Record-Breaking Athlete Peter Lynch Celebrates Active Flag Raising

Peter Lynch, a record-breaking athlete, visited St John’s National School in Kilkenny on November 1, 2023, to raise the school’s newly awarded Active Flag during a special ceremony. This recognition reflects the school’s commitment to promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles among students throughout the year.

The Active School Committee at St John’s NS has initiated various sports activities designed to engage students. Among these initiatives is the Active Breaks Everyday Challenge, which encourages pupils to take short, regular activity breaks throughout the day. Additionally, they have been urged to utilize the new Active School Walkway, designed to promote walking and outdoor exercise.

Throughout the year, students participated in whole school aquatics training through the PAWS programme, enhancing their swimming skills and water safety awareness. The school also received recognition for their active video entry during European Schools Sports Day, further highlighting their commitment to sports.

Dynamic Sporting Initiatives and Partnerships

During the recent Seachtain Na Gaeilge, physical education lessons were delivered in Irish, showcasing the school’s dedication to cultural integration. St John’s NS has also engaged in a variety of sporting initiatives, including the Skip Around Europe Challenge, the Olympic Movement Break Challenge, and numerous competitions in rugby, cross-country running, badminton, mountain biking, hurling leagues, and orienteering.

To support these activities, the school has formed partnerships with several local organizations, including the Irish Heart Foundation, O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club, Kilkenny Rugby Club, Cycle Kilkenny, Róisín Hickey; An Your Rothar, Kilkenny Sports Partnership, Kilkenny City Harriers, and Sport Ireland. These collaborations have enriched the school’s sports offerings and provided students with more opportunities to stay active.

Looking ahead, students can anticipate more exciting activities during December, including St John’s 12 Days of Fit-mas and a festive Christmas Jumper Santa Run. Furthermore, pupils will participate in the Medieval Mile Run in Kilkenny, promoting community engagement and fitness.

International Connections through Erasmus

In addition to their sporting achievements, St John’s NS is also embracing international collaboration through its Erasmus programme. Recently, Spanish teachers from Seville and El Ejido visited the school to observe a variety of lessons encompassing STEM, wellbeing, music, physical education, English, art, history, and geography.

Teacher Alice Irish expressed enthusiasm about these connections, stating, “We are delighted to build connections with European schools.” This initiative not only broadens the educational experience for students but also fosters a sense of global community within the school environment.

As St John’s NS continues to champion active living and international cooperation, the recent celebration with Peter Lynch exemplifies the school’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and active school culture.