Kildare school named most 'active'

A Kildare primary school has been named Ireland's most "active" after winning a nationwide sports participation competition.

Scoil Chóca Naofa, from Kilcock took first prize in the "AIB Our Active School" competition organised as part of European Year of Education through Sport (EYES) 2004.

The pupils received their award and €2,000 towards PE equipment and sporting facilities from President Mary McAleese at a special prize giving ceremony in Dublin.

"AIB Our Active School Week" was held in October and all schools were encouraged to demonstrate how they use sport or physical activity to encourage as many children as possible to take part and promote a positive experience of participation for all concerned.

Other regional winners and runners-up included:

Leinster

Scoil Choca Naofa, Kilcock, Co. Kildare - Overall winner

Balscadden NS, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin

Scoil Fhursa, Kilmore West, Dublin 5

Connacht/Ulster

St. Joseph's Primary School, Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo

Claregalway NS, Claregalway, Co. Galway

East Knockbride NS, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan

Rahara NS, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Munster

Scoil Barra Naofa Buachailli, Beaumont, Co. Cork

Ballyhass NS, Mallow, Co. Cork

Desertserges NS, Enniskeane, Co. Cork

Special Needs Schools

St. Martin's Special School, Ballytruckle Road, Waterford

School of the Divine Child, Ballintemple, Cork.