The school first opened in 1979 and was blessed by Bishop Patrick Mulligan. 184 pupils were on the schools register on its opening day.

To celebrate 40 years of education at St Joseph’s pupils past and present engaged in the schools anniversary celebrations over the past few days. A Mass celebrated by Bishop Larry Duffy and Fr King was held at St Patrick’s church, Donagh on Saturday evening at 6pm. During the service symbols were brought up to the front to represent elements of the school over the past 40 years. 

Everyone who attended the event received a book mark to commemorate the special occasion.

Michael Grew, principal at St Joseph’s PS remarked that a lot of preparations had taken place in the run up to the event. “There’s a real sense of community, and it has been very much a community event.

“The children have played their part in this event as well and we have been doing bits in school to mark this special anniversary.” 

He added, “They have been doing some research on St Joseph’s and have also been tracing back family connections who came through the school. 

“We have quite a number of kids here who have parents and grandparents who were also pupils at the school. That’s three generations of some families who have come through the school.”

In concluding Mr Grew said, “It’s been lovely to look back on a wide selection of photographs. We’re celebrating the last 40 years of St Joseph’s and looking forward to the next 40!”