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tal Fröhliche z Na eli F Ziem assve tkus nd Inside this issue: 2 place in County Roscommon in the Feeder -Awards School table 2016 published -Achievements 2 on 6th December. Well done -Scholarships December 2016 and congratulations to all of Mary Rooney RIP -Opening School Mass Dear Staff, Parents/Guardians and our students and staff on a -Mass of remembrance Students, “And still they gazed and still 4 very busy and productive first -1st Year Night of Reflection It is that time of year again when term. the wonder grew,

we wonder where the past 12 This Newsletter That one small head could -German Exchange 5 months have gone and in particular, gives an account of some of carry all she knew.” reflect on all that has happened those activities here in CCS Oliver Goldsmith -Instructional Leadership 6 here in the school since our last during the past number of newsletter in June. I would like to months and we hope you enjoy On a crisp, sunny November -Green Schools day Mary Rooney – nee Gannon -Hamlet 7 acknowledge the contribution of the read. Thank you to the Ag Science Trip staff, parents and students to CCS staff and students who have – a former member of staff of CCS was laid to rest in St School walk 8 in 2016 and I look forward to con- worked so diligently on its tinued teamwork and support in publication and to those who Joseph’s Cemetery, Castlerea, -Sport 9 2017. submitted articles and photo- beside her baby son McCartan and her baby daughter Mary. -Team Hope 10 It has been a very busy first term graphs for inclusion. here in school, where we had the Unfortunately, for some of Mary passed away after a long -CCS at town Expo 11 pleasure of welcoming a group of our school community, the illness bravely borne and cou-

new students into our school com- past few months have been a rageously fought. Her passing -Guidance News 12 st munity, both into 1 year and other difficult time with the loss of has left a deep void in the -5th Yr. and LCVP trip to year groups. I hope that your ex- loved ones and our thoughts lives of her family and friends, Harmac LTD. perience to date has been a posi- those who knew and loved her. -LCA Field Trip 13 and prayers are with you at tive one and that you will continue this time of year. My wish for Mary is remembered as an to be happy and successful with us. each of you is that this excellent teacher and for her Student Contributions 14 In the course of this term, we have Christmas period will bring dedication to her students. seen our school continue to grow peace and comfort to each of She had a wonderful way of and develop on many levels with the you. reaching out to people in a s introduction of academic monitor- u I would like to wish all of our deep and positive way. This ig ing, which will aid all of our stu- ec parents, students and friends was never more evident than in rie dents to focus on their academic P a happy, safe and peaceful her role as Home School Liai- potential and achieve to each one’s Christmas and the very best son person in CCS. own personal best, the continued for 2017 and we look forward Though her life was cut short success of our new school canteen, to seeing you again on January she lived it to the full, savour- huge successes in the basketball 9th. ing and cherishing every mo- court with two of the ladies teams ment of it. – cadets and seniors - qualifying for Nollaig faoi shéan is faoi All Ireland Semi-finals in January, Mary is survived by her hus- mhaise daoibh go léir. qualification for National Finals in band and soulmate Ronan and

Scifest and Technology Awards, their five children, Síle, raising of our second Green Flag, Merry Christmas, Saoirse, Siobhán, Róisín and many and diverse school field trips Ms. Ryan Hugh. as well as a nomination for Roscom- Solas na bhFlaitheas ar a h- mon Group Volunteer award for TY Anam Uasal. Suaimhneas síoraí Fusventom Kaledom class 2015-2016 and a ranking of Nollaig Shona ort go deo, A Mháire.

Castlerea Community School student Katie Kenny, the only student from Roscommon honoured by NUIG

Former Castlerea Community School student Katie Kenny, was one of a se lect group of 1st year NUIG students honoured with a special ceremony, in recognition of the high points she achieved in her Leaving Cert. Katie, who is now studying Commerce with German at NUI Galway, was the only student from Roscommon to receive the scholarship this year. She received her Ex cellence Scholarship scroll from NUI Galway President, Dr Jim Browne, at a special ceremony in Áras na MacLéinn on Wednesday 12 th October. Each year the University’s Excellence Scholarships are awarded to first year students at NUI Galway who reached a minimum of 560 points in their Leav

ing Certificate examination. The Excellence Scholarships are designed to recognise and reward Leaving Cert success for the highestachieving stu dents and encourage their ongoing commitment to academic excellence

during their time at NUI Galway.

Photo Caption: Katie Kenny pictured receiving her Excellence Scholar ship from NUIG with Ms. Ann Marie Quinn, Career Guidance Counsellor and Ms. Eileen Ryan, Principal.

PLC Business and Social Studies Graduation

Back Row: Nicole Miley, Fiona Nolan, Chloe Carroll, Jimmy ConConnolly,nolly, Daniel Larkin, Damien Carty (PLC CoCo ordinator) and Jarlath Burke (Deputy(DeputyPrincipal).Principal).

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Young Technologists’ Success Castlerea Community School once again had winners in the Re gional Final of the ETTA (Engineering and Technology Teachers Association) Young Technologist awards. The ETTA presents prizes for the best Junior Certificate and Leav ing Certificate Technology projects. Ailish O’Rourke came 1 st for her Junior Cert. project. Guus Cas pers and Daryl Rowntree were awarded 2 nd and 3 rd respectively for their Leaving Cert. projects. They each received specially engraved Crystal Trophies and cer tificates. Ailish and Guus went forward to the National Finals in Gorey, Co Wexford on the 19 th November. The Leaving Cert. projects involved designing an animatronics project and proved to be one of the most difficult in recent years. Both students included a programmable circuit in their projects. Ailish made a working model of a dumb waiter. All the projects were electromechanically controlled. At the National Finals Ailish and Guus received Certificates of distinction for their projects. Well done to all, this is a truly wonderful achievement and C.C.S. Pictured above receiving her ETTA National Technology is justly proud of these students . Award for her Junior Cert. Technology Project is Ailish O’Rourke.

In the photo above is Daryl Rowntree receiving his ETTA Award from Ms. Mary Madden, ETB Education Officer, for his Leaving Cert. Technology Project. Also in the pho Pictured above receiving his ETTA Regional Award is to is Ms. Yvonne Hanbury, (Teacher). Guus Caspers

SEAI Sustainable Energy / SciFest Award Having won a major award – SEAI Sustainable Energy Award, at the Regional SciFest Final in Sligo last May, Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey, represented CCS at The SciFest 2016 National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin on Friday 11th November 2016. Their project titled “What is the best insulator” focused on examining various materials for horse bedding – a topic which is close to the hearts of both girls. Fol- lowing many months of fine-tuning and extending their initial project, guided and supported by their Science teacher, Ms. Joan Farrell, the girls presented their project to the judging panel with passion, confidence and great pride.

Castlerea Community School has a long and proud tradition of competing at a high level in the SciFest Awards and Lisa and Cora join a prestigious group of students who have done both themselves and our school proud. Pictured right are Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey at The SciFest 2016 National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin.

