On 9th June, the Junior Room was treated to a visit from the brilliant Historian Anthony Galvin. Dressed in full pirate attire, he whisked the children away on a captivating journey through tales of piracy and treacherous Arctic expeditions. The room buzzed with excitement as Anthony shared hidden gems of Irish history, focusing on our infamous pirate queens and daring buccaneers.
Did you know that St Patrick was actually brought to Ireland by pirates? Or that Grace O'Malley, a fierce and formidable figure, once controlled the Atlantic seaboard? The kids were enthralled as we delved into her incredible story, exploring the rules and lifestyle of a pirate. It was a fantastic way to engage them with history, and the pupils were completely captivated by the adventures that once roamed our coasts.
Ireland, often overlooked, was once a haven for pirates—especially along the notorious Munster coast. Anthony shared gripping tales that had everyone on the edge of their seats, eager to hear more.
But he didn't stop at piracy. As a seasoned explorer, with more than twenty trips to the Arctic under his belt and author of The Great Polar Fraud, Anthony highlighted the legacies of renowned Irish polar explorers like Tom Crean and Ernest Shackleton. He introduced specialist Arctic clothing and discussed the critical issue of climate change and our impact on the environment. It was a memorable day that combined thrills with education, leaving the pupils inspired and eager to learn more!