ffStudents from Coláiste Rís, Dundalk who climbed Croagh Patrick on Edmund Rice Day last May

Síol Newsletter Edmund Rice Schools Trust • Winter 2017 • Issue 14

Greetings from the Edmund Rice Schools Trust

This edition of Síol contains news from These two themes, excellence in learning values and the spirit of Edmund Rice, we many schools around the country. We and teaching and care for everyone, commit ourselves in global solidarity to have accounts of prizegiving, sporting especially those who are disadvantaged, transformational education for justice achievements, distinguished visitors and run through all the events and activities and liberation”. To the themes of justice special events. We hear of the work of our which we share in Síol. Our community and education which we see in our schools for the poor and disadvantaged in of 96 schools shares a common vision schools we have the added dimension of our society and throughout the world. and I hope you find the contents global solidarity. The vision and passion of Edmund of this edition of Síol inspiring and Rice found practical expression in the thought provoking. What does this mean for you? schools he founded for students who There’s a well known quote which Through EREBB, it means that in your would otherwise have been deprived of says “If you want to change the world, school you can connect online with other education. Today our Charter encourages start in your own backyard”. Our schools Edmund Rice schools in 20 countries, us as Edmund Rice schools to work for a are doing just that. But we are also north and south, east and west. It means fairer and more just world. The Charter sharing with and getting inspiration that you can create common projects. says “The hallmarks of an Edmund from our fellow Edmund Rice schools It means you can share your initiatives Rice school are care, especially for those throughout Ireland. and learn from the initiatives of others. who are vulnerable or disadvantaged We belong to a powerful national It means you can put Catholic Social in any way and action for social and network of schools where we share teaching into action by speaking up for ecological justice” (p.19). inspiration and ideas. But we also belong those whose voices have been suppressed. Edmund Rice also saw education to an international network of almost Already quite a number of our schools as the path to achieving full human 300 Edmund Rice schools worldwide. In are involved in EREBB. Why not join dignity and potential for young people. 2014 delegates from schools in different them? The first step is to visit the website Following his vision, the Charter countries and continents met to explore http://www.erebb.org/. Take that step tells us that “The Edmund Rice School how we could tap into this international and you will be amazed at what you see! is a community of people dedicated network and Edmund Rice Education I sincerely encourage you to explore the to the pursuit of excellence in all its Beyond Borders (EREBB) was born. wonderful world of EREBB. endeavours and in all aspects of its EREBB’s vision statement says teaching and learning” (p.17). “Inspired by the teachings of Jesus, Gospel Gerry Bennett, Chief Executive Doon CBS Primary School

Leader Cup Winners 2017

Doon CBS confirmed their status as kingpins of primary schools hurling in Limerick Cumann na mBunscol competitions in 2017 by winning their third Leader Cup title in consecutive seasons. Under the watchful eyes of Mr. Moloney and Mr. Heffernan the boys of Doon won the East Limerick hurling crown and retained the blue riband of Primary Schools hurling, the Limerick Leader Cup in thrilling circumstances at Neville Park, Rathkeale. Not a bad achievement for a four teacher school in rural Limerick! The huge efforts of the team members cannot be stated enough. They held over 40 training sessions done outside of school time including on days off and across the Midterms and Easter 2nd Class Pupils 2017 breaks. The boys all endeavoured to always train to the best of their ability, with a wonderful mix of honesty and hard graft Doon CBS welcomed nine new pupils into 2nd class this to improve at their individual skills and team performance. To Septmber. They are photographed here with class teacher crown a successful year sixth class pupil, Tomás Lynch played Elizabeth Dohery and school principal, Joanne O’ Connell. on the Limerick Primary Game hurling team in Thurles, on June 4th. Retaining the Leader Cup was undoubtedly the highlight of a memorable year. The Leader Cup was first contested in 1929 as a competition confined to Christian Brothers Schools, the Primary Game 2017 competition lapsed for a number of years until it was revived in 1996 and a new trophy was presented by the Limerick Leader to Tomás Lynch played on the Limerick Primary Game Hurling the 15-a-side ‘A’ hurling champions. team in Thurles in June 2017.

Br Paul Oakley, President of the Council of Edmund Rice Education Australia visits ERST

The Edmund Rice Schools Trust was delighted to host Br Paul Oakley, President of the Council of Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA), at the ERST office on 25th October. Br Paul met the ERST team and also visited Prof Anne O’Gara, President of Marino Institute of Education and Justice Peter Kelly, Chairperson of Members.

ffPic from left to right: Gerry Bennett, Chief Executive of ERST, Br Paul Oakley, President of the Council of EREA, Professor Anne O’Gara, President of Marino Institute of Education.

Síol Page 2 Doon CBS Primary School

Communion Sexton St Retirement

ffFirst Communion class with teacher Ms. Elizabeth O Doherty

ffThe Board of Management of Scoil Iosagáin, Sexton Street, Limerick Limerick leader cup with retiring Principal, Mr. Patrick Hanley.

ffChairman of Scoil Iosagáin Mr. Seamus Bermingham making a ffDoon CBS captain Kevin Maher receives the Limerick Leader Cup from Joe presentation to Mr. Patrick Hanley on the occasion of his retirement Lyons PICTURE: KEITH WISEMAN

An taisce

Sean Hartigan of An Taisce, presents pupils of Doon CBS Primary School, Cathal Quinlan, Mark Ryan and Alan Tobin with a certificate for paticipating in the Leaf Programme. This programme is sponsored by and in association with An Taisce.

Bumbleance

At a Parents Council of meeting of Doon CBS Primary School, the idea of raising money for Bumbleance was raised by Carmel Cummins. A total of €265 was raised though a non-uniform day in the school and a raffle. Bumbleance started in Nov 2013. A girl named Saoirse had Batens Disease. When Saoirse became very ill she found it difficult to speak. She called her disease bee. That’s why its called Bumbleance. Saoirse and her brother Liam passed away from this disease. Saoirse’s father designed the ambulance. There are lots of fun items in the ambulance to entertain the children such as PlayStation, t.v. and books. Jim Burke from ffPhoto: (Left to Right): Jim Burke (Bumblrance) Carmel Cummins (Parents Bumbleance accepted the cheque from Carmel and all the pupils Council Doon CBS Primary School), Joanne O’ Connell (Principal Doon CBS had an opportunity to look around inside the ambulance. Primary School). Front Row: Sean and Philly Mc Donnell, school pupils.

Winter 2017 Page 3 Doon CBS Primary School Naas CBS, Co Kildare Rice Cup Presentation to Br. Patrick O’Connell.

At the recent Rice Cup A.G.M. Mr Paul Dolan of Nenagh CBS made a beautiful presentation to Br O’Connell to mark his continuous involvement in Rice Cup over a number of years. Br.O’Connell started teaching in Templemore CBS in 1967 and straight away got involved in schools hurling and the Rice Cup. In 1969 he trained Templemore CBS to victory over Charleville CBS in which Mr Paddy Kelly (Vice-Chairman, Rice Cup) was a player. In 1984 Br. took up the role of secretary of the Rice Cup up till 2013 where he took up the role of Chairman. We all have great memories of the competition and we are all deeply grateful to Br. O’Connell for his work up till now and for the foreseeable future. The Rice Cup is an Under 14 post primary schools hurling An Club competition involving Christian Brothers Schools in Munster and Kilkenny. The competition is called after Blessed Edmund Rice, who founded the Christian Brothers in 1802. The Rice Beachairí Cup competition began in 1944 to commemorate the centenary of the death of Blessed Edmund Rice. Naas CBS The Beekeepers Club of Naas CBS.

One fine day in late Autumn of 2015, we had an interesting and intriguing visitor to our school in Naas CBS. Gerry Kehoe came to talk to students in TY and members of the Green Schools committee at Naas CBS secondary school about all things wild and natural around Naas. His talk ranged from Otters, Bats, Naas Tidy Towns, The Naas Wild Food Festival and Bees. ffPhoto Left to right. Paul Dolan, Nenagh CBS, Br. Patrick O’Connell, All of our students loved Gerry’s talk. Some of the students, Nenagh CBS and a native of Newcastlewest, Co. Limerick, and Paddy Kelly, myself included were very interested in some of Gerry’s ideas. Kilmallock, Co. Limerick and former teacher at Abbey CBS Tipperary Town. Especially Bee-keeping. Gerry asked the boys to consider doing a beekeeping course in Naas library in Spring 2016 and then to start a bee keeping project. After much research, information School Attendance Award gathering and fact finding, I was happy to ask our school principal, Mr Ben Travers if the school would consider having a couple of hives in a safe area on school grounds. Two students attended this meeting with me. We were delighted when the answer was a definitive YES! So lucky we are in Naas CBS to have encouraging, helpful and amenable management. And so 6 students, myself and the school secretary, Valerie all did the North Kildare Beekeepers Association course in Naas library every Tuesday. What a wonderful bunch the NKBKA are. They were and continue to be so helpful, under chairperson Colm O’Neill and his wife Imelda and the secretary Garrett Dempsey and many others. We really have enjoyed the course and all their enthusiasm and love of all things Bees. All of their evening tutorials were so interesting, informative and fun. Our Beekeeping project is now going really well. We have ffThree pupils at Doon CBS Primary School who did not miss a school day during the last school year, 2016 / 2017. (left to right) Micheal Ryan, Alan a really nice colony of bees who are very calm. The boys are Tobin, Paddy Ryan with school principal Ms. Joanne O’Connell. really enjoying this new experience. Their commitment to