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Castlerea Community School First Year Mass of Welcome Castlerea Community School 2016/2017 In keeping with tradition, a Mass of Welcome for first year students and their families was celebrated on Thursday October 26 th by Fr. “Mass of blessing on a new school year “ Micheál Donnelly. On Thursday September 29th, Castlerea Community School, This year’s chosen theme was: staff and students gathered in St Patrick’s church for Mass “ God is the potter, we are the clay “ to mark the beginning of another school year. The hope of In keeping with the theme and to link their lives to the liturgy, the stu this school community is that if they don’t notice God, that dents used their artistic gifts making clay pots in Art class. A key part day by day God will notice students and staff and families. of the design of the pots was to include each student’s signatures. In The Theme of this year’s opening Mass was, “ this way they acknowledged their uniqueness before God and each Christ, the light of our lives”. other. One pot became slightly cracked providing an apt title for the Mass began this year with a ceremony of light. The school post Communion reflection.. community’s attention was focused on the fact that like Je sus, we his followers are called to be lights of wisdom, love, compassion, encouragement and fun to all whose lives are a valued part of this school year. The liturgy was enhanced with music, dance, readings, re flections and prayers chosen by the students.

The prayer for 2016/2017 is “that the invisible light of God will shine brightly in and through each member of the school

community wherever they go in the days and months ahead”. The School Community was invited to reflect on this.

In his homily Fr John McManus assured all gathered, that for the most part, whether the year will be fulfilling or some

what empty is in each person’s hands. In welcoming and speaking to the entire School Community First year students Sophie D’arcy & Rachel Feeney with the clay pots after Mass, Ms. Eileen Ryan (Principal) complimented all they made as the key symbol in the “First Year Mass of welcome” involved, in particular the students, on how with such rever Inspiring music was provided by the choir and a small group further ence they prepared and enhanced the liturgy through music, enhanced the liturgy with a 2016 conversational praying of the “Our Father.” This was indeed a truly spiritual experience for all who gath- reading, reflections and prayers. In particular, she reminded ered, one full of welcome and hope. all gathered, that as this new school year begins, we remain aware of the privileged educational environment available to all in CCS, where, unlike young people in troubled nations of

our world, each person in CCS is given an abundance of op portunities to set goals, to use their gifts and talents, to en joy learning and to grow as a trusting, sharing community. She also took the opportunity to welcome Canon Joe Fitzger ald back for the occasion and to make a presentation to him on behalf of the school and its BOM, wishing him good health and fulfillment during many years of retirement. Final ly she expressed a special word of thanks to Fr John McManus, Celebrant for the Mass. First year Musicians: Orlaith Smyth, Molly Cunnane, Ella Thompson, Katy Hannelly & Katelyn Hester waiting enthusiastically for their “First Year Mass of Welcome” to begin.

Mass of Remembrance

In thanksgiving and prayer, the school community gathered for Mass on Tuesday November 22nd to celebrate the lives of family members, The sanctuary area in St Patrick’s church during the ceremo friends and school staff gone to their eternal rest. Students led the ny of light for the CCS beginning of year Mass prayers, readings and the reflection. Our thanks to Fr. Pat O’Toole, the

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German Exchange This year, eleven TY and 5 th Yr. German students from Castlerea Community School embarked on a school exchange with a secondary school from Helmstedt near Wolfsburg in Germany. There they experienced the culture, food, school life and of course the language. Living with host families gave them a great in- sight into life in Germany: mealtimes, early starts etc and it enabled them to use and improve on their knowledge of the German language. Great friendships were formed. A quick tour around Berlin concluded the trip. On the 20 th September, Castlerea Community School welcomed fifteen German students and their mentors from Helmstedt to the school for a week, where they got to sample the Irish educational system and the delights Castlerea and the west of Ireland had to offer. 5th Year student Megan Gaughan and her English teacher, Mr. McHugh, sat down with Castlerea CS students Shane Gordon and Alannach Severs and their German teachers Ms. Kenny and Ms. Callanan to get a flavour of what the exchange entailed and how the experience was enjoyed by all. Megan: How did Castlerea CS’s association with German school Julianum in Helmstedt originate? Ms. Kenny : About 14 years ago we had a German assistant here in Castlerea CS, Verena Beu. We kept up contact with Verena through the years and in the summer of 2015 Verena got in contact with Ms. Callanan about setting up an exchange with us here. So we started organising our exchange in September 2015 and last April we made the trip to Helmstedt with our students. Ms. Callanan : That was our first visit to Helmstedt. There had been a previous exchange programme in place some years ago but this was our first time to connect with Helmstedt. Megan: What differences or similarities do you see between the educational system here in Ireland and in Germany? Ms. Callanan : In Germany they have more of a choice with regard to what type of school students can attend. They have schools that would be more academi- cally orientated and then ones that would cater for a more practical element. They do have a system similar to us in that they have an end exam like the Leaving Cert and they also have the choice of studying subjects at a higher or lower level. However their points system and grading system is different. Mr. McHugh: Shane, as a student you have experienced both our system and the German system. Which do you prefer? Shane : Definitely the German system. They have shorter days so you have more time in the evenings when you get home. They finish school around 12 or 1pm so you have more time for activities in the afternoon. They also get very little homework!! The early start took a little getting used to though: School for them started at 7.45am!!! Megan: How does the school exchange programme complement what the Irish students learn in the classroom? Ms. Callanan : The exchange gives the students the opportunity to use the spoken language more often which is the trickiest bit to incorporate into the class- room as you are so busy learning the grammar, comprehensions and written work trying to get students ready for exams. So it is hard to incorporate as much oral work as we would ideally like. Also being able to correspond with their new German friends definitely helps the Irish students both orally and with their written work. It also builds on opportunities in the future for potential travel for our Irish students. Megan: How did you, as teachers, facilitate and make the recent visit by the German students a memorable and enjoyable experience? Ms. Kenny : Firstly we matched each of the German students with a student from Castlerea of similar age. We had a total of fifteen students and two teachers to be hosted altogether. All visitors struck up great relationships with their host families it must be said. Then the German students came into school for three days getting to know our system which, as you heard, is very different to what they are used to. We also organised an official day out where we, along with their host students, accompanied them to the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle. The host families and our students then organised their own entertainment at the week- end. Ms. Callanan : While in Germany, we attended classes, visited a WW2 museum, went on an excursion and spent time with host families. The same applied then here. The German students got to sample everything from visiting grandparents to going to the bog! Before they returned to Germany we organised a going away party where they got to experience some of our Irish culture and talents, such as Irish dancing, which went down really well. Ms. Kenny : Also 2 German students, having never even seen Gaelic Football before, ended up making up the numbers and togging out in an U16 game be- tween Castlerea St. Kevins and Elphin. Arnie played with Castlerea and Killian with Elphin. Killian actually scored a point for Elphin!! Mr. McHugh: Shane and Alannach, how was the experience as students hosting the German students? Shane : It was very enjoyable. They were very easy going. For things like breakfast we showed Carl what we would eat and Carl showed us what he would normally have in Germany. We learned a lot. Alannach : The fact that they were so lovely and fitted in with anything we did was great. They came to swimming lessons. My student, Julianne, even came and spoke to my little sister’s primary school class. She was also very happy to come along to my sister’s ballet lesson in Roscommon. They really fitted in nicely and were so easy going and friendly. Megan: Has the exchange helped you back in German class in school? Shane : Definitely, yes. Now as we are working in the classroom I notice I understand words which I hadn’t understood before. For example when reading through stories I notice how I have learned words from Carl without even realising I had learned them. Alannach : Even when we were around them and they were all speaking German to one another I noticed how I was able to understand words and sentences that they were saying. They were also very good at encouraging us in learning German so our interactions definitely have given me more confidence with the language in the classroom. Mr. McHugh: Finally, what benefits does learning a foreign language have for Irish students in secondary school? Ms. Callanan : As Alannach has already alluded to, it really helps with building confidence in students and the endless possibilities for travel. With learning German you have the scope to travel through three countries in Europe, Germany itself but also Austria and Switzerland. Having studied the language really does give someone far more confidence if they were travelling through any of those countries. Also from a work point of view it gives you great possibility to gain employment in the future. If students advance to 3 rd Level Education they might be able to travel to different countries in the summers and work in restaurants or bars whilst seeing a new part of the world. We would hope our students here in Castlerea will keep up contact with their new German friends and that will give them great contacts and possibilities in the future. The exchange group outside CCS with teachers, Ms Callanan and Ms J Kenny.

