Smarmore summer camp a great success
September 10, 2013
Now in its second year, Gael Champa took place at Smarmore Castle just a few miles from Ardee in the middle of August.
“We had 24 children from the ages of 5- 13 who attended and participated in the Irish language summer camp,” said Clodagh McClean, who has BSA in Irish. Clodagh and Kenny Rabbitt supervised and co-ordinated the camp, assisted by Éadaoin McClean, Aelish Lambert, Andrea Meade and Claire McGrory. “The idea behind this summer camp was to encourage children to welcome and enjoy the Irish language as a fun and funtional means of communication. As the week progressed, the children were speaking more and more Irish and their confidence grew as they practiced and experienced Irish as a practical language. “The week consisted of many activities for the children. From table quizes to treasure hunts and relay races to ‘Capture the Flag’. “Fun through Irish was always the prime concern.
“Throughout the course of the week, the children were divided into four teams: Eireann, Na Buaiteoirí, Club Chorcra and Daoine Gan Stóp, and could earn points for their teams by succeeding in the activities, team spirit, good sportsmanship and through their use of the Irish Language. Despite the close competition thorughout the week. It was Club Chorcra that finished in first place of the leaderboard at the end of the week. “By the end of the week, each child went home with prizes for their excellent use of Gaeilge throughout the week,” said Clodagh. Clodagh McClean, would like to thank everyone who helped make this year’s camp a success, especially Smarmore Castle for their use of their grounds, to all of the people who helped out with the camp over the week and to all of the children who were an absolute pleasure to have for the week.
A special word of thanks goes out to all of the parents who encouraged their children throughout the camp to speak through Irish.Gael-Champa is a summer sports camp as Gaeilge, providing cultural, educational and sporting activities for children through the medium of Irish! Séan Óg Ó hAilpín launches Gael-Champa! The camp caters for children from English speaking schools as well as Gaelscoileanna. Activities include Gaelic football, hurling, rugby, volleyball, soccer, etc. If you would like more information about Gael Champa 2014, please contact Clodagh at clodagh.mcclean2@mail.dcu.ie
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