Junior Mayor initiative a great success in Moate school

St Oliver Plunkett BNS, Moate was delighted to take part in the Junior Mayor initiative organised by Athlone Town Mayor, Frankie Keena for the past two years.

Last year, 6th class pupils got involved in the Arcadia Climate Awards project which was very kindly sponsored by Arcadia Retail Park.

The children earmarked the cycle track as their focal point for their project titled 'Pollution Solution'. This facility is much loved and used by pupils and the wider community of Moate and is an invaluable asset to the Midland region.

The 6th class boys highlighted the need for a regular clean-up programme for the cycle track. Having assessed an area of the track that runs through Moate, they highlighted a number of blackspots for dumping rubbish. This was having a very negative effect on the track and maintaining this wonderful amenity became their main objective. The enthusiasm of the 6th class pupils, led by the wonderful and very inspiring Junior Mayor, Sean Farrelly was so uplifting for all involved.

The local tidy towns committee helped out with this initiative and were delighted to see primary school pupils take an active role in the maintenance and development of a local amenity.

Unfortunately, the sudden closure of the school back in March due to Covid-19 brought their involvement in this programme to an abrupt end. However, they hope to take up where they left off when schools reopen this autumn.

Through their involvement in this programme and indeed the Junior Mayor initiative, the pupils have formed a real understanding of the importance of community involvement and cooperation with local government to ensure our amenities are maintained to a high standard. This initiative also highlighted the real challenges faced by community groups and local representatives.

On behalf of the board of management, staff and pupils of St Oliver Plunkett BNS, Moate, Principal Sinead White thanked Frankie Keena for inviting the school to be part of these great initiatives and for his continued support of the school over the past few years.

PICTURED, TOP: St Oliver Plunkett BNS, Moate was delighted to take part in the Junior Mayor initiative organised by Athlone Town Mayor, Frankie Keena for the past two years.