PICTURES: Another chapter added as Scoil Aireagail officially open the school’s new €6.6m extension

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Another chapter was added to the story of Scoil Aireagail as staff, students and educational partners gathered in Ballyhale to officially open the school’s new €6.6 million extension.

The 918 square metres extension at Scoil Aireagail comprises three classrooms, a graphics room a textile room, staff and student bathrooms, and two autism support classes.

The ribbon on the new development was cut by Cllr Andrea Dalton, Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB).

Scoil Aireagail is under the auspices of KCETB, which is also patron of an additional 12 post-primary schools and operates further education and training provision across the two counties of Kilkenny and Carlow.

The project was managed by Tom Dowling from Brian Dunlop Architects and built by Nolan Vision Built, Oranmore, Co Galway. The extension will cater for the needs of the school now and into the future.

Cllr Dalton and Ms Eileen Curtis, the chief executive of KCETB, were welcomed to the event by Helen McTighe, the principal of Scoil Aireagail.

They were joined by Cllr Fidelis Doherty, members of the school’s board of management, parents’ association and wider school and local community.

Other attendees included KCETB’s Director of Schools Dr Pauline Egan, Director of OSD Mr Liam Scott and Head of Corporate Services Triona Delaney, all of whom were intrinsically linked to the progress of the project.

“As a local school serving the wider community, we are delighted to now have state-of-the art facilities so that we can support our students achieve the highest standards of education and a sense of fulfilment,” said Ms McTighe in her welcome address.

“We have strong links with industries and universities and are delighted with the additional infrastructure to support our learning community.”

Speaking at the ceremony, KCETB Chief Executive Ms Eileen Curtis said that the opening was a proud day for the community.  

“This is a significant day for the staff and students of Scoil Aireagail and for the community of Ballyhale and its environs,” she said.

“This new extension reflects the commitment of KCETB and the school management to providing the very best facilities and resources to the students in our care.

“This facility will serve Scoil Aireagail well as it continues to grow and serve the needs of its students and the local community.”