Síol Page 4 Naas CBS, Co Kildare Creative Engagement in Naas

Naas CBS art students participated in a Creative Engagement project in their 5th year. A creative engagement happens when a local artist or arts group comes into the school and imparts their skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to the students. This partnership has mutual benefits to both artist and school. In Naas CBS students worked with local calligraphy artist Josephine Hardiman and their art teacher Stacy Masterson on a project titled ‘Illuminate’. Students worked in small groups to create five finished A2-sized artworks comprising watercolour painting, calligraphy and illustration. Each piece is based on one of the five key elements of an Edmund Rice School. Students held a launch evening of their Creative Engagement project in the school library on the 4th May 2017. It was a nice opportunity for their parents and other staff members to see the beautiful finished pieces and celebrate the creative effort involved. The artworks are now on permanent display in the school corridors attending the course every Tuesday night and the occasional for the entire school community to admire and enjoy. apiary visits to Colm’s house have shown that they really do On Tuesday 3rd October the students were invited to exhibit enjoy it. In the future we have big plans. Firstly, we hope their project at the 6th annual Creative Engagement Exhibition that our hive will do well this year and that we can be good which took place in the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA). beekeepers. If our hive does well we would like a second one. Over 50 schools participated in the Creative Engagement project We aim to have another six students do the NKBKA course in in 2016-2017 and almost 40 of those schools exhibited their 2017. We hope to have two more teachers involved in 2017 also. projects in IMMA on the day. The students really enjoyed seeing We would also love to help other schools who have plans for all of the other projects on display and chatting to the artists bee-keeping. involved. The variety of projects was impressive as they ranged We can’t be sure but we believe we are the first school in from dance and film through to sculpture and craft. Ireland to have a bee-keeping project with students trained in Creative Engagement is an NAPD Arts-in Education bee-keeping and a hive on site, on school grounds. In our own Programme. It is co-funded by the Department of Arts Heritage town we hope other schools will use our example and come and the Gaeltacht and the Department of Education and Skills. to see what we have done. We would be more than happy to The art department would like to thank the NAPD for providing share our experiences and encourage other schools. Surely this a grant to make this project possible and we would also like to is the best thing we can do now. Helping other schools is a real thank the management of Naas CBS who also provided funding priority for us as much as improving and developing our own for this project. bee-keeping project Naas Tidy Towns through Gerry Kehoe have been a great help as have Kildare Co. Council who gave us €200. NKBKA are a great bunch and I hope they don’t tire of our constant questions and queries!

2017 plans and ambitions. This year we now have 11 members in our club spread across all year groups. All of these students will undertake the Bee Keeping course in Spring of 2017. Currently our Committee is chaired by 3rd year student Billy Egan. Recently our project was ffNaas CBS students at the launch of their Creative Engagement exhibition awarded €1700 from KBC Bank as part of their BRIGHT IDEAS ‘Illuminate’ in the school library, 4th May 2017. Left to Right: Stacy Masterson (Art Teacher), Ian Fallon, Daniel Woods, Ronan Enriquez, Kirill awards. This money will help us enormously in the future. Lavrentyev, Luke Gillis, Darragh Kavanagh, Carlos Clarke and artist So far I can honestly say the students have learned far more Josephine Hardiman. than I thought possible. The world of bees and nature in general is so interesting and engaging and our students have been like sponges soaking up so much incredible information. But the practical application of this knowledge has given them such satisfaction, it is amazing to witness. Hopefully we can continue to develop this project.

Billy Egan Naas CBS 3RD Year ffThree of the five finished artworks created by Naas CBS students for their Check out our FACEBOOK page: An Club Beachairí Naas CBS Creative Engagement project.

Winter 2017 Page 5 CBS Secondary, Kilkenny

“Transitions can mean challenge and upheaval, but they also represent opportunities for great STEM personal growth and development. We feel that in STEM club brings together the best elements of science, CBS Kilkenny, we help our young first year students technology, engineering and maths. to sway this balance strongly in their favour. They Every Wednesday afternoon the boys pit their wits are encouraged to participate and they very quickly against each other when trying to design, solve, build and achieve a sense of wellbeing and of belonging. This investigate fundamental concepts to help them understand enables them to contribute in their way to the very and appreciate the world around them in greater detail. So far, happy school community at CBS Kilkenny” says some ‘eggscellent’ parachutes were designed during egg drop Principal Tom Clarke. afternoon, terrific towers were made from well-known building The following strategies are implemented on a materials like spaghetti and marshmallows, with the boys also whole school basis to ensure all students adapt to their demonstrating their impressive mental arithmetic during maths new environment: bingo! It has really been an exemplary start to what promises to be an intriguing journey through the world of STEM! Engagement with First Year Students and Parents

Engagement with the parents of incoming first year students commences in April prior to their start in August. We help parents to put a face on CBS staff, and we encourage them to communicate with us on matters of concern. The first year Year Head co-ordinates the transition programme for these students, and our fifth year mentor group, Cairdeas, works hard to ensure that these young students are supported in their early days at CBS. The Cairdeas group engage with the first year students on their first day at CBS Kilkenny. The older students explain timetables, distribute diaries, assist with the allocation of lockers, act as tour guides and explain the basic rules of the school. In addition, they organise lunch time activities for first year students, allowing friendships to develop through fun activities such as: bingo, soccer, board games and chess. These afternoon activities are extremely helpful because they allow students to be themselves, to meet others with similar interests and to develop networks outside the classroom. A first year soccer blitz and a 10km walk also have a very positive ffFirst Year Students at weekly STEM Club bonding impact.

Síol Page 6 CBS Secondary, Kilkenny

ff2017-2018 CBS First Year Students 2017-2018 CBS Cairdeas group

Once the young students have settled in, all new parents and students to complete The inspector was very impressed with the we engage with them and their parents an evaluation, and we find this feedback contentment of the younger students and formally again in October. This evening enormously helpful and affirming. the work undertaken by the Cairdeas group. helps parents to meet each other and to During a recent DES inspection on the The Irish sean fhocail says “Tús maith, leath share their son’s experience to date. As part programme of transitioning for first year na hoibre” and in the CBS we are passionate of this engagement, and to help us improve students, the inspector interviewed both that our first year students have a positive the transition to secondary school, we ask first year students and the Cairdeas group. start to their secondary school lives.

Athletics Wednesday

The Athletics club offers students an opportunity to enjoy a range of afternoon stretching, running and jumping exercises in preparation for inter activities school competitions. Activities range from timed runs to team race Students engage in a wide range relays which cater for those looking of extra-curricular activities which to get out and do a little exercise underpins the spirit of participation that to those who wish to take part characterises the sense of belonging to in competitions. It is a great way the community of CBS Kilkenny. Hurling for students to try and get some is the predominant attraction for young exercise with the opportunity to men in CBS Kilkenny but many students get to know their fellow students are also involved in athletics, chess, a little better. We meet every bridge, IT club and the STEM club. Other Wednesday at 2pm in the grounds sports such as basketball take place at of Kilkenny Castle Park. There a different time given the overlap of will be races and athletics meets students wishing to do multiple activities. throughout the year with a chance On Wednesdays students now engage to represent the school in events in with each other thus broadening their various track and field disciplines. friendship base and gaining a sense of belonging. While student wellbeing has ffCBS Student competing in an athletics meet in Santry, Dublin long been our focus, it is now firmly integrated into all subject areas with the new Junior Cycle framework. Wellbeing of the whole school body is at the heart of our mission statement.

Winter 2017 Page 7 CBS Secondary, Kilkenny

ffCBS Juvenile Hurling coaches and players at a Hurling training session in St. James’s Park

Juvenile hurling begins for all first and second year students in other CBS schools from Munster and Leinster. This is followed early September. We currently have 90 players and 8 coaches by the Brother Anselm Tournament which is hosted by De la involved across a range of panels. We cater for two different Salle, Waterford in January. Each player gets ample opportunity age groups at juvenile level, U14 and U14½. The U14 panel to represent the school and to develop their hurling skills over competes in the Rice Cup, an All-Ireland CBS competition as the course of the year. From January to May we select three well as a number of prominent one day blitzes around the separate panels for coaching and development, the Juvenile country. The U14½ panel competes in a Leinster League and hurling panel, Rice Cup U14 panel and the Development panel. Championship and a Kilkenny League. Training takes place in This caters for players of all abilities and each player gets a St. James’s Park every Wednesday afternoon from September to chance to represent the school and to compete at a level with December. Students in CBS Kilkenny get to play hurling every which they are comfortable. There are a number of Rice Cup week. This is the perfect opportunity for students to make new blitzes for U14 hurlers in April and May. The U14½ competition friends and to get accustomed to life in CBS Kilkenny. runs from February to May. In May there are also a number CBS Kilkenny hosts an annual blitz, the Jim Langton of first year matches to afford all players sufficient game time Tournament, with a number of CBS schools involved. Two CBS throughout the year. Kilkenny teams are entered and our students compete with

IT Club Music CBS Kilkenny is well known for its musical success, and this great engagement of students with musical activities begins as soon as they join the school community. Students have the opportunity to begin lessons in a variety of instruments each week, and there is also the hugely popular traditional music band which affords our first year students the chance to become part of a band – in many cases for the first time in their ffFirst Years students at the young lives. Students can join the award-winning CBS choir on weekly IT club progression into second year. All musical students are strongly encouraged to perform at school events and at the many liturgical celebrations, recitals and inter-school competitions The IT Club gives budding coders the opportunity to throughout the year. learn all about coding using Scratch. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own game as the year goes on. We use Microsoft Office to create interactive presentations, develop eye catching posters and redesign popular logos. We also focus on learning to touch type using interactive games to improve student’s word count. This is an enormously popular Wednesday afternoon activity, providing young students with key computer skills that will benefit them in preparation for life after secondary school. ffCBS students at Traditional Music Band practice

