There was great excitement as pupils and staff of Scoil Odhrán Naofa, Sonna entered their new state of the art building for the first time last Thursday.
It was a proud day for all associated with the project, which will cost in the region of €1m when fully complete. The new Sonna N.S. building is an impressive edifice, finished to an impeccable standard, providing a warm, bright and spacious surrounding for the 87 pupils and staff.
“There was great excitement for staff and pupils alike on our first day in the new school. The process has taken 11 years, but we’re delighted with the new building and it will make a considerable difference to life at Sonna National School,” remarked Principal Daithi Ó Fiaich.
“It’s a momentous day for parents, pupils and staff, and a hugely significant one in the history of the school.”
The new building is phase one of the project and began last June. It includes four en suite classrooms, a staff room, an administration office and a wheelchair accessible toilet.
The next phase of the project will see the old 1953 building, the original Sonna NS, being transformed into a general purposes hall.
Last Thursday was the first time in three decades that Sonna N.S. was under the one building. Prefabs have been part of school life at Sonna for many years, but that is no longer the case and their new modern school will be the envy of many. Work will also continue at the development of a play area, including pitches.
A modern construction, the school is equipped with rain water harvesting for toilets (12,000 liters) and ecological, energy-saving lights. Solar powered velux blackout blinds are included in all classrooms and the building is gas heated. Having learned and worked in cold, damp conditions for many years, pupils and staff will really appreciate what the new building has to offer, though it did take time to adjust to the heat last Thursday!
There’s marmoleum flooring throughout the impressive building and there has been great praise for the builders whose attention to detail and quality of work was described as “excellent” by the principal. Interactive white boards are included in all classrooms.
“What has been delivered is a school for the future,” added Mr Ó Fiaich.
He thanked Willie Penrose TD, Cllr Johnnie Penrose and Deputy Robert Troy for their help in ensuring the project came to fruition. It is planned to hold an official opening later in the year.