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Instructional Leadership Programme An Triail

Castlerea Community School teachers Mr. Jarlath Burke and Ms. D’fhreastal daltaí ón séú bliain agus ón gcúigiú bliain ar léiriú Eithne Hurley have recently graduated from the Instructional Lead den dráma ‘An Triail’ a bhí ar siúl i mBaile Átha Luain ar an ership Programme, initiated in the post primary sector in Ireland by tríú la déag de Mhí Dheireadh Fómhair.Tá an dráma seo á the ETBI. The course involved four residential seminars conducted staidéar ag na daltaí atá ag déanamh Gaeilge ag ardleibhéal do over two years. It was facilitated by Professor Barrie Bennett, au scrúdú na hArdteiste. Chuaigh beirt mhúinteoirí Gaeilge , Bean thor of “Graphic Intelligence,” “Classroom Management” and Uí Cheallaigh agus Bean Uí Cheallacháin in éineacht le na “Beyond Monet.” His teaching and research focus on instructional daltaí chuig an dráma seo.Léiriú nuaaimseartha ab ea é le intelligence. The course aimed to: haisteoirí den chéad scoth. Ba mhór an taitneamh agus an tairbhe a baineadh as an dráma ♦ Encourage teachers to consciously modify their instruction al methods so as to maximise student learning ♦ Facilitate the conscious and deliberate utilisation of teach GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATION er actions ♦ Foster an awareness of how teacher actions can impact on On Thursday 6 th Oct. the Leaving Cert geography classes trav student learning elled to the Burren, Co. Clare to conduct their geographical in vestigation. The geographical investigation is a compulsory part ♦ Enhance classroom management of the geography course and is worth 20% of the final exam. The topic under investigation this year is “An investigation of the The key themes developed at the seminars related to how teachers impact of the processes of transportation and deposition on the acquire an instructional repertoire of skills, tactics and strategies formation of one coastal landform.” A study of marine transpor and how they wisely draw on that repertoire so as to affect student tation and deposition was conducted at Bishop’s Quarter beach, learning. The workshops reflected on the need for teachers’ in Co. Clare. Much planning and preparation was undertaken in structional intelligence to be merged with real systemic change the weeks prior to the field study. On the day, the main focus focused on how students are taught and learn. was on the gathering of primary information. Practical skills were developed through the various tasks preformed, such as It is envisaged that these methods will eventually become com measuring the height of the sand dunes, measuring wind speed monplace in the repertoire of all professional teachers. It is ex and direction, drawing a field sketch, measuring longshore drift, pected that these teaching methods will help to make the learning to mention but a few. It was a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience a more enjoyable and successful one for our students. experience. Students are currently engaged with the writing up of their findings.

Some of the students who went to the Burren to carry out their Leaving Cert. Geographical investigation. Pictured above are Ms. Hurleyurley and Mr. Burke receivingreceiving their certificates on completion of the Instructional Leadership Programme. Reflect upon your present blessings ---of-of which every man has many ---not-not on your past Christmas is doing a little something extra for misfortunes, of which all men have some. someone . ---Charles-Charles Dickens Charles M. Schulz

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Green Schools Flag Raising Ceremony Castlerea Community School Art Trip to On Monday September 26 th , the Green Schools committee raised Roscommon Arts Centre the school’s second green flag. This flag was awarded to the school Miss Connaughton, accompanied by her 5th and Leaving Cert. for completing the Energy theme. The flag was launched by Mr Art students, travelled to Roscommon Arts Centre on the 28th Denis Naughton TD. Minister for Communications, Climate Change Oct to view the Red Bird Youth Collective Exhibition. This was and Natural Resources, at a ceremony in the school. The after a fantastic experience for both groups. For some students this noon was completed by First and Second year students attending was their first time to ever view an exhibition. In the exhibition the ‘’Bin It’’ drama workshop. Well done to all committee members there was a great range of Art to view from sculpture, audio on this fantastic achievement. Work has commenced on theme and visual installations, photography and beautiful city paint ings. The group was given a fantastic workshop by Orla who three: “Water”. was one of the organisers of this exhibition. In her workshop, Orla covered a major area in the Appreciation of Art section that involves the Leaving Cert. Art Gallery question and this was of particular importance and interest to the Leaving Cert. students.

Miss Connaughton pictured with her 5th and Leaving Cert. Art students, who travelled to Roscommon Arts Centre to view the Red Bird Youth Collective Exhibition.

Ms. Dervin, Green Schools coordinator, with the Green Schools Committee raising the Energy flag. HAMLET Recently, Leaving Cert. English students attended a perfor mance of “Hamlet” in the Dean Crow Theatre in Athlone. The Agricultural Science Fieldtrip play was staged by the Gaiety school of acting. It provided an The start of a new academic year marks the eagerly anticipated opportunity for students to see Shakespeare’s work come alive. The performance covered every aspect of the text and fieldtrip for the Sixth Year Agricultural Science students of Castle connected it directly with the Leaving Cert. syllabus. The quality rea Community School. Reflecting on the success of previous of acting could only be described as superb. The show was followed by a workshop designed to link the performance to the years, we returned to the farm of the wellknown tillage farmer questions on the Leaving Cert. English exam. It was led by ex Eddie Naughton in Fuerty, Co. Roscommon. As part of their Leaving pert tutors and curated by the director, Martin Maguire. Each student also received an indepth study workbook containing Cert. assessment, Agricultural Science students must complete a exercises and information on themes, characters, quotations number of projects to gain onfarm experience. One of these cho and language of the play. It was a very worthwhile experience and an enjoyable day was had by all! sen projects is on the cultivation of a tillage crop. During their visit, Eddie kindly shared his time and indepth experience and knowledge with us. Students were guided through the stepbystep processes involved in the cultivation of spring barley beyond the harvesting stage, right through to storage and rolling. Students were able to inspect equipment such as a batch drier, subsoiler, powerharrow and combine harvester. An onfarm experience such as this offers students the opportunity to collect valuable knowledge, photos and resources to complete projects of a high standard. We would like to thank Eddie for his continued support.