Síol Page 8 CBS Secondary, Kilkenny Scoil Iognáid Rís, CBS An Daingin

Nach riméadach as féin a bhí Deividas Uosis ag filleadh ar Scoil Bridge Iognáid Rís, CBS le déanaí agus Corn Tom Markham faoin a ascail agus bonn All Star leis aige. Cuireadh fáilte mór roimhe Playing Bridge is an excellent way to stimulate your brain. sa scoil mar is laoch thar na bearta é Deividas i súile buachallí Each time you play you are required to keep track of who óga an Daingin. holds what cards, analyse your own suits and figure out Rugadh Devidas sa Liotuáin ach nuair a tháinig a chlann the best strategy to implement in order to maximise your chun cónaí i nDaingean Uí Chúise chuir sé suim sa pheil chance of winning the game. Bridge can also help to sharpen ghaelach. Tá comórtas Cumann na mBunscoil buaite aige le memory. You are constantly on the lookout for clues and Scoil Iognáid Rís. Bhronn sé geansaithe ar an scoil nuair a calculating your next best move. For these reasons students bhuaigh sé Comórtas Scileanna na Mumhan i 2013. Ó shin tá at CBS Kilkenny are actively encouraged to try their hand. Corn McGirr agus Corn Uí hÓgáin buaite aige le Pobalscoil Bridge is played each Wednesday afternoon where students Chorca Dhuibhne. Chualamar é le déanaí ar Raidio na of all abilities prepare to compete against other schools at Gaeltachta agus an Ghaelainn ar a thoil aige. the annual Kilkenny Congress held in November. Recently, Gach seans go mbeidh Corn Sam McGuidhir á ardach aige do the school has enjoyed significant success with Mark Reade Chiarraí amach anso. Gach rath ort Devidas. and James Higgins featuring highly in all local and national competitions. A strong performance in the prestigious Peggy Beyer competition, held over two days in Dublin, secured places for both students on the Irish team at the European U20 Championships held in Slovakia. Meanwhile, Mark and James, along with fellow student Zack Denieffe, also participated in the schools Inter Provincial competition held in Belfast where they won the first session. We wish all three students continued success.

Aughavannagh Road

Chess

Chess has been scientifically proven to spark creativity as well as increase problem solving skills. The Wednesday afternoon Chess Club has grown from strength to strength in recent times under the watchful eye of Mr. Fergal Canton, who welcomes new students of all skill levels. If a student needs to learn the rules of the game, Mr. Canton is happy to guide them through this process. “Perhaps the most pleasing element of the Chess Club at present is the atmosphere in the room each Wednesday. It has become a social outlet for students where they can play in a comfortable and relaxed environment, while all the time honing their skills of the game.”(Colm Dunne – Chess Club member). The school currently runs an internal league. Every member plays each other and the scores are recorded throughout the year. The annual finals take place in May between students who have accumulated the ffAccelerated Reading Programme in Scoil Íosagáin, Crumlin. Mairead most points. Fanning, Principal

Winter 2017 Page 9 St Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall

ffL-R Ember Team 2017/2018: Craig Wright, Mark Wilson, St. Aidan’s Cameron Greaney, Darragh Daly, James Jacobs Brotherhood

From Monday the 28th of August to Wednesday the 31st, St Aidan’s Ember Team, along with teams from seven other Leinster schools, took part in a three day faith leadership training programme. Ember is a school Leadership Programme which is run in secondary schools throughout the country and has been part of St. Aidan’s for a number of years. Among other things, the Ember teams are responsible for the integration of first year pupils into the school community. We were very excited heading down to Wicklow as we had heard great things from our schools previous Ember team. We hoped that we would get ideas fromt the leaders about different activities that we could do to kick-start our Ember journey when we started back in school! The training programme, which was held in Ovoca Manor in Wicklow, aims to teach students how to listen to the needs of fellow students and plan a response to these needs, as well as improving teamwork and communication skills. These skills are taught through a variety of different methods, as large 2nd Year Trip to group, as individual teams and through team based activities. The team based Islamic Cultural Centre activities, which included a challenging Jacob’s Ladder challenge and a Leap of This took place on Wednesday the 22nd of March. Students from 2 Mid and 2 Faith, were arguably the best part of the North visited the Islamic Cultural Centre in Clonskeagh as part of their Junior trip! On our second night in Wicklow Cert Journal Work. Students got the opportunity to learn about the history of the we had a campfire where we had a sing Mosque and Islamic culture in Ireland. song and toasted marshmallow. This Dr. Ali Salem gave the students a fascinating presentation and tour of the was a great bonding experience with our Mosque including the impressive prayer hall. At the end of the tour Dr. Salem newfound friends and another highlight very kindly presented each student with a school bag in honour of the 20 year of the trip. anniversary of the Islamic Cultural Centre in Ireland. Students got a wonderful Our completion of the programme insight into Muslim life and culture in Ireland and thoroughly enjoyed the day. was marked with a ceremony on the last day, where we received certificates and Ember badges. Our principal Mr. Shannon travelled down to Wicklow to mark the occasion and congratulate us on our completion of the training. The trip was thoroughly enjoyed by all, not only did we leave with a new skills; we also came home having made new friend and brilliant memories!

Written by-Cameron Greaney & Craig Wright

Síol Page 10 St Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall Vocational Specialism Tasks for Graphics and Construction Studies for St Aidan’s

ffFinished projects designed and constructed by LCA Students.

Our LCA students recently completed their Vocational they managed brilliantly and worked out ways to allocate work Specialism Tasks for Graphics and Construction Studies. The in a fair manner. I had a rare chance now to watch how they decision was made to complete these projects in small groups. interacted and for me it was a proud moment. No arguments, no It is often difficult to engage pupils in group work, as every bullying or nasty comments about ability or skill, no man left teacher knows. We are aware of the difficulties in executing behind, just shared work and shared laughter. tasks and assessing the outcomes. It was a decision that I The closing stages of the projects are often a stressful time could never regret after I saw how these young men reacted to and this was no different, but I had yet to learn the extent of the a challenge. problem. Some group members were coming to class 15 minutes In discussing what we should make there was an late or more, which was vexing to say the least. I had trouble overwhelming response to the idea that the projects should be coming to terms with how they could drop the ball so badly with something that the school community could use, particularly our deadlines coming up? I felt let down. “X is at home, he won’t the junior students. There was a strong sense not only of making come in, we called over to get him out of the house or he won’t a positive difference for those children but also of wanting to get his credits” Colour me ashamed! The students took it in leave something behind as part of the LCA’s own legacy. Groups turns, from different groups where X’s attendance wouldn’t have were designed to have students with different skills sets that academically affected them in any way, to bring him along with they could implement during the design and build: for example, them and accomplish something that he could not do alone. each group had one member with skills in creative writing, one Our projects were completed on time and the interviews whose gift was handcrafting and one skilled at Graphics. These done, but the grit that these men showed will stay with me. were the main areas in which they could take charge and guide Many have admired what they have accomplished in a short the others if necessary. This left me with the task of teaching the space of time and rightly so, but I know now that it wasn’t done students to manage their peers effectively and giving material for their own personal gratification. I believe that they did it to and advice. grow and it happened through the help of the community who We designed and made benches with planters incorporated guided them throughout their school lives. into them. One group built a table with its own basic but self- In our own lives, we wait a long time for things to happen, sustained ecosystem. Having a clear sense of purpose (and a for the fruits of our labours to show and all too often it happens looming deadline!) encouraged effective work practices, high or goes unnoticed when we are tending to something elsewhere. standards and a greater appreciation for time management. I got to see a blossom firsthand, tended by the hands of Blessed We discussed planning the projects out step by step, which Edmund Rice and it was beautiful.

Winter 2017 Page 11 St Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall

While helping these people and enjoying their company our St. Aidan’s worries will vanish as we learn and experience something quite astonishing. While we create unforgettable memories we will learn to appreciate so many basic things that we take for granted. CBS Tanzania While there, we will not worry about our pets left at home as we venture in sheer awe through a safari park and rather wonder how we were so lucky to be chosen for the once in a lifetime Immersion opportunity. When the unfortunate day comes when we must say goodbye to our new friends and leave the beautiful country Trip 2017 that is Tanzania, we will look back at the lessons we learned, how they helped us to grow and appreciate what we take for granted 27th October, the day that 18 students and 4 teachers from at home, how we immersed ourselves in a culture so different to St.Aidan’s CBS will depart on the adventure of a lifetime, to our own and cherished every last minute of it. From the day we Tanzania. At half three in the morning our journey will begin in presented our projects and were nervously interviewed, we have Dublin Airport. Our long awaited excitement will surely get the proudly represented ourselves, our school and our family on an best of us as we board the plane for the first part of our journey adventure like no other. When we arrive home we will tell our which takes us to the Netherlands. With our fundraising behind loved ones for weeks upon end about the amazing stories and us and expectations high, we will eagerly await on the plane from experiences that can barely be explained in our own words due to Amsterdam to Kilimanjaro, to experience something that we have the sheer magnitude of their magnificence. We will flick through never experienced before. The opportunity of a lifetime. The our cameras and pictures with each other and with our friends. thoughts of “what’s next?” in terms of fundraising, or “will we get Extreme nostalgia will hit soon after we arrive home and the enough money?” will thankfully be long behind us as the hard wishes to return will quickly follow. The experience is one that work we put in as a team to achieve our goal prevailed. From will definitely stay with us for the rest of our lives and for the rest ‘Take Me Out’ and pig racing to bag packing and a quiz night, of our lives we will be telling our loved ones and others how we our doubts and worries were always shut down as the support travelled to Africa and experienced something spectacular. Some for our Immersion Project was immense and the donations of us may return, but no matter what, our memories will forever from our loved ones and others were fantastic and showed the remain. Maybe years down the line, when we have lost contact support we have received during our time fundraising. We will with each other, we will run into each other and share the same no longer worry about our vaccinations as we travel by bus to thought. Tanzania. our eventual destination, after arriving in Kilimanjaro or as we look upon a Tanzanian sunset or even as we immerse ourselves Article written by Jack Murray (6th Year student, St. Aidan’s CBS, in the new culture while at Sinon High School. We won’t worry Whitehall, D9) about bag packing as we introduce ourselves to new friends at the Plaster House or listen to stories told to us at the Emusoi centre.

