For many years now the Elements Tour has been a highlight of the boys first year in the school. Consisting of a wide range of activities, the tour provides a positive focus for the boys upon their return from the Christmas holidays. In the past we have taken groups to London and Cork but following consultation with the Headmaster, Mr Kelly and Mr Egan, this year we are proposing that we return to Belfast from Monday 18th January – Thursday 21st January. You will note that the last day of this tour coincides with the Elements Parent Teacher Meeting and the January break.
During our stay we will be based at the La Mon Hotel, which is located in Comber on the outskirts of the city. The hotel staff there is well used to visitors from Clongowes and look forward to having us. We will also be bringing a bus and driver with us from Barton’s to help us navigate our way through an action-packed few days.
Our busy schedule will comprise of social, recreational and educational pursuits including the Titanic Belfast exhibition, Crumlin Road Gaol, W5 Science Museum, Air-Soft, Bowling and Ice-Skating. We will also be playing rugby fixtures against Campbell College and RBAI.
Joining us for the duration of our stay in Belfast will be one of our school nurses Marena Molloy. The Great Fr. Sheil – in his capacity as Third Line Spiritual Father, rugby expert and Northern Irish native, will lead the boys through some adventures such as our stop off at Monasterboice and indeed the tour of Belfast. Mr Lumb, Mr Kelly and Mr Wright will also join at various stages throughout the tour.
The tour offers Elements a chance to enjoy themselves with their friends for a few days away from the rest of the school. Speaking with the older boys about the tour often brings up some great stories and they cannot speak highly enough of the whole experience.
