Gemma Ryan, teacher and past-pupil
As a past pupil of Milford N.S, I am honoured to be part of the teaching staff celebrating the school’s 30th Anniversary. I have wonderful memories of my years in Milford, watching it grow in stature from its beginnings as “Pre-Fabs” in the Church car park, to the fantastic New Building we now have. Milford NS remains as dedicated and proactive as I remember from my time spent here as a pupil. From band practices, to training, to matches to school shows…there was never a dull moment! I am proud to be able to say that I am a former pupil of Milford N.S, and I strive to instil that sense of pride in our pupils to this day.
– Gemma Ryan May 2012
Emma May Dillon, parent and past-pupil, remembering Milford NS in 1985:
What I remember most about my time in Milford is the love I had for the school. I remember the old pre-fabs and I remember how each teacher had a passion for their pupils. I remember our swimming classes and how Miss Anketell (Mrs O’Mahony) on her own had thirty or more five-year-old kids swimming and helped each of us with our socks and our shoes. I remember Mr Browne so fair and forgiving. I remember our love for the Christmas plays each December. I remember the Old Folks’ songs that Mr Fitzpatrick would sing. I remember good old Billy who was everyone’s friend. It truly was a brilliant school then and now. The teachers made the school what it is, a reflection of the greatest people that a person could hope to teach their kids
– Emma Dillon May 2012
Noelle Hogan, teacher and past-pupil
I have wonderful and fond memories of my days in Milford N.S. I skipped into school every day and always had a smile on my face! Milford was a hive of excitement and school days were filled with fantastic teachers, engaging lessons, lots of singing, art, band practices, and even the odd performance! I started my school days down in the “Pre-Fabs” in the church car park and it wasn’t long before I had moved up into the “New School” that we have today. The atmosphere was always warm and welcoming in school and everybody loved to be a pupil of Milford N.S. I’m delighted to be back teaching in Milford and I’m glad to say that nothing has changed! Milford is still as fun, welcoming and innovative as ever, with a dedicated staff and wonderful students and parents!
-Noelle Hogan February 2015
Emma Dolphin, teacher and past-pupil
Two years later as a teacher in Milford N.S. and I’m just about getting comfortable calling the teachers by their first names, having been a pupil here! The staff-room used to be our new “large” P.E. hall when I was in 6th class in Milford- it’s hard to get used to having our lunch there now. We couldn’t get over how lucky we were having somewhere to do PE in school -no more walking down in the rain to use the halls in U.L. The change from the prefabs to the new school made us really appreciate how amazing the new building was, bright and spacious, and toilets IN the classrooms! I’m sure all of the children who are in Milford NS find the school just as brilliant as I did and realise how lucky they are to attend such a fantastic school.
– Emma Dolphin May 2012
Karen Frawley, parent, past-pupil and member of the Board of Management
As a parent and also as Treasurer of the Board of Management, I obviously have a strong connection with Milford. As a past pupil, Milford is a part of my fond childhood memories. I can still remember my lines as an Angel in the Christmas pageant and the joy of winning a Camogie final. I can picture Mr. Browne walking with his tie over his shoulder and can hear Ms. Enright singing a song for every word she called out during spelling tests. At one level, it is strange seeing how much has changed in 30 years – the school building and gym, the increased number of pupils and the fact that my Senior Infant teacher (Miss Anketell) is now the Principal! On another level, it is astonishing how little has changed – the ethos, the teaching and the spirit of encouragement, support and generosity. I would like to congratulate the school including its staff and pupils, past and present, for building a wonderful school over the last 30 years and wish the school every success for the next 30 years!
-Karen Frawley May 2012
Declan Kinnerk, former teacher and past-pupil
When I look back on my time in MNS I am reminded of many wonderful friendships I made and the prosperous working relationship with the friendly staff, many of whom I work alongside today as colleagues. One of my fondest memories as a pupil was being a member of the school band that recorded the first cd “Óige le Ceol” in Milford church in 1999. It was special to be part of that era. Working here today the school continues its proud legacy and this year’s school show is a celebration of 30 marvellous years in existence.
-Declan Kinnerk (past-pupil and teacher) May 2012
Sean Cronin, International Rugby Player
As a past pupil of Milford N.S, I wish all the staff and pupils the very best on the school’s 30th anniversary celebrations and congratulate them on the outstanding achievements and accolades achieved both in the classroom and outside, from its modest beginnings in the pre-fabs to the excellent facilities at present. Milford N.S provided me with some lifelong sporting memories and friendships, from influences such as John Nelligan, Denis O Connor and of course the late George Fitzpatrick, all of them had a huge bearing on my future career. Milford N.S set the groundwork for me as I set off on my sporting life and forged bonds that I carry with me to this day as I continue my career as a pro rugby player in Ireland.
-Seán Cronin May 2012
