We stepped out in style this year for the annual St Patrick's Day parade in our county town. The streets of Downpatrick were filled with lots of colour (mostly green mind you), energy and plenty of warmth in spite of the gusts of wind. Our children thoroughly enjoyed being part of this community celebration and the crowds were so appreciative cheering and clapping as we walked from the Downshire to the Railway. It was also great to see so many families and a few past pupils cheering us along!
We were delighted to be guided once again by Philip Campbell Chair of NMDDC, whose steady support helped keep everything running smoothly and who obviously puts so much work into the parade - even afterwards helping tidy up the floats and thanking everyone who participated. (More importantly he's Saorla's dad - and she was there helping him or keeping him right more like, throughout the busy day too.)
A special word of appreciation goes to Down Community Arts, who ensured the children were decked out as mini St Patricks for the day. They also enlisted the help of our local Tea & Chats group who meet each Thursday in the gaelic club. They've been busy ensuring the costumes were ready and able to withstand the rigours of marching through the town. Go raibh mile maith agaibh everyone!
Thanks to the children and staff who came along and represented our whole school community and took part. We couldn't do it without you! Thanks to our local community especially Clare and Saul Community Association for their hard work too and ensuring St Patrick safely made his way through the parade - not an easy task!
It certainly was a case of Saul Together for St Patrick's Day 2026!