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CCS 5k Out and Active Carol Service Well done to all those involved in the recent Christmas On Wednesday, October 5 th , on a beautiful sunny autum Carol Service. It was a most uplifting and enjoyable nal day, staff and students at CCS participated in their occasion. A collection was held on the night for St. Vin annual 5km sponsored walk. The route took us through the cent de Paul. scenic Demesne and surrounding countryside. The walk is the first activity of the year towards attaining the Active Flag and provided an opportunity to promote health and fitness amongst the school community while raising funds for the school. A group of runners completed the course in record time with Fifth Year student Michael Conroy and student PE teacher, Mr Boland, being first back to base. Students who collected the largest amount in each year group were presented with sports vouchers. We would like sincerely to thank the sponsors of refreshments, Benny’s Deli and Pascal Fitzmaurice of Market Fresh, Castlerea. We would also like to thank An Garda Síochána for their assis tance in running the event. Well done to the team of volun teer students, staff and all participants on the success of an enjoyable activity. Pictured above are the students who participated in the choir for the school’s annual Carol Service.

School Canteen

Castlerea Community School is the proud provider of a wide range of healthy eating options in its new school canteen. Students can now have breakfast, midmorning snacks and lunch in the new facility and all at very reasonable prices. Students and parents alike are well pleased with this excellent facility. “It never occurred to me that healthy eating could also be tasty eating!” This was one very satisfied senior student’s enthusiastic postprandial comment recently!

Warming up for the school walk.

Students enjoying the new canteen facilities.

Fergal Mahon leads off the school walk.

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Sports News

Basketball News Cadet Boys’ Basketball.

The school year to date has turned out to be a very suc The cadet boys were beaten in the Regional Final by St. Endas, cessful one for our basketball teams. Galway, but they are still in the playoffs. Cadet Girls’ Basketball The 1st and 2nd years start their competitions after Christmas. In the Schools’ Cup the cadet girls team defeated High The senior boys’ Team was unlucky not to reach the Regional School, Rathgar and Mercy College Sligo. They play Coláiste Final. Pobail Setanta, Dublin in the SemiFinals in Limerick on January 9th. This team won the Regional Title in the League easily beating St. Nathys in the Final. Ladies Football 1st and 3 rd Yr. girls participated in the U14 competition. They have one game left with Roscommon Community College.

3rd and 5 th Yr girls took part in the junior competition, winning three games and losing one. They await other results to see if they progress in the competition.

A very young senior team was defeated in all three games.

Gaelic Football First Year The first year boys took part in a blitz at the Connacht Centre of Excellence early in November. They played Strokestown, Swin ford and Dunmore. The first years are captained by Frank Hester and managed by Mr. Carty and Mr. Danny Burke.

Juvenile The juvenile boys participated in a blitz at the Connacht Centre The Cadet Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry. in October. They had games against Charlestown and Swinford, winning one and losing one. The juvenile captain is Adam McDermott and managers are Mr. Carty and Mr. McHugh.

Senior Girls’ Basketball Junior The senior girls are also in the Cup SemiFinal on January The junior boys have qualified for the playoff stage of the 13th against Charlestown. league/championship in January. They enjoyed wins over Davitt College, Castlebar, St. Tiernans, Crossmolina and Jesus and Mary, Enniscrone, before losing to Swinford. Jonathan Hester is the team captain and they are managed by Mr. Reidy and Mr. Danny Burke.

Senior The senior boys were beaten by St. Aloysius, Athlone, in the Ros common championship. They went on to draw with Strokestown and received a walkover from Manorhamilton in the league. A one point defeat in their final group game against Mohill meant they lost out on a league quarter final place. In the last week they met St. Enda’s, Galway city, in the Connacht championship. Despite an excellent performance, they lost out to a strong Enda’s side by two points. The team was captained by Colm McDermott and managed by Mr. Gooney and Mr. Danny Burke.

Roscommon UU16161616 Four members of our senior panel – Jack Keane, Donal Bren nan, Andrew Lyons and James Larkin were members of the Roscommon U16 team that won the Fr. Manning Cup in Novem The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry. ber. Well done lads!

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Team Hope Shoe Box Appeal

At Christmas we think about holidays, presents and fun times ahead. But let us spare a thought for those less fortunate than ourselves.

Team Hope runs the Christmas Shoebox Appeal annually and having delivered an amazing 212,002 shoeboxes to chil dren in need in 2015, they are hoping that this year’s shoebox numbers will be just as good, if not better.

Staff and students in Castlerea Community School made a huge effort to support Team Hope, putting together 110 shoeboxes and raising €464 for the charity. A big thank you and well done to all.

A special word of thanks to Marion Coughlan and Francis Coyne who collected our shoeboxes on Wednesday 16 th No vember. It was wonderful for students and staff to meet volunteers working with Team Hope who give of their time freely and willingly to make this organisation the wonderful success that it is. Thank you again Marion and Francis.

The photos above show some of the students involved in getting the shoe boxes ready for the ‘Team Hope’ appeal, pictured with MsMsMs Marion Coughlan, Castlerea Town Team Hope Volunteer, Ms Eileen Ryan, Principal CCS, Ms Michelle McNulty and Ms Mary Colleary, the teachers who organised the Team Hope Appeal in CCS

A small sample of CCS student reactions to being involved in the shoebox appeal: “I enjoyed doing the shoebox appeal very much because it hopefully will make Christmas special for some girl or boy who is not as fortunate as I am. I hope they enjoy my shoebox.” (1 st Year)

“I was delighted to participate in the shoebox appeal this year as I think it is a shame that we take so many things for granted that others would consider precious. I would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part in the shoebox appeal next year. (5 th year)

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CastlereaCastlerea ExpoExpo

Castlerea Community School feature at Castlerea Enterprise Town, Business and Community Expo The whole community of Castlerea came together last weekend to celebrate all that is exceptional about our town – from family run businesses and credit institutions to sporting and voluntary organisations, local educational establishments and community projects. The students from Castlerea Community School were on hand to share with the community some of their talents and achievements as well as giving visitors to their stand a flavour of life in the local post primary school.

Some of the highlights of the Expo for CCS were:

• The Bank of Ireland Enterprise Award was presented to Michael Conroy, on behalf of the members of The Woody Wood pecker business team, which also included Amy Malone, Jennifer Keane, Sarah Diggins and Megan Lattimore. The Award was in recognition of their commitment, hard work, team effort and their success in achieving 2 nd place in the County Enter prise Final in Roscommon earlier in the year. • Principal of CCS, Eileen Ryan, interviewed special guest Rachel Allen. • Congratulations to Chloe O’ Brien, 5th Yr. who won the C.C.S. Bake Off. The six finalists illustrated their baking expertise and their creative skill. The finalists were Megan Gaughan (Strawberry Whip), Ailbhe Woods (Chocolate Orange), Jessica Connolly (Carrot Cake), Chloe O’ Brien (Festive Red Velvet), Aishah Sattar (Almond Carrot Cake) and Laura Harte (Chocolate Surprise). Celebrity chef, Rachel Allen, was very impressed with the students and their produce and affirmed the work of each competitor, deliberating for a good while before choosing a winner. Chloe O’ Brien received a Tablet for first prize with her festive snowmen on red velvet cupcakes. All students received a plaque for their efforts. Many visitors to the CCS stand were left astounded and aghast by the samples of student work, projects and awards on display in The Hub over the week end. • The recent successes of the Ladies Cadet and Senior Basketball teams on reaching the AllIreland semifinal stage at both levels was acknowledged by MC Danny Burke, when he invited the joint captains from each team on stage to talk about their journey this far. Those interviewed were Holly Hopkins (Joint captain Cadet team), Shannon Caulfield and Amy Malone (Joint captains’ Senior team), Lisa O’Rourke (Joint captain Cadet team) • A group of very gifted students from Castlerea Community School provided wonderful entertainment to the many visitors attending the Castlerea Enterprise Town, Business and Community Expo held in The Hub last weekend. A mix of traditional Irish music played on tin whistle by Rosin Igoe, a version of the contemporary song Photograph, sung beautifully by Ciara Mulheir, complemented magnificently the dancing talents of Shannon Flynn, the voices of Roisín and Ciara singing the timeless ballad “Go Lassie Go” and the musical and singing talent of Alannach Severs. • Our very own Sporting Hero, Mr. Joe Henry, PE teacher in CCS, took part in a most engaging panel discussion on the Satur day morning where he spoke about his basketball journey to date, from playing hurling at County level to his introduction to basketball when he joined the staff in CCS to the present day, having secured many titles for coaching both school and community teams at various levels. Joe was recently awarded with a National Community Games Volunteer of the Year Award for his contribution to basketball, among other sports, during his involvement at County and Connaught levels since the early 80’s. Many congratulations to a most deserving recipient. Thank You to Sean Beirne, Manager BOI and his staff on organising a very successful Expo.

