BOARD OF GOVERNORS’
ANNUAL REPORT
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2007/2008
80th Anniversary Commemorative Edition
FOREWORD
The academic year 2007/2008 was a special and memorable one for St. Mary’s as the school celebrated the 80th Anniversary of its foundation.
This Board of Governors’ Report will give you an insight into every aspect of the life and work of St. Mary’s. I would like to pay tribute to the staff, pupils and parents/guardians for their continuing interest in the school and their commitment to its success. The trust and dialogue in this important triangle of relationships has ensured the school’s success throughout its history and, I am confident, will continue to do so.
St. Mary’s has as its central thought Gloria Deo Soli, a conviction and vision which can be traced back to Monsignor Ward and which has permeated the school throughout its history. That same thought gives the St. Mary’s community the strength and vigour to face the future.
Should you wish to discuss any issue arising from the contents of this report, please do not hesitate to contact me at the school (8.30am – 5.00pm) on or before 12 December 2008.
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D A Lambon Principal and Correspondent to the Board of Governors
CHAIRMAN’S INTRODUCTION
I am very pleased indeed to introduce this 80th Anniversary Edition of the Board of Governors’ Annual Report.
‘It was a humble enough beginning. A few rooms were set aside in the Convent House. Sister Cassian Tracey was nominated as Principal. For the first month, the month of September, there was only one pupil but four others enrolled at the end of the month (with five further pupils later in the year) and the Monsignor’s ambitious project was underway.’
From ‘The St. Mary’s Story’.
The story of St. Mary’s over eighty years is the story of Monsignor Ward’s vision, a vision which has been cherished and safeguarded by each Principal. It is the story of the selflessness, sacrifice and dedication of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Bordeaux and it is the story of the sheer hard work and determination of successive generations of pupils, parents and staff.
The ethos and core values of St. Mary’s always remained firm and enduring as the struggle and belief of the early years gave way to the optimism and confidence of the later years. Today, the school’s spirit, in every aspect of its work continues to be enshrined in its motto Gloria Deo Soli.
This Board of Governors’ Report records specifically the work and achievements of St. Mary’s in its eightieth year. There is much to celebrate, for example, the glittering prizes of the school’s academic excellence; the prowess of the pupils in every sporting arena; the BECTA award for ICT development and the magnificent production of Oliver! staged in the Grand Opera House, Belfast, November 2007.
I am confident that education in St. Mary’s is well placed to face the challenges of the 21st Century. The Education and Training Inspectorate conducted a Standard Inspection in February 2008 and affirmed:
‘In the areas inspected, the quality of education provided in this school is outstanding. The educational and pastoral needs of the learners are being very well met. The parents and the community can have confidence in the school’s capacity for sustained self-improvement.’
Report of an Inspection, February 2008, ETI
As I commend this report to you, I wish to pay tribute to all the people across the years who were inspired by Monsignor Ward’s vision and who contributed so generously, their time, talents and efforts, to bring it to reality.
Ad Multos Annos.
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Paddy Bradley Chairman, Board of Governors December 2008
Annual Report
CONTACT DETAILS
St. Mary’s Grammar School 3 Castledawson Road Name and Address: Magherafelt Co Derry BT45 6AX
Telephone: 028 7963 2320
Fax No: 028 7963 4250
E-Mail: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8.30am – 5.00pm
Principal: Mr D A Lambon
Chairman, Board of Governors: Mr P Bradley
Enrolment: 1070
Admissions No: 153
Age Range: 11-18 years
Voluntary, Co-educational Type of School: Grammar School
St. Mary’s Grammar School Annual Report
CONTENTS
Membership of The Board of Governors 2007/2008 ...... 1
Subject Choice 2007/2008 ...... 2
Annual Attendance Rates and Leavers’ Destinations ...... 3
Public Examination Results ...... 4
Education for Mutual Understanding (EMU) ...... 8
Activities and Achievements 2007/2008 ...... 9
Travel ...... 27
Becta Award ...... 29
Standard Inspection ...... 30
Comenius Project 2005-2008 ...... 31
Child Protection ...... 33
Sports Review 2007/2008 ...... 34
Careers Education and Guidance ...... 42
The Curriculum 2007/2008 ...... 44
Staff Development and Training ...... 46
Specialist School ...... 47
Security ...... 50
Financial Statement ...... 51
St. Mary’s Souvenir Leaflet ...... 52
St. Mary’s Grammar School Annual Report
MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS 2007/2008
Mr P Bradley 1 Chairman
Monsignor O’Bryne 1 Deputy Chairman
Miss E Bradley 1
Mrs M Hughes 1
Mr J McBrien 1
Mrs M Brown 3
Mr J McKee 1
Mr S McNeill 2
Mrs M Carr 4
Principal and Correspondent to Mr D Lambon Board of Governors
1 Appointed by Trustees 2 Appointed by the Department of Education 3 Elected by Parents 4 Elected by the Teaching Staff
St. Mary’s Grammar School Page 1
Annual Report SUBJECT CHOICE 2007/2008
GCSE LEVEL Additional Mathematics Home Economics Art and Design ICT Biology Irish Child Development Mathematics Chemistry Music Drama Physical Education Economics Physics English Religious Studies English Literature Science – Double Award French Spanish Geography Technology and Design History
GCE AS Applied Business History Art and Design ICT Biology Irish Business Studies Mathematics Chemistry Music Design and Technology Physical Education Economics Physics English Literature Politics French Religious Studies Further Mathematics Spanish Geography Theatre Studies Health and Social Care
GCE A LEVEL Applied Business History Art and Design ICT Biology Irish Business Studies Mathematics Chemistry Music Design and Technology Physical Education Economics Physics English Literature Politics French Religious Studies Geography Spanish German Theatre Studies Health and Social Care
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ANNUAL ATTENDANCE RATES AND LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS
ANNUAL ATTENDANCE RATES
Annual Attendance Rates Number of possible Number of % Attendance attendance sessions sessions attended 393942 376388 95.5
SCHOOL LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS
Year 12, 13 and 14
% of leavers going to: Year Number HE FE Another Training/ Employment/ Other/ Of School Apprentice Gap Year Unknown Leavers 12 20 0 55 40 0 5 0 13 1 0 0 0 0 100 0 14 135 96.3 1.5 0 0 2.2 0 Grand 156 83.4 8.3 5.1 0 3.2 0 Total
School Leavers' Destinations
140
120
100
80 Year 12 60 Year 13 Year 14 40
20
0 Number Of Leavers HE FE Another School Training/Apprentice Employment/ Gap Other/Unknown Year
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Annual Report
PUBLIC EXAMINATION RESULTS
KEY STAGE 3 SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Year No of pupils in Year 10 2007/2008 151
% achieving Level 5 % achieving Level 6 % achieving Level 7 % achieving Level 8 or above or above or above or above St. N.Ireland St. N.Ireland St. N.Ireland St. N.Ireland Mary’s Grammar Mary’s Grammar Mary’s Grammar Mary’s Grammar School School School School Average Average Average Average
Teacher Eng 100 99.6 96.7 91.9 63.6 49.1 N/A N/A Assessment
External 100 45.5 98.7 39.7 59.6 18.9 N/A N/A Test
Teacher Maths 100 99.5 100 92.8 90.8 64.3 27.2 15.5 Assessment
External 100 48.7 100 44.8 85.4 32.1 25.8 6.8 Test
Teacher Science 100 42.7 99.4 39.4 74.2 24.7 30.5 5.6 Assessment
External 99.4 38.0 95.4 32.0 60.3 17.3 13.9 3.3 Test (2007) (2007) (2007) (2007)
* In the tests in English, Levels 7 and 8 have been combined into a single band ‘Level 7 and above’ A pupil falling into this band is given the result ‘7+’ Key Stage 3 tests in all subjects and Teacher Assessment in Science are now voluntary
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YEAR 12 PUPILS GCSE SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Year No of % % % % No of % % % % % pupils entered entered achieving achieving subject A* A*-A A*-B A*-C achieving in for 5 or for 1-4 grades grades entries no Year more subjects A*-C A*-G grades 12 subjects A*-G 5 or 5 or 1-4 1-4 more more 2008 154 100 0 95.5 2.6 99.4 0 1546 20.7 56.4 86.7 97.8 0
GCSE % Achieving Grades Number A* A B C D E F G U Entered Additional Maths 55 10.9 50.9 29.1 7.3 - - - - 1.8 Art and Design 28 32.1 57.1 10.7 ------Biology 25 40.0 52.0 4.0 4.0 - - - - - Chemistry 24 29.2 66.7 4.2 ------Child Development 19 10.5 31.6 52.6 - 5.3 - - - - Drama 34 29.4 52.9 17.6 ------Economics 57 29.8 40.4 24.6 5.3 - - - - - English 153 18.3 37.9 36.6 5.9 1.3 - - - - English Literature 148 11.5 38.5 37.2 11.5 1.4 - - - - French 40 37.5 15.0 30.0 15.0 2.5 - - - - Geography 45 13.3 28.9 48.9 6.7 2.2 - - - - German 17 17.6 29.4 29.4 23.5 - - - - - History 48 39.6 39.6 18.8 2.1 - - - - - Home Economics 12 00.0 8.3 50.0 25.0 16.7 - - - - ICT 93 22.6 68.8 6.5 1.1 1.1 - - - - Irish 33 45.5 33.3 21.2 ------Mathematics 153 29.4 21.6 33.3 15.7 - - - - - Music 13 7.7 53.8 30.8 7.7 - - - - - Physical Education 27 59.3 22.2 14.8 3.7 - - - - - Physics 24 25.0 33.3 33.3 4.2 4.2 - - - - Religious Studies 152 13.2 33.6 25.0 18.4 9.2 0.7 - - - Science (DA) 252 11.9 29.4 39.7 17.5 1.6 - - - - Spanish 46 23.9 13.0 30.4 30.4 2.2 - - - - Technology and Design 48 8.3 43.8 35.4 12.5 - - - - -
GCSE TREND DATA 04/05 05/06 06/07 St. Mary’s NI Average St. Mary’s NI Average St. Mary’s NI Average % Achieving 5+GCSEs 99 96 99 96 100 96 at Grades A*-C %Achieving 7+GCSEs at 99 91 97 90 97 91 Grades A*-C
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YEAR 13 PUPILS GCE AS LEVEL - SUMMARY OF RESULTS
No of % achieving % achieving % achieving No of % % % % % Pupils in 4 or more at 3 or more at 2 or more at entries A A-B A-C A-D A-E Year 13 A-C A-C A-E 2008 149 44.3 82.6 100 518 59.3 83.2 93.8 98.8 100
GCE AS-LEVEL % Achieving Grades Number entered A B C D E U Art & Design 8 62.5 25.0 12.5 - - - Biology 77 74.0 10.4 6.50 5.20 3.90 - Business Studies 24 33.3 37.5 12.5 12.5 4.20 - Business (Voc) 25 24.0 48.0 20.0 4.00 4.00 - Chemistry 45 82.2 6.70 6.70 4.40 - - Design & Technology 8 12.5 75.0 12.5 - - - Economics 20 60.0 15.0 15.0 5.00 5.00 - English Literature 23 34.8 21.7 21.7 17.4 4.30 - French 2 50.0 - 50.0 - - - Mathematics 68 63.2 16.2 10.3 4.40 4.40 1.50 Geography 32 43.8 28.1 21.9 6.30 - - Health & Social Care 15 33.3 60.0 - 6.7 - - VCE History 28 71.4 14.3 14.3 - - - ICT 38 52.6 36.8 10.5 - - - Irish 21 71.4 23.8 - 4.80 - - Music 7 85.7 14.3 - - - - Physics 29 37.9 24.1 10.3 13.8 3.40 10.3 Politics 16 37.5 56.3 6.3 - - - Religious Studies 5 100 - - - - - Spanish 8 75.0 12.5 12.5 - - - Sport Studies 8 62.5 37.5 - - - - Theatre Studies 11 72.7 27.3 - - - -
KEY SKILLS No entered at % achieving No entered % achieving Level 3 Level 3 at Level 2 Level 2 Communication 28 100 N/A N/A Information Technology 18 100 N/A N/A Working with others 14 92.9 N/A N/A
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YEAR 14 PUPILS GCE A LEVEL - SUMMARY OF RESULTS
No of % achieving % achieving % achieving No of % % % % % Pupils in 3 or more at 2 or more at 1 or more at entries A A-B A-C A-D A-E Year 14 A-C A-C A-E 2008 136 89.7 100 100 429 51 82 96.7 99.5 100
GCE A-LEVEL % Achieving Grades Number entered A B C D E U Art & Design 7 71.4 28.6 - - - - Biology 70 35.7 41.4 14.3 7.1 1.4 - Business (Voc) 16 37.5 37.5 25.0 - - - Business Studies 18 66.7 27.8 5.60 - - - Chemistry 29 58.6 13.8 10.3 13.8 3.4 - Design & Technology 12 8.3 50.0 41.7 - - - Economics 17 47.1 35.3 11.8 5.9 - - English Literature 34 52.9 26.5 17.6 2.9 - - French 3 66.7 33.3 - - - - Geography 32 28.1 56.3 15.6 - - - German 4 75.0 25.0 - - - - Health & Social 27 25.9 37.0 33.3 3.7 - - History 20 70.0 15.0 15.0 - - - ICT 18 61.1 16.7 22.2 - - - Irish 5 100 - - - - - Mathematics 37 75.7 16.2 8.1 - - - Music 7 57.7 28.6 14.3 - - - Physics 19 63.2 21.1 5.3 - 10.5 - Politics 9 22.2 77.8 - - - - Religious Studies 13 38.5 38.5 23.1 - - - Spanish 3 - 33.3 66.7 - - - Sport Studies 11 72.7 18.2 9.1 - - - Theatre Studies 18 94.4 5.6 - - - -
GCE Trend Data 04/05 05/06 06/07 St. Mary’s NI Average St. Mary’s NI Average St. Mary’s NI Average % Achieving 3+GCEs 87 71 86 73 91 74 at Grades A-C %Achieving 2+GCEs 100 99 100 99 100 99 at Grades A-E
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EDUCATION FOR MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING (EMU) CROSS COMMUNITY CONTACT
CROSS COMMUNITY LINK WITH BALLYMENA ACADEMY
There has been a long established link between St. Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt and Ballymena Academy. A range of activities and visits are organised throughout each school year.
