Schools strike gold with Olympics publication

A NEW publication for schools, which is designed to
build up momentum ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, was launched at a
Donaghmede school.

The magnificent feats of Dublin sailor Annalise
Murphy, who hopes to win a medal at the Games and Michael Carruth, who won a
gold medal in boxing at the 1992 Games, are recorded in the publication.

Through

‘The 2012 Olympic Team in London’ programme,
launched by Prim-Ed and the Olympic Council of Ireland (OCI), pupils nationwide
using the classroom-based educational pack will also learn about the history of
the Olympics and what it takes to be an elite athlete.

They will also get the inside track on our Olympic
hopefuls as they go through their qualifiers and prepare for London 2012.

Co-launching the resource at Holy Trinity Primary
School in Donaghmede with boxer and qualified Olympian, Darren O’Neill, Michael
Carruth, said:

“It is important that school children learn about the Olympics
and Ireland’s proud role in the games over the years, and these new educational
aids really fit the bill.

?

Teacher Darren O’Neill said he was thrilled to back
the new resource.

“The Olympics only come around every four years and
the fact that they are next door in London this year is extra special,

? stated
Mr O’Neill.

“Teachers are always looking for new ways to make the
curriculum relevant and make learning fun and this PrimEd/OCI initiative ticks
all the boxes.

“It shows pupils what’s involved in getting to the
Olympics, how much work it takes and I am all in favour of anything which
encourages pupils to get active, get into sport and believe that their Olympic
dreams can also come true.

?

The pack for schools is tailored to pupils aged 5-8,
8-10 and 11 plus. It comprises a book with an interactive CD, digital books and
a decorative pack which include a poster, door hanger, stickers and banners.

While it’s designed for use in the classroom, the
publishers say it is also likely to be a huge hit with sports-mad children to
use at home.

Prim-Ed managing director, Seamus McGuinness, said
children learn best when stimulated by material relevant to their world and
interests.

“I’m confident the Olympics resource will be a huge
hit in primary schools right around the country,

? he stated.

“The copymasters and digital versions, which can be
used on interactive whiteboards, will include teachers’ notes, curriculum links
and lesson plans.

“They will feature up-to-date information on our Irish
athletes and also past heroes.

?