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CareerCareer NewsNews

NUIG Talk to Leaving Cert. Students. Study Skills Recently,Grainne Dunne, Liaison Officer NUIG, visited the school. Students of Castlerea Community School took part in learning She spoke to all Leaving Cert students and gave them a brief skills workshops recently. The workshops were organised in con introduction to the 60 undergraduate courses available at NUIG. junction with the Super Generation learning organisation and She stressed the importance of making an early application for were delivered to students from second, third, fifth and sixth years. oncampus accommodation, and highlighted the benefits at tached to scholarships, especially for those who have an interest Super Generation is Ireland’s leading learning skills organisation and delivers workshops to both students and teachers through and achievements in the areas of sport and creative arts. Finally, out the country. The concept of the Super Generation workshops she invited students to attend the Spring Open Day on April 1 st is to empower students to take charge of their own learning by 2017. providing them with the skills required to maximise their potential in the classroom, in homework and study and ultimately in the exam setting. Students were also inspired and motivated to re Careers in Technology and Science new their approach to learning and their will to reach their poten In conjunction with Science Week, Aoife Fallon spoke to 5 th year tial. students about careers in Technology and Science. During the workshops the students learned about key skills such as time management, revision and study planning, learning styles She outlined her own career path and how she progressed from and strengths, mindmapping, active reading and memory tech a background in Social Science to her graduate entry to Ericsson. niques. The workshops certainly got the thumbs up from the stu Based in Athlone, Ericsson is a global leader in delivering ICT dents. Many commented that they enjoyed the active nature of solutions. ranging from Cloud services and Mobile Broad the seminars and all came away with some very useful and prac band to Network Design and Optimization. Aoife explained her tical methods for improving their approach to study and for opti job as a computer coder in the company. mising their performance in exams.

She highlighted the skills needed, the subjects required and the potential career paths open to students who have an interest in ICT. She encouraged students to explore ICT courses as opportu nities in this sector are in high demand, exciting and diverse.

Pictured with Aoife Fallon (Ericsson Athlone) and Mr. Heduan, (Science teacher), are some of the students who attended the Careers in Technology and Science talk.

Students attending the Study Skills Workshop pictured with their facilitator.

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Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students visit to Harmac Leaving Cert Applied Tourism Trip On Wednesday the 19 th October, the LCA classes went to Lough Key Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students recently visited Harmac Ltd, Forest Park, Boyle with Ms. Collins and Ms. Bruen (SNA). This trip was Castlerea to gain a deeper insight into local enterprise. The Managing organised as part of the Tourism module of the Hotel and Catering Director, Mr. Mick McEnroe gave a very informative presentation which course of the LCA programme. On a crisp autumnal day with hazy consisted of a video about the company, its background and production sunshine breaking through the trees, the beauty of this attraction was processes. He referred to multiple aspects of the Leaving Cert Business shown at its best. The students were guided through the history of the course during the visit ranging from Human Resource Management, Rockingham estate by an excellent guide, Andy, who held their atten Product Development to Global Business. He informed the students that tion with stories and anecdotes. Harmac Ltd first set up in Castlerea almost 20 years ago with a total of 20 employees and today it provides employment for over 300 people. Then the class went into groups and took on the challenge of the Boda He spoke about the importance of quality assurance, given the nature of Borg. These challenges can be physical, mental or a combination of their business quality marks and the high standards required to achieve both. This proved to be fun, frustrating at times and competitive. The them. Sample products were displayed for the students. students really embraced the “quests” and after much trial and error got a great sense of satisfaction at getting their first “stamp”. As Fergal After the presentation the students had the opportunity to get involved by Mahon (a wheelchair user) was restricted to the mental challenges, he asking Mr. McEnroe some questions. He explained further about the later explored the trails in Lough Key in the “Wheel O” orienteering contributions Harmac makes to the local community in terms of both with Ms. Bruen. He then interviewed the staff on the profile of tourists direct and indirect employment and sponsorship of local sports clubs and to Lough Key. charities. The students then had an opportunity to view one of the clean rooms where product assembly takes place. Mr. McEnroe encouraged all the It was a memorable day, enjoyed by everyone. students to consider future jobs in the medical technology area given its im- portance to the Irish economy. The students found the trip interesting and insightful, not only for their Business and LCVP course but also for their future careers.

LCA students at Lough Key Forest Park LCVP and 5th Yr. students visit Harmac with teacher Ms. Y Ryan. LCA Visit Careers Fair

LCA visit Roscommon Women’s Network Leaving Cert Applied students attended a Careers Fair in Kil bride on Wednesday 12 th October. The students gathered LCA2 recently visited the Roscommon Women’s Network in The Mill, information on careers and courses available to them after Castlerea, to research the work and services provided by this local organi the Leaving Cert. In particular they were interested in Post sation. This is an organisation that provides a huge range of supports and Leaving Cert courses and Apprenticeships. They also picked services to men, women and children throughout the county. It is a needs driven organisation responding directly to the community it serves. Stu up a lovely cookery book from MABS that contains healthy dents were really impressed with the many and varied services and sup recipes ideas. It was an enjoyable and worthwhile day. ports it offers – Counselling, Citizens Information, Training Programmes, Confidence Building Workshops, Fetac Courses, Retail Courses and much more. The staff was very welcoming and engaging. Ms. Maria Harris, Development Worker and Mr. James Derrig, Training Coordinator, gave a very informative talk and students had an opportunity to engage in a Q & A session afterwards. Students and teachers Ms. Larkin and Ms. Joyce thoroughly enjoyed their visit to the Women’s Network.