ff18 students from St.Aidan’s CBS, at a recent visit to Irish Aid (in preparation for their upcoming visit to Arusha, Tanzania).Back row (L to R): Rodrigo Soberon Pena, Matthew Ryan, Sean Kavanagh, Sergei Runin, Jamie Burke, Adam Duffy, Eric Redmond, Ciaran Murphy, Glenn Sheridan, Sean Memery, Daniel Ebbs Front row (L to R):Cian Newman, Jack Murray, Gareth Murray, Kevin O’Sullivan, Michael Noonan, Mark Kenny, Josh Moffatt

Síol Page 12 St Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall

Trip to Sunshine House in Balbriggan

We started the day off by meeting in our We delivered a PowerPoint on the school at 7.50am. We headed down to history and work of SVP. When we Whitehall church to get Bus Eireann to finished our presentation we then Sunshine House in Balbriggan where got into groups with students from we got to meet other schools who were the different schools to discuss the involved in the Young St. Vincent de problems that SVP deals with and Paul program. discussed how we could prevent some We arrived in sunshine house at of them. Some these problems include 9.30 am. We were the first school homelessness and inequality in our there so we signed in and practiced community today. our presentation. Soon other schools Then it was another schools turn to arrived and we went outside to do give a presentation on what SVP does group exercise. and how they help. First, we got giving a sticker that It was then time for lunch and we was put on our back and we had were treated to tea, sandwiches and to find our partner and introduce cookies. We had a 20 minute break ourselves. It was a great activity to then we sat back down in our class get to know students from other group we listened to volunteers from schools and the volunteers from SVP SVP for a brief speech on what happens that were there. After that we got in the offices and financial parts of SVP. into a circle and introduced our self For our finally task we came to our partner after that we moved together with our teacher Ms. Lyne one step to our right and introduced and discussed possible activities our self to someone new. By the end that we could do as a class when we of the activity we had made loads of returned to school to help people in ff Picture L-R Dylan Clarkin, Conor Burke, new Friends! our community. Alex Murray, Donal Smithers When we arrived back inside it was We really enjoyed our day and can’t time for us to do our presentation, wait to get started on our social justice Written by Conor Burke & Alex Murray. which we really enjoyed doing. action project!

Blarney Street CBS

ffPrincipal Billy Lynch and students from Blarney Street CBS welcome visitors from Edmund Rice Australia, Wayne Tinsey & Brian Garrone. Also, Louise Callaghan and Pat Keating from ERST.

Winter 2017 Page 13 CBS, Ennistymon The Times they are a Changing!

Just wondering if the Christian Brothers it became way superior and became self-driving cars will appear for the who arrived in Ennistymon in 1824 to mainstream in only a few short years. public. Around 2020 the complete set up a new school, came back to the It will now happen again with Artificial industry will start to be disrupted. You school they founded all those years ago, Intelligence, health, autonomous and will not want to own a car anymore. You what would they make of the changes electric cars, education, 3D printing, will call a car with your phone, it will that have appeared since? In a few more agriculture and jobs. Welcome to the 4th show up at your location and drive you years Ennistymon CBS will no longer be Industrial Revolution. Welcome to the to your destination. You will not need with us and the arrival of Ennistymon Exponential Age. to park it, you only pay for the driven Community School will herald a new era Software will disrupt most traditional distance and can be productive while in education. For those of us with grey industries in the next 5-10 years. Uber being driven. Our kids will never get a hairs, we will be looking back in awe at is just a software tool, they don›t own Driver’s Licence and will never own a car. the many changes that have occurred any cars, and are now the biggest It will change the cities, because we will particularly in the last 20 years, so here taxi company in the world. Airbnb is need 90-95% less cars for that. We can are just a few things for us all to ponder, now the biggest hotel company in the transform parking spaces into parks. especially the younger ones amongst us. world, although they don›t own any Worldwide - 1.2 million people die Way back in 1971 when I arrived at properties. Artificial Intelligence: each year in car accidents. We now have Ennistymon CBS as a ‘still wet behind the Computers become exponentially better one accident every 60,000 miles (100,000 years’ First Year Student there were no in understanding the world. This year, a km). With autonomous driving that will computers or mobile phones. The bicycle computer beat the best Go-player in the drop to one accident in 6 million miles was the favourite form of transport while world, 10 years earlier than expected. (10 million km). That will save a million now the mantra in the classroom is ‘if In the UK, young lawyers already lives each year. Most car companies will you are driving home, don’t forget the can’t get jobs because with IBM’s Watson probably become bankrupt. Traditional car’ as many senior students now drive to you can get legal advice (so far, for more car companies will try the evolutionary school. There are no more bicycles in the or less basic stuff) within seconds, with approach and just build a better car, bicycle shed. Did you think back in 1998 90% accuracy, compared with 70% while tech companies like Tesla, Apple & that 3 years later you would never take accuracy when done by humans. So if you Google will do the revolutionary approach pictures on film again? In 1998 Kodak study law, stop immediately. There will and build a computer on wheels. Many had 170,000 employees and sold 85 % be 90 % less lawyers in the future. engineers from Volkswagen and Audi are photo paper worldwide. Within just a few Only specialists will remain. Watson completely terrified of Tesla Insurance years their business model disappeared already helps nurses in diagnosing cancer, as companies will have massive trouble and they went bankrupt. What happened which is four times more accurate than because, without accidents, the insurance to Kodak will happen in a lot of industries human nurses. will become 100% cheaper. Their car in the next 10 years and, most people will Facebook now has a pattern insurance business model will disappear. not see it coming. Digital cameras were recognition software that can recognize Having to own a house will change invented in 1975. The first ones only had faces better than humans. In 2030 because if you can work while you 10,000 pixels, but followed Moore›s Law. computers will become more intelligent commute, people will move further So as with all Exponential technologies, than humans. (NEVER says Albert). away to live in a more beautiful it was a disappointment for a time, before Autonomous cars: In 2018 the first neighbourhood. Electric cars will

Irish Junior Mathematics Competition 2017

Each year the Irish Maths Teachers Association runs a maths competition for first year students. The school has been taking part in this since its inception. Two years ago, Cathal O’Halloran placed 3rd in the competition. This year all 40 first year students took part and 3 succeeded in reaching the final. It took place in St. Flannans College, Ennis, on Friday May 12th 2017. There were forty finalists from schools all over Clare. We were thrilled when a student from Ennistymon CBS, Patrick Kivlehan, took first place. A huge congratulations to Patrick for this great achievement and to the other 2 students, Eoin Dalton and Miko Augustyn for reaching the final. There’s nothing like a few hard sums!!!!

Síol Page 14 CBS, Ennistymon become mainstream about 2020. Cities will be less noisy because all new cars will run on electricity. Electricity will become incredibly cheap and clean. Solar production has been on an exponential curve for 30 years, but you can now see the burgeoning impact. Last year, more solar energy was installed worldwide than fossil. Energy companies are desperately trying to limit access to the grid to prevent competition CBS getting All Shook Up from home solar installations, but that Ennistymon Choral Society was delighted to have several students of the CBS can’t last. Technology will take care of join their production of the jukebox musical All Shook Up this year. Taking place that strategy. With cheap electricity comes in the Ennistymon Community Centre in April 2017, the students involved were cheap and abundant water. Desalination of Daniel Hanrahan from Transition Year, and the following students from 5th Year; salt water now only needs 2k Wh per cubic Ronan O’Connell, Cailum Burke, Corran Breathnach and Christopher Callinan. meter at 0.25 cents). We don’t have scarce Involved on the technical side were Tadgh Kennedy and Timmy McGlennon from water in most places, we only have scarce 5th Year and from 6th Year Tim Keane, Darragh Cuddihy and Mattie Crowe. drinking water. Imagine what will be This was a difficult show to put together but all the work was well worth it, possible if anyone can have as much clean and all students did really well all through the year. Rehearsals began in October water as he wants, for nearly no cost. 2016 and continued through April 2017. It is a big commitment but everyone Health: The Tricorder X price will involved stepped up and did the school and themselves proud. be announced this year. There are Ronan O’Connell first joined the society last year for the production of How companies who will build a medical the West Wasn’t Won as a member of the chorus, and this year won his first lead device (called the “ Tricorder “ from role, playing young military student Dean Hyde. Cailum, Corran and Darragh Star Trek) that works with your phone, were all involved in 2016’s production as well as this year. This was Christopher’s which takes your retina scan, your blood first time to take to the stage. Tadgh Kennedy assisted by Timmy, Darragh, Tim sample and you simply breath into it. and Mattie on different nights, was a huge help on the technical side, as he Then it analyses 54 bio-markers that operated the lighting board and the projector for the stage back drop. will identify nearly any disease. It will All the lads thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and would recommend taking be cheap, so in a few years everyone part in the show to anyone coming into Transition Year. The society is grateful on this planet will have access to world every year to have such talent coming from the CBS. class medical analysis, nearly for free. Goodbye medical establishments. EJ Browne At the end of this year, new Smart phones will have 3D scanning possibilities. You can 3D scan your feet and print your perfect shoe at home. Work: 70-80 % of jobs will disappear ‘The Art of Trad’ in the next 20 years. There will be a lot of new jobs, but it is not clear if there On the way to the Fleadh Irish music all around the world it goes, will be enough new jobs in such a short In the car with me ma and da, Its feeling goes from my head to my toes, time. This will require a rethink on At the roundabouts saw dancing girls After the fleadh we were feeling sad but glad wealth distribution. And a big man doing a jig, There you have it, It’s the Art of Trad. Business Opportunities: If you think While parking the car heading down of a niche you want to go in to, first ask To the Gig Rig yourself, “In the future, do I think I will have that?” If the answer is yes - how Michael Flatery opened the show can you make that happen sooner? If it Thousands and thousands decided to go, doesn’t work with your phone, forget the Looking in the window of a pub, music idea. Any idea designed for success in the At is heart, 20th century is doomed to failure in the Pausing for a moment enjoying Irish tard art. 21st century. As our current crop of Leaving Certs Famous musicians all around head out into a new world, they are Sharon Shannon and Liam OBrien certainly facing a new set of technological Making a magical sound, challenges. Food for thought. Definitely the fleadh down in Ennis was the All has changed, utterly changed, a Place to be in Ireland, terrible beauty is born Listening to the pulsating sound of the Gerry Sexton Kilfenora Ceile Band.

