Thousands of young children across Laois returned to school this week, and our photographer was on hand to capture the moment.
We were on hand to capture the excitement as the young scholars began their first day in ‘big school’ in St Colman’s NS, Stradbally and Ballyadams.
Earlier today, the Holy Family Junior and Senior schools in Aughnaharna in Portlaoise ushered in a new era of education in the town.
A total of 1,4000 primary school children will attend the junior and senior sections of the school, close to the Timahoe Road.
There were some reports of traffic difficulties this morning, but prior to opening school management declared confidence that traffic should not be an issue long-term due to an internal road network and ample amount of set-down areas.
The new school campus undoubtedly had a high curiosity factor as many parents stopped to view the new school and facilities.
There were tears across the county as junior infants took their first steps in their education journey.
However, these tears were mostly from the parents, as many young children have now done at least one year of pre-school and so the first day of school is not the major wrench it once was.
School bus transport remains a topical issue, particularly as student numbers are set to increase significantly in Portlaoise.
Earlier this week Dunamase College opened its doors for the first time in its newly revamped premises on Railway Street.
With 40 new students starting first year there, this figure is expected to rise to 1,000 in the next five to six years.
Laois, and Portlaoise in particular, has seen massive population growth far beyond anything being experienced anywhere apart from Dubin and neighbouring commuter counties.
This population increase will result in significant number increases in schools across the county.
SEE ALSO – Historic occasion as Holy Family school gates open to 1,400 students