In September 2007, Form 8A and a Year 8 class from Ballymena Academy began a History based programme of cross-community contact. The theme was the Normans. The pupils joined together in two workshops dealing with the History of the Normans (October) and how this has impacted on cultural Heritage of Northern Ireland (April). They also spent a day in the Ulster Folk Park in Cultra in June.
Form 9D continued their link with Ballymena Academy pupils and invited them to a workshop on Plantations in St. Mary’s in October, as well as attending a practical workshop on how plantation affected life in Northern Ireland then and now in Ballymena Academy, in February. In late June, the two groups enjoyed a day of outdoor pursuits in Woodhall Educational Centre in Kilrea.
The pupils in 10B attended a workshop in Ballymena dealing with shared symbols between the two communities, in February and further extended this topic with an ICT workshop in St. Mary’s. They also spent a day at Ardclinnis, Cushendall Boat Club in June.
‘HABITAT FOR HUMANITY’ CROSS involved a further day of volunteering on COMMUNITY PROJECT the Shankill Road in Belfast. St. Mary’s
Last year’s Habitat for Humanity (Northern students also organised their own Ireland) project continued when a small fundraising abseil this year, taking full group of students from St. Mary’s joined responsibility for transport, funding and students from Antrim Grammar at a organising the event in May. Over forty workshop held in school which prepared Sixth Form students took part. them for a one-day visit. Students worked SPIRIT OF ENNISKILLEN together on a Habitat for Humanity building site in Northern Ireland. They Cathal McGowan, Year 14, received the also had a ‘debriefing’ workshop in Spirit of Enniskillen award. Cathal spent February dealing with stereotypes and several weeks in Cyprus this summer, helping those less fortunate in society. A learning how a once divided nation is small group of students helped create a learning to live with the history of a promotional DVD for Habitat and this troubled past.
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ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS 2007/2008
GCSE AND A LEVEL TOP CANDIDATES IN NORTHERN IRELAND St. Mary’s is pleased to report that CCEA has advised the following top candidates in Northern Ireland:
A LEVEL Katrina H Kelly Art and Design, 1st equal Emma M McCrystal Art and Design, 1st equal Teresa J O’Brien Art and Design, 1st equal Katrina H Kelly English Literature, 1st equal Laoiseach M Scullion German, 3rd Conor J McKenna ICT, 1st Francis J Taggart Technology and Design, 3rd
GCSE Michaela A Laverty Economics, 2nd Bernadette M Kevin English Literature, 2nd Sarah L Maguire Physical Education, 1st equal Katrina McCormack Physical Education, 1st equal
Grainne Cassidy Art and Design, 1st equal Shane Donnelly Art and Design, 1st equal Katrina McCormick Art and Design, 1st equal Danielle McCrystal Art and Design, 1st equal Catherine O’Neill Art and Design, 1st equal Pearse Walls Art and Design, 1st equal
Grainne, Shane, Katrina, Danielle, Catherine and Pearse (all Year 12) were placed first equal in GCSE Art and Design, with full marks, in Northern Ireland. Each will receive a certificate from CCEA celebrating his/her excellence in Art and Design by achieving overall maximum marks.
Brendan Heron was placed in the top 10 at AS Level Physical Education in the UK out of 4,500 entries.
Ciaran McCoy, Cathy Carey and Eleanor Mallon were all placed in the top 10 at A2 Level Physical Education in the UK out of 3,800 entries.
Olivia Kelly was placed in the top 5 in the UK in A Level Business Studies out of 23,580 entries.
ART AND DESIGN
TEXACO CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION Vincent McKenna (Year 12) won a special Merit Award in Category B of the 53rd Texaco Children’s Art Competition. He was presented with his award at the Texaco Children’s Art Awards ceremony which took place in Dublin on Wednesday 16 May 2007.
MATHEMATICS
SENIOR UK MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE All Year 14 pupils who are studying A Level Mathematics participated in this competition: two students gained silver certificates and seven students gained bronze certificates.
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INTERMEDIATE UK MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE All Year 12 pupils who are studying GCSE Level Mathematics participated in this competition: four students gained a gold certificate, thirteen students gained silver certificates and twenty- two students gained bronze certificates.
JUNIOR UK MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE All Year 9 pupils participated in this competition: six students gained a gold certificate, nineteen students gained silver certificates and thirty-one students gained bronze certificates.
MATHS FUN DAY All Year 8 pupils participated in a Maths Fun Day in June 2008.
‘HATS’ MINI-BUSINESS DAY All Year 10 pupils participated in a Mini Business project called ‘HATS’ in which their task was to make and sell ‘HATS’.
GEOGRAPHY
GEOGRAPHY CLUB A Geography Club was established for Key Stage 3 (Year 8 and 9) students in September. Meetings were held weekly in room B2. A variety of activities, for example, Google Earth Quiz, identifying and tasting exotic fruits from around the world and making globes were designed by the Staff of the Department and enjoyed by the pupils who attended.
LINKS BETWEEN GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT AND UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER, COLERAINE Links were established between the Geography Department and the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Coleraine. Two senior lecturers from the university visited St. Mary’s on 18 September to give A Level Geography students talks on aspects of their Physical Geography course.
VISIT TO MARBLE ARCH CAVES On Monday 8 October, all Year 10 students had the opportunity to visit the Marble Arch Caves in Co Fermanagh, to observe at first hand this unique limestone environment.
LINKS BETWEEN GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT AND QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY, BELFAST Links which had been previously established with the School of Geography at Queen’s University, Belfast continued.
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FIELDWORK IN GEOGRAPHY Students had an opportunity throughout the year to participate in a variety of fieldwork activities: Year 11 students visited Laganside and Victoria Square in Belfast to observe the regeneration of Belfast’s inner city, as part of their GCSE study of an inner city planning initiative. Year 13 students participated in fieldwork along the River Roe in order to investigate the downstream changes in the river channel. Year 14 visited the North East Antrim coast, including Cushendall and Carnlough, as part of their A2 study of coastal processes and coastal management. At Key Stage 3, pupils had the opportunity to participate in fieldwork within the school grounds, including a study on the
impact of weathering, and the monitoring of weather data.
CHEMISTRY
SALTERS’ FESTIVAL OF CHEMISTRY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER, COLERAINE (MAY 2008) Eimear McGuckian, Aaron Leung, Cathy Mullan and Chloe Campbell in Year 8 successfully completed the practical challenge at the Salters’ Festival of Chemistry at the University of Ulster, Coleraine.
SALTERS’ CHEMISTRY CAMP (AUGUST 2008) Aisling Dougan, Sarah McKenna and Caoimhe Moran (Year 11) were successful in their nomination to participate in the prestigious Chemistry Camps Programme (supported by the Chemical Education Group). These Camps, which take place during August, are a unique Chemical experience with each programme providing hands on practical work, lectures and site visits to local companies.
BRITISH CHEMISTRY OLYMPIAD (FEBRUARY 2008) Year 14 students Michael Madden and Eoghan Cosgrove were highly successful in the British Chemistry Olympiad Competition; Michael was awarded the Bronze certificate and Eoghan was highly commended for his efforts.
IRISH CHEMISTRY OLYMPIAD (JANUARY 2008) Megan McErlain and Conor McKenna (Year 14) successfully completed round 1 of the Irish Chemistry Olympiad Competition in Dublin City University and Megan was invited to attend a three day residential during Easter and participate in round 2.
CHEMISTRY DEMONSTRATION LECTURE AND CAREERS PRESENTATION BY QUB (JANUARY 2008) Dr Steven Bell and his colleagues from QUB presented an interactive and engaging demonstration lecture to all Year 12 Chemistry students in the school assembly hall.
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CHEMICAL ENGINEERING PRESENTATION FROM QUB (OCTOBER 2007) Professor Ronnie Magee delivered a talk on Chemical Engineering and careers in this field to all Year 13 and 14 Chemistry students in the Drama Studio.
A PRESENTATION ON TRANS FATS IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY AND CAREERS IN FOOD SCIENCE BY GENESIS BAKERY (NOVEMBER 2007) John McErlean and Joanne McMullan from Genesis Bakery gave a presentation on how Science is used in the baking industry to all Year 13 and 14 Chemistry students in the Drama Studio.
THE YOUNG INNOVATORS SCIENCE EXHIBITION IN THE ODYSSEY (JUNE 2008) The following Year 11 pupils obtained a Silver Crest award in Science and Technology when they participated in the Young Innovators Competition in the Odyssey Belfast: Caoimhe Moran, Amy Devlin, Aisling Dougan, Colin Dawidzuiuk, Angela Pickering and Aidan O’Neill.
PHYSICS
UK PHYSICS CHALLENGE All Year 12 Triple Award pupils all took part in the UK Physics Challenge competition. They all prepared for and sat a one hour Physics paper (structured questions) during school time. This was then marked and the following students received awards –
Commendation Certificates: Michaela Laverty Dermot Ryan Stephen Sweeney Nicholas Collins Ben Niblock Shane Donnelly Vincent McKenna
UK PHYSICS AS OLYMPIAD Twenty three Year 13 Physics students took part in the UK Physics AS Olympiad. The following received:
Bronze Awards: Shauna McPeake Ruairi Devlin Mark McAllister Gary Leung Katie McGuckian Dominic McKenna Mark Lagan Brian McKee Ciaran McAuley Lauren Laverty
Silver Award: Conor Averell
All Year 14 Physics students took part in the Year 14 UK Physics Olympiad.
Year 11 Triple Award students attended the Horizons in Physics exhibition in QUB on Monday 23 June. Year 13 Physics students attended the Radiology Department of Antrim Area Hospital in order to see Medical Physics in action.
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MODERN LANGUAGES
Irish
FORAS NA GAEILGE GLEO AWARD On 27 May 2008, Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD and Education Minister Caitríona Ruane MLA announced the successful schools in Foras na Gaeilge’s annual scheme ‘GLEO’. The scheme recognises best practice in the promotion of oral Irish in creative and innovative ways in English-medium primary and post- primary schools on the island of Ireland. A total of twenty one schools, North and South of the border were recognised for their commitment to spoken Irish throughout the school. St. Mary’s was very pleased to be one of them.
