened in 1918, St. Joseph's has played a central role in the educational, cultural and artistic life of the town and its hinterland and it is only fitting that, 100 years on, that contribution should be proudly recognised and celebrated.
Members of the student council this morning planted the first of ten native trees on the grounds of St Joseph’s Secondary School to mark the centenary year.
Also in attendance at the press conference were Beverley Flynn, chairperson of the school centenary committee, and Ann Farrell, vice-principal.
*See our Facebook page later for an interview with Beverely Flynn.