Tipperary secondary school hosts week-long celebration of diversity

Last week, staff and pupils in Cashel Community School marked their annual Celebrate Us Week.

Numerous student-led activities took place throughout the week.

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The week began with announcements over the intercom where students shared facts about their native language, the corridors came alive with flags and bunting and a vibrant balloon arch.

Members of the Student Council and Amber Team (promoting positive mental health) gathered for a special flag raising midweek where the magical voice of Ava Jo O’Connor rang out as the rainbow, Bi Cinealtas flag and nation flags were raised in the sunshine.

A poster competition with the theme Diversity and Inclusion was embraced by a huge number of students, creativity was in abundance as students submitted their posters.

Winning entries received Fairtrade chocolate gifts as a reminder of the importance of interdependence in the world.

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Students in Room 20 collaborated to provide a coffee morning on Friday under the guidance of Ms Anne Marie Ryan, where staff donned their favourite colours celebrating neurodiversity.

Supervalu kindly sponsored some lovely spot prizes with an international flavour.

One of the highlights of the week, the school says, was Culture Day where students revelled in the opportunity to celebrate their cultural identities.

The school acknowledges the huge effort of both parents and students, preparing so many different culinary delights.

Their visiting Spanish students in Transition Year treated them to some Flamenco dance, and they also enjoyed some traditional Nigerian rhythmic moves.

Many students sang songs in their native language.

A joyful multi-nation Macarena dance was one of the many highlights.

There were stalls to appeal to all the senses as students showcased national dishes and sweet treats, artefacts and national dress.

Students and teachers alike took the opportunity to taste new foods from every corner of the globe and learn new phrases in a variety of different languages.

The Amber Team guided by Ms Caitriona Ryan ensured that special memories of the week were captured with photo displays.

They are eagerly planning a pizza party to celebrate the success of the week with all participants.

This vibrant school week would not be possible without the collective efforts of staff, students, parents and the local community.

It also reaffirmed the school’s commitment to fostering a community where every voice is heard, a place where diversity and culture is celebrated and cherished.