Education Minister Caitríona Ruane congratulated GLEO winners and praised Foras na Gaeilge for their work in promoting the Irish language. The Minister said; “The GLEO scheme gives worthy recognition to the valuable work being done in schools to encourage and support the use of Irish. Children who have early access to a second language have a great start to their education, and if that language is Irish, it can only help to enrich their understanding of their own culture.”
Dr O’Neill, Head of Irish Department, Mr McPhilomey, Mr Dunlop and four students; Ryan McKenna, Aisling O’Brien, Laura Hughes and Sarah McKenna, travelled to Dublin to the headquarters of Foras na Gaeilge, Merrion Square. They received a magnificent trophy and £2000 to be spent on further initiatives to promote the Irish language in St. Mary’s.
September 2007 saw the continuation of the work of Club Mhuire, the Irish language lunch-time club, which was formed the previous year. Activities continued throughout the year and included bingo, film- viewings, quizzes, etc – all carried out through the medium of Irish. The Christmas quiz, teachers v pupils, proved popular once again and the Irish Department thanks the Gaeilgeoirí amongst the staff for the support and participation. Senior pupils also made Irish lessons available to pupils who do not study Irish, at lunch-time on Fridays.
Léamh, the Irish reading club was initiated by Mr Mac Feilimí in October 2007 and continued throughout the year, focusing mainly on Year 9 pupils but also attracting interest from Year 11 pupils who had not previously had the opportunity to study Irish.
Réamonn Ó Ciaráin, Regional Manager of Gael Linn, visited St. Mary’s in November and spoke to pupils from Year 8 and Year 10 about the Irish language in general, employment opportunities for Irish speakers and opportunities to attend courses in the Gaeltacht.
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December 2007 saw the birth of Cairdeas, an inter-school project between St. Mary’s and Rathmore Grammar School, Belfast, culminating in a Gaeltacht residential in the Gaoth Dobhair Gaeltacht in Co. Donegal. Pupils had the opportunity to visit the offices of the daily newspaper Lá Nua and to feature in a programme on Raidió na Gaeltachta during their visit.
Seachtain na Gaeilge – Irish Language Week – was the focus of our attention during the spring and a huge variety of activities and events took place early in March: Year 9 pupils visited Croke Park and had an Irish-medium tour of the stadium and GAA Museum. Year 10 pupils enjoyed an Irish language quiz and céilí hosted by Réamonn Ó Ciaráin (Gael Linn) and were presented with Fáinní Airgid by Lynette Fay (BBC Radio Ulster) in recognition of their growing fluency. An Céilí Mór, the whole school céilí provided an enjoyable evening for the huge number who attended with the McStocker Céilí Band providing the music and our own Mrs Kearney providing the direction. Year 8 pupils were treated to an introduction to céilí dancing one afternoon, again with the combined talents of the McStocker Céilí Band and Mrs Kearney.
In an effort to promote the use of Irish around the school, posters were added to the canteen and subject names were placed on appropriate doors.
An Cumann Sacair (the Irish-medium soccer club) convened after school on Tuesdays for several weeks during the spring term. The boys and girls of Year 8 were supported by several senior students in their efforts to use Irish whilst participating in sport.
Year 11 pupils visited the Gaeltacht in mid-June, experiencing the wonders of Páirc Náisiúnta Ghleann Bheithe (Glenveagh National Park) and Ionad Cois Locha, Dún Lúiche (Dunlewey Lakeside Centre).
The extra-curricular activities of the Irish department drew to a close with the now annual visit of Year 8 pupils to Belfast Zoological Gardens where they enjoy an Irish-medium tour of the zoo.
GAEL LINN: Siansa This is an Irish traditional Music competition which is organised completely through the medium of Irish. The Irish and Music Departments joined forces to prepare Coimriú, the Senior Traditional Group for the competition. They competed in the final in the National Concert Hall, Dublin, a tremendous experience and a wonderful opportunity for all involved.
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French
Le Club Francis ‘Le Club Francais’, a new lunchtime club, was introduced this year for junior pupils. They had the opportunity to make cards, play language games and do a little French cookery.
Le Cińe-Club ‘Le Cińe-Club’ showed a series of French films at lunchtime. Students watched ‘Les Choristes’, ‘Astérix Chez les Bretons’, ‘Les Visiteurs en Amérique’ as well as episodes of ‘Extra!’ – a French version of the American series ‘Friends’.
On February 25th, Manu Maréchaux, proprietor of Chez Manu in Omagh, came to the school. Manu made French Crêpes for Year 9 pupils and many pupils had the opportunity to make and flip the crêpes themselves! This activity was conducted entirely in French!
A most successful initiative involved a number of Sixth Form French students teaching French to Primary 6/7 pupils in Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt. The purpose was two-fold: to enable Sixth Form students to use their language skills and to allow the primary pupils to get a beginning sense of the French language.
One of the memorable events of the year for the French Department was the most successful Year 11 trip to France. Forty nine Year 11 pupils and five members of staff travelled to Paris in March. Sightseeing highlights included the Eiffel tower, Montparnasse Tower, the Stade de France, Notre Dame, the Louvre, Sacre-Coeur, as well as a boat cruise down the river Seine. An enjoyable day was spent in Disneyland, Paris where even the teachers reverted to their childhood and enjoyed the rollercoaster rides and meeting the Disney characters.
Spanish
Barcelona A group of Lower and Upper Sixth students accompanied by Mrs Scullion and Señorita Nuño Milagro, spent five days (15-19 February 2008) in Barcelona. They had the opportunity to visit the city’s most famous landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell and Nou Camp. A wide variety of tapas was consumed and every shop along Las Ramblas was visited. Both pupils and teachers benefited linguistically and culturally from their visit to Spain’s most cosmopolitan city.
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German
Klub Deutsch ‘Klub Deutsch’ was held each Wednesday at 1.00pm in G1. Year 8 and Year 9 pupils attended and were able to participate in quizzes, games, competitions, singing, drama, arts and crafts and lots of other fun activities.
Italian
GOML Mrs B Mallon taught lunchtime classes in Italian on Thursdays. Following on from the success of Italian GOML Level 1 in 2006/2007, nine pupils successfully completed GOML Level 2: Josephine McCann Grace McKenna Laoiseach Scullion Oonagh Scullion Peter Maguire Mr D Lambon Kiera Flanagan Mrs A Scullion Brian Quinn
European Day of Languages
On European Day of Languages in September 2007, the Modern Languages Department organised a number of activities designed to promote European cultural awareness and to highlight the links between the Modern Languages Area of Study and other subjects.
THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD SCHEME
The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme was founded in 1956, as a programme of personal development for boys between 15-18 years. Within its first year, the lower age limit was reduced to 14 years, where it has remained. A girls’ scheme was launched in 1958 and the two schemes were amalgamated in 1969. The upper age limit has been increased on a number of occasions and is now at 25 years. Today, the Award is a major international programme, operated in over 120 countries.
Its basic philosophy is that it offers the opportunity for young people to develop personally and connect with others, through a range of new experiences. It is not a competition but rather a balanced, progressive framework to allow young people to focus on their interests, improve their abilities and try something entirely new. The Award has four sections: Physical, Skill, Service and Expedition.
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The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme was introduced to St. Mary’s in September 2005 to thirty Year 10 pupils by Mrs S O’Boyle, Head of Mathematics. In 2007/2008, over a six month period, thirty six Year 10 pupils participated in the Bronze Award and fifteen Year 11 pupils participated in the Silver Award. Their expedition took them to the Antrim Hills, where they completed an assessed journey over 24 km for two days and one night. The pupils prepared for the expedition by completing classes in first aid and emergency; risk awareness; health and safety issues; navigation and route planning; map skills; compass skills; camp craft equipment and hygiene, food and camp cookery; the country code; observation and recording; communication and teamwork.
‘Local young people taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award are a tremendous credit to their youth leaders and parents’ educationnews May 2008 no 118 This was the view of North Eastern Board Youth Officer, Brian Dillon at the Board’s monthly meeting in Antrim as he introduced two silver award holders who are currently working for gold awards, one of whom was Helen Close of St. Mary’s who stepped up to the podium to address the Board Members on her personal experience of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Helen, who was accompanied by her teacher Mrs S O’Boyle, spoke eloquently of the challenge she faced on her expedition due to the bad weather. It had been a test of how well the team had worked together and took a lot of will power to keep going but they had all felt elated when they received their silver awards. For her voluntary service she had worked at the Antrim Animal Sanctuary, reached Grade 3 level on the piano for her skill and played camogie as her physical recreation element of the Award Scheme. Mr Dillon explained, ‘This is a premier programme for young people and the support of teachers and youth leaders is very much key to success for them’. The Northern Ireland Award Director, Eric Rainey described the two young people as ‘a superb exemplar of what the award is for those who take up the challenge.’
EUROPEAN YOUTH PARLIAMENT UK: NORTHERN IRELAND REGIONAL FORUM COMPETITION
A team of Year 13 students reached the second stage of this competition and participated in a debate held in Belfast Metropolitan College. This was the first time the school had entered the competition and the team was, therefore very pleased to be highly commended for their performance. The judges praised the amount of research they had done, their knowledge of key EU issues, their teamwork, the delivery of their speeches and their active participation in the different debates. The students were:
Brian Quinn Oonagh Scullion Grace McKenna Aine Groogan Sean McNally Brian McKee Orlagh Birt Kirsty McFall Mark McAllister Ciaran McAuley
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EU EVENT: STORMONT, OCTOBER 2007
Year 14 Economics students participated in the EU event in Stormont, October 2007. They took on the rôle of EU Commissioners for Sweden with students from other schools representing the views of other EU countries. The students: Shauna Marie Diamond, Catherine Smylie, Sean McGrenaghan and Catherine O’Neill – discussed issues such as climate change, common agriculture policy and further EU enlargement.
CCEA SCORE CONCERT
Mark McAllister performed in the Waterfont Hall, Belfast on Friday 18 January 2008 as part of the CCEA Score concert. This concert featured some of the best and most creative performances from GCSE Music in Northern Ireland. Mark performed Emerald by Thin Lizzy, playing lead guitar and was accompanied by band members Paddy McCann, Patrick McEldowney and Justin McGuckin.
OUR WEE WORLD
BBC Northern Ireland invited the Music Department to participate in a documentary series on how pupils express their cultural heritage. The producer, John Anderson chose the Senior Traditional Group, Hannah Murray playing tin whistle, Eoin Gribben playing guitar and the St. Mary’s Traditional dancers, choreographed by Mrs A Kearney. The programme was screened in April 2008 and repeated during the summer.
CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS
St. Mary’s Traditional Group, Coimriú, along with other schools in the area, was invited by Magherafelt District Council to perform in a concert in aid of Macmillan Cancer in Maghera Leisure Centre, March 2008.
Coimriú also performed with Cookstown Primary School’s newly formed Traditional Group at their 40th Anniversary Concert in Cookstown Leisure Centre, May 2008.
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THE COIMRIÚ GROUP
Eoin Gribbin; Nuala Hughes; Hannah McCauley; Declan McErlane; Dermot Mulholland; Fintan Mulholland; Hannah Murray
This Irish Traditional Music group was first formed to participate in the Siansa Under 19 Irish Traditional Music Competition in 2007. The group made the final in only their second year of entering the competition and performed in the National Concert Hall, Dublin, in April 2008. They also entered the National Music Festival for Youth and again made the Regional Final, this time having the opportunity to perform in the Sir Adrian Boult Hall, Birmingham in July of this year. Their adjudication at this final described the group as having a ‘theatrical virtuosity and subtle blend, resulting in a great sounding band.’ They were awarded the accolade of Most Outstanding Performance in the International and World Music Category in a class of twenty two groups. Subsequently, they were invited to perform in the School Proms which took place in the Royal Albert Hall, London on 10 November 2008.
NORTHERN IRELAND YOUNG MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR 2008 (IN ASSOCIATION WITH COMBER ROTARY CLUB)
Fionnuala Ward
After making the 2007 final, Fionnuala competed again in The Northern Ireland Young Musician of the Year in 2008 and was successful again in making the final. She performed a piece by Aaron Copland entitled Le chat et la Souris and beat off competition from talented musicians across Northern Ireland to take the title. Adjudicator Melvin Rickarby said her performance was ‘the most engrossing and technically perfect performance’. ‘Her energy and enthusiasm showed through from beginning to glorious end.’
