St. Oliver Plunkett NS Opens Two New Special Classes
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Padraig Fitzsimons, Mayor of Navan, Padraig Farrell, Principal of St. Olivers, and Fr. Declan Hurley cutting the ribbon to the new classrooms at St. Oliver Plunkett NS.Image 2 of 5
Padraig Fitzsimons, Mayor of Navan, Padraig Farrell, Principal of St. Olivers, and Fr. Declan Hurley cutting the ribbon to the new classrooms at St. Oliver Plunkett NS.Image 3 of 5
Padraig Fitzsimons, Mayor of Navan, Padraig Farrell, Principal of St. Olivers, and Fr. Declan Hurley cutting the ribbon to the new classrooms at St. Oliver Plunkett NS.Image 4 of 5
Padraig Fitzsimons, Mayor of Navan, Padraig Farrell, Principal of St. Olivers, and Fr. Declan Hurley cutting the ribbon to the new classrooms at St. Oliver Plunkett NS.Image 5 of 5
Padraig Fitzsimons, Mayor of Navan, Padraig Farrell, Principal of St. Olivers, and Fr. Declan Hurley cutting the ribbon to the new classrooms at St. Oliver Plunkett NS.There was a wonderful atmosphere at St. Oliver Plunkett NS, Navan, on Tuesday as the school officially opened two new special classrooms, affectionately named The Butterfly Room and The Caterpillar Room.
These bright, welcoming spaces mark a significant step forward for inclusive education in the school, providing local children not just with a space to learn, but with a place where they can feel safe, valued, and celebrated every day.
Speaking at the opening, teacher Lorraine Lenehan shared her reflections on the journey so far:
“I see first-hand the challenges faced by our children and their families - delays in assessments, limited access to supports, and the ongoing fight for resources and staff training.
These are not small issues, and they affect families deeply. But even in the middle of these challenges, what shines through is the joy, spirit, and absolute magic of the children we work with. Every small step they take is a giant leap in their world, and watching their progress is the greatest privilege of my career.
The creation of these new classrooms reflects the school’s deep commitment to inclusion and belonging - a vision shared by staff, parents, and the wider community. Together, they have worked to build an environment where every child is valued for who they are and encouraged to reach their full potential."
The opening of the Butterfly and Caterpillar Rooms sent a clear and powerful message to all: our children belong, they matter, and we believe in their potential.
The blessing marked a truly meaningful beginning to a year of celebration at St. Oliver Plunkett’s, as the school prepares to commemorate 50 years at the heart of the Navan community.