Erasmus+ flag raised at CPC, symbolising opportunities for students and staff
An official raising of an Erasmus+ flag at Cross and Passion College this morning marked what the Principal described as 'one of the most exciting things to happen in the College for many years', writes Brian Byrne. The flag was raised by local TD and Minister of State Martin Heydon, in the presence of TY and 6th Year students, teaching staff involved in bringing the scheme to CPC, and Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer. Music was performed by very talented 5th Year students Dylan Labuschagne and Mikey Arthur.
Established in 1987, the EU Erasmus Programme was initially to support third level students spending a year of their course in another European country. Under Erasmus+ the programme has been expanded to include education mobility in second level schools for both students and teachers.
At this morning's event, Principal Joe Leonard thanked staff members Mary Quinto and Fiona Murphy and their 'fantastic team' for their work in bringing the initiative to the college, which will provide 'incredible' opportunities to some of the young people present and others coming behind.
Mary Quinto said the flag they were raising symbolises unity, diversity and opportunity. "We're really looking forward to the great opportunities the programme will give to our students as they visit our partner colleges in France and Germany, and broaden friendships with Europe."
On behalf of those students, Aoibhe Toft and Sam Moussoulides spoke of their experiences during recent visits by teachers from Germany and France to CPC. "We were really proud to host them, and we're looking forward to having our German exchange students visit us in February," Aoibhe said. "It's brilliant to be able to showcase Cross and Passion College to our Erasmus partners and engage in Erasmus events during the year." Sam Moussoulides thanked those who had helped make the initiative happen and said it will provide an incredible option for all students in CPC in years to come.
Minister Heydon, noting that it was great to be back in his alma mater where he did his Leaving Cert in 1997, encouraged the students present to build on the links that have been established. He reminded the gathering that Europe wasn't 'somewhere over there'. "We are Europe, we're very much a part of Europe in Ireland as in Brussels, or France or Germany or anywhere else," he said, adding that other links in Kilcullen through the town's twinning with Saint-Contest in Normandy offered further opportunities for travel and cultural exchange. "In education terms, this is another impressive addition to CPC. The world is your oyster, go out and make the most of it."
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