She was invited to play live on Radio Ulster and at a reception for the Queen at Hillsborough Castle.
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INSTITUTE OF DIRECTORS SHADOWING SCHEME
Harry McKeever, Year 13, shadowed a director of KPMG, a leading accountancy firm in Belfast, March 2008. Harry rose to the challenge of being a ‘shadow’ director and found the experience interesting, busy and most informative.
YOUNG ACHIEVERS MINI ENTERPRISE SCHEME
A group of Year 13 Business Studies students set up trading links with a school in Berlin, Germany. The group traded successfully with a number of products and raised funds through issuing shares. Shareholders received a 20% return on their investment and substantial donations were made to Marie Curie, the Chernobyl Fund and to Father Tom McDonald, a missionary priest working in Africa.
TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN CREST AWARDS
CREST is a national accreditation scheme designed to recognise individual student achievement in Science and Technology through a practical problem solving approach. CREST stimulates industry linked project work and accredits students’ achievements at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.
All Year 10 Key Stage 3 were awarded Bronze Awards.
SEAGATE YOUNG INNOVATORS
Young Innovators is one of the largest events of its kind in the UK, attracting almost 200 Science, Engineering and Technology entries from schools across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The event is a showcase for students’ project work and celebrates the achievements of these young people. More than 600 young people aged between eight and eighteen display, present and explain their Science and Technology projects to the team of judges in the hope of becoming the innovators of the future.
Regional Final Frank Taggart won the Queen’s University Product Design Award with his pedestrian warning system ‘SafeStep’. With his ‘WireWise’ electrical cable measuring product Owen McMeel scooped the BA Crest Award which will see him through to represent Northern Ireland at the National Science Fair in London.
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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
Christian Education Movement
In November 2007, St. Mary’s hosted the Christian Education Movement led by a team called ‘Reach- Across’ where Year 13 pupils from local schools came to listen to and converse with the guest speaker, Mr Barney McGuigan. The theme of this conference was ‘How do we foster Community cohesion?’
The discussion was both lively and thought-provoking with both leaders helping students to express their beliefs and ideas in a supportive and open situation.
Inter-Schools Conference
St. Mary’s hosted a conference attended by ten local schools and over two hundred students, with the focus on the synoptic element of the A2 course.
Issues of faith, sin and alienation were highlighted and discussed; the speakers included Bishop Joseph Duffy, Fr Aidan Troy, the Rev John Dunlop, Ms Karen Jardine and Mr Turlough Quinn.
Lower Sixth Two Day Youth Retreat In December 2007, the Lower 6th pupils took part in a two day Youth Retreat in Clonard. They had the opportunity to reflect upon current issues, examining them in the light of their Faith and Catholic Church teaching. It proved to be a very successful day of sharing and an enlightening spiritual experience for them.
Year 11 Four Day Retreat In December 2007, the Year 11 pupils took part in a 4 day Retreat. A team from De La Salle, Downpatrick came to the school. The pupils spent time together reflecting, sharing, singing and praying.
Reconciliation Service In March our Year 9 pupils took part in Reconciliation Service. This was an important and significant time, enabling the pupils to receive and celebrate the Sacrament of Confession in preparation for the Easter ceremonies.
Eucharistic Ministers In May 2007, a group of Year 13 and Year 14 students, together with pupils from St. Pius X, were inaugurated as Eucharistic Ministers. Fr L Boyle celebrated the mass.
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FUNDRAISING
The St. Mary’s Community continued to show its commitment to local, national and global charities. The following donations were made: Y8: - Termonmaguire Care for Cancer £2333 Y9: - Children in Crossfire £1500 Y10: - NI Children’s Hospice £500 - Mencap £450 Y11: - UNICEF £808 Y12: - Marie Curie Cancer Care £545 (Christmas gifts were also sent to St Vincent de Paul) Y13: - Friends of Africa £648 Y14: - Click Sargent (Cancer) £568 - Mount Carmel School and Church, India £568 - SMA Fathers, Dromantine £800 Total £8720
EDUCATIONAL VISITS/WORKSHOPS/SPEAKERS
The following are examples of various events, visits, workshops in which pupils participated throughout the year: True Colours Best of GCSE and A Level Art exhibition, Omagh, November 2007, attended by GCSE, AS and A2 Art and Design students.
Four Art and Design students had work Lough Derg displayed in this exhibition: Over forty Year 14 students accompanied by Miss Quinn and Mr Maynes, completed a Catherine O’Neill (Year 12) pilgrimage to Lough Derg, October 2007. It Teresa O’Brien (Year 14) was a day of prayer, discussion and reflection. This opportunity allowed pupils and Katrina Kelly (Year 14) staff to experience the sacredness of the Emma McCrystal (Year 14) Island for a day.
Life Conference Year 12 pupils attended the Life Conference in Dungannon, where they discussed issues pertinent to modern living.
‘Honey and Yogurt Handcrafted Wholemeal Scones’ Genesis set a poster competition for Year 8 pupils to promote their Honey and Yogurt handcrafted wholemeal scones. The six pupils who produced the best posters were given a tour of the factory and an opportunity to bake their own scones.
Other Visits F G Wilson Odyssey, Belfast Seagate Antrim Hospital (Radiology Dept) Central Library, Belfast Horizons in Physics Exhibition, QUB
Bose Ltd, Carrickmacross: Industrial visit by AS Technology and Design students. Year 11 pupils enjoyed a visit to Páirc Náisiúnta, Glenveigh, Ionan Cois Locha, Dún Lúiche and the Gaoth Dobhair area in June 2008.
Year 8 pupils visited Belfast Zoo in June 2008 and were given a guided tour of the Zoo through the medium of Irish.
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DRAMA
London, 9-13 January 2008 On 9 January 2008, a group of forty-eight GCSE Drama students and six teachers travelled to London for a four-day visit. Pupils had many opportunities to develop their practical and theoretical understanding of Drama and Theatre by participating in workshops facilitated by experienced industry professionals. Pupils’ experience and appreciation of live theatre was broadened through their attendance at West End shows such as Wicked, The Sound of Music and Grease.
In a workshop at the Young Actors Theatre, pupils worked alongside Ryan McBride, the creative director of smash-hit musical Billy Elliott. Responsible for auditioning and casting roles in the show, Ryan delivered a workshop which focused on the art of musical theatre. Actress Cassidy Janson, who plays the lead role of Elphaba in the highly acclaimed production Wicked, was also in attendance to offer career and audition advice to pupils wishing to
pursue their interest in theatre and performance.
At the Victoria and Albert Museum, pupils engaged in a workshop exploring The Crucible by Arthur Miller. Through a practical approach, pupils developed their understanding of the role of performer, director and designer in the theatre and the interdependence of these roles in a production. Pupils participated in a range of activities focusing on storytelling, character development and the transfer of text from page to stage.
A guided tour of the Globe Theatre enabled pupils to develop their knowledge of theatre in Shakespeare’s day. With its historical insight, the tour developed pupils’ appreciation of the evolution of theatre. Pupils had the opportunity to explore all areas of the theatre, including backstage, and to find out what it was like to act on the Elizabethan stage. At the Globe Theatre, pupils participated in a practical workshop exploring William Shakespeare’s tradegy Macbeth and the protagonist’s fall from hero to villain. As part of the focus on this play, pupils explored the rhythm of Shakespeare’s language and experimented with strategies for its effective vocal delivery.
Despite the busy schedule and the educational focus of the visit, pupils still managed to secure a little recreation during their time in London. An afternoon in Madame Tussauds, an evening of outdoor ice-skating at the National History Museum and a morning of shopping on Oxford street ensured that there was never a dull moment as pupils played their role in the creation of memories that will remain with them for a lifetime.
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Dance Classes In term two, Year 9 and Year 10 pupils had the opportunity to participate in dance classes held after school and delivered by an experienced dancer/choreographer. Pupils explored different styles of dance including contemporary dance and hip-hop.
Lunchtime Theatre/Practical Evenings Lunchtime Theatre continued to thrive throughout the year as Drama and Theatre Studies students showcased their performance work. Throughout 2007/2008, audiences were treated to a variety of performance work including improvisation, scripted performance and devised work. Performances this year included: The Little Princess Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde The Mai by Marina Carr Maria’s Story a devised drama by Year 14 students To Be Or Not To Be a devised drama by Year 14 students I Nothing Am a Year 14 adaptation of King Lear by William Sharespeare Within This Wood a Year 14 adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare Play As a Woman a Year 14 adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare
Drama Club In Term Two and Three, Year 8 pupils had the opportunity to participate in the Year 8 Drama Club. Drama Club meetings took place on a weekly basis. Pupils worked with Drama Department staff and Theatre Studies students to create their unique version of The Shadowboy which was presented to a packed audience during Lunchtime Theatre.
Costume Workshops During term three, Year 11 GCSE pupils studying The Crucible by Arthur Miller had the opportunity to explore the costume design of the play during after school costume workshops. These workshops were facilitated by professional costume maker, Mrs Margaret Pescott who worked on the costumes for the movie version of the play starring Daniel Day Lewis and Winona Ryder.
Cinemagic Film and Television Festival Following an invitation to attend, Drama and Theatre Studies students travelled to the Mill Theatre in Dundrum, Dublin on Friday 25 April 2008 to participate in a Cinemagic Masterclass with Casting Director Ros Hubbard whose credits include The Commitments and The Bourne Supremacy. Pupils gained valuable insights to the film industry and received advice on aspects of film including approaches to screen testing, how to be successful in auditions and how to compile a CV for casting directors. Pupils enjoyed working with young people from across Ireland who shared their interests.
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Theatre Workshop – The Role of the Chorus in Greek Theatre In October 2007, Upper Sixth Theatre Studies students had the opportunity to work with past pupil and graduate from the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, Gary Trainor, exploring aspects of Greek Theatre through The Trojan Women by Euripides.
Theatre Workshop – Physical Theatre In October 2007, Year 9 pupils had the opportunity to work with Gary Trainor exploring the concept of physical theatre.
Primary School Links Throughout the year, the Drama Department enjoyed links with Holy Family Primary School. In October 2007, Year 13 and 14 Theatre Studies students delivered drama workshops exploring Halloween with Primary 7 pupils. In April 2008, P6 pupils from Holy Family Primary School were invited to St. Mary’s to view performance work presented by
Upper Sixth Theatre Studies students. Pupils thoroughly enjoyed the performances of Within This wood and Play As A Woman.
November 2007 – ‘Reviewing The Situation’ – Key Stage Three Theatre Review Competition Following the success of Oliver! the Drama Department organised a theatre review competition for pupils in Key Stage Three interested in developing their skills in theatre criticism. Pupils submitted their reviews of the production and the winners were:
Year 8
1st: Niamh McAteer 8B 2nd: Bronagh McGuckin 8C 3rd: Alice McCormick 8B
Year 9
1st: Catherine Tennyson 9E 2nd: Peter McGuire 9D 3rd: Maria Walls 9B
Year 10
1st: Ursula Kelly 10C 2nd: Orlagh Cassidy 10D 3rd: Caitriona Boyle 10D
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THEATRE VISITS
Starlight Express Grand Opera House, Belfast Year 11 and 12 October 2007
Macbeth Crumlin Road Jail, Belfast AS and A2 Theatre Studies students October 2007
‘Annie’ St Pius X College, Magherafelt GCSE, AS and A2 Drama and Theatre Studies students February 2008
‘The Crucible’ Queen’s Film Theatre, Belfast Year 11 Drama Students March 2008
Oliver!
Grand Opera House, Belfast The St. Mary’s School Community November 2007
In November, St. Mary's became the first school in Northern Ireland to take its musical to the stage of the Grand Opera House, Belfast, the most prestigious theatre in Ireland. Oliver! played to capacity audiences from 13th-17th November, welcoming over seven thousand patrons from the North and South of Ireland, England, Scotland and Spain.
‘In Dulce Jubilate’ Burnavon, Cookstown The St. Mary’s School Community December 2007 As part of its 80th anniversary celebrations, St. Mary’s presented its annual carol service ‘In Dulce Jubilate’ in the Burnavon. The programme included seasonal music and readings from past, present and future pupils. The guest choir for the evening was from Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt.
