The Cloak and the Oak

The Cloak and The Oak by Mr. Dunne's 5th Class - St. Brigid's Primary School

Sponsored by Kildare Farm Foods

It is with great excitement that we at St. Brigid's Primary School, Kildare Town, prepare our postcard garden for Bloom In The Park to be presented Thursday 30th May - Monday 3rd June 2024.

Twenty-five Fifth Class pupils along with various teachers, caretakers and sponsors have worked in collaboration with eight-time bloom medalist Kieran Dunne to create a postcard garden entitled 'The Cloak and The Oak' in honour of our schools tie with the Brigid 1500 celebrations this year. The children are overjoyed to share the inspiration behind the garden and our journey to Bloom.

St. Brigid's Primary School students, in collaboration with their community, have crafted a heartfelt garden tribute honouring their patron saint on the 1500th anniversary of her passing. This garden, a symbol of reverence and unity, reflects the school's deep ties to St. Brigid, nestled near the historic Curragh and within a stone's throw of the monastic site where her teachings began.

Led by 25 fifth-class children, the project embodies values of teamwork, creativity, and historical appreciation. From the initial sketches to the final planting, every step was a collective effort, bridging generations and strengthening community bonds. More than a garden, this initiative serves as a living testament to the enduring legacy of St. Brigid, showcasing the talents and dedication of the students while celebrating the timeless spirit of one of Ireland's most cherished saints.

The garden, designed by students, features a hand-painted mural depicting the Curragh, accompanied by a horseshoe-shaped structure. This design element pays homage to the famous horse-racing heritage of the Curragh. The variety of herbaceous plants and grasses, provided by Kildare Growers, beautifully mimic the natural landscape of the Curragh. At the centre of the garden stands a sculpture of St. Brigid and her cloak, crafted by a local artist, which is found under the sheltering branches of an oak tree, from which Kildare received its name. This sculpture is set amongst a sea of white flowers, symbolising the lily-white colour associated with the county.

In conclusion, "The Cloak and The Oak" is more than just a garden; it is a vibrant canvas that captures the essence of St. Brigid's enduring influence and the community's devotion. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the students of Mr. Dunne's 5th class at St. Brigid's Primary School, the generous support from Kildare Farm Foods, and the botanical contributions from both Kieran Dunne and the Kildare Growers Group, this project not only commemorates the 1500th anniversary of St. Brigid's passing but also reinforces the cultural and spiritual roots of the community. It stands as a beacon of local pride and educational achievement, promising to inspire for years to come. Through this living tribute, the spirit of St. Brigid continues to blossom, nurtured by the hands and hearts of the young people who brought it to life.