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1st1st YearYear Students’Students’ ContributionsContributions

ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIRST YEAR CCS STUDENT? GAEILGE

∗ Críochnaigh teideal an amhráin seo. ''Do You Want To MUSIC Build A...''? ∗ What do you call the motion to pluck the strings when (Snowman) playing an instrument? ∗ Cé a scríobh an leabhar '' The Lion, The Witch And The (Pizzicato) Wardrobe''? ∗ Who composed “The Messiah?” (CS Lewis) (Frideric Handel) ∗ Cé a dúirt ''Bah Humbug'' go minic? ∗ Name the four families of instruments in an orchestra. (Ebenezer Scrooge) (Brass, Woodwind, String and Percussion) GEOGRAPHY

∗ Name the three categories of a volcano. SCIENCE (Active, Dormant and Extinct) ∗ Who is the scientist who did most of his research on ge ∗ Name the three types of weathering. netics? (Gregor Mendel) (Mechanical, Chemical and Biological) ∗ ∗ What is the job of the vacuole in the plant cell? Name two examples of Igneous rock. (It stores food) (Granite and Basalt) HISTORY ∗ What are the three states of matter? ∗ (Solid, Liquid and Gas) What two metals are used to make bronze? (Copper and tin) RELIGION ∗ What does Mesolithic mean? ∗ What are nonJewish people called? (A period when huntergatherers used simple stone tools) (Gentiles) ∗ What do the letters AD and BC stand for? ∗ The Vedas (The Hindus’ sacred text) is written in Sanskrit. True or False? (AD: Anno Domini BC: Before Christ) (True) MATHS ∗ ∗ When does the Christian start? What is the square root of 64? First Sunday in ) (8) ∗ If X=2 and Y=3, evaluate the expression 2x 2+3y 2 x+1= HOME ECONOMICS (34) ∗ What is bicarbonate of soda more commonly know as? ∗ Is 1 a prime number? (Bread soda) No. An integer greater than one is called a prime num- ∗ ber if its only positive divisors (factors) are one and When dough stretches up and rises, a crust forms on top. itself. What is this crust called? Saba Sattar (Dextrin) ∗ What does plaque consist of? (Bacteria and food) “Our hearts grow tender with childhood ENGLISH memories and love of kindred, and we are ∗ Who wrote the poem ''A Child's Christmas in Wales?” (Dylan Thomas) better throughout the year for having, in ∗ In which Dickens novel did Tiny Tim appear? spirit, become a child again at Christmas- (‘A ’) ∗ Which children's Christmas story takes place in time.” ''Whoville''? (‘How The Stole Christmas’) ― Laura Ingalls Wilder

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Winter Snowball `When icicles hang by the wall, I made myself a snowball as perfect as could be , And Dick the shepherd blows his nails, I thought I’d keep it as a pet , And Tom bears logs into the hall, And I let it sleep with me. And milk comes frozen home in pail` Yes, it’s that time of year ! The evenings are long and the cold win ter frost appears on the windows. Robin redbreast bobs along. I made it some pajamas How delightful to feel the heat and glow of the burning fire from And a pillow for its head granny’s stove. Now we smell the aromas of cinnamon, cloves and And then last night it ran away, ginger. It has to be granny’s tea brack baking golden brown. We await with mouth watering anticipation! But first it wet the bed!

Granny Farrell's Tea Brack Makes 1 loaf Darragh Sharkey Ready in 2 hours

180ml [6 fl oz] strong tea 450g [1lb] mixed fruit [ sultanas, raisins , currants] 170 [6oz] brown sugar Unusual facts 1. Banging your head against a wall burns 150 calo 1 freerange egg , lightly beaten ries an hour. 25g [1 oz ] butter or margarine, melted 2. In the UK, it was illegal to eat mince pies on Christ 225g [9oz] wholemeal flour, sieved mas Day in Oliver Cromwell’s time! 1 ½ tsp bread soda 3. Pteronophobia is the fear of being tickled by feath ers! 1 tsp mixed spice 4. When hippos are upset, their sweat turns red. 5. 29th May is officially “Put a Pillow on Your Fridge Method Day“. 6. Cherophobia is the fear of fun. 1. Preheat oven to 180*C/350*F/ Gas 4 . 7. If you lift a kangaroo’s tail off the ground it can’t 2. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin. hop. 3. Mix the tea , fruit and sugar together , cover and leave to soak 8. King Henry VIII slept with a gigantic axe beside overnight . him. 4. Add egg and melted butter to the fruit mix . Fold in sieved flour, 9. Heart attacks are more likely to happen on a Mon day. bread soda and mixed spice . 10. You cannot snore and dream at the same time. 5. Transfer to the tin and bake for 1 – 1½ hours , until a skewer 11. A baby octopus is about the size of a flea when it inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean . is born. 6. Leave to cool for 10 minutes before removing from tin . 12. A sheep, a duck and a rooster were the first pas sengers in a hot air balloon. 13. Hitler’s mother considered abortion but the doctor persuaded her to keep the baby. David Farrell 14. Catfish are the only animals that naturally have an odd number of whiskers. 15. Facebook, Skype and Twitter are all banned in Memories of Christmas. China. 1. USA boxes of biscuits 16. 95% of people text things they could never say in 2. Christmas sweaters person. 17. Boanthropy is a disorder making people believe 3 log that they are a cow. 4. The Christmas Swim 18. Snails have 14,000 teeth and some can even kill 5. you. 19. The smell of freshly cut grass is actually the scent 6. that plants release when in distress. 7. 20. A female dolphin will assist another dolphin giving 8. Christmas crackers birth. 9. Wren boys Orlaith Smyth 10. Frost

Stephen McNeill

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Christmas Food Quiz 10 Celebrities Who Died in 2016 1. True or False: David Bowie – Singer Before turkeys arrived from the New World , the Prince – Singer traditional English included a Muhammad Ali – Professional Boxer pig's head smothered in mustard. Leonard Cohen – Songwriter / Singer 2. In Northern England is often eaten with which Terry Wogan – Radio & Television Broadcaster dairy product? Gene Wilder – Actor A. Yoghurt Fidel Castro – Dictator B. Butter Harper Lee – Novelist C. Cheese Caroline Aherne – Actor

Paul Daniels – Magician 3. What would you be drinking if you had Gluhwein?

Jason Lyons 4. Which Christmas dish developed from frumenty, a thick por ridge of cereal, dried fruit and spices ?

10 Reasons Why English Is Hard To Learn 5. What alcohol is traditionally added to butter and used in ? A. Rum B. Brandy C. Whiskey D. Wine

6. In which direction should you stir mincemeat for good luck? A. Clockwise ∗ The bandage was wound around the wound. B. Anti Clockwise ∗ The farm was used to produce produce. 7. What should you eat one of on each of the 12 days of Christ ∗ The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse. mas for good luck? ∗ We must polish the Polish furniture. A. Oranges ∗ The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert. B. Chestnuts ∗ Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was C. Cranberries time to present the present. D. Mince Pies

∗ I did not object to the object. 8. In “The Night Before Christmas” visions of sugar plums danced ∗ The insurance was invalid for the invalid. through the children’s heads. What is a sugar plum? ∗ After a number of injections my jaw got number. A. Sweets made from dried fruit B. Sugar coated plums ∗ Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear. C. Boiled sweets in the shape of plums Mikaela O’Brien D. Mini cakes filled with cooked plums Answers 1. True 2. C — Cheese “Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and 3. 4. Christmas Pudding reflect on the important things around us --- a 5. B — Brandy 6. A — Clockwise time when we can look back on the year that has 7. D — Mince Pies 8. A — Sweets made from dried fruit passed and prepare for the year ahead. “ Charlotte Gardner David Cameron

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1st1st YearYear Students’Students’ ContributionsContributions

Christmas Riddles THE OFFICIAL TOP TEN ♦ Wh at did the golfer get for Christmas? MOST STREAMED ALBUMS Two pairs of pants in case he got a hole in one ! OFOFOF

2016 ♦ Mom, can I have a dog for Christmas? PURPOSE No. You can have a turkey like everyone else VIEWS DRAKE

X ED SHEERAN ♦ What do you get if you cross Santa and a detective? CRY WHEN I LAUGH JESS GLYNNE Santa clues ANTI BEAUTY BEHIND THE MADNESS WEEKND ♦ What do monkeys sing at Christmas COMMUNION YEARS & YEARS Jungle bells IN THE LONELY HOUR SAM SMITH A HEAD FULL OF DREAMS COLDPLAY ♦ What is the best Christmas present in the world? BLURRYFACE TWENTY ONE A broken drum, you just can’t beat it. PILOTS Niamh Shriane ♦ What did Santa shout to the toys? It’s sack time The True Meaning of Christmas ♦ Why does Santa have three gardens? A child is snuggled up in bed So he can ho, ho, ho Festive thoughts running through her head,

She wants to cheer and she wants to shout ♦ Knock knock? Who’s there? But she must keep quiet because Santa’s about. Holly Holly who? She heard him creeping around the tree Holidays are here So she snuck down stairs, just to see!

