There's something to treasure inside this week’s Limerick Leader!

THERE’S a certain kind of magic in a school photo - that split second, a moment in time in our youth when a whole world of possibility awaits. 

This week’s special pull-out in our L2 section showcases 6th class pupils from 79 primary schools across Limerick - young faces, full of energy, optimism and spark. 

These young people are of a generation growing up in very different times to most of the readers of the Limerick Leader print edition.

On one hand, they’re moving forward with unprecedented access to education, wider opportunities, and better awareness of mental health and social supports. The future is more open to them than ever before.

But theirs is also a world where the pressures of social media begin early, digital comparison is constant, where global unrest is part of their daily awareness. 

READ ALSO: The Belltable to host documentary screening of two-time Oscar nominated, late Limerick actor

They are growing up with more connection but also more complexity in their young lives.

Going through the many photos in the pull-out it takes us all back to that unforgettable transition from childhood into teenage years. 

There was the buzz of having school lockers for the first time and new classmates, the joy of better sports facilities.  We felt like we knew everything while also realising that life was beginning to ask more of us - more academic pressure, more peer pressure. It felt like a constant see-saw of excitement and apprehension. 

We hope this collection of class photos brings smiles, laughter, and maybe a touch of nostalgia to every household.

 Most of all, we hope it becomes something that families will keep, cherish, and look back on in years to come.

To every principal, teacher, school secretary - and of course, every student - thank you. You’ve helped capture something truly special.

Paper in shops now!