Mr. Connaire’s Fifth Class enjoyed a fantastic educational tour today to Collins Barracks, where they visited the temporary exhibition of the Natural History Museum, affectionately known as the “Dead Zoo.” The students were fascinated by the incredible range of preserved animals on display — the taxidermy specimens offered a wonderful opportunity to learn about wildlife and conservation.
As the main Natural History Museum in Merrion Square is currently undergoing refurbishment, this temporary exhibition provided a valuable glimpse into the collection. The class is already looking forward to visiting the fully reopened museum in the future to explore even more of its treasures.
The journey itself was part of the adventure! The children travelled on the Green Line Luas to Abbey Street and then transferred to the Red Line to reach Collins Barracks. Their behaviour throughout the day was exemplary — they received numerous compliments from fellow passengers, including elderly commuters, for their politeness, good manners, and thoughtful gestures such as offering their seats.
Following their visit to the museum, the class returned by Luas to the city centre and continued on foot to Trinity College Dublin, where Mr. Mac kindly gave them a wonderful guided tour of his former college. The students had the chance to explore the historic campus, visit one of the lecture halls, and imagine what their own futures in higher education might look like. A lovely class photograph was taken to mark the moment — a glimpse into their bright futures as potential university students.
Lunch was enjoyed outdoors in the beautiful grounds of Trinity College, followed by some free time for play before the group made their way back via the Green Line Luas to Sandyford and then walked the final stretch to school.
It was a truly phenomenal day — filled with learning, exploration, and fun. The students represented their school with pride, curiosity, and impeccable manners. They returned home not only with new knowledge about natural history, but also with inspiration for their future academic journeys.
Kathy Cosgrave