Winter 2017 Page 15 CBS, Ennistymon The Leaving Certificate trip to Vienna

What a wonderful city Vienna is to visit this fine city but somehow I found myself group of lads can EAT!!) As a teacher the and spend time in but who would want to seeing it, yet again in a different light highlight was seeing another Leaving do this with a crowd of “Teenage boys”?? due to these wonderful young people Cert class become more than just school Well I can confirm having organised that CBS has nurtured throughout their friends to “enge Freunden”. a school tour there with my Leaving teenage years. I wish this LC class all that they wish for Cert class that those “Teens” can make We visited the museums, the castles, on their next journey and the many trips you see a wonderful city like Vienna, the UN, a Viennese School, and we even that they make on their journey. I hope a city that I have visited many times fitted in a brilliant Musikal, but it was that they cherish the memories from before, a whole NEW experience and a the craic on the U-Bahn, the chit chat their school trip as I know Carmel and I fantastische Erlebnis! through the elegant streets of the city will certainly look back to it with much The itinerary may be the same as it and the poses for photos and those crazy fondness in the coming years. has been for the many other trips that selfies that I’ll remember most from our school has been fortunate to make to the trip. (Oh ...And how much Pizza a

ffLeaving Cert trip to Vienna

Síol Page 16 Bunscoil Sancta Maria, Synge Street Bunscoil Synge Street embarks on a new journey!

Bunscoil Sancta Maria, Synge Street is one of the most iconic ERST schools in the country. We have embarked on numerous journeys of change, reflective of the vision of Edmund Rice and life in 21st Century Ireland. Historically, our school was an all boys’ Senior Cycle school with numbers at their peak reaching 600 students all of whom were white Irish boys. Today, 50% of our families hail from other countries such as India, Bangladesh and China. We are immensely proud of our diversity, inclusivity and ability to adapt and change ensuring we continue to meet the needs of the community we serve. On September 1st 2017 we embarked on yet another transformational journey as we opened the first ever Sruth Lan- Ghaeilge in a Senior Cycle school in Ireland. This exciting development has not only allowed us to embrace our Irish language and culture but, for the first time ever in its history, Synge St Primary School has opened its doors to Junior Infants Girls and Boys. The welcoming of girls into our school, along with the first ever appointments of a female principal and deputy principal furthermore reflects the vision of Blessed Edmund Rice of equality and opportunity for all. Our school embodies all the characteristics of a School of Opportunity. It is diverse, multicultural, inclusive and most importantly, a school where everyone regardless of race, religion, language or gender is equal, is given a fair go and the opportunity to succeed and share in our prosperity. We are proud of our linkages with other Edmund Rice schools nationally and globally. We look forward to working with our EREBB colleagues and friends into the future. Our door is always welcome and you can be sure that a warm welcome awaits you all.

Victoria McQuaid Principal

Winter 2017 Page 17 Coláiste Choilm Swords Coláiste Choilm launches its Golden Jubilee Year

On Monday, 4th September 1967, the first 26 students entered Coláiste Choilm Swords with, Br. Morgan Donnelly, C.F.C. (Headmaster) and the first teacher Mr. James Gibney,(RIP). On Monday, 4th September 2017, 50 years to the day and date and the hour, Coláiste Choilm held its first annual Coláiste Choilm Day. It began when Br. Donnelly and Ms Maria Gibney Rodgers, (daughter of the late Mr. Gibney) and members of the first class, were joined with representatives of the Edmund Rice Schools Trust, Very Rev. Brother Edmund Garvey, C.F.C., Provincial of the Congregation of Christian Brothers (European Province) and members of the current and past Boards of Management and past Principals and teachers to ceremoniously walk across the Coláiste Choilm was honoured to reaching this important milestone. entrance of our school and be received welcome the Very Reverend Brother Mr. Alfred Bryan, Chair of the Board by a guard of honour of present day staff Edmund Garvey, C.F.C., Provincial of of Management of Coláiste Choilm and students. the Congregation of Christian Brothers addressed invited guests and reminded Following the procession guests (European Province). Br. Garvey opened them of the simple beginnings of the enjoyed a ceremony and reception in the proceedings by leading guests in a prayer school when the teaching staff came new Crannóg (ASD classroom). Speaking for Mr. Seamus Greene, first lay Principal into school on the summer holidays to at the launch of the Golden Jubilee Year, of Coláiste Choilm who recently passed paint the building. Mr. Noel Murray – Mr. David Neville (Principal) said it was away. Br Garvey wished Coláiste Choilm Hession Trustee Representative on the very fitting that this ceremony takes every success in the next fifty years. Board of Management and former Chair place in the Crannóg classroom. “When “I wish the whole school well within the of the Parents Council, also wished the the Christian Brothers founded Coláiste Edmund Rice Schools Trust. I urge you to school well for the next 50 years and Choilm CBS in 1967, they did so to provide value the gift of education. There is no remembered the fundraising efforts free education to boys who otherwise would doubt in my mind that we are facing a new of parents to raise over IR£300,000 to have had no school to attend. Today we kind of world – a world more and more ensure the school was built. celebrate our school becoming 50 years of characterised as one in which ‘God makes Mr. Cathal Boyle (Deputy Principal) age, in a classroom suite built for the same all things new’, as it says in the scriptures. highlighted the motto of Coláiste Choilm purpose. Half a century later the mission of We need a new kind of education for this “mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si”. (Praise Edmund Rice Education is a living force in new and emerging world.” the young and they will blossom.) “50 Coláiste Choilm.” Ms. Patricia McCrossan, Chair of years ago the Christian brothers were In 1967 on the day Coláiste Choilm the Board of Directors and Mr. Pat asked to open a school in Swords and opened, the students and staff were Keating, attended on behalf of the the seed that was Colaiste Choilm was addressed by the Very Reverend Brother Edmund Rice Schools Trust. Mr. Pat firmly planted. The seed has grown and Creed, C.F.C., the Brother Provincial. Keating congratulated the school on is an integral part of the community In 2017, 50 years to the day and date, educating young men in the Edmund Rice tradition. This ethos and set of values has spread across the globe as illustrated by Professor Colm Kearney, Dean of Monash Business School, a member of the first class in Colaiste Choilm responding from Australia.” Mr. Kevin Reidy (class of ’67) spoke of his days in Coláiste Choilm with Br. Donnelly and Mr. Gibney with great affection. Mr. Michael Dunne (class of ’67) read a poem he wrote as a first year student. Daniel Grace, 6th year student and a Cinnire (Prefect) was the final

Síol Page 18 Coláiste Choilm Swords

speaker. A presentation was then made to each of the original class, Christian Brothers and ERST. Mr. Karl Foster, (Co-ordinating Teacher), closed the event by leading the assembled guests in a prayer which he wrote specially for Coláiste Choilm. After a reception, guests joined the full school community on the pitch for an aerial photograph marking the 50th anniversary of Coláiste Choilm. School Coláiste Choilm photographs were taken and the day by Michael Dunne, finished with a reception for the Leaving First Year Class of 1967-68 Certificate Class of 2017 who were welcomed back for the occasion. I started school on 4th September, That is a day I will always remember, Coláiste Choilm is its name and I hope it brings fortune and fame. Brother Donnelly is the Head and All things must be done as he said, Mr Gibney is his right hand man, And he does his best, Whenever he can.

ffMichael Dunne, First Year, Coláiste Choilm 1967, reading the poem he wrote as a First Year student in Coláiste Choilm 50 years ago.

