Excitement and energy were in the air today as the children from 4th to 6th class represented Cloonlyon National School in the highly anticipated FAI 5-a-side competition. With skills sharpened and spirits high, the team took to the pitch, eager to showcase their talent and determination.

The group stage was thrilling, with Cloonlyon facing off against Bohola and Kilmovee twice in a series of high-intensity matches. Every game was packed with end-to-end football as the players gave their all in pursuit of victory. As the group matches progressed, the stakes grew higher, culminating in a must-win final group match to secure a place in the semi-finals. Rising to the challenge, the team displayed resilience and teamwork, edging out a hard-fought win that earned them a well-deserved spot in the next stage of the competition.

In the semi-final, Cloonlyon came up against a strong and skilful Tourmakeady side. Despite their best efforts and unwavering commitment, our team bowed out of the competition after a fantastic battle on the pitch.

While the journey may have ended in the semi-finals, the pride and joy of representing the school shone brightly in each player. It was a day filled with camaraderie, determination, and sportsmanship, and every child who took part should be incredibly proud of their performance.

​Congratulations to all involved—you did Cloonlyon National School proud!

In the Senior Room at Cloonlyon NS, we have been diving deep into the explosive world of volcanoes! Our recent project explored how these powerful forces of nature can be both destructive and creative, shaping our planet in fascinating ways.

What We Learned
We started by asking an important question: Are volcanoes good or bad? We quickly discovered that the answer isn’t so simple! 🌍

• Destructive Volcanoes 💥 – We learned that when a volcano erupts violently, it can cause lava flows, ash clouds, and earthquakes , sometimes destroying towns and landscapes. Famous examples include Mount St. Helens in the USA and Mount Vesuvius in Italy, which buried the city of Pompeii in AD 79!
  
• Creative Volcanoes 🌱 – But volcanoes don’t just destroy; they also create! When lava cools, it forms new land. Some islands, like Hawaii and Iceland, were made by volcanic activity. The ash from eruptions also makes the soil incredibly fertile, helping plants grow.

Types of Volcanoes Around the World
We explored the different types of volcanoes scientists have identified:

1. Shield Volcanoes – Wide, sloping, and known for gentle lava flows (e.g. Kīlauea, Hawaii).
   
2. Composite Volcanoes – Tall, cone-shaped, with explosive eruptions (e.g. Mount Fuji, Japan).
   
3. Cinder Cone Volcanoes – Small but powerful, throwing lava and ash high into the air (e.g. Paricutin, Mexico).

Each student picked a famous volcano from around the world to research. Read on to check out each child's project below. 

Follow our class blog on Seesaw:
https://app.seesaw.me/blog/seniorroomcloonlyon

The festive spirit was alive and shining brightly at Cloonlyon National School during this year’s Christmas production. The entire school came together for a magical performance filled with music, song, and dance that left the audience in awe.

From the youngest juniors to the senior classes, every student played a special role in bringing the show to life. The stage was adorned with festive decorations, creating a warm and enchanting holiday atmosphere. Families, friends, and staff gathered to enjoy the wonderful performances that celebrated the joy of the Christmas season.

The show featured a heartwarming blend of traditional carols, lively dance routines, and dramatic storytelling that showcased the students' incredible talents. Each performance reflected the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm of the children and their teachers.

We extend a huge well done to all the children for their outstanding efforts in making the show such a memorable success. A special thank you goes to the staff who supported the production behind the scenes.

Congratulations to everyone involved for spreading festive cheer and creating unforgettable Christmas memories!

The 6th class students of Cloonlyon National School embraced the true spirit of Christmas this year by helping to erect a beautiful crib display for Bushfield Church. With great enthusiasm and teamwork, the students worked together to assemble and decorate the nativity scene that now stands proudly at the church altar.

​Under the guidance of their principal, Mr Haran, the students learned about the significance of the nativity story while putting their creative skills to work. They placed various elements, including the manger and figures representing Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the Wise Men. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged to reflect the warmth and meaning of the season.

The project not only allowed the students to express their artistic talents but also deepened their understanding of the values of kindness, generosity, and community. Their efforts have been warmly received by parishioners, who have expressed heartfelt appreciation for the thoughtful and inspiring display.

We are incredibly proud of our 6th class students for their dedication and creativity. Their contribution has helped make this Christmas season extra special for the entire community.

Well done to all involved!