Aisling O'Donoghuecontinues our three-part series on the proposed closure of Seamount College in Co Galway.

"I gCinn Mhara a bhí mé nuair a chuir me aithne ar m'asal beag dubh idtosach,"

a scríobh Pádraic Ó Connaire sa scéal cáiliúil M'asal Beag Dubh.

I quote from this Irish author who was inspired to set his memorable story in the picturesque town of Kinvara. Kinvara is as picture-postcard perfect today as ever. I am fortunate to attend Seamount College, which overlooks Kinvara and enjoys idyllic views across the harbour. Seamount nestles on the fringe of the Burren. The setting is tranquil, inspirational, some would say even spiritual.

My education consists of the full range of academic subjects for the State exams. I am not going to bore you with the curriculum content of the Leaving Cert subjects, though. Indeed, it was largely to escape such curricula that I decided to participate in transition year. For me, education is as much about inheriting the traditions and values of my community as it is about studying the standard curricula.

TY has been a breath of fresh air in this regard. I enjoy the education I receive from being involved with the community. Every outdoor activity, whether to the shore or to the unique

karst landscape of the Burren, is unforgettable.

To say that TY gives me greater creative opportunity than either the Junior Cert or the Leaving Cert is an understatement. I find that I have time to pursue my interest in traditional music. It takes time to practise my instrument, time to perform, time to listen to other musicians - essentially, time to enjoy the music.

Kinvara is steeped in tradition, in music, sport, language, literature and art. Seamount College and Kinvara are intertwined and interdependent. The people bring their culture to the school, and the school brings opportunities to the people.

The musical Fame will be performed at Seamount this year. All TY students look forward to the opening night. The college is equally committed to traditional music. The AIB, in recognition of Seamount's contribution to Irish music and sport, recently presented us with a Better Ireland Award.

Location for many of us is a matter of chance. Seamount College has been situated in an area of exceptional cultural wealth for at least 80 years. Education without culture is uninteresting and sterile. My education is unique to this area, and I do not believe it could be replicated elsewhere.

I feel broken-hearted on our lovely shore these days. Quite unbelievably, a threat of closure hovers over Seamount College. I know how short-sighted such a decision would be. Don't you?

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