Winter 2017 Page 19 Coláiste Choilm Swords St David’s CBS, Artane The Prayer of St. David’s CBS, Artane Coláiste Choilm 50th Anniversary

O Everlasting God, we beseech you to continue to shine your light on Coláiste Choilm as you have done in past generations. Grant to the future generations you have called to labour here, to learn and to teach, the way of your enlightenment of your eternal knowledge. Help us to continue on your path of learning and service as illuminated by your servant, Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice. Amen.

ffMichael Ward, retired Deputy Principal addresses staff with Padraic Past Pupils Union Kavanagh, Principal and Jimmy O’Connell, Chairman

In April 2017, in preparation The school was founded in 1966 so last year we held a number for the Golden Jubilee Year, of events to mark our Golden Jubilee. A number of teachers Mr. Cathal Boyle (Deputy spent 6 months preparing an anniversary book. Past and Principal) and Mr. Karl Foster present teachers and students were contacted and asked to (Teacher) launched the contribute articles. Photographs were found or borrowed and a Past Pupils Union of Colaiste history of the school was written. An Art competition was held Choilm on Facebook which and two gifted artists won the honour of having their artwork contains all the photographs on the front and back cover of the golden jubilee book. from our school’s history. It Much time was spent on proof reading but eventually a is followed by almost 700 tome to be proud of was produced! past pupils and staff. ffThe crest of the Past Pupils We celebrated a Mass on the 27th of September in Ardlea Union was designed by Andrew Church. The Mass was concelebrated by past pupils, Fr Michael Crowley (6th year) and features Columbani Collegio semper a Latin phrase written by Br. Carey and Fr Martin Flynn. The choir and musicians were floreat (Coláiste Choilm Donnelly, (first Headmaster) expertly prepared and various parts of the Mass were read by grow forever) parents, teachers and pupils, as well as the Chairman of the Board, Jimmy O’Connell. A celebratory dinner was held to which all past and present staff members were invited. Mr Pat Keating attended and spoke on behalf of Edmund Rice Schools Trust. The Chairman and Principal also spoke and 4 staff members were honoured with lifetime achievement awards. A wonderful night of music was enjoyed in the Artane School of Music on the 12th of October. The school choir, staff choir, singers and musicians from the school put on a wonderful performance. The Artane Senior Band, which has Cinnire (Prefect) many past pupils mesmerised the audience. The show was stolen by past pupil, teacher and well known traditional player The leadership shown by the Chistian Mick O’Brien and his family! The highlight of the night was Brothers in establishing Coláiste Choilm when The O’Briens and the Artane Senior Band joined forces was celebrated on Blessed Edmund Rice to perform Riverdance. It was like watching the original Day, 5th May 2017 when Coláiste Choilm Eurovision when the music climbed to a crescendo and the launched the new role of Prefect for 6th year students. audience jumped to their feet!! Prefects are our school’s role models. Prefects make a valuable An Open Day was held for past pupils on Saturday 18th contribution to the wider school community at Coláiste October. Retired secretary and bursar, Michael Roche Choilm, taking on important leadership roles, assisting and conducted an informative tour of the building. Past pupils met supporting both staff and pupils, liaising with prospective their old teachers and looked at their names in old roll books. parents and pupils and other visitors. The prefect is also called It was truly a walk down memory lane. the Cinnire (guide). By their appearance, manner, attitude, The celebrations were complete when a “Strictly Come relationships and deeds will act as a guide to younger students Dancing” competition was judged by celebrity judges Louis and their peers to the standards expected. Walsh, Dustin and Rory Cowan. We’re all looking forward to the 75th Anniversary in 2041!! Síol Page 20 St Fintan’s High School Sables Nua

In a town where the search for meaning and answers is a daily habit lies a school that gives hope to the most unfortunate. Sables Nua stands as a beacon of light for the disadvantaged children of Kabwe, located in the centre of Zambia, two hours north of its capital city Lusaka. Under the guidance of Pat Fanning, and his wife Eimear, the school looks after over 220 children and provides them every day with education, food and love.

ffThe students in Sables Nua are always happy. ffAidan Hall taking a break from gardening with one of the students from Sables Nua.

Sables Nua relocated to a new part of Kabwe in the summer of 2013 – having started out on a smaller piece of land not far from its present location. St. Fintan’s High School made its first visit to the town that year with a team made up of 6 teachers and 15 students. We helped dig the foundations for what would turn out to be the first two classrooms in the school. Since then we have returned twice in June 2015 and June 2017. Each visit has brought with it a chance to see a school growing and developing to the point where the original landscape is now unrecognisable.

The majority of the children that attend Sables Nua live in Makalulu – the second biggest slum in Africa – which is located just off the main street of Kabwe. There thousands of people live day to day doing whatever they can to support themselves and their families. They live in mud huts with little access to clean water and food. The journey for those lucky enough to attend Sables Nua takes up to an hour each morning. The children who are less fortunate walk the dirt paths of the slums, chasing each other and sometimes kicking around a football made up of plastic bags tied up together. It’s heartbreaking to see these children live like this, with no access to education and little hope for any future. It highlights the importance of an ffLuke Mitchell hanging out with some of the students from Sables Nua. institution like Sables Nua and the need to develop the school and the project even further in the years ahead. The 15 students from St. Fintan’s High School who were lucky enough to experience life over there this June have returned home with many new stories and memories, as well as a different perspective on the world around them. These exciting tales of their trip to Africa have reached the ears of the next group of students in the school that will visit Kabwe in June 2019 – and created a sense of eagerness and a determination to make the project even more successful when their time comes. ffAidan Hall hanging out with some of the students from Sables Nua.

Winter 2017 Page 21 St Joseph’s CBS Primary, Drogheda

Extract from Principal’s Message, end of year Newsletter 2016-2017:

St. Joseph’s has had many highlights throughout the school Louth County finalists twice, the Edmund Rice Schools’ Flag year 2016-2017, with for me, the outstanding ones being raising day, Third Class violin/fiddle recitals, the school the great generosity of the Shoebox Appeal, the upgrading Chess team winning the Drogheda Schools Competition, 6th of our school library, and the initiating of the Peter O’Reilly class being awarded the Co. Louth Entrepreneur Workshop Memorial Cup Soccer Competition with our own boys Award, 5th Class boys second place in Motor Show Mascot emerging as the first to claim the honours of victory. Art Competition and of course 6th class Confirmation Day, an annual highlight of the school year. Among other very notable events were the success of our Coffee Morning Concert, our school team being G.A.A. S. de Cleatún (Priomhoide)

St. Joseph’s CBS Reading Enthusiasts The Team Hope Shoebox Appeal

The Shoebox Appeal gives a gift to ffShoe Box Appeal 2016 children who are the victims of war, disease and poverty. The Shoebox brings hope, laughter and smiles. This is St.Joseph’s CBS third year supporting the Shoebox Appeal. The boys and staff of St.Joseph’s CBS have made an outstanding contribution to the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal. We have presently collected 50 shoeboxes and we are still counting. In 2016 they presented a total of 142 Christmas shoebox gifts for boys and girls from age 2-14. The boys have taken real pride in preparing their boxes with lovely toys, health care products and pictures of themselves. The staff of St.Joseph’s CBS Primary are very proud of the boys and their families for their incredible generosity. School Library St.Joseph’s CBS Primary had the official opening of their newly refurbished library today. Local children’s author Erika McGann officially opened the library and then gave a chat to the boys about the joys of reading and how she was inspired to write. Her books range from The Clubhouse Mystery to The Demon Notebook. The newly redecorated library was fully funded by The Parents’ Association. They organised a number of fund raiser events over the last two years to enable this project. Their support and belief in the school has been invaluable. The children in St. Joseph’s CBS Primary are thrilled with the library. They love the art work by local artist Noel Kelly and books from authors all over the world in ffSt. Joseph’s CBS raise the Peter O’Reilly Memorial Cup. equal measure.

Síol Page 22 St Joseph’s CBS Primary, Drogheda Sporting News Wedding Dress Wednesday

On May 31st, the inaugural Peter O’Reilly On the 20th of September 2017, the teachers of St. Joseph’s CBS took part in Wedding Memorial Cup was held in United Park. Dress Wednesday. It was organised in conjunction with Today FM and the proceeds It was a 5-a-side soccer tournament, raised went to the Irish Cancer Society. The boys were a bit shocked to see their in commemoration of our esteemed teachers arrive to school in wedding dresses, bridesmaid dress and deb’s dresses!  colleague, friend and teacher Mr.O’Reilly. The boys were asked to donate €1 to the Irish Cancer Society. Today FM’s Paula Mac Eleven local schools participated in this Sweeney and the Today FM crew came to visit us at school to see how we were getting fun and sporting event and at the end of on. Between donations received from the staff, their friends and family and the boys the tournament ourselves and St.Joseph’s, in St. Joseph’s, the total sum raised was €645. We were lucky enough to have Brenda Mell met in the final. McCarthy visit us from the Irish Cancer Society on Friday the 26th of October 2017 to This final proved to be an enthralling present her with the cheque. We really enjoyed the day. Well done to all involved. contest with extra time and then a penalty shoot-out required! Eventually, we emerged as proud victors! The cup was presented by Peter’s sister, Veronica, who thanked all the participants and organisers of the day’s event, stating it was a very fitting tribute to Peter and his desire to support opportunities for children partaking in sports activities. An event destined to become an annual feature in the school year calendar!

ffDare to Care, Wedding Dress Wednesday- St. Joseph’s Staff Members No Trick, it’s a Treat!

ffNew St. Joseph’s CBS football strip (with PO’R initials) being presented to team captain Samuel by sister of Peter O’Reilly, beloved former teacher of St. Joseph’s R.I.P.

ffSt. Joseph’s CBS raise the Peter O’Reilly ffSt. Joseph’s pupils present cheque to Irish Cancer Society. Memorial Cup.

Winter 2017 Page 23 St Joseph’s CBS Primary, Drogheda Green School News Wild-flower The Green School Committee have continued to promote and encourage recycling and water and energy conservation throughout the school. We planted some nice colourful flowers Garden in pots to brighten up the entrance to the red school. The shrubs and wild flowers we planted last year did really well in our On Friday 24th June 3rd and 4th class members of the Green small garden area. School Committee attended the opening of a new rose garden in St. Dominic’s Park. The garden was dedicated to the memory of Princess Grace of Monaco and was opened by her son HSH Prince Albert. The boys spent a lovely afternoon in the park in the presence of royalty!

ffMembers of the Green School Committee attending the opening of The Princess Grace Rose Garden. St. Joseph’s Library

Síol Page 24 St Joseph’s Secondary School, Drogheda 2017 Bloom Garden Festival LCA 2 student, Thomas Finnegan and TY student Michael Traynor from the school’s Green School Committee entered a garden design titled ‘Drogheda on the Boyne’ into the Postcard Garden section of the Bloom Garden Festival. The gardens in this section are limited in size to 3 metres x 2 metres. The students’ design was accepted by the Bloom organisers and a school team was assembled to bring the design to reality. The students sought the assistance of the school caretaker Niall Leonard, Green School coordinators Mr Sharkey and Ms Murphy, Art Teacher Ms Murray and Ag. Science teacher Mr Mc Donagh. Sponsorship was sought from local businesses and garden centres. LMFM assisted with promoting the project courtesy of radio presenter and past pupil Gerry Kelly. The garden includes a scale model of the Boyne Viaduct, Millmount Martello Tower and St Laurence Gate. The garden was exhibited at the Bloom Festival in the Phoenix Park over the June Bank Holiday weekend and attracted huge interest from the public. The Garden was awarded the top garden award of the 13 gardens exhibited in the Postcard Garden section. The Bloom team’s success was publically recognised by Louth County Council with an invitation to the opening of the Princess Grace Rose Garden in the centre of Drogheda and to meet His Serene Highness Prince Albert of Monaco. The team also received a grant of €700 from the Council towards fitting out the school’s new greenhouse.

