The morning of 1st June saw the students of the Parochial School embark upon a day of fun and adventure to Achill Island, Co. Mayo. The bus was filled with the sound of excitement as the children followed the route which they had planned towards the Yew county. As the bus crossed the bridge to Achill, the children anticipated what might lie in store for them.

Upon entering the Aquarium Centre, the children were greeted by a local guide, who informed the children of a detailed plan for the day. First stop – a visit to the Deserted Village, a collection of stone houses which were lived in by the first islanders. Following learning about the pre-famine houses, the children created a craft village of their own. Next up, the children experienced the aquarium. The highlight of the aquarium was the opportunity to learn about the fish and creatures that live off the coast of Ireland, and of course the chance to hold a starfish and get squirted by the clams.

After a warm lunch, the activity which was looked forward to most was the last item on the itinerary – kayaking. While putting on wetsuits and finding the right sized footwear proved tricky for some, it wasn’t long before the entire school was splashing about in the warm water of a quiet salt water lake, including Ms. Howard. While the wind challenged the stamina and endurance of the kayakers, nothing could dampen the fun which was enjoyed.

As the bus rolled up to the the Parochial School late on Thursday evening, the sounds of excitement which were earlier heard on the bus had changed to the gentle breathing of sleepy children, and teachers. A great day was enjoyed and many memories formed.