♦ Where do penguins go to the movies? Santa had never let her down before At the divein The empty tree was a mistake, she was sure!

The closer she looked, the less she saw ♦ What do elves learn in school? All that was there was a note on the floor, The elfabet As she looked around for something more . Ethan Donlon Franzoni Her parents stood there merry and bright Next Christmas? As they read the note that Santa left that night. ‘I forgot some toys, be back soon‘. As I huddle in the doorway watching the masses rushing by to complete their Christmas shopping, it takes me back to happi But she finally realized, that er times when my circumstances were so different. It was , was under no tree, always a time when my mother, RIP and my two brothers, The greatest gift was spending Christmas with family. longed for Christmas. Although there was never much money, my mother always managed to feed us and keep a roof over Mia Southhall our heads. Unfortunately, through illness, my mother passed away two years ago when I was 16 years old. My brothers went to England. I remained in my family home. Feeling so lonely and alone, I resorted to drugs and alcohol. Before long I became addicted. As a consequence of this I lost all my material possessions but most of all I lost my dignity. Two years later, here I am in the doorway wondering if I will get enough money to have a hot meal today. Christmas, well for me, it’s just another day. Today, I am five days drug free and attending a methadone clinic. Could I, by next Christmas, be one of those people en joying the festive atmosphere and be reunited with my family? But, just for today, I need enough coins for a hot meal! Next Christmas! Who knows? “Hope springs eternal in the human breast!”

Katelyn Hester

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1st1st YearYear Students’Students’ ContributionsContributions

My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas Movies! My Teachers’ Least Favourite Thing About Christmas Christmas movies have the power to make you cry, to bring Ms Galvin: The Festive Season begins too early! on the Christmas feeling and can take you right back to Mr Whitney: Not knowing what to buy people for Christmas when you experienced the innocence and wonder of Christ Ms C .Kenny: The weather is too cold mas. Ms Dervin : Putting away the decorations when Christmas is over My teachers’ favourite Christmas movie: Ms Colleary : The paper mountain left over after Christmas! MS. Connaughton – Elf Mr Boland: Shopping Ms. Kelly – Home Alone Ms McNulty: “Nothing! I love everything about Christmas” Ms. McNulty – Elf Ms Connaughton : Cleaning up after the dinner Ms. Duffy – Home Alone Ms Callanan: Icy roads Ms. Gormally – Home alone Mr Gooney : Christmas songs in shops start too early Mr. O’Rourke – Home Alone Ms Duffy: When the stops. Ms. O’Dea – Santa Clause Ms. Dervin – Home Alone Seán Travers Ms. Moran – Love Actually Ms. Y Ryan – The Holiday Ms. Colleary – Home Alone My Teachers’ Least Favourite Christmas Food. Mr. Mulhern – Home Alone Mr McHugh – Brussels Sprouts Mr. Gooney – Home Alone Mr Gooney Christmas pudding Ms. Ryan (Principal) – Home Alone Ms Callaghan – Brussels Sprouts Ms. Galvin – Ms Galvin – Bread Sauce Ms. Collins – Home Alone Mr Mulhern – Mince Pies Ms McNulty – Christmas pudding Katie Mee Ms Molloy – Prawns Ms Farrell ─ Christmas cake with almond icing Ms Dervin ─ Too many onions Favourite Christmas Songs Ms Sloyan– Christmas pudding 111ststst Year Ms Callaghan’s Tutor Group Ms. McIntyre – Christmas cake Music is a big part of our lives. Most of us listen to it every Ms O’Grady – Brussels Sprouts day. Music becomes especially popular at Christmas, when Mr. Boland – Mince Pies Christmas songs are prevalent everywhere. We decided to find out the favourite Christmas songs of Ms. Callaghan’s Rachel Keane Tutor Group. Michael Callaghan – Fairytale of New York My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas TV Ads 2016 Rachel Casey – Ms. Galvin: Lidl Siobhan Casey – Merry Christmas Everyone Ms.C.Kenny: John Lewis Jack Cassidy – Mr. Boland: CocaCola Odhran Costello– Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer Ms.Dervin: Lidl Molly Cunnane – Winter Wonderland Ms.Colleary: Tesco Alan Glynn – Jingle Bells Mr.Whitney: Vodaphone Katie Hannelly – Fairytale of New York Mr Gooney: CocaCola Cian Haynes – Feliz Navidad Mr Burke: Aldi Frank Hester– Fairytale of New York Ms. Duffy: CocaCola Katelyn Hester Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas Mr. McHugh: CocaCola Cian Kelly– Jingle Bells Ms. McNulty: Aldi Rachel Keane – All I Want For Christmas Ms. Connaughton: Lidl Megan Maloney – Winter Wonderland Mr. Henry: Lidl Adam O’ Flanagan – Let it Snow Ms. Callanan: Lidl Ella Thompson – All I Want For Christmas

Orlaith Smyth Michael Callaghan

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“I cannot go back and make a brand new start, I can start from now and make a brand new ending.” May Peace be your gift at Christmas and With this in mind I asked my fellow classmates about their intended New Year’s Resolutions. your blessing all year through! New Year’s Resolutions Ms C Kenny’s 1st Year Tutor Group Ethan Donlon Franzoni: Do well in my exams ---Author-Author Unknown David Farrell: Get fitter Charlotte Gardner: Eat fewer sweets Dean Glancy: Get back playing football Kevin Lambert: Healthy eating This Festive Time of Year Jason Lyons: Stop cursing!!! We are fast approaching Christmas Stephan McNeill : Try to get my dog to walk on a lead As lists and shopping begins, Mikaela O’Brien: Drink fewer fizzy drinks But please do not forget Saba Sattar: Listen to the orthodontist more! It is the Season of Goodwill. Darragh Sharkey: To be more attentive in class. Many homeless on our streets Niamh Shriane: To be more organised for class Nowhere to turn and nothing to eat, Orlaith Smyth: Exercise more As you pass them by give them a thought Mia Southall: Help more around the house A hot drink perhaps and a treat. Seán Travers : Remember to lock in the hens! Mark Winston : Remember to feed the sheep Looking in the windows Garron Wrightson: To be more positive in school Of happy houses full of cheer, Mark Winston How they wish they had a home At this Festive Time of Year.