Winter 2017 Page 25 Rice College, Ennis, Co Clare Sr. Ethel Normoyle

Our 3.4 religion class enjoyed a visit from the Lissycasey local Sr. Ethel Normoyle last year. Mr. O Neill and Mrs. Hanrahan’s Junior Cert religion classes decided to study the life and achievements of Sr. Normoyle as part of their Junior Cert religion project. Sr. Ethel spoke about her life and carrying out the work of Jesus in Missionvale in South Africa. She also spoke about how she had inspired other people in Ireland to follow her path in life and to bring extra aid and teachings to the people of South Africa.

St. Anne’s

The students of Transition Year managed to raise over €10,000 for St Anne’s School for Special Needs. Each student in TY and a few students from St Anne’s took part in a Swimathon. All of the students managed to get sponsored which allowed them to raise the funds. Ciara Cassidy is pictured presenting the cheque to the Principal Ms Caroline Lodge and her brother Darragh.

Lourdes was more than a pilgrimage. It revealed to us, not only an insight to our spiritual selves, but, also our true selves. Lourdes 2017 The pulling of blue carts across the surrounding areas of Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes, brought fifty young people from every corner of the Killaloe Dioceses together, in the most abstract of ways. It showed us we can talk to anyone, be anyone. Our spiritual selves were lost in the breath taking scenery of the French mountains. Our recreational selves had plenty of time to prosper as well, with the shops and supermarkets of the surrounding town. We connected not only with our peers, but also the aided pilgrims. One of everyone’s favourite days, was bringing the pilgrims shopping. It was a pleasure to accompany such a positive group of people. Despite their illnesses they were still thinking about family members at home and carefully choosing their gifts. I returned to Ennis with life-long friends and unforgettable memories. It was the best experience of my life.

Jack Brennan & Adam Miniter

Síol Page 26 Rice College, Ennis, Co Clare Faith Friends

Every year the Transition Year students of Rice College take part in Faith Friends. This is when some Rice College students helped the 6th class of The Ennis National to prepare for their ceremony of light. Each Monday and Tuesday for three weeks, our students would meet with the 6th class in the parish office behind the Cathedral. To help them prepare they talked to them about community, the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit and some of our saints. After their final faith friends our students went with the 6th class of Ennis National to their ceremony of light. ffFaith Friends 2017 - Rice College Ennis

The Killaloe Diocesan Youth Faith Fest 2017

The Killaloe Diocesan Youth Faith Fest took place in St. Flannan’s college on 30th September 2017. The Youth faith fest was a religious event for young people promoting religious faith and spiritual balance. Fr. Gerry Carey and the Killaloe ffRice College Students that attended The Youth Faith Fest 2017 Diocesan Youth Council organised the event. This was the first time this fest was ever held. Over 200 teens from around the country gathered in St. Flannan’s College chapel to hear Bishop Fintan Monaghan officially open the event with a liturgy. This music accompanied liturgy was followed by the young people separating to partake in the first of two workshops. This selection of workshops varied from tribal music to Taize prayer. My friends and I chose to partake in a workshop called ‘Creative Journalism’. We were taught how to use journalism as a method of expressing our emotions and concerns. It was very interesting and enjoyable. These workshops were followed by a short break before the second workshop began. For the second workshop we selected ‘Coping’. It was led by a psychiatrist who explained methods of reducing and relieving stress in your life. I found it immensely helpful and extremely informative.

After the second workshop we were free to explore the many displays set up by organisations such as Trocaire and St. Vincent de Paul. There was also a room in which to relax with music and beverages. At the end of the day, Bishop Fintan brought proceedings to a close and we released hundreds of balloons into the sky.

Ronan Foley (Transition Year)

Winter 2017 Page 27 Rice College, Ennis, Co Clare Gaelbhratach

Rice College was awarded the ‘Gaelbhratach’ for the second year in a row at the end of the last academic year, in recognition for their work in the promotion of the Irish language.This is a relatively new scheme in conjunction with Foras na Gaeilge, Gael Linn and Conradh na Gaeilge. A committee consisting of students was put together facilitated by the members of the Irish department, composing an action plan to organize events throughout the year. Such events included poster competitions, cake sales, fundraising activities for local charities, a flash mob, a sports day with Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh, visits to Ennis CBS primary and Kilmaley National School and a radio show as Gaeilge featuring the musical talents of Rice College students. Séamas Mac Conmara was awarded the ‘Gaeilgeoir na Bliana’ award, recognizing his participation in various activities during the year and for also winning the comórtas comhrá during Seachtain na Gaeilge at Féile na hInse. Students and teachers travelled to Dublin on the 29th of May 2017 to accept their award, the culmination of a year’s hard work. Rice College also hopes to be awarded a third Gaelbhratach at the end of this academic year (2017/2018) and a committee of motivated and enthusiastic students has been formed to promote activities as Gaeilge around the school. The Gaelbhratach committee would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Louis Mulqueen and Mr John Burns for their support throughout, and also Mr. Dara Glynn (principal of CBS Primary School) and Mr. Leonard McNamara (Principal of Kilmaley National School) and Ms. Joan Hanrahan (Clare FM) for facilitating future visits and events throughout the coming academic year. ffCáit Nic Aonghusa, Brónagh Ní Bhraonáin, Córa de Bróc, Andrea Ní Tá an Gaelbhratach ar foluain sa scoil agus is cúis onóra í Fhaoláin (Gael Linn), Méibh Ní Dhorcháin agus Clodagh de Paor ag an lá dúinn go léir. Mar a deirtear, is linne í an Ghaeilge! traenála i nGaillimh ar an 21ú Meán Fómhair, 2017.

Music is an important part of school Visit to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Ennis life at Rice College Ennis and we often perform music for people in the local community. One example of this was in January 2017 when a group of Transition Year students went to St. Joseph’s, a local care facility for the elderly, to play music and entertain them. We played a mixture of traditional and pop music and the patients sang along to the songs and tapped their feet to the beat as they enjoyed it. The venture was part of our School Bank’s community outreach scheme where they try to improve an aspect of community life. It was a great day for us and the patients at St. Joseph’s as the music really brightened up their day and entertained tem for an hour.

Síol Page 28 Rice College, Ennis, Co Clare Cycle Against Suicide

The students in transition year in Rice College Ennis attended a cycle against suicide event at the University of Limerick. It was a huge event held in the sports hall with hundreds of students present. They were all from different all around the area with information in an enjoyable way for the students that schools from around the country. on different subjects. They were run by didn’t get boring as time went on. The There were loads and loads of speakers organisations such as Samaritans, the music from The Strypes during the break involved in the event and each had their nGardaí, Teen-line, Child-line and many, was great and created a great atmosphere own story to tell involving depression many others. in the crowd. and suicide. Dustin the turkey also made Overall the event was very well run an appearance. There was also stalls and delivered a very important message

Cahercalla Hospice Coffee Morning Amber Flag

ffBelow: Amber Flag Committee

Rice College Ennis is delighted to take part in the Amber Flag for schools initiative. A dedicated committee is made up of students and staff who will contribute to the existing well- being structures that are already in place at Rice College. The committee ffKaren MC Mahon (concertina), Michelle Carrigg (accordion) and Rachel O’Dea (concertina) playing will organize events throughout the music on Clare FM last Thursday morning at Cahercalla Hospice Coffee Morning. It has become an academic year that will enhance the annual event for the students of Rice College to entertain on this special morning of fundraising and awareness raising of the wonderful facility that is Cahercalla. promotion of positive mental health and well-being for all.

Winter 2017 Page 29 Coláiste Éamonn Rís, Wexford 2017 Zambia

A Personal Reflection Immersion Trip by Ryan Healy.

