The pupils’ visit to the Aughrim Visitor Centre was a deeply immersive experience that brought the pivotal events of 1691 to life. The session began with an engaging presentation by their guide, Stephen, whose expertise helped the students navigate the complex political and military landscape of the Williamite-Jacobite War. A highlight of the tour was the detailed replica model of the battle, which allowed the group to visualize the scale of the conflict and the strategic importance of the boggy terrain at Kilcommadan Hill. The learning then shifted from observation to active exploration, as the pupils stepped into the past by handling authentic props and dressing in period costumes. By physically engaging with the heavy woollen coats and replica weaponry of the 17th-century soldier, the students gained a tactile understanding of the daily lives and hardships faced by the men who fought in the bloodiest battle in Irish history.

The pupils went to Shannon Adventure Centre on their school tour. The  tour was an action-packed adventure that saw the pupils dive headfirst into a thrilling range of outdoor activities. From the steady coordination required for canoeing and the vertical challenge of wall climbing to the heart-racing leap of pier jumping, there wasn’t a dull moment in the itinerary. However, the absolute standouts of the trip were the obstacle course and the mud slide; these high-energy highlights provided the perfect mix of competition and messy fun, leaving everyone exhausted but buzzing with excitement.