An outstanding rural primary school, praised for its ethos, pupils' attitudes to learning and quality teaching is celebrating its centenary.
Clea PS outside Keady in Co Armagh has organised a series of events to mark the last 100 years.
The school has a motto - chasing rainbows - which its principal says epitomises everything it stands for, both in terms of pupils being encouraged to be the best they can be and the school striving to always be at the heart of its community.
It also reflects why the small rural school has not only survived but continues to flourish. Pupil numbers have been increasing over the last five years.
A Catholic maintained school, Clea PS has served its people well and can boast having taught families down through the generations to the present day.
The existing building dates from 1915 and a new classroom was added in 1950. There was some modernising of things including heating and mobile classrooms over the years before a major renovation last year which led to the present-day edifying accommodation.
Inspectors recently heaped praise on the school for the "enthusiastic and collegiate approach" of all staff to improvement under the outstanding leadership of principal Clara Duffy.
They noted the very effective strategies used by all teachers to rigorously monitor and evaluate the work of the school with a clear focus on further improving the very good or better standards achieved by the children in English and mathematics.
There was excellent whole school planning in all areas of the curriculum which ensured progression in the children's knowledge and understanding, they added.
In addition, they highlighted the outstanding leadership of the special educational needs coordinator, which led to significant improvements in all aspects of the provision for children who require long and short-term additional support with their learning.
Ms Duffy said the school had developed very constructive and close links with the nearby post-primary provider and played its part in a well-recognised learning community model.
She added that the school exemplified all that was good about rural education and had celebrated much success over the past decade in particular.
To mark 100 years, Clea PS plans to celebrate in style. A book is at present with the publishers which documents the school's history and also includes written and photographic memories of past and present pupils and staff. This will be available on `centenary day' - June 19.
On June 19, celebrations will begin with a thanksgiving Mass in St Patrick's Church in Keady celebrated by Archbishop Eamon Martin followed by a reception in the school.
Those attending will have the opportunity to view various displays prepared by the pupils, and realise the essence of the school and its history for themselves.
"I am very proud to be principal of Clea Primary School at this very exciting and rewarding time," Ms Duffy said.
"Celebrating 100 years of education in this community is a remarkable achievement and I take great solace in the familial and community spirit as we plan to celebrate together."
