As part of the school’s 10-year celebration, a Christmas Market was recently held in the recently completed school Sports Hall. It was a wonderful event that allowed the school to share key aspects of the school’s Irish-Medium identity with students and the wider community. The Irish Medium school situation in Dungiven Castle always works to put to promote the Irish language among students and within the community – and this event gave the school the perfect opportunity to do so. The students were at the heart of the occasion – selling items they had made themselves, playing music, and supporting staff and members of the public on the day. The Irish language was also at the forefront of the occasion. It was clear that a high percentage of students, teachers, vendors, and families, were all able to sell their wares or engage with others in both Irish and in English – even Santa Claus who paid a special visit to the school along with his elf to chat with the children about their Christmas wishes was bilingual!! More than thirty vendors took part on the day. Among them were local businesses selling a range of goods. Market organisor and Senior Teacher in the school, Dónal Ó Dochartaigh said “We were delighted that some of our own students and past pupils were involved – and that there was a huge variety of Irish language products available. Many handmade items created by our students and teachers were on display, and it was lovely to see those stalls busy throughout the day.” The school also provided music from the GCD Siansa group, from the Jimmy O’Hara Comhaltas Group, and from Éinín Ní Dhuagain. The music certainly created a wonderful atmosphere on the day. Dónal also had a word of thanks of all who took part “We would also like to thank all the businesses that donated prizes for our raffle. Local businesses were extremely generous with the prizes they gave us, and we are very grateful for all the support they showed!” PICTURED BELOW: Lá siopadóireachta den scoth: Parent and
IN PICTURES: Gaelcholáiste Dhoire Christmas Market a resounding success!