RIDDLES We all have elderly neighbours Q1: What kind of coat is always wet when you put it on? Living on their own, A: A coat of paint. . Christmas can be a lonely time Q2: How many seconds are there in one year? So pop in and say ‘Hello’. A: 12 of them , January 2 nd , February 2 nd , March 2 nd , nd nd nd nd nd April 2 , May 2 , June 2 , July 2 , August 2 , Sep tember 2 nd , October 2 nd , November 2 nd , December Think of all the children 2nd . . Who may not get a toy, Q3: A man rode in to town on Tuesday, left two days later on Why not donate one of yours? Tuesday. How so? It would bring much Christmas joy. A: His horse’s name was Tuesday!

Q4: Why did the boy throw his watch out the window? So Happy Christmas one and all A: He wanted to see time fly. I hope it brings much cheer, Q5: Why can’t someone living in Maine be buried in Florida ? To you and all your families A: Because he’s still living. At this Festive Time of Year. Molly Cunnane Q6: What starts with a P, ends with E and has 1000s of letters? A: The post office!

Q7: What word begins with an E, but only has one letter? A: An envelope.

Q8: What is easy to get into but hard to get out of? “““ A: Trouble.

If you haven't got any charity in your heart, Q9: The man who made it doesn’t want it. The man who bought you have the worst kind of heart trouble. “ it doesn’t need it. The man who needs it doesn’t know it. What am I talking about? Bob Hope A: A coffin!

Q10: What does December have that other months don’t? A: The letter D. Kevin Lambert. 19

1st1st YearYear Students’Students’ ContributionsContributions

Some Charitable Organizations That Help People Students’ Favourite Movies During Christmas And Throughout The Year. Ms. Y Ryan’s Tutor Group/Maths’ Class Coming up to Christmas we seem to get into a bit of a panic in order Some of our deep emotional experiences come when we are to get everything ready for the day. However, there are some people watching a movie and this is especially true of Christmas who don’t need to get into a rush because they simply don’t have a movies. Whether they be happy, sad, funny or otherwise, we Christmas like us. Their circumstances are indeed very different. will all be transfixed by the goggle box, watching festive movie There are many charitable organizations in Ireland that are doing after festive movie. We decided to ask each student in 1st Year excellent work for those less fortunate than us, work that they do all what their favourite Christmas movie was to date. Here are the year round and right through the festive season. result of our findings: Below are some of these organizations that help people in Ireland in the buildup to and at Christmas. Organizations that Help the Homeless and those in need: The society of St. Vincent de Paul: This is the largest voluntary organisation in Ireland. It focuses on the practical approach to dealing with poverty, working primarily in person to person contact by visiting families and seeking to achieve social justice and equality of opportunity for all citizens. It enables people to help themselves and assist them towards long term self sufficiency. Focus Ireland: Focus Ireland is an organisation that is working to prevent homelessness in Ireland. They help people at Christmas by trying to get as many people who are sleeping ‘rough’ into accommodation during this cold season and then continue to further support them. The Simon Community: The Simon Community operates across the entire country helping the homeless. They have centres in most of the main cities. This CHRISTMAS WORDSEARCH organisation also supports those who are homeless by giving them Z Q C Z P C J Y M W U X H Q B food and emergency accommodation. K X O G R M F P H G O K X E C Samaritans Ireland: C H F V E R F A T N A S C M B Samaritans Ireland provides confidential and nonjudgemental C H R I S T M A S I Z G J I R emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of A Z I G E C F D M V N O R R I distress or despair, including feelings that could lead to suicide. Samaritans operate a 24 hour service by telephone, email, letter and R E E D N I E R T I K D N M E face to face in most of their branches. You do not have to give your O Q N A T I I U V G L U J K T name and they will work with you to sort things out. L E D P S P R O U T S Y R E E Organizations that help Children: S U S E J K L A R T Z R V N F G S M T E T F E H G X X R A J ISPCC: The Irish Centre for the prevention of Cruelty to Children is one of the V N Z Y K E E G G S V C T A I oldest charities in Ireland. The organisation provides support through C E K H F D I E Q T H P S M D their Childline services and volunteers who help children who are Y E U O F L O D U R D Q T X P suffering from abuse, anxiety, stress, grief and risk of drug and X Z G S L H Y Y V V J X W L V alcohol abuse. This charity has a 24hr call service for children and Z N D A S L A L H P K D A B Z adults. During Christmas they try to help as many children as possible by taking calls and trying to help them with whatever problems they CAROLS may encounter. CHRISTMAS Charities that help Animals: FAMILY ISPCA: FRIENDS GIVING ISPCA deal with cases of cruelty and abuse and constantly lobby for better laws around animal welfare. They help and collect animals that HAM JESUS are in need of help and bring them to many shelters. They then take LIGHTS care of them and try to give them a new home. LOVING Dogs Trust: PRESENTS The Dogs Trust is Ireland’s charity for looking after dogs. Dogs Trust REINDEER looks after education around dogs and also rehoming for dogs. They RUDOLF also advise the government on matters of pet ownership. SANTA SHARING

SPROUTS Katie Hannelly TREE TURKEY K e Cian Haynes

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Christmas Day Weather Prediction Will it Snow? Will it snow? Will it snow?

“The North wind doth blow and we shall have snow, Christmas in And what will poor robin do then, poor thing? He'll sit in a barn and keep himself warm My name is Christina and I moved to Ireland when I was nine and hide his head under his wing, poor thing.” years old. I have vague memories of celebrating Christmas in Romania. However, my mum and dad helped me recall some of Unfortunately, for most of us who love snow during the festive the festive celebrations in my home country, Romania. season this will not come to pass on Christmas Day according Christmas is the most celebrated event in Romania. In Romania to weather guru Ken Ring, author of “Weather Almanac of Christmas has always been a great opportunity for family Ireland”. members to get together in order to spend time in the warm, His prediction of the weather for Christmas day is as follows: loving and cozy atmosphere of their home. Food is probably the central part of any holiday in Romania, but “Cool early in the day with morning fog and some ground frost Christmas is a true feast for the senses. The traditional food is scattered over the country. Dry in many areas with some bright and on women make sarmale (meat and rice spells while some well-scattered showers occur, some isolated rolls wrapped in cabbage) and bake (a sort of sponge heavy pockets and some thundery at times. Winds light south cake with nuts, cocoa and Turkish delights, similar to the Italian westerlies increasing to moderate or fresh around the north ). Christmas dinner is always a rich, multicourse meal. and western coasts. Afternoon temperatures well above normal for this time of year.” The best part of a Romanian Christmas is the carols that are

heard all over the country during this wonderful time of the year. Is he accurate? Children go in groups from door the door singing carols. We will just have to wait and see!! Christmas carols usually come together with rituals, special Dean Glancy costumes, tools and even short theatrical performances. Most popular include Steaua ((the star boys’ singing procession) and Copra (the Goat). Other in Romania like Ireland are, the decorating of the , the arrival of Santa Clause and the decorating of each city with millions of glowing lights.

Christina Dragan

The school community extends its sincere condolences to the Rooney family on the death of our former colleague and staff mem- ber, Mary, the Lattimore family on the death of their mother Jill, the Ryan family on the death of Katie, a past pupil andand to all members of the wider school community who have also been bereaved this year.year.year.

“Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dóibh, a Thiarna”

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SpotSpot yourself?yourself?

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