Farmyard feel to Knockadea N.S.

Knockadea National School, which is on the Limerick side of the Cork/Limerick border, is a progressive place of learning. Set amid rolling countryside, it has embraced environmental principles and thanks to the efforts of Eileen Walsh-Boland, it has a well maintained polytunnel that produces generous amounts of organic fruit and vegetables.

Following its latest initiative, it also has a plentiful supply of fresh eggs. A project endorsed by principal, Eoin Maloney, the Knockdea hens are proving a big hit with pupils.

“Credit must go to Councillor Eddie Ryan and his brother, Tom, who constructed a coop for the hens. Pupils are very involved and play an active part in caring for the hens. It’s a real focal point and complements the other ‘green’ projects we have,” Eoin told The Avondhu, who were on site last Friday.

EDDI HELPS BOLSTER FLOCK

The aforementioned Councillor Ryan, was fulsome in his praise of teachers and pupils.

“It gives young people an understanding of where our food comes from, as well as highlighting the importance of animal welfare. Knockadea is a great school, they’re very enthusiastic and I was delighted to be able to assist them,” he told TheAvondhu.

Eddie has kindly helped boost the national school’s flock, by donating 2 of his own hens.

“We’ve always had fowl at home, I was brought up with hens, chickens, ducks and turkeys - they were in every farmyard one time. The two hens I’ve given them will be good layers, it will take a week or two for them to settle in, but I’m sure they’ll be very well looked after in Knockadea”.

The school are also grateful to Margo Fox for assisting with this unique project.