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TRAVEL
‘‘‘TTThhheee WWWooorrrlllddd iiisss aaa bbbooooookkk aaannnddd ttthhhooossseee wwwhhhooo dddooo nnnooottt tttrrraaavvveeelll rrreeeaaaddd ooonnnlllyyy ooonnneee pppaaagggeee...’’’ St. Augustine
Spain A group of Lower and Upper Sixth students accompanied by Mrs Scullion and Señorita Nuño Milagro, spent five days (15-19 February 2008) in Barcelona. They had the opportunity to visit the city’s most famous landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell and, of course, Nou Camp Stadium. A wide variety of tapas was consumed and every shop along Las Ramblas was visited. Both pupils and teachers benefited linguistically and culturally from their visit to Spain’s most cosmopolitan city.
London A group of twenty five Lower and Upper Sixth Politics students, accompanied by Mr Brolly, Mrs McCann and Mrs Gates, travelled to London for three days, 27-29 February 2008. They enjoyed an introductory sight-seeing tour of London’s historical and cultural landmarks. Then, following a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament, the group observed Prime Minister’s Question Time in the House of Commons and a mock parliamentary debate at Portcullis House. They even survived a flight on the London Eye!
London
A group of forty-eight GCSE Drama students and six teachers travelled to London for a four-day visit, 9-13 January 2008. Pupils had many opportunities to develop their practical and theoretical understanding of drama and theatre by participating in workshops facilitated by experienced industry professionals. Pupils’ experience and appreciation of live theatre was broadened through
their attendance at West End shows such as Wicked, The Sound of
Music and Grease.
Sicily In May 2008, Mrs O’Brien, Mrs Mallon and Miss MacOscar travelled with six Year 10 pupils to Gela. During their five day stay in Sicily, the group was received by the Mayor of Gela and other council officials. During their stay, they were given guided tours of local sites of historic, architectural and archaeological interest. They were entertained to musical recitals and a concert performed by staff and pupils of the ‘E Romagnoli’ school in Gela. The pupils of St. Mary’s and their Spanish counterparts joined with the Italian students in lessons and in sporting activities. Mrs. O’Brien and Mrs. Mallon distinguished themselves not only at the orange peeling competition but also at the City Hall where they gave impromptu interviews for Sicilian television.
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France A group of forty-nine Year 11 pupils, accompanied by five members of staff, travelled to Paris from 9-13 March 2008. The group visited the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, the Stade de France, Notre Dame, the Louvre, Sacre- Coeur, and took a boat tour on the Seine. A most enjoyable day was had by all in Disneyland, Paris, where
even the teachers reverted to their childhood and enjoyed meeting the Disney characters and surviving the rollercoaster rides!
USA Sixty nine students and eight staff travelled to the United States at the end of February 2008 for the annual Year 9 ski-trip. They flew to Boston, Massachusetts and then travelled by coach to Lincoln in New Hampshire where they stayed in the Beacon Resort for six nights.
The conditions for skiing were fantastic with loads of snow and lots of bright sunny days. The group skied in Bretton Woods for the first two days and then went to Loon for the last three days of the trip. The group also had time to do some outlet shopping in North Conway and to visit a shopping mall in Rockingham on the way to Boston. Suitcases were bulging on the homeward bound journey!
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BECTA AWARD
‘Pupils at St. Mary’s Grammar School in Magherafelt are at the forefront of using Information and Communications Technology to enhance their work and that’s official’
educationnews (Issue 118, May 2008)
L-R: Mrs E Daly, Senior Teacher; Mr M McCormack, ICT Advisor NEELB; Katrina Kelly, Head Girl; Mr D Lambon, Principal; Conor McKenna, Head Boy; Mr P Campbell, Senior Teacher
Following an extensive external world of work. Achieving the award assessment, St Mary’s has been awarded demonstrates the excellence of the the prestigious ICT Mark by BECTA, the school’s leadership at all levels and the British Education Communications and quality of the performance of both staff Technology Agency, the government and pupils.” funded body responsible for promoting the Mr D Lambon, Principal commented: use of ICT in the UK’s schools and colleges. “We are delighted to be awarded the ICT Mark. It recognises our positive approach The award recognises the school’s to ICT and the benefits it is bringing to our success in developing the strategic use of pupils. We believe that ICT can be used ICT in both administration and across the in every aspect of learning and that it is curriculum. Parents now have proof that essential our young people are equipped their children are attending a school at the for the modern world.” forefront of modern technology. Mr N McLean, Executive Director for Mr M McCormac, ICT Advisor with the Educational Practice at BECTA, said: North Eastern Board, said: “St. Mary’s thoroughly deserve the “The Board congratulates St. Mary’s on accolade of an ICT mark. They clearly this important achievement. The BECTA demonstrate how important it is to take an National Award confirms that the school is holistic approach to using ICT in schools. engaging ICT at a high level to support Their investment in new technology has pupils’ skills development, to enhance contributed to substantial improvements in teaching and learning and in preparing learning.” pupils for life, further education and the
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STANDARD INSPECTION
The Education and Training Inspectorate undertook a Standard Inspection of St. Mary’s in February 2008. This was particularly fitting in the school’s eightieth year and affirmed for the school community the outstanding quality of education for which St. Mary’s enjoys an enviable reputation.
The Inspection focused on leadership and management at all levels across the school and, in addition, the provision for English, Physical Education and Science. The Inspection also evaluated the school’s provision for pastoral care, including child protection.
In June 2007, the school was selected to take part in the Specialist Schools Programme, beginning in September 2007. The programme aims to develop the concept of Specialist Schools tailored to meet the particular needs of Northern Ireland’s education system. As part of the Inspection, the school’s provision for their Specialist Status in Science was evaluated.
ETI defined the main strengths of the school:
the inclusive pupil-centred ethos, which is characterised by the good working relationships at all levels and the exemplary behaviour of the pupils;
the high level of professional commitment and dedication of the teachers;
the excellent standards achieved by the pupils in public examinations;
the very good to outstanding quality of the teaching observed in most of the lessons;
the effective leadership and management at all levels; and
the outstanding leadership and vision of the Principal.
In the areas inspected, the quality of education provided in this school is outstanding. The educational and pastoral needs of the learners are being very well met. The parents and the community can have confidence in the school’s capacity for sustained self-improvement. No follow-up inspection is required.
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COMENIUS PROJECT 2005-2008
Comenius is one of the subprogrammes of a major European Initiative on Lifelong Learning. It seeks to promote understanding of cultural and linguistic diversity amongst staff and young people in European schools; it develops life skills such as ICT for future employment and active European citizenship and it encourages staff and pupil mobility.
In September 2005, St. Mary’s hosted the first visit from its partner schools in a three year Comenius Project entitled “Young People as Citizens of Europe”. Teachers from Scuola Statale ‘E Romagnoli’ in Gela, Sicily, and IES La Campiña in Guadalcacín, Spain, joined with Mrs Hamilton and Mrs Scullion to design a project which would fulfil the key objectives of Comenius. Throughout the project, St. Mary’s acted as co-ordinating school.
In Year 1, all Year 8 pupils were involved They engaged in a wide range of activities, in exploring their rights as citizens. They for example, a visit to Stormont and Cultra, had the opportunity to exchange a tour of the Antrim coast, cultural displays collaborative project work on customs and of Irish music and dance, and visiting pupil festivals, healthy eating, human rights and participation in a full school day. sports statistics. Since the Comenius Project encourages the use of ICT in schools, pupils exchanged information via video, PowerPoints and DVDs. In December, Miss McAllister and Mrs Scullion travelled to Sicily to review progress and exchange materials produced by the pupils. As part of the aim of Comenius is to encourage whole school and local community involvement and awareness, pupils displayed their collaborative work on Open Night in January.
In Year 2, the Year 9 pupils of St. Mary’s, Throughout the year, pupils worked who were looking at their responsibilities collaboratively on an environmental school as young citizens, had a very real charter and prepared PowerPoints on opportunity to experience the culture of major environmental areas. Teachers from other countries when staff and pupils from many departments were involved Sicily and Spain travelled to Ireland and throughout the three years. spent five days in Magherafelt.
Italian Beginners’ Class
Mrs Mallon from the Languages Department started an Italian Beginners’ class which was attended by both teachers and pupils from all year groups during Year 2.
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Visit to Spain
In Year 3, pupils looked at their future role as citizens and worked on consumer rights, careers and employment and political awareness within the three countries. In November 2007, Mr Lambon and Mrs Scullion, accompanied by six Year 10 pupils, travelled to Spain where they enjoyed four days of Spanish hospitality. They were given a guided tour of historic Jerez, visited local industrial sites and attended flamenco and equestrian displays. Pupils were able to meet again with friends they had met the previous September in Magherafelt.
Sicily
The final project meeting took place in Sicily in May 2008. Mrs O’Brien, Mrs Mallon and Miss MacOscar travelled with six Year 10 pupils to Gela.
Mrs O’Brien and Mrs Mallon distinguished themselves not only at the orange peeling competition but also at the City Hall where they gave impromptu interviews for Sicilian During their five day stay in Sicily, the television. group was received by the Mayor of Gela and other council officials. They were given guided tours of local sites of historic, architectural and archaeological interest. They were entertained to musical recitals and a concert performed by staff and pupils of the ‘E Romagnoli’ school in Gela. The pupils of St. Mary’s and their Spanish counterparts joined with the Italian students in lessons and in sporting activities.
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CHILD PROTECTION
St. Mary’s is fully committed to the principles of Child Protection outlined in Pastoral Care in School: Child Protection DENI 1999.
‘As well as their statutory responsibilities in relation to pupils’ learning, schools have a pastoral responsibility towards their pupils and should recognise that the children and young people in their charge have a fundamental right to be protected from harm. In particular, schools are expected to do whatever is reasonable, in all circumstances of the case, to safeguard or promote their pupils’ safety and well-being.’
The Designated Teacher for Child Protection is:
Mrs S O’Brien
The Deputy Designated Teachers for Child Protection are:
Mrs E Lennon Mr F Dunlop
In January/February 2008, all staff in St. Mary’s completed an update course on Child Protection (Policy and Procedures), facilitated by Mrs O’Brien, Designated Teacher for Child Protection.
In February 2008, ETI completed a standard Inspection in the School during which the school’s provision for pastoral care, including Child Protection was evaluated. The report found:
‘The quality of the arrangements for pastoral care and child protection in the school is excellent. The school has procedures in place which implement the guidance outlined in the relevant DE Circulars. The governors, staff, parents and pupils are fully aware of the school’s procedures and have had the opportunity to contribute to a range of effective policies which guide the work of the school.’
A detailed Child Protection Policy document is available on request from the school office or can be downloaded from our website www.stmarysmagherafelt.com
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Annual Report
SPORTS REVIEW 2007/2008
The Physical Education Department in St. Mary’s aims principally to promote the healthy physical, social and psychological development of all pupils. Accordingly, it offers to every pupil a wide and varied range of sporting activities through its curricular and extra curricular programmes.
St. Mary’s Physical Education and Sports pitch, two grass pitches and five tennis Staff includes four full-time teachers with courts. The school also makes regular other members of staff coaching in use of the facilities offered by the local specialised areas. council in particular the swimming pool, Meadowbank Sports Arena, squash courts The sports facilities at the school include a and fitness suite, driving range, golf fully-equipped sports hall, a fully equipped course and all weather pitches. gymnasium, a fitness suite, an all-weather
The school offers the following range of sports:
aerobics Gaelic football outdoor education table-tennis athletics golf rounders tennis badminton gymnastics rugby volleyball camogie health-related fitness soccer circuit-training hurling squash cross-country netball swimming
Throughout the year, individual pupils and BASKETBALL teams are entered for Area Board, Regional and Provincial competitions. Successful The Year 8 Basketball team teams compete regularly at All-Ireland level. played in the NEBSSA competition.
This year was a particularly notable year for The Year 9 Basketball team reached the the PE department with our involvement in NEBSSA final where they competed the Specialist Schools initiative along with the against Magherafelt High School. Science Department. The pupils enjoyed an Two Year 10 teams competed at the enhanced range of personal development Maghera Leisure Centre Secondary opportunities, at home and abroad, and we Schools Basketball Competition in continued to develop links to our feeder December. The Boys’ A team competed primary schools and the community in in the final. general. The Year 10 Basketball team also A-LEVEL PHYSICAL EDUCATION reached the NEBSSA final where they competed against Magherafelt High In preparation for the AS and A2 exams the School. PE classes travelled to the Antrim Board The Year 11 Basketball team reached the Centre for a one day revision course. The NEBSSA final and were narrowly beaten chief examiners from a number of the by 4 points by Magherafelt High School. examination boards were present to lecture and to field questions. The Year 12 team won the NEBSSA final against Sperrin Integrated College, Magherafelt.
