Tullamore students recognised for their use of Irish language

A group of Tullamore College students were presented with a Gaelbhratach (an Irish flag) at a ceremony recognising their efforts with the Irish language.

‘Gaelbhratach' is a national initiative run by Gael Linn that encourages primary and secondary school students to speak Irish outside of the formal classroom setting.

In an event that took place in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick this week, students from Tullamore were in attendence to mark the 11th of the scheme in post-primary schools.

A total of 130 flags have been awarded to post-primary schools this year – almost double the figure from last year. Flags were awarded in recognition of students’ efforts to inspire and empower their school communities to speak Irish.

Commenting on the awards, Edel Ní Bhraonáin, Bainisteoir Gaelbhratach said: “Gaelbhratach gives young people of any age or background the opportunity to use and develop their Irish language skills outside of the traditional classroom setting.

"The programme aims to put the student voice at the centre of their learning through the Gaelbhratach committee. The student-led committee plays a central role in guiding Gaelbhratach initiatives throughout the school year, empowering students in Offaly and beyond to take active ownership of their language-use and learning while promoting Irish in meaningful, self-directed ways.

“The scheme is going from strength to strength, with 65 schools being awarded a flag for the first time this year. It’s inspiring to see young people’s growing passion for the language. The most rewarding part of the scheme is hearing feedback from both students and teachers about how they've woven the language into their daily lives and the positive impact it has made.

Further information about the Gaelbhratach scheme is available here.