The Den is officially opened at Sacred Heart Junior School

By William O’Connor

SACRED Heart Junior School officially opened ‘The Den’, a newly purpose built autism Unit last Thursday.

The Den was opened and blessed by Bishop Eamon Walsh and Fr Manus Ferry PP of Killinarden parish.

The opening was attended by parents, Patricia Darling chairperson of the Board of Management and members of the BOM, local councillors, community workers, members of local schools, community Gardaí, school staff, and the most important people, the children who attend The Den daily.

Children from the main school directed by Sarah O’Driscoll sang ‘Count on Me’ at the ceremony.

Martin Morris, Principal, spoke about the need for an autism unit in the community due to the lack of places available in the west Tallaght area.

With the full support of staff, chairperson, Board of Management and Parish, the project began, and funding was provided by the Department of Education and Skills.

Principal Morris paid great tribute to the teaching staff and special needs assistants for their hard work, dedication and commitment to make The Den the success it is so quickly.

Patricia Darling, chairperson, thanked the department of education and skills for the funding. Martin Morris for his vision, dedication and hard work in seeing the project through to the end and the parents for their continued support.

Sacred Heart has also recently refurbished a new school library, Earlystart preschool and parents room.

It was a very proud day for the school and community.