The Holy Child Killiney Alumnae Garden Party

On Saturday the 28th May the sun shimmered in a beautiful azure sky over Killiney Bay, the perfect day for our Garden Party.  

Alumnae spanning many decades gathered in the school hallway to collect name badges excitedly chattering as memories of hockey matches, Latin classes and assemblies came flooding back. Some arrived in groups of four or five while others wandered in on their own, all wanting to retrace the paths of their school days. One rather emotional Alumna told us “I was exceptionally happy in Killiney” and that she was happy to come alone to the Alumnae events as she always felt she was “among friends”. While another spoke of new friendships she had made at past events.   

We were delighted to welcome former Principals Sr. Geraldine, Vera Collins and Gerardine Hackett to the school who were warmly greeted by the present Principal Caroline O'Brien. We also took time to remember another former Principal Sr. Mary Hilary who although sadly is no longer with us we know would have enjoyed the day immensely.

Nostalgia and laughter filled the air, as everyone moved to the Library where Wine and Prosecco flowed, fabulous canapés from Thyme Out were enjoyed and copious cups of tea consumed. While the very talented School Orchestra confidently played to an appreciative audience.  

The Alumnae and Friends Choir then entertained us with some very appropriate pieces. The beautiful harmonies of “Dona Nobis Pacem” which many of us remembered learning and singing in the Chapel during our school days. While in complete contrast “You make me feel so young” reminded us that no matter what your age you can still have that “Joie de Vivre” and zest for life. 

The TY students who are always so helpful brought enthusiastic groups of Alumnae on tours of the school and grounds. The older Alumnae told tales of their boarding school days to the amusement of the others.  

“Where is the AVA?” “That used to be the Refectory”, “Do you remember Little Anstice and The Lodge?” were some of the comments.  

Later on we all sat admiring the gardens, a kaleidoscope of colour and the perfect backdrop to the afternoon's festivities.  

Special thanks must go to Hughie who not only marshalled the traffic but at times the Alumnae too!    

As the last of the attendees began to drift off and the sky now sprinkled with a few opalescent clouds, we took down the bunting and collected the glasses eagerly looked forward to planning our next Alumnae event.

It truly was a glorious afternoon.

By Sinéad Farrell