Minister applauds commitment of all involved in TCH school quizzes

EDUCATION Minister Batt O’Keeffe yesterday praised the Thomas Crosbie Holdings (TCH) All-Ireland Schools’ Quiz for its role in providing extra-curricular enhancement for students.

Extra-curricular activities in our schools, such as quizzes, inter-school debates and sport, are vital to the enrichment of the school experience, he said.

“On the one hand, they are outlets for students’ skills, those skills that help define their individuality and provide opportunities for developing self- confidence. They are also part of the ‘hidden curriculum’ of the school, where competencies that might not appear in a syllabus are developed and grow incrementally,” the Minister said.

Speaking at the awards ceremony following yesterday’s quiz finals in the Cork School of Music, Minister O’Keeffe said the finals marked a very special day for the schools involved.

He said he applauded the commitment of almost 200 second-level schools in this year’s event.

“We must not under-estimate the impact of events like this on the school community and the way in which school pride and identity is given expression in the great support for team members from fellow students, teachers and parents.

“Events like this happen only as a result of ideas and vision, very good planning and efficient management,” he said.

The Minister thanked TCH group managing director Anthony Dinan for the company’s initial vision and continuing belief in the schools’ quiz concept. He also paid tribute to Apple for their sponsorship and RTÉ Radio 1 for its schools’ quiz broadcasts.

Speaking before the presentation Mr Anthony Dinan, group managing director, TCH, complimented the Minister for “a well-deserved and long-overdue promotion.”

He also thanked Mr Barry Woods and his colleagues for their efficiency, dedication and hard work.