Image: Eamonn Keogh
A GROUP of enterprising young Killarney students have more than impressed Education Minister, Ruairi Quinn, with an innovative project they have devised for a high-profile junior entrepreneur programme.
The minister visited Kilcummin National School this Friday to meet pupils and teachers involved in the project and he was delighted to see the progress they have made and the clever nature of their work.
A total of 12 sixth class pupils, instructed by Seamus Healy and supported by principal Gillian Sheehan, have designed an animated e-card as part of the 10-week entrepreneurial education programme for primary schools.
The not-for-profit initiative is spearheaded by business tycoon Jerry Kennelly, in association with academic partner Mary Immaculate College, Limerick.
It is designed to open the minds of primary school pupils to the joy of entrepreneurship at a time in their lives when they are full of imagination and wide open to new possibilities.
The programme has a significant personal development impact on participating pupils by building confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem.
Meanwhile, pedal power replaced political power on the agenda when Minister Quinn launched a novel community cycle to raise funds for another local primary school.
He was on hand this Friday morning to pledge his support for the Coolick National School Cycle which will generate cash for the development of an astro turf playing field on the school grounds.
Minister Quinn was briefed on the pressing need for the new facility as the existing green field at the school is playable for just two months of the academic year because of the condition of the surface.
The Coolick delegation at the photo-call included former Kerry GAA great Seamus Moynihan and current Kerry goalkeeper Brendan Kealy. The school was also represented by principal Irene O’Keeffe, Rachel Foley, Paul Kennedy and John Blackwell.
The big cycling event will take place on Saturday, June 7 with a choice of distances on offer. Participants can opt for a 40km, 60km or 100km route while families can join in the fun by partaking in a 4km guided walk.
Cyclists aged over 16 are welcome and the registration fee is €20 or €35 for a family of five.
