A place in the great outdoors to play, learn and smell the roses

By Mary Dennehy

PARENT-power has taken root in the Holy Rosary Primary School, which this week officially opened its new outdoor play area and sensory garden.

Located on Old Court Avenue, Tallaght, the parents of pupils in Holy Rosary united to fundraise for an outdoor play area and sensory garden – the efforts of which reached fruition on Monday, when Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Katherine Zappone officially opened the new outdoor space.

Principal Dolores Kelly told The Echo how the outdoor space has been divided into three main areas, a space for outdoor lessons, a play area with equipment including a slide, rolling logs and balance beams, and a sensory garden designed like a maze with plants of different smells and textures such as mint, lavender and various grasses.

Ms Kelly said: “We were delighted to officially open the outdoor space and a big thank-you to parents who organised and supported a host of fundraising events to pay for the area.

“The parents, along with support from the pupils, staff and wider community, made this all possible.”

She added: “The space will be used by the school’s 600 pupils who can take lessons, play and learn in the new outdoor space.
“They can also learn about nature and gardening and how to be responsible and care for plants.

“The official opening on Monday was a really happy occasion for the whole school community and we’re looking forward to using our new space.”

For further information on Holy Rosary visit www.holyrosaryps.ie.