Awarding the wardens
A West Cork primary school has received special recognition for its dedication to road safety.
The long-established school warden programme at Scoil na mBuachaillí in Clonakilty was honoured at the Road Safety Authority’s (RSA) Leading Lights Awards last month.
Current pupils from 5th and 6th class, who continue to serve as school wardens, were invited to attend the prestigious awards ceremony in the Cusack Suite at Croke Park where the programme was formally recognised for its exceptional and enduring impact.
This national accolade recognises exceptional contributions to road safety and celebrates initiatives that have a lasting and meaningful impact.
Commenting on the award, Principal Norma Harte said: “We are delighted to receive national recognition for our school warden programme. This award highlights the value of initiatives that promote pupil wellbeing, leadership, and active citizenship.
“As a school, we are committed to continuing to develop and strengthen this programme so that it remains a meaningful, relevant, and positive learning experience for our pupils, both now and into the future,” Principal Harte added.
The school warden programme at Scoil na mBuachaillí has played a vital role in safeguarding pupils, parents, and staff during busy school dismissal times.
Under the guidance of retired garda Chris Hinchy, generations of 5th and 6th class boys have been trained to manage pedestrian crossings responsibly, developing essential skills in road awareness, communication, leadership, and responsibility.
The programme also encourages safer driving behaviour within the wider community in the Clon area.
The occasion provided a memorable experience for the boys who enjoyed the splendour of the venue, the excellent hospitality provided by the Road Safety Authority, and the opportunity to meet such welcoming and supportive staff.
The school thanked Ms Carol O’Boyle, Ms Eileen Breen O’Riordan, Ms Niamh Mac Auley and Ms Regina Fitzmaurice for travelling to Dublin to support the pupils and represent the school on the day.
A special word of thanks was extended to Chris Hinchy, who accompanied the group and accepted the award on behalf of the school. His dedication and leadership continue to be central to the success of the programme.
The school expressed great pride in the fact that the commitment, discipline, and community spirit demonstrated by its pupil wardens past and present has been celebrated at a national level.