GENERATIONS came together in an uplifting celebratory event to mark 50 years of a Letterkenny school.
Ballyraine National School celebrated its 50th anniversary last night by welcoming past and present pupils, staff, families and friends from the wider Ballyraine community to the school.
Guest speakers included Reverend Tommy Bruce, chairperson, former principal Mrs Anne McKinley, Reverend Richard Kerr, Archdeacon David Huss, and current principal Ms Linda Moore.
They shared the history of the school and the story of how Robertson NS, Barkhall NS, Glendooen NS and Ednaharnon NS came together to form Ballyraine NS.
The evening honoured the past, celebrated the present and inspired the future, marking 50 years of memories, education and community spirit.
The school choir performed beautiful renditions of ‘Unstoppable’ by Sia, ‘Unwritten’ by Natasha Bedingfield and a special tin whistle version of ‘Lean On Me’ by Bill Withers.
There were also plenty of photographs on display from down through the years.
June, Dylan, and Ava Ryan, three generations of the same family who have all attended Ballyraine NS, were among those who joined in the celebrations. June was in sixth class when Ballyraine NS first opened its doors in 1976. Her son Dylan started in 2003, and his daughter Ava joined the school in 2025.
Dylan, June and Ava Ryan.
Addressing the crowds, Principal Linda Moore said: “Ballyraine NS has always been a town school with a country feel.
“This wonderful milestone is a reminder of just how much Ballyraine NS means to so many people.
“Tonight, we are honouring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to the future. Here’s to the next 50 years of Ballyraine National School.”
Attendees enjoyed tea and treats afterwards and reminisced over their shared fond memories at Ballyraine NS.
Principal Linda Moore addressing crowds at Ballyraine NS.
Mrs Anne McKinley, former principal of Ballyraine NS, speaking at the 50 year celebration.
Crowds enjoy music from pupils at the Ballyraine NS 50th celebrations.
A wall of photo memories at Ballyraine NS.