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ATHLETICS performances, especially from Patrick McElroy who came second in the Minor Cross Country Running Boys’ 800m. Patrick
The Cross-Country qualified for the Ulster club enjoyed a Finals.
busy and There were also excellent successful year of performances from Odhran competitions. Totten and Niall Higgins. Pupils competed in the District ‘C’ St. Mary’s athletes also competed in championship, the Ulster final, the the USSAA under 14 team competition NEBSSA competition, the Armagh road held in Coleraine. The Boys’ team race, interschool competitions, the Belfast finished in fifth place with excellent marathon and the Maghera 10K. Notable performances by Odhran Totten among others. performances included qualification to the Ulster final by Ronan Bothwell, Michael The Girls’ team finished sixth overall Murray and Fiona McCrory and a Top with a notable performance by Laura Twenty placing by Ronan in the Maghera Johnston who came third in the 800m.
10k. In the NEBSSA competitions, the Sixty-nine pupils were entered for the Year 9 Boys’ team (Mark Boyle, Matthew NEBSSA Track and Field District Devlin, Odhran Totten and Ben Championships in Antrim from Years 8 McLaughlin) performed very strongly and to 11. The team won twelve individual they have much future promise. Orla medals. Odhran Totten (100m), Niall McCollum (Year 10) also performed very Higgins (Long Jump) won gold medals, strongly in this competition and in each of Odhran Totten (Long Jump), Rachael the St. Mary’s mile challenge events. Mulholland (800m), Shauneen Training took place on Wednesdays and Donaghy (800m/1500m) and Leanne Fridays throughout the year with good McCrystal (Shot) all won silver medals. participation from Years 8 -11. We hope Twelve pupils qualified for the next year to start a league competition NEBSSA finals where they competed with local schools. This will allow more against fifty-four other schools from the regular competitive fixtures to take place. Board Area. The finals were held in We look forward to strong performances Antrim. St. Mary’s won a medal when from Catriona McGuckin, Aidan McErlane, Odhran Totten continued his good Fintan Devine (Year 8) and the form in the long jump event to claim Intermediate Boys’ team (Ronan Bothwell, silver. Niall Higgins and Peter Quinn in Christopher Henry, Michael Og the Long Jump and 400m respectively, McCloskey, Ryan McKenna and Sean also performed very well. Kennedy). Thirty-five Year 9 pupils represented Track and Field St. Mary’s at the Grand Opening of the Meadowbank Indoor Arena in March. This year proved a very busy year for They experienced a full range of Track and Field Athletics with St. Mary’s athletic competition and won pupils competing at District, Provincial and numerous awards. National level in Track and Field athletics. Working collaboratively with our A highlight of the year was the partner schools, Sperrin Integrated performance of Year 8 pupil Patrick College and St Pius X College, Track McElroy who achieved a creditable eighth and Field coaching was held for Key place in Ulster at the Provincial finals held Stage 3 pupils, every Thursday at the at the Antrim Forum. new Meadowbank Arena. Many pupils St. Mary’s athletes competed in the Ulster availed of this opportunity and were Secondary Schools Athletics Association coached by St. Mary’s staff and staff District Championships held in Antrim in from our partner schools. May. There were many notable
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Annual Report
BT ULSTER COLLEGES WINNING CAPTAINS 2007
The school was represented at this awards ceremony by Conall O’Kane, captain of our Ulster title winning Hurling team. Conall was accompanied by his parents and school coach, Mr Kennedy.
CAMOGIE
Senior Team Ballycastle progressed to contest the The Senior final. Camogie team Captains: Rachel Mulholland and RubyMarie Rice competed in U-14 Development Squad the Ulster The U14 Development Squad trained Senior ‘A’ together and took part in an U14 Colleges Camogie Championship beating Development Blitz in May hosted by St. Patrick’s College, Maghera in the St. Patrick’s College, Maghera. The Semi-final. They then progressed to the existence of this team ensured that all Ulster Final where they were defeated Year 9 and 10 girls had the opportunity to narrowly by Cross and Passion, participate in extra-curricular Camogie in Ballycastle in a very close and competitive the school. It was a very enjoyable and game played in Ballycastle. Captain: Aileen McCusker successful day during which the girls played to a high level in all games. Junior Team Captain: Dearbhla Laverty The Junior Camogie Year 8 Teams team competed in the St. Mary’s Magherafelt hosted the Group Ulster Junior ‘A’ Two section of the Ulster Colleges Year 8 Colleges competition Camogie Championship. Five teams reaching the Semi-final participated with visiting schools from stages, where they competed against St. St. Benedict’s, Randalstown, St. Mary’s Patrick’s College, Maghera. College, Clady and St. Paul’s, Kilrea. Captain: Joanne Loughlin Many exciting games were played with 7-A-Side Team some tremendous scores from pupils of all The 7-a-side team competed in the All schools. The eventual winners of the Ireland Colleges Competition in Dublin as competition were St. Mary’s, Magherafelt Ulster Runners Up. ‘A’ team who were closely followed by Captain: Danielle McCrystal St. Mary’s College, Clady and St. Mary’s, Magherafelt ‘B’ team, both finishing U-14 Team second on equal points. The ‘A’ team The U-14 team competed for the second further progressed to the Ulster quarter year in a newly structured Ulster ‘A’ 15 a finals where they defeated St. Mark’s High side competition. This competition School, Warrenpoint and competed included three schools who played twice against St. Patrick’s College, Maghera in on a League basis and despite some very the semi final. close encounters St. Patrick’s College, ‘A’ Captain: Aine Mulholland Maghera and Cross and Passion,
Camogie All Stars
St. Mary’s was awarded a record of six Ulster College All-Stars Awards this year, a provincial record. Cathy Carey (Year 14), Claire Laverty (Year 14), Keelin Bradley (Year 13), Eimear McKenna (Year 13) and Christine McKenna (Year 13) all received their first All Star Award, whilst Aileen McCusker (Year 13) received her second. The girls competed in the Inter Provincial Championships in April in Dublin where having defeated Connaught comprehensively were defeated themselves by the eventual winners of the competition, Munster. St. Mary’s Grammar School Page 36
Annual Report
Internal Camogie Competitions Three internal Camogie competitions were organised to allow every girl in Year 8-10 Year 8 winners: 8E to experience competitive Camogie in Year 9 winners: 9A school. Each team competed in at least two games resulting in very entertaining Year 10 winners: 10C and competitive finals.
COACHING MODULE
Eight lower sixth students attended a six-week coaching module taken by Chris Collins, (Derry Development Officer). The course lasted for six weeks and involved both theory and practical sessions. All the pupils were awarded the GAA Foundation Level Coaching Award and are qualified to coach underage teams.
As a follow up from the coaching award, all the participants attended a course on Child Protection and gained a qualification in this area. Pupils from Sperrin Integrated College and St. Pius X College, Magherafelt also attended the course.
These students and the St. Mary’s students coached Primary School pupils from four of our local schools at a special coaching event, held at St. Mary’s in May. All the Primary 6 pupils from Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt were invited to the school for Gaelic Football Coaching taken by these same coaches.
In addition to this, last year’s coaches returned to help the Lower sixth students run the annual Top Link Festival for our feeder primary schools.
GAELIC FOOTBALL
The Year 8 team The Year 11 team competed in the Brock competed in the Ulster Cup competition and won the Ulster Final Colleges blitz hosted by beating St. Patrick’s College, Dungannon St. Mary’s CBS, Belfast in the final and Omagh CBS in the semi in June. The team won final. This is the first time that St. Mary’s the Plate competition has won the Brock Cup. Captain: Nathan Rocks defeating St. Michael’s Grammar School, Enniskillen in the final. The Year 12 team competed in the
The team also competed in a blitz, held in Rannafast Cup competition and was Maghera and attended by the top schools defeated in the quarter final, by St. in Ulster. The ‘A’ team were defeated Patrick’s College, Armagh. by two points in the quarter final by Captain: Emmet McKillion
St. Patrick’s College, Dungannon and the The MacRory Cup team was defeated by ‘B’ team were defeated in the semi final St. Colman’s Newry at the play-off stage of their competition by St. Patrick’s of the competition. Three of the team College, Maghera by one point. went on to represent Derry in the Ulster Captain: Terence O’Brien minor championship. Two of the team The Year 9 team competed in the D’alton represented Antrim in the Ulster minor Cup competition. championship. Captain: David McCann Captain: Dermot McCann
The Year 10 team competed in the Corn na nOg competition. Captain: Johnny McKee
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CENTRA SPONSORSHIP DEAL FOR COACHES LUNCH SENIOR FOOTBALL A special Lunch was held in Café Pierre in St. Mary’s and Centra, Castledawson Road, June 2008 to thank all members of staff for Magherafelt embarked on the second year their contribution to extra-curricular sport in of our four year sponsorship deal. The the school. generous contribution from Centra is a DANCE significant factor in the annual preparation of our MacRory Cup team. Eight Year 9 girls attended a ‘Day of Dance’ in Limavady High School in March.
LADIES GAELIC FOOTBALL
St. Mary’s enjoyed great success in Ladies U14 girls Gaelic Football this year as the sport goes The U14 team needed to win all the from strength to strength. games in their qualifying section to progress to the Ulster Quarter final. We did this comprehensively defeating St. Patrick’s College, Ballymena, St. Paul’s College, Kilrea, St. Mary’s High School, Limavady and St. Pius X College, Magherafelt. We progressed into the Ulster Quarter final where we defeated Our Lady’s Grammar School, Newry. We were beaten by St. Catherine’s College, Armagh in the Ulster semi-final. Captain – Aimee Mc Guckin
U16 Girls The U16 girls needed to win all the games Year 8 in their qualifying section to progress to The Year 8 girls defeated St. Mary’s the Ulster Quarter final. We defeated College, Irvinestown and St. Mary’s High St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, School, Limavady in their section. Sacred Heart Grammar School, Newry St. Mary’s was defeated by Loreto and St. Catherine’s College, Armagh, Grammar School, Omagh who progressed enabling the girls to progress to the Ulster to the semi-final stage. quarter final stage. We were narrowly Captain – Chloe Campbell defeated by St. Mary’s High School, Newry who went on to win the Ulster and All-Ireland finals. Captain – Grace Conway
IRISH FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION NORTH EAST FUTURE CHAMPIONS GRASSROOTS COACHING AWARD SPORTS ACADEMY
Nineteen pupils from Twenty-six pupils were nominated by the St. Mary’s completed school for the North East Future the Irish Football Champions Sports Academy which were Association Grassroots held at various venues in the Board area in Coaching Award held at February. Our pupils were nominated in a the school. The course, number of sports including athletics, a mixture of practical and theory, enables tennis, swimming, soccer, squash, hurling, the pupils to coach underage soccer. rugby, badminton and camogie and received intensive coaching in these.
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OUTDOOR PURSUITS SCHOOL SPORT MATTERS
As part of their GCSE Physical Education St. Mary’s Physical Education department course, forty one students completed an entered The Daily Telegraph School Sport intensive course in orienteering over four full Matters Awards 2008. These awards days at the Woodhall Residential Centre, recognise excellence in sport and involve a Kilrea. This activity formed part of their protracted application process. GCSE practical coursework. All the pupils scored highly.
RUGBY SPORTSDAY
All the Year 12 pupils experienced a six week block of rugby taken by the local Youth Development Officer. A Year 12 team, selected from PE classes, trained weekly over the winter.
The Year 12 team was entered in the
Rainey Old Boys U-16 High Schools Tournament, held at Hatrick Park in Sportsday 2008 was again a very December. The team won the competition successful event. The development of the beating St. Pius X College, Magherafelt, event continued with a wide range of fun Cookstown High School, Magherafelt High activities involving all the pupils. The School and Sperrin Integrated College, awards were presented after the event at a Magherafelt. Captain: Ben Niblock special prize ceremony. The Ulster Cancer
Captain Ben Niblock was selected to Foundation visited the school on Sports represent the Ulster Development Squad Day and provided us with 1000 sachets of sun cream for the pupils to use. after being invited to attend the regional development programme. Victor Ludorum: Aaron Devlin, Year 11 Our Year 12 Rugby coaches, along with the Local Development Officer for the sport, Victrix Ludorum: hosted local primary school pupils and Bronagh McGuckin, Year 8 and; provided them with two days of rugby Mary T Scullion, Year 11. coaching at the school in December.
SOCCER succumb to the superior skills, stamina, strength and tenacity of St. Mary’s who St Mary’s Boys played in the were now within touching distance of U-18 Carnegie Cup Final, a glory. The loss of two key defenders two first for the school in only weeks before the final proved to be a their fourth year of devastating blow for the team; (a bit like competitive soccer! For the Manchester United losing Ferdinand and record, seventy-two teams Vidic!) and ultimately it cost them dearly entered the NI premier soccer competition against top opponents St. Mary’s Christian in September, dreaming of glory. The Brother’s Grammar School, Belfast in the journey began with a 4-1 victory against decider. Despite a 3-0 defeat, the whole last year’s beaten finalists Coleraine experience had been unforgettable, Institute in October followed by a 3-1 particularly in the build up, the defeat of St Columb’s College, Derry camaraderie amongst the players and after a thrilling replay. The next round of coaches and not least, the banter with the games saw tough opponents Holy Cross GAA diehards! College, Strabane, Belfast High and St Peter’s High School, Derry all
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Annual Report
SPORTS HALL ATHLETICS SQUASH
Thirty eight pupils represented the school A number of pupils participated at a Mixed at a series of Sports Hall Athletics events. Squash Tournament in April at Magherafelt
St. Mary’s pupils excelled at Leisure Centre. Fiona McKeever played the County Derry finals, held particularly well on the day. at Maghera Leisure Centre. Thirty eight pupils represented the school winning a range of TENNIS medals including ten gold medals and twenty silver medals. There were many notable performances.
Seven pupils were selected for the County Derry team which, after intensive training, participated in the West of Ulster championships held in Enniskillen on 8 February 2008.
Following on from this event, four pupils competed in the Ulster finals held at the Valley Leisure Centre on Tuesday 26 February 2008.
SWIMMING This year, in order to further the development of tennis in the school, an intensive one week Swimmers from St. Mary’s long coaching course was held in were entered for the Ulster September. Twenty pupils experienced top Grammar Schools Swimming class tennis coaching and improved their skill Championships, the Irish Schools levels as a consequence. Swimming Association Championships and the Minor Schools’ Championships.
ULSTER COLLEGES ALL STARS TESCO SPORT FOR SCHOOL SCHEME
The PE department re-registered in this scheme at the start of the school year and the pupils managed to collect 4,700 vouchers which will help the department acquire a range of equipment.
NORTH EASTERN BOARD SECONDARY Dermot McCann (Year 14) was awarded an SPORTS ASSOCIATION (NEBSSA) Ulster Colleges All Star at a presentation dinner held in the Europa Hotel, Belfast. Dermot was accompanied by his parents and Mr J McElholm continued as a member of coaching staff from the school and was later NEBSSA, a sports body that organised up to awarded a Sports Bursary from UUJ. 50 competitions in a wide range of sports for all post-primary schools in the North Eastern Board Area.
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TOP LINK
‘Designed to enhance links between schools, TOP Link encourages 14 to 16 year olds to organise and manage sport or dance festivals in local primary and special schools. Part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport Step into Sport programme, TOP Link is connected to existing school leadership work such as the Junior Sports Leader Award and the Community Sports Leader Award. As well as developing school links, TOP Link also uses PE and sport to train and encourage young people to become leaders who can use their skills to benefit the wider community’.
For the third year St. Mary’s students medals by Monsignor O’ Byrne and Derry became involved in the Top Link player and former pupil, Michael McIver. Programme. The Year 13 A Level students Assistance was given by the Derry County attended a one day training conference at coaching staff. Paul Whitten from the UUJ while Mr J McElholm attended a Youth Sport Trust presented the school Professional Development day at the with a plaque in recognition of our same venue. The department organised a contribution to the Top Link Programme. Year 8 Gaelic football event which was run by our Year 13 and 14 students, all of The school also participated in the whom had attained coaching qualifications International Dimension of Top Link: the in Gaelic Football and Child Protection Dreams and Teams programme. We Certificates. Eight of our larger feeder initially hosted a visiting group from primary schools took part with a total of Holland and then visited their school. Our one hundred and fifty Primary 7 pupils four pupils, when in Holland, experienced experiencing a comprehensive coaching a range of Professional Development programme, lunch and a competitive blitz. opportunities, organised a sporting festival Holy Family ‘A’ beat Holy Family ‘B’ in the for primary school pupils and made lasting final and were presented with a trophy and friendships.
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Annual Report
CAREERS EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE
Careers Guidance forms an options which they may consider on integral part of all pupils’ completion of their GCSE examinations. studies from Year 10 to Year In Years 13 and 14 pupils have classes in 14. Formal careers classes Careers Education and Interview Skills. As are timetabled one period per well as attending the taught classes, pupils fortnight from Year 10 are encouraged to use the Resources in the upwards. During these classes Careers Library for private research. pupils take part in a taught Individual and group interviews take place programme incorporating with all pupils in Years 13 and 14 to help elements of both Careers guide them towards making suitable Education and Education for choices for third level courses for the world Employability. of work.
Throughout all Year Groups, pupils are All pupils in the school have access to a guided towards being able to make informed purpose built Careers Suite which includes decisions in relation to their future. Specific a well stocked and regularly updated guidance is given on subject choice in Year Careers Library and nine computers which 10 and Year 12. In Years 11 and 12 pupils have Internet Access and a range of up-to- have the opportunity to investigate all the date Computer Packages.
PERSONAL CAREERS PLANNING GUIDANCE INTERVIEWS
All pupils are encouraged to develop their own Guidance Counselling forms a very Personal Career Plans to important part of all the work carried out in which they are the Careers Department and this is introduced in Year 8. By particularly important with pupils in Years being involved in small 12, 13 and 14. All Year 12 pupils have the group interviews with their Careers opportunity to be interviewed by a teacher, as well as having a taught representative from the Careers Service programme of Careers Guidance, they who visits the school one morning per gain confidence in making an informed week. choice of subjects which they choose to take at GCSE Level. On obtaining GCSE and ‘A’ Level results, EDUCATION FOR EMPLOYABILITY all pupils in Year 12 and 14 receive All Year 8 and 9 pupils took part in a extensive support and Programme of Education for Employability guidance. The Head of Careers works linked to Learning for Life and Work. As closely with Year 14 pupils in August well as engaging in taught classes, all helping them to secure places in Third pupils in Year 8 took part in an Activity Level Education. In Year 10, pupils are Day focusing on Entrepreneurship interviewed before making their final delivered by ‘Eastwood Business subject choices and parents are Mentoring’, as a conclusion to the encouraged to meet with their Programme. Year 9 pupils engaged in a son’s/daughter’s Careers teacher if they Project Based Assignment which have any concerns about their choices. concluded with presentations from Guidance interviews can be arranged at Ms Natasha Sayeé, BBC Television and any time for pupils either through referral Mr John Murtagh, Magherafelt District from any member of the teaching staff or at Council. the specific request of an individual pupil.
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Annual Report
LINKS WITH EXTERNAL AGENCIES
Alongside the taught programme of All pupils in Year 13 take part in a Work Careers Education, there is a Shadowing Scheme organised and comprehensive programme of extra- monitored by the Careers Department. curricular activities organised by the This scheme provides pupils with the Careers Department. The school opportunity to spend time in some of the organises a large Careers Convention on largest companies and organisations a biennial basis. This brings together across Northern Ireland and beyond. representatives from business and education from all parts of Ireland as well A programme of Careers Presentations as from Scotland and England. from invited speakers targeting Year 12, 13 and 14 pupils is on-going throughout The Careers Department has developed the year, ensuring pupils are kept fully close links with many outside agencies informed of new opportunities in both the and Northern Ireland Companies who visit world of Employment and Further and the school regularly to give presentations Higher Education. to the pupils. All Year 14 students have the opportunity As a conclusion to the programme of to attend Medical and Paramedical Open classes in Interview Skills, all Year 14 Days organised by a number of Health pupils take part in a Mock Interview carried Trusts as well as the Programme of out by panels of professionals from a wide University Open Days which take place in range of career areas as well as early September. representative from universities. A detailed assessment of the pupil’s Linked to Specialist School for Science performance in this event helps pupils to status an additional programme of identify their strengths and can also point activities was planned by the Careers to areas for improvement. Specific Department. This included a programme interview preparation is also conducted for of ‘Lunch-time Lectures’ targeting all pupils pupils who are applying to Oxbridge. from Years 8-14 and additional employability activity days for Year 8 and 9 pupils.
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Annual Report THE CURRICULUM 2007/2008
KEY STAGE 3 (YEARS 8-10)
YEAR 9 YEAR 8 YEAR 10 NUMBER OF AREAS OF NUMBER OF NUMBER OF SUBJECTS PERIODS STUDY PERIODS PER PERIODS PER PER FORTNIGHT FORTNIGHT FORTNIGHT English English with Library Skills 5 5 7 Drama 1 1 Mathematics Mathematics 7 7 8 Science 6 6 6 Science and Technology and Design 3 3 3 Technology Information Technology 2 2 History 4 4 5 Environment Geography 4 4 5 and Society Home Economics 3 3 3 Creative and Physical Education 4 5 4 Expressive Art 2 2 2 Studies Music 3 2 2 Two from: French 5 5 4 Language Irish 4 5 5 Studies German 4 5 Spanish 4 5 5 Religious Studies 5 4 4 Learning for Life and 2 2 2 Work in Year 8 TOTALS 60 60 60
Class Period = 50 minutes
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KEY STAGE 4 (YEARS 11-12)
ALL PUPILS OPTIONS NUMBER OF NUMBER OF AREAS OF STUDY SUBJECTS PERIODS PERIODS PER PER FORTNIGHT FORTNIGHT English English 7 English Literature Mathematics 7 or 8 Mathematics *Additional Mathematics See below Either: 12 Double Award Or: or Science and Chemistry 6 Technology + Physics 6 + Biology 6 Technology & Design 6 ICT 6 Child Development 6 History 6 Environment and Geography 6 Society Home Economics 6 Economics 6 Physical Education 2 Art 6 Creative and Drama 6 Expressive Studies Music 6 Physical Education (GCSE) 6 At least one of: 6 French
Or: or
Irish 6 Language Studies Or: or German 6 Or: or Spanish 6 Religious Studies 6 or 5 Learning of Life and 1 (Yr 11)
Work/Careers and PSE 2 (Yr 12) TOTALS 60 60
Class Period = 50 minutes *Additional Mathematics = Two groups study Mathematics and Additional Mathematics in the allocated time over the fortnight.
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Annual Report STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING
Throughout 2007/08, the main focus of Staff Development and Training activity was on:
Revised Curriculum – Into Year 9 Middle Management Training Assessment for Learning Specialist School – Into Year 9
In August 2007, all staff participated in a three day programme of departmental, pastoral and committee development work. All St. Mary’s teaching staff joined with the staff of St. Pius X College for a day on the “Catholic Ethos” of a school, facilitated by Archbishop Sean Brady. Mr O Graham continued with the six-month Middle Management Training programme, focusing on “Your Department as a Self-Evaluating Team.”
Mr J Smith, Learning Unlimited, facilitated a session on Assessment for Learning, focusing on “Making Feedback Count”, and “Promoting Assessment by Pupils.”
Preparations were made for the 80th Anniversary Musical “Oliver!” in the Grand Opera House, Belfast in November 2007.
In December 2007 and January 2008, Departments focused on continuing preparations for extending the Revised Curriculum into Year 9.
A number of administrative staff attended Management Information System courses with the C2K Project, Health and Hygiene, NILGOSC, Cashless Payment System and Management Display Systems. Updated training courses run by the Equality Commission have also been completed.
A number of staff also undertook GAA coaching courses. A number of teaching support staff completed training in Epipen, First Aid and use of a Defibrillator.
