Pupils from Gaelscoil Na gCrann in Omagh won first place at the Environmental Youth Speak Competition. The event took place at South West College’s Omagh campus. Primary 6 pupils Caitlín Ní Dhoibhilín, Juno Nic Ruairí and Rose Ní Chuileannáin delivered the winning speech.

The competition included 13 performances from 11 schools in the district. Participants spoke on environmental issues under the theme of the importance of reuse and repair. The winners focused on practical applications they implemented at school and home.

The pupils prepared for six weeks. They combined individual speeches into one presentation. Props included projects from recycled materials such as textile landscapes, bookmarks and wool pots for hot chocolate cups.

Gaelscoil Na gCrann was the only Irish-medium school in the competition. The pupils presented in English. Their teacher Dearbhla Scallon stated the event helped develop literacy skills and environmental awareness.

Ms Scallon noted the pupils formed an eco council and worked on a polytunnel for growing plants as part of efforts toward Eco-Schools Green Flag status. The winning trio received an invitation to speak at an upcoming Eco-Schools event.