It’s been an exciting week for St. Aengus National School in Bridgend as they mark Road Safety Week.
The school pupils and staff had a star guest when three times Donegal International Rally champion Manus Kelly visited during the week.
Plus, they have received much-welcomed news that new speed ramps will soon be placed on the road outside the building.
The school has led a year-long campaign for the ramps, which included petitions from the Board of Management, parents and children of the school to get the cars to slow down when approaching the school.
The ramps instalment was confirmed to Mr. Séamus McGowan, Principal of St. Aengus N.S. by Councillor Paul Canning.
The school has been very proactive in ensuring road safety with increased safe car parking for both buses and car users. Mr. McGowan commented that “the safety of children is all of our concerns so slow down.”
Over 200 children welcomed Manus Kelly to the school this week as the excitement grows for the Rally.
Manus Kelly visits St. Aengus National School in Bridgend
Manus posed for photos with the excited children and answered some very interesting questions from the children. The children found out the top speed of the car, how much the car cost and could it be driven normally on the road. Oisín from second class, who is a racing enthusiast, asked Manus to “Pop the Hood” to see the engine.
Manus reiterated the motto of the Donegal Rally in making sure that we keep “The Race in its Place.” He pointed out to the children that he only does his rallying on closed roads and he went through the huge amount of safety equipment he has to wear while driving.
Manus reminded the children to obey the stewards at all times this weekend and to tell whoever is driving them to the stages to slow down.
Road Safety Week at St Aengus NS Bridgend
As part of the Road Safety Week, the Road Safety Authority was invited to St. Aengus NS to give safety talks to the children. The hall was turned into a miniature town and the children learned about road safety and awareness. All the children in the school received a safety licence and invaluable safety tips for all road users.
Principal McGowan commented: “The children of St. Aengus wish Manus and his team the best of luck this weekend. Hopefully next year when he returns to the school we will be talking about the “Drive for 5”.”