In June 2008, Mr O Graham, NEELB finished the Middle Management Training and Mr McAuley, Specialist School Co-ordinator, led staff in preparing to take the Specialist School initiative into Year 2. All Heads of Year completed a one-day course on pastoral issues in June 2008, facilitated by Mrs O’Brien, Vice Principal.
ICT There were several opportunities throughout the year for staff to develop their competence in ICT. These included:
Interactive Whiteboard Training (all teaching staff and subject technicians) Induction to C2K system for Beginning Teachers Attendance Reports Sims Assessment Management Desktop Publishing (Making Application Forms, Leaflets) Spreadsheets
CAFÉ BORDEAUX The staff of Café Bordeaux completed training in: Nutritional Awareness Training Till Operator Training
CHILD PROTECTION All staff completed an update course on Child Protection (Policy and Procedures), January/February 2008, facilitated by Mrs O’Brien, Designated Teacher for Child Protection.
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Annual Report SPECIALIST SCHOOL YEAR 1 2007/2008
St. Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt was designated a Specialist School for Science on 31 May 2007. Education Minister, Caitriona Ruane acknowledged the strength of the school’s application and its willingness to ‘engage meaningfully with other education partners and the wider community to enrich the learning experiences and life opportunities of young people and for the benefit of their local community.’
PARTNERS
‘We welcome the opportunity to network with other schools with the aim of raising attainment and access and making relevant connections between the school experience and the world of life and employment.’ St. Mary’s Specialist School Application
St. Mary’s established close partnerships with a number of local schools and businesses:
Local Schools Businesses St. Pius X College, Magherafelt F. G. Wilson Sperrin Integrated, Magherafelt Genesis Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt Northgate New Row Primary School, Castledawson Bank of Ireland St. Patrick’s Primary School, Loup Chambers
RESOURCES
In order to support the Specialist School work, there was initial investment in resources:
In St. Mary’s: a new, fully-equipped Science laboratory; a new, fully-equipped ICT suite to support Science and Careers; the provision of two mentoring rooms; the recruitment of an extra Science teacher; the recruitment of an IT technician to support Biology, in the first instance, and Science, thereafter.
In Our Partner Primary Schools: a fully-equipped Science box for each school.
COMMUNITY LINKS
‘We have links with many employers and businesses in terms of our existing Careers Education and Guidance and St. Mary’s is highly regarded in the local and wider community.’ St. Mary’s Specialist School Application
In Term 1, our links with our partner Primary Schools focused on a Science Day on Forces and Energy; a Science Fair in Term 2 and a Science Day on Biodiversity: Hedgerows and Pond Life in Term 3.
With our partner Post-Primary Schools, we collaborated on the Revised Curriculum for Key Stage 3; the development of resources for the new AS specification, which included a teaching resource pack produced by Dr T Henry, Greenmount Agricultural College, a former member of staff in St. Mary’s Science Department. St. Mary’s staff facilitated training in Interactive Whiteboard, the use of LNI and the sharing of Science software.
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A breakfast meeting was held in October 2007 with our Business Partners to develop an action plan.
Genesis contributed to our Science Lecture Series with a talk on Transfats to Year 13 Chemistry students, and Effective Food Labelling to Year 11 Biology pupils.
Four engineers from F G Wilson contributed to the Science Lecture Series with a talk on the Generation of Electricity to Year 12 Triple Award Science pupils. Year 11 Science pupils were all highly motivated by a talk on Career pathways by representatives from F G Wilson.
A number of Year 13 pupils from St. Mary’s, Sperrin Integrated and St. Pius X successfully completed the GAA Foundation Level Coaching Qualification. These pupils subsequently hosted a coaching event on 29 October 2007 for all Primary 6 pupils from Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt.
In December 2007, our Year 14 A2 Physical Education students hosted a GAA coaching clinic for pupils from local primary schools.
In December 2007, our Year 12 Rugby players, under the direction of the local Rugby Development Officer, hosted an afternoon of rugby coaching for primary 7 pupils, Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt.
Sharon Madigan, nutritionalist, contributed to our Physical Education Lecture series by addressing our elite athletes on diet, nutrition and hydration.
Aileen Tohill (Ulster Council) contributed to our Physical Education Lecture series by addressing Year 12 pupils from all schools in the Magherafelt area on diet, nutrition, smoking and alcohol related issues.
St. Mary’s became an accredited Sports Leader UK Centre. It is hoped, in Year 2 of the Specialism, to offer the Sports Leader UK (Level 1) Award to GCSE Physical Education students.
As part of the Dreams and Teams initiative (a component of the international division of the Top Link programme, run each year by St. Mary’s), a group of four A Level Physical Education students and their teacher, Ms C Donnelly, travelled to Holland in February 2008. During the trip our pupils led workshops and organised sporting events for younger pupils. The visit gave them and opportunity to develop their coaching, inter-personal and organisational skills and afforded them the opportunity to work in collaboration with pupils of the same age from Holland.
The Careers Department organised a Lunchtime Lecture Series; ‘So You Want to be a …. ?’ and speakers included:
- Mr Con Law, Senior Flight Captain with Thomas Cook Airlines - Representatives from Scottish Universities - Mr Michael Noble, Momentum - Mr Aidan Bradley, Manor Architects, Moneymore - Social Workers from the Special Needs Summer Scheme - Mr Sean Moran, Senior Physiotherapist with Home First Community Trust
The work shadowing choices of Lower Sixth pupils indicated a 30% increase in those interested in the Science / Health Professions.
Form Teachers in Years 8 and 9 successfully delivered an Employability programme and Year 9 pupils participated in an Employability project on Recycling. The presentations to prize-winners took place in June 2008, and were made by Natasha Sayee, BBC a former pupil and Head Girl.
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Annual Report
ICT ‘St. Mary’s is committed to further investment in the school’s ICT infrastructure in order to enrich the teaching and learning experience for teachers, pupils, parents, partner schools and Businesses.’ St. Mary’s Specialist School Application
There was considerable investment in Professional Development and resources in ICT:
New data logging equipment and servers were purchased and used effectively in a range of experiments across each Key Stage;
A range of Interactive PowerPoint presentations were purchased – Foot Print Science – and used effectively at Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4;
Open Mind software was purchased and used effectively within the Science Department to create mind maps and web pages. The staff of the Science Department trained the Head of Departments in a number of other Departments in its use;
Linda Archer, NEELB, facilitated a training session on the use of Interactive Whiteboards in Science for the Science Departments of St. Mary’s and our partner Post-Primary schools;
Every teacher in St. Mary’s completed Interactive Whiteboard Training, Level 1 and nine progressed to Level 2;
St. Mary’s Science Department subsequently trained staff from our Partner Primary schools in the use of Interactive White boards.
PERSONALISED LEARNING
‘St. Mary’s vision for the future is to create an environment of personalised teaching and learning in order to enhance progress, achievement and participation.’ St. Mary’s Specialist School Application
Mentoring was established in the Science Department with each pupil in Year 8, 11 and 13 being assigned a Learning Guide ie a Science teacher who used examination results analysis to inform target setting and focussed revision. Each pupil in Year 8 had one mentoring session throughout the year and those in Year 11 and 13 had two. A mentoring record system was developed.
St. Mary’s was very pleased with the findings of the Standard Inspection, February 2008:
‘Science as a Specialism: The strengths include:
The setting of appropriate and measurable targets for improvement to demonstrate how the science specialism will be used to develop existing links with other schools, colleges of Further Education and the wider community; and
The viable financial planning to allocate funding for the science specialism.’
St. Mary’s Grammar School Page 49
Annual Report
SECURITY
The school continues to monitor and measure the effectiveness of all existing security measures undertaken, and balances personal freedom with the need to provide adequate security for staff, pupils and the school premises.
The school has invested in updating the intruder alarm panel in the last financial year.
An extension to the school’s CCTV system has provided greater security in the school site giving added reassurance for the safety of staff, pupils and the school estate.
St. Mary’s Grammar School Page 50
Annual Report
FINANCIAL STATEMENT
Financial Statement for the Financial Year Ending March 2008
INCOME £ Department of Education Northern Ireland 4,863,900 Other Income 59,196 TOTAL INCOME 4,923,096
EXPENDITURE £ Teaching Staff Costs 3,260,769 Support Staff Costs 666,992 Other operating costs 949,024 TOTAL EXPENDITURE 4,876,785 OPERATING SURPLUS 46,311
The operating surplus of £46,311 shows a managed surplus. This balance reflects the objectives in the School Development Plan and the need to move towards a balanced financial statement.
St. Mary’s Grammar School Page 51
ST. MARY’S SOUVENIR LEAFLET
Mass of Thanksgiving….2
Souvenir December 2007
Oliver! November 2007..3
In Dulce Jubilate………..4
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OOFF EEXXCCEELLLLEENNCCEE OF EXCELLENCE
St. Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt was founded in December 1927 under the direction of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Bordeaux. This term we have celebrated the 80th Anniversary of the school’s foundation with a carousel of events.
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On Friday, 7th December, a Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated in St. Mary’s to mark the anniversary of the school’s foundation. Bishop Gerard Clifford, Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh concelebrated with Monsignor O'Byrne, Fr. P. Murphy, Fr. J. McKeever and Fr. H. McCann, the latter two priests being past pupils. Master of Ceremonies was Fr. D. Moore, our School Chaplain. St. Mary’s welcomed guests from the Holy Family Sisters, past staff, local Principals and our education and business partners. Mrs Pauline McGurk and the staff of Café Bordeaux provided a celebratory meal which was much enjoyed by all. Afterwards, the Music Department presented a short programme of musical entertainment.
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Rehearsals began at the end of August with a cast of just over one hundred performers. Oliver! gave everyone in the St. Mary’s community the opportunity to get involved in the 80th anniversary celebrations as a performer, member of a support team or as a member of the audience.
In November, St. Mary’s became the first school in Northern Ireland to take its St. Mary’s enjoyed much musical to the stage of the Grand Opera very positive press House, Belfast, the most prestigious coverage about Oliver! theatre in Ireland. Oliver! played to Features appeared in: capacity audiences during its week’s run 13th-17th November, welcoming over The Mid-Ulster Mail seven thousand patrons from the North The Mid Ulster Observer and South of Ireland, England, Scotland and Spain. We also had an email The Northern Constitution enquiry from an Italian gentleman who The Tyrone Courier wished to know if we were going on The Belfast Telegraph tour! Mr John Botteley, Chief Executive of the Grand Opera House attended the The Derry Post Friday evening performance and The Ulster Talter remarked that he was “amazed and (December edition) delighted” with the standard, which he said was higher than some professional companies. Behind the scenes, Mr Brian McMahon, the Opera House’s Stage Manager, confided on the morning of Sunday 11th November, We had future pupils cast how apprehensive he was about from feeder Primary working with a school for a week. By Schools including: the afternoon, when the “get-in” of the set had been successfully
accomplished, he was full of praise – Holy Family Primary “This is some outfit!” He School, Magherafelt repeated this often throughout the week, Mrs O’Brien and cast Derrychrin Primary to our obvious delight. members were interviewed School, Ballinderry for: Creggan Primary Citybeat Radio School, Toomebridge The Alan Simpson Cookstown Primary “This is some Radio show School, Cookstown outfit!” The Gerry Anderson Radio show present pupils and a past Mr. Brian McMahon BBC Newsline pupil, Gary Trainor in the cast. By the end of the run, we had as many (Stage Manager, students again helping in Grand Opera House) support teams. The Production Team and cast spent many hours after school and on Saturdays perfecting this production of Oliver!
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On the evening of Monday 17th December 2007, pupils from St. Mary’s presented their annual Carol Service In Dulce Jubilate in the Burnavon Arts & Cultural Centre, Cookstown. In keeping with our theme of past, present and future, we welcomed our guest choir from Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt. Two past pupils, Adrian Margey and Bronagh Conlon, shared their wonderful musical talent with us again. This single public performance was a sell-out and the performance was presented twice in school to allow everyone in the school community to share and enjoy it.
CCChhhrrriiissstttmmmaaasss CCCaaarrrddd Mrs. Christine Chivers, former Head of Art & Design, painted a special water colour for the December 2007 Christmas Card, two thousand of which have been sold, with proceeds going to the St. Vincent de Paul, Magherafelt.
Ad Multos Annos
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