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Principal of Shanballymore NS, Michael O’Sullivan with the deputy rincipal Siobhan Shinnick, on the site of the new extension. Photo: Sandra Quinn

The building of a new extension, which will give the school back its general purpose hall, has started in Shanballymore NS.

Principal Michael O'Sullivan told The Avondhu that Conor Hannon Construction, a company from Doneraile began building just over a week ago and this extension will mean that fifth and sixth classes will no longer be using the hall as their classroom and that it will be available for school activities and events.

The building is expected to be completed and ready for use after the students and teachers return from the Christmas holidays.

The plan is for Ms Smith to move into the new room once it is completed, with the third and fourth class groups.

The principal said that when he first came to the school in February 2012, he immediately set about applying for prefab accommodation, as he saw through the records that numbers in the school were on the increase and they would need more space.

The school was given a partial grant for a permanent extension and combined with fundraising, it was achievable. Mr O'Sullivan thanked the Shanballymore Hall Committee for obliging the school and letting them use the hall while the construction work is taking place.

This year, the school will also mark the 170th anniversary of the original building which was built in 1843. It stands as one of the oldest schools in the country that is still in use. To mark the occasion, they will be inviting past pupils to a reunion to join in the school's celerbrations. The Principal explained that while they have many of the addresses and names, there are still some blanks and if anyone can help them to complete the list, they are welcome to pop into the Post Office or school and do so.

Past pupils are also being invited to contribute towards the school renovations if they wish. This way, they would have a part to play in the school's past and also its future. All those who make donations will have their names frozen in time, as they will be on a list in a time capsule that will be placed into the new building.

"We welcome all donations, big or small and so far, there has been a great response. Past pupil David Roche, gave a very generous donation on behalf of himself and his siblings and another donation came from America," Mr O'Sullivan said.

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