Students swapped their familiar school uniforms for the colourful attire of their home
nations during the school’s Culture Day celebration recently.
Over 40 nationalities at Letterkenny’s Errigal College united to celebrate the diverse
backgrounds and traditions of its multicultural school community. The event organised
by EAL Coordinator and Geography teacher, Ms Caitriona Hasson and Spanish teacher,
Ms Grit Mc Gee, was not just a celebration but a testament to the commitment to the
school’s core values of respect, care, equality and community.
For the last few months, students have been busy working behind the scenes preparing
posters, slideshows, food and performances for the cultural event. Reflecting on the
significance of Culture Day, Ms. Hasson said, “Today is not just about celebrating where
we come from; it’s about celebrating who we are as a school community. It’s about
embracing our differences and being proud of our heritage. “
The atmosphere in the school gym was electric. It was evident that students enjoyed
the opportunity to showcase their home countries to their peers.
There was no shortage of food at the event either. Tantalising aromas of cuisine from
around the world filled the school’s corridors. There was a great selection of food on
offer at every stand, including homemade Scottish shortbread, Asian spices and a
variety of African and Latin American cuisine. Europe and Australia focused on savoury
dishes with Ukrainian paska (Easter cakes), Polish cakes and Belgian waffles luring
those with a sweet tooth over to their tables. Irish Tayto sandwiches and Mc Daid’s
Football Special added some local flavours to the global feast.
Ms Mc Gee said, “It was a busy day in school and it was just as busy at home with many of our school’s extremely supportive parents cooking and delivering freshly cooked food to the school
throughout the day.”
6th year student, Jo-Ann Evans from South Africa who presented yesterday’s event,
added, “Culture Day reminds us that our differences are what make us special. It’s a day
where we can come together, learn from one another, and celebrate.”
Principal of Errigal College, Mr Danny Mc Fadden expressed how important events like
these are for the students, “Culture Day is a reflection of our school’s ethos of care,
respect, community, and equality. It’s a day where we come together to celebrate the
unique contributions that each and every one of us brings to our school community.”