Looking back to the morning of the back story as to how poor the children but were tough to handle. Big families Wednesday 14th June I don’t think any of were. Some of the stories were tough to living in houses that could fall down at us realised how our lives would change listen to and all we could think of is why any moment was heart-breaking to see as through the experience in Zambia. The there was such an uneven spread of wealth it meant that during tough rain seasons journey was long but our spirits were in the world? they could potentially become homeless? high as we were excited to see what That conversation gave us all insight It made us wish we could help every Africa had to offer us and what we had to into our lives and made usappreciate how one of them but unfortunately we were offer Africa. lucky we all are. Suddenly the school bell only a drop in the ocean to the poverty When we arrived in Lusaka we were rang and nothing could have prepared we witnessed. We gave them gifts of greeted by Pat, the man who helped us for what happened next. The children food and the families thanked us just for make the whole trip possible for us swarmed around us and greeted us with visiting. These events changed our lives but to our dismay he was wearing a hellos and hugs. They held our hands, for the better and I firmly believe these Waterford jersey! When the group got invited us to sit down and talk with moments are something everyone should on the bus we had the privilege to meet them. We laughed and played until their experience in life at some point. On the Moses and Mr Chanda the two coolest break was over. They are the nicest most first Sunday we got the opportunity to bus drivers you will ever meet! So mannerly children I have ever met. attend mass. It was quite different to began our journey to Kabwe, where we That was our first experience with the mass back home, in fact it was far more would find ourselves immersed in an children as a group and it was a heart- entertaining and enjoyable. Although environment like no other that led to a warming one to say the least. I can safely it was close to 3 hours long we loved life changing experience. say that that morning will stay fond in every minute of it. There was dancing We arrived at our accommodation my memory for years to come. When we on a Thursday evening, it was basic were in Sables we all grew close to some and modest but it was nothing we children. They were very pleasant and it hadn’t prepared ourselves for, in the was great craic spending time with them. end however it was much better than Some of the highlights included playing we had anticipated. The only objection volleyball matches, which we learned are we had was to the showers because we actually very competitive. used a “call up” system (e.g. I’m first in In Ireland children don’t seem to the shower and so forth!) so if you had appreciate going to school, they nearly weak verbal reflexes you were an unlucky see it as a form of punishment and a Mazungo! The food in the hostel was tedious task. We look for excuses not delicious and we were all greedy when to attend and complain about being it came to putting food on our plates. dropped to school too early so comparing One day Pat came by and reminded that to school life in Sables put a lot us where we were and that people are in perspective. In Sables the children starving there and from that day onwards cherish their education and they take we never left a scrap on our plates and pride and value in it. went by the ‘only take what you can They all have high aspirations in life manage’ approach. which is unbelievable to see and joining On the Friday the children in Sables had them on the school walk was a big eye- prepared a welcoming ceremony for us. opening experience for us all. We got to They should all be proud of their talents step into their shoes and experience it as we were proud of them for the cultural alongside them rising at 6am to begin the display they put on for us that morning. hour long walk to school, something they They were enthusiastic and confident in did daily with no complaints. Between their performances and it was an amazing that and the home visits we all did, I sight to see. I think they would have a good believe that when we left Kabwe, we were shot at winning ‘CBS has talent’ as they all humbled and became more reflective would put us all to shame. As the children on our lives. The home visits I think went back to school Pat explained to us were a necessity for the trip to truly get what Zamda was all about and he gave us a sense for life for the children of Kabwe

Síol Page 30 Coláiste Éamonn Rís, Wexford

Working in the heat was tough so we changing experience in Kabwe had come realised hydration was key. By the end of to an end. our working week where each day started We travelled to Livingstone to round of at 8am we had dug trenches, carried the trip of a lifetime to experience Africa bricks and mixed concrete in Kangombe from a visitor’s viewpoint marvelling at and dug out tree trunks and made plots the wonder of nature by witnessing the of soil for planting of cabbage and corn spectacular that was Victoria Falls and in Sables, and you never know there may camping overnight in Cheeobe Safari be some juicy Wexford strawberries! We Park seeing animals in their natural were proud at what we accomplished habitat that we had only ever seen in a but we still wished we could have zoo. I can now see the importance that achieved more. volunteer work does for communities less Some sports activities that were fun yet fortunate whether at home or abroad, and and singing and terrific speeches given. tense was the rugby game against the that in Sables without this some of the On top of all that the people were so Zambian team and not to mention the soccer kid’s opportunities wouldn’t be as bright pleasant and welcoming to us. It was a game against Sables. We got to witness the as they are today. lovely morning and again it gave us great sheer speed and agility of the rugby players I hope that someday I might revisit insight into their culture. yet in the end we emerged victorious. The Sables and continue to contribute to the Let’s not forget another reason why soccer game now was another story. They volunteer efforts and leave more drops we came on this journey, which was to were good but so were we and it was a close to what is a vast ocean of poverty. We volunteer and aid in the ongoing building game but unfortunately we were defeated couldn’t have made it to Zambia without work in Kangombe and the gardening 7-6. Well done Sables. the fundraising during the year. To all in Sables. It’s safe to say there were no Saying goodbye to the kids was by far the parents, students and teachers who ‘sissy’s’ raised in Wexford as blood sweat the toughest part of our trip. We threw helped us along our way, mile buiochas and tears was put into the work efforts! them a BBQ, cooked by our ‘Professional oraibh go leir. All the fund raising was We were split into 2 groups and one Chefs’ and served it to the shelter boys. well worth it but it’s all long spent. would go to Kangombe and the other to It was tough saying goodbye and I’m not Good luck to any pupil who goes to Sables. The builders in Kangombe were afraid to say a few tears might have been Zambia in the next Immersion Project. sound men and we were happy to do shed. We wrote in the visitor’s book and I hope it changes your life as much as it anything they needed. said a final farewell to Sables. Our life- will change mine.

Winter 2017 Page 31 Coláiste Éamonn Rís, Wexford

CBS Secondary School receives Cycle Against Suicide Ambassador School Award

On September 12th, the now annual Cycle Against Suicide Ambassador School Awards ceremony was held at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham. These awards recognised the immense efforts of 89 schools around the island of Ireland who have completed the Ambassador School Programme, and became actively involved in mental health promotion. The Ambassador School Programme is one aspect of a wide range of Cycle Against Suicide initiatives and programmes, is school-led, and involves the completion of “Five Gears” over the course of a year, all of which are aimed at raising awareness of the message that “It’s OK not to feel OK; and Crean and Cian Dempsey , who understandably are very it’s absolutely OK to ask for help”. proud of their achievements. “The Ambassador School The Programme provides a framework for schools to Awards ceremony was a great day. It’s wonderful to attend integrate mental health activities into the school plan, and such a positive event, and have the efforts of the students rewards schools who go the extra mile. The Programme also recognised. Our participation in the Ambassador School aims to recognise innovative and effective initiatives, and Programme has had an enormously positive impact on our facilitates schools to share and showcase good practice. school community, fostered a school-wide approach to the At the special reception, Wexford CBS was awarded the promotion of positive mental health, and provided incredible prestigious status of Ambassador School by Cycle Against opportunities for student leadership” said Ms Ivers speaking Suicide in recognition of their fulfilment of the Five Gears, at the event. Minister of State for European Affairs Helen and their exceptional commitment to the promotion of McEntee presented the awards to students on what was a positive mental health. very positive enjoyable day for all involved. More information Wexford CBS was represented at the event by Link on the Ambassador School Programme is available on Teacher Ruth Ivers and students Luke Maloney, James www.cycleagainstsuicide.com

Oatlands College

ffAbove: Leinster Cup Final, Senior Rugby Team ffAbove Right: Ryan Bell, Oatlands College ffRight: Cast from Oatlands College musical, South Pacific

Síol Page 32 Edmund Rice College, Carrigaline

The raising of the new ERST flag on ERST Flag Designer Edmund Rice Feast Day, 5th May 2017, had an added element of excitement in Edmund Rice College, Carrigaline, Co. Raises Flag in Cork as the flag was designed by one of our students. Carrigaline 1st year student Elizabeth Butler was joined by Pat Keating, ERST, Adele Flynn, Principal and Peter Hyde, Deputy Principal as well as her parents and fellow students to raise the flag in front of the new school building. Prior to this Elizabeth was presented with her prizes by Pat Keating, ERST which included an iPad for herself, a laptop for the school and a reproduction of her flag on a plaque. In March Elizabeth had travelled to the ERST office in Dublin to work with Dermot Malone, Graphic Designer, on her original flag design. As well as containing Elizabeth’s wording and colours her final design also featured the crest of each individual school on their flag. The flag now flies proudly outside our school and many of our students have been excited to spot what they describe as “Elizabeth’s ffPreparing to raise the Edmund Rice flag in ERC Carrigaline are: L to R: Peter Hyde – Deputy Principal, Elizabeth Butler, who designed the flag, flag” flying outside schools in other parts of Adele Flynn, Principal, Pat Keating, ERST. the country.

New School Building for Edmund Rice College, Carrigaline

In early May 2017 the school community in Carrigaline was very excited to move from our temporary school (portakabins) to our brand new permanent building. The new school building is located on an 8 acre site and is built to accommodate 600 students. The 8660 sq metre two-storey building contains general classrooms, pastoral offices and social spaces as well as a full range of dedicated specialist rooms for Science, Art, Music, Home Economics, ICT, Construction Studies, Technology and DCG as well as a PE Hall, Fitness Suite, changing rooms, outdoor courts and a large ASD unit which has general classrooms, a sensory room, a daily living skills suite, social areas, safe spaces and a sensory garden. The building was constructed by ABM Europe and fully funded by the Department of Education and Skills. Our school community now numbers 146 students (1st and 2nd years only) and 22 staff members and we look forward to working in and growing in our spacious and well equipped school building for many years.

Winter 2017 Page 33 CBS Primary, Kilkenny Discovering All About Soil

2nd Class have been learning all about soil. The boys collected soil samples, and used their magnifying glasses to investigate what their soil contained. They were surprised at what they found. They discovered some worms, insects, rock and leaf particles. The boys will return their soil particles back to it’s own habitat, on Friday next. They were careful to leave holes in the lids so that the worms and insect could breathe.

Green Ways

We are currently working on our fourth green flag. The theme is travel. We encourage pupils to travel to school in “green ways”. This includes walking, cycling, car-pooling or park and stride. We launched our “WOW Day” (walk once a week) on October 19th. Despite the poor weather that week, we got a huge response from all our pupils. At the CBS we care about our environment. This is clearly reflected in the boys’ wonderful efforts and support of our “Green Flag Programme”. I’d like to especially thank my Green School Committee. Ms. Caroline Boyle, Green School Co-ordinator. We had a very engaging and informative “Maths Week” this October. Boys took part in Maths Trails, Maths Quizes and a variety of exciting activities. Cartoon Saloon Jonathan Swift Art Competition

Winner ffEli Wise, County Champion, winner of Cartoon Saloon Jonathan Swift Art Competition

Síol Page 34 CBS Primary, Kilkenny

ffSchool tour to Killaloe outdoor education centre, