Welcome to Killeigh

Killeigh is a special place in County Offaly, Ireland. It has a long history that goes back hundreds of years! Did you know that Killeigh was once home to a famous monastery? Monasteries are places where monks live and pray, and this one was built way back in the 6th century by a monk named Sinchell. That's over 1,400 years ago!

The monastery was very important and famous for its school, where monks were taught to read and write. Many people travelled from far away places to learn here. Sadly, the monastery is no longer standing, but its memory lives on in the heart of Killeigh.

Killeigh is also known for its beautiful countryside and friendly people. It's a peaceful place where families have lived for generations. Even though it's a small townland, Killeigh is a place full of history and charm.

So, whether it's the ancient stories of monks and their monastery, or the modern-day community living in this beautiful part of Ireland, there's always something interesting to learn about Killeigh!

  1. What is a monastery and who used to live there?
  2. Who built the monastery in Killeigh and when was it built?
  3. What is Killeigh known for today?
  4. Why do you think the monastery in Killeigh was important in the past? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
  5. Imagine you are a monk living in the monastery in Killeigh in the 6th century. Write a short diary entry about your day.

All About Killeigh

Killeigh is a small, friendly village in County Offaly, Ireland, that's full of magic and adventure. It's nestled among lush, green countryside, with a variety of plants, flowers, and trees where birds and squirrels play.

One special street in Killeigh is the Main Street. Here, you'll find the Village Shop, the Post Office, and the Village Green, where everyone loves to gather to chat or play. There's a cool old water pump on the green, a bit like the ones used before people had taps in their homes!

But, the real star of Killeigh is the Clodiagh River. This beautiful river flows gently through the village, and it's home to lots of fish and ducks. If you're lucky, you might even spot a kingfisher or heron!

Nearby, there are splendid rolling hills where you can go for long walks, spot wild rabbits, and feel like you're on top of the world.

Remember, Killeigh may be small, but it's full of wonders. So put on your explorer's hat, and let's go on an adventure!.

  1. What types of wildlife can you find in and around the Clodiagh River in Killeigh?
  2. Describe the geographical features you can see on Main Street in Killeigh.
  3. Use a map to find and draw the route of the Clodiagh River as it flows through Killeigh. What other geographic features can you identify on the map?
  4. Imagine you're on an adventure in the rolling hills near Killeigh. What might you see, hear, and feel?
  5. Go on a real or virtual exploration of Killeigh. Find one geographical feature not mentioned in this text and describe it. Why do you find it interesting?

My Family and Killeigh

Hi there! I'm Gaby and I'm 8 years old. I live in a lovely little place called Killeigh in Co. Offaly. It's a wonderful place to grow up, full of beautiful green fields and lots of friendly faces.

My favourite place to go is the old oak tree by the village green. It's ancient and wise. I imagine it's seen so many things. Sometimes I bring a book and read there all afternoon. I even have a special spot carved out just for me.

When I'm not at the oak tree, I'm usually at the playground. It's the best in the county, I think! It's got swings, a slide, and even a merry-go-round. My friends and I spend hours there, playing games and making up stories.

Another cool thing about Killeigh is the old monastery ruins. It's all crumbly and mysterious. I like to imagine what it was like when monks lived there. It makes history feel real and exciting.

So that's a little bit about me and my lovely hometown. I can't wait to grow up here and make even more memories!

  1. What is Gaby's favourite place in Killeigh and why?
  2. How does Gaby spend her time at the playground?
  3. What does Gaby think about the old monastery ruins?
  4. Why does Gaby love living in Killeigh?
  5. What does Gaby do at the old oak tree?

The Logainm of Killeigh

Killeigh is a small village in County Offaly, Ireland. The name 'Killeigh' comes from the Irish word 'Cill Aichidh', which means 'the church of Aichidh'. So, it's like saying this place is where Aichidh's church is located. There's an interesting story about Aichidh. He was a saint who lived a very, very long time ago, even before your great-great-great-grandparents were born!

Long ago, people used to name places after important things or people, so Killeigh was named after Saint Aichidh's church. This is a way of remembering and honouring him. Today, there is no church of Aichidh in Killeigh, but the village still carries his name. It's a bit like how you might name a pet after a character you like in a book or a movie. The name helps us remember the character, even when the book or movie is over.

In the same way, the name Killeigh helps people remember Saint Aichidh's church and the stories of the past. So, every time you say 'Killeigh', you're actually talking about a piece of history! And in the present day, Killeigh is a vibrant village with schools, shops, and many people who have interesting stories to tell, just like Saint Aichidh.

  1. What does the name 'Killeigh' mean in English?
  2. Who was Aichidh?
  3. Why do you think places are often named after important things or people?
  4. Can you think of a place you know that is named after something or someone important?
  5. How does the name 'Killeigh' link to the village's history and its present day?

Slideshow - Killeigh
A full set of teaching plans for teaching about Killeigh