A Playground Dream Come True at Nun’s Cross
On a bright and joyful afternoon, our school community gathered to officially launch the brand-new Nun’s Cross Playground—a project that has been years in the dreaming and months in the making. What once seemed like a distant hope has now become a vibrant reality, thanks to the generosity, hard work, and unwavering spirit of our entire community.
From a Whisper to Reality
When the idea of extra land was first mentioned, it felt more like a dream than a plan. But through the incredible kindness of Stephen Collier, who gifted the land outright to our school, that dream took root. Without his generosity, none of what we now celebrate would have been possible.
With the land secured, inspiration came from the children themselves, who helped shape the design. The PTA stepped up with boundless energy, raising an astonishing €25,000 through events, donations, and a GoFundMe campaign. Parents, families, and friends rolled up their sleeves, transforming sketches and ideas into something truly extraordinary.
A Community Effort
This project was never about one person—it was about many. From the very beginning, people gave their time, resources, skills, and encouragement.
Keith Belton became the backbone of the project, offering his machinery, expertise, calm reassurance, and endless hours of hard work.
Andrew Fox of Ashford Sand and Gravel generously provided materials, staff, and support that lifted the project beyond what we could have imagined.
John Herraty, Des Martin, and the O’Sheehan family all gave crucial contributions of materials and funding.
Our talented design team—Edwin Jebb, Alice Gibson, and Sam Fleming—brought creativity and vision to every stage. A special thank you goes to Alice Gibson, whose pond design with its waterfall, stream, and fountain has created a magical centrepiece.
Sarah Green devoted countless hours to planting and landscaping, ensuring this space is not only beautiful now but will continue to grow, change, and inspire learning for years to come.
And then there were the countless parents, children, and friends who showed up with wheelbarrows, rakes, tools, and sheer determination. Each workday was proof of the unique spirit of Nun’s Cross—neighbours and families coming together with enthusiasm and joy to create something bigger than themselves.
What We’ve Built Together
The new playground is nothing short of a wonderland for our children. It includes:
A sports pitch for games and teamwork.
A giant sandpit for creative play.
Gross motor equipment to help develop strength and coordination.
Swings and slides for pure childhood fun.
A stage, ready for performances and imaginative play.
A stunning pond with a waterfall and fountain, offering not only beauty but also a space for outdoor learning and reflection.
As a lasting reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together, we were also proud to unveil a beautiful mosaic of the Nun’s Cross school logo, lovingly created by parent Carla Benedetti and her father.
Looking Ahead
The playground is not yet finished—it will continue to grow and evolve as new elements are added and as the plants mature. We look forward to forming a garden working group to help care for and maintain this special space in the years ahead.
But today, as laughter and play filled the air, we paused to celebrate. This playground is a testament to what can happen when generosity, kindness, and community come together.
To everyone who played a part—whether through donations, design, hard work, encouragement, or simply showing up—thank you. This playground belongs to all of us, and most of all, to the children of Nun’s Cross.
Here’s to years of play, learning, and happy memories in our new playground!
