We're the proud winner of two awards in the Maternity & Infant Awards 2016. We won the award for Best Innovative Learning Initiative, as well as winning Silver for Best Indoor Learning Experience. In both 2015 and 2013 we won Best Creche of the Year, as well as being a finalist in 2014.
"This award goes to the Forest School Experience at Kilminchy School House in Portlaoise. This learning initiative provides a wealth of different opportunities for play, learning and development. It introduces children to a wilder environment, where nature has to be responded to with respect. The follow through back in the classroom brings the forest school memories and materials into imaginative use."
Imelda Graham, Researcher and Author of ‘Spaces to be Me: Quality Environments in Early Years Services’
Maternity & Infant Awards, 14.10.2016
"Forest Schools are new to Ireland, although well-used in the UK and other countries. The concept of a forest school is more than being out-of-doors, it brings children to a wilder environment, where nature has to be responded to with respect, and provides a wealth of different opportunities for play, learning, development, including risky play which is of such benefit to the children in combatting phobias and developing confidence. Kilminchy School House is an excellent example of this and a highly impressive project. The follow through back in the classroom is to be commended and brings the forest school memories and materials into imaginative use. The outcomes for the children of this experience extend beyond gross motor skills to encompass many aspects of competence and confidence, and provide such memorable experiences on their trips. Kilminchy School House have demonstrated an innovative and effective approach to early education."
Judging Panel:
Peter Gray, Research Professor at Boston College and world expert on the evolution of play and self-directed learning
Imelda Graham, a Learning Specialist, Researcher and Author of ‘Spaces to be Me:Quality Environments in Early Years Services’
Brid Hickey, Early Years Specialist and strong advocate of Inclusive early education
Ruth Charles, Dietitian (paediatrics), owner of Nutrikids and regular contributor to ratio Newstalk and RTE
Maternity & Infant Awards, 14.10.2016
2018
To Sonya and all the team - words can not express the thanks which we have for your self and all the staff of KSH over the last two years. You have developed, moulded and guided Fiadh from a nervous and anxious two year old to a confident and expressive 4yr old, who I feel is ready to take on the challenges of Junior Infants thanks to your wonderful preschool.
You really go above and beyond for all the children pushing the boundaries and organising the most wonderful outings and trips that no other preschool provide. Learning is all about fun and games and each day brought about new adventures.
All the staff over the past two years have been nothing but exceptional and have all brought their own fun to the learning experience. Fiash particularly loved all the outdoor based learning and the animals which you brought in. She has become a confident child through all your activities and loves the weekly yoga class and she practises regularly at home. Irish dancing is her new favourite in our house and will be continued. I would say she loves all the more that Aimee has taught her.
Thank you from the bottom of our heart for all that you have done. You should be very proud of the school and reputation that you have built and I would recommend you to all our friends.
We look forward to another two years when Daniel starts. Many thanks again x
Clare and Mark Walsh, August 2018
I would like to say a very big 'Thank You' for looking after Ava so well over the past few years. It is a very emotional time for Ava, as she will miss you all. You really have the best school in Leinster and I am so delighted Ava has been part of your very special school. I wish you many years of success. Thank you all so much.
Suzanne and Eddie Kinsella, August 2018
2017
Thank you all so much for the most fantastic that Conor had with you in KSH. He loved his time and not once did he ever not want to go. From the day trips to the Veg Soup making, parties, baking, tours, and just general fun - he loved it and it has really brought him on. Thank you all.
Susan Sugre, June 2017
A very big thanks to one and all in KSH. It has been a simply fantastic experience for our little man. Great variety of activities, great friends made, great teachers helping him to develop and two fantastic events @ Christmas and Graduation. Many, Many Thanks.
John Sugre, June 2017
We can't thank you enough for the hard work yourself and everyone put into all the children. Noah and Amelia, have gained so much confidence and blossomed into the bright young people. " Thank you", Just doesn't seem enough.
Claire & Ger Ging, June 2017
It has been a pleasure to meet you all and to share the precious , learning experiences of Sophie, David and their classmates. You have been part of our family for the past three years and we very much appreciate your kindness, courtesy and expertise in caring for the children. They have great fun, learning, and socialising in a happy environment and playing with their friends. Congrats on the super Show in the Dunamaise and a wonderful opportunity for the children - Lots of 'Budding' actors & actresses . A sincere 'Thank You' from the Telford family.
Jayne, William and Granny Ethal (blown away by the Granny Award and flowers, much appreciated), 29 June 2017
Thank you so much for everything you have done for Sean this past year. He is turning into a great little chap, helpful , obedient and kind to his siblings. I can only attribute this to the wonderful example you have shown him. He loves school and you all so much, mostly I think because of your kindness and care towards him. We will forever be grateful for giving Sean such a wonderful start to his education.
Cecilie, Aodan, Sean and family, 29 June 2017
Thank you all so much for giving Orlaith a wonderful Pre- School experience. Thank you for all the love and affection you gave so freely and every day. Thank you for encouraging her and building her confidence. Thank you for teaching her so much form writing to Nature Studies and for encouraging her talents and love of singing & dancing. Thank you for helping her make so many friends and for helping her work as part of a group. We can't say 'Thank you' enough. Just know that Orlaith loved every moment and each of you. See you in September 18.
Claire & Graham Kelly, 29 June 2017
Thank you so much for being the excellent Educators for our son! We know, that teachers like you ar not easy to find. We appreciate your time, your patience, your ability to make a dry subject interesting and your caring smile. Thanks a million for your hard work this year and for loving Wojciech every day - xx, 29 June 2017
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