THERE were no whiteboards, no wifi and hopefully no homework for boys and girls who went back in time for a day’s education at the Hedge School Cottage in Newtown, Clarina. Lessons took place in the restored hedge school for the first time in 190 years when sixth-class pupils from Ballybrown NS spent a day at the restored cottage. Ballybrown principal Seamus Barry and teachers followed in the footsteps of a Mr O’Shea who taught there until the 1830s. Records show that he had up to 40 pupils in the secret and illegal school. Before the students got down to work, this unique occasion was marked by the presence of a number of special guests. Jim O’Farrell, chairman of the Newtown Cottage Association, welcomed Minister of State for Skills and Further Education Niall Collins, Cllr Fergus Kilcoyne, historian and curator of Limerick Museum, Dr Matthew Potter. Mr Collins addressed the pupils who are about to start secondary school in September, encouraging them to work hard and avail of the many opportunities open to them. Dr Potter, who has family associations with the hedge school building, spoke to the young people about the Penal Laws and the history of the hedge school tradition. A special tribute was paid to the oldest and youngest members of the team who in recent years restored the Hedge School Cottage from the state of dereliction into which it had fallen with the passage of time. Peter Byrnes, in his 95th year, is still involved as clerk of works in the voluntary enhancement activities that continue at the site. Adam O’Leary, one of the pupils present, was the youngest helper when the cottage was being restored initially. Mr O’Farrell said some pupils brought sods of turf into the school as a reminder of the practice in times past when children brought fuel to keep the schoolroom warm. “It was lovely to see the open fire, lit by Ted O’Leary to mark the occasion. The pupils also had the opportunity to view the beautiful display of photos taken by Michael McNamara, who has recorded
PICTURES: Limerick pupils bring turf to school like their ancestors did
