Longford students restoring vintage Porsche tractor part of 'something truly historic'

Mercy Ballymahon proudly launched the Porsche Junior Restoration Projekt on Wednesday, September 3 at a special event in the school sports hall.

This unique initiative will see Transition Year students take part in the restoration of a vintage Porsche Junior tractor, the first attempt of its kind in Ireland, the UK, or indeed the US.

The launch was attended by a wide range of special guests, including the Chairperson of the Board of Management, Ms Teresa Fallon, local councillors Martin Skelly and Mick Cahill, Eoin Tynan from the Longford Local Enterprise Office, members of the Ballymahon Town Team, and representatives of the Porsche Club Ireland, led by President Mr David Thomas.

The project will be in partnership with a number of our former students including Pauric Connolly working alongside the school’s TY students. Mr Gary Kenny, Principal of Mercy Ballymahon, welcomed all present and emphasised the value of the project:

“This is not just about restoring a tractor, it is about building connections between our school, our community, and the wider world. Our students will gain practical, transferable skills, while also being part of something truly historic.”

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TY Coordinator, Colin Seery, and lead teacher, Donal Tansey, outlined the application process for students hoping to join the restoration team. Mr Seery highlighted the project’s educational significance:

“The Porsche Junior Restoration Project fits seamlessly into the new TY curriculum. It is hands-on, skill-based, and innovative, exactly the kind of opportunity that empowers students to grow in confidence and capability.”

Community leaders also praised the ambition of the project.

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Local councillors and enterprise representatives noted its potential to inspire young people, strengthen local identity, and harness so many transferable skills.

With support from the Porsche Club Ireland and the wider community, the restoration promises to be an exciting journey for Mercy Ballymahon and a proud milestone in preserving heritage.

The school looks forward to sharing progress in the coming weeks and months as students bring new life to this rare Porsche Junior tractor.

MAIN PHOTO CAPTION: Sean Bohan (TY Yearhead), TY coordinator Colin Seery, Teresa Fallon (Chairperson Board of Management), Gary Kenny (Principal), Martha O'Reilly (Vice Principal), Lead teacher Donal Tansey and Pierre Boudin (Vice Principal) Picture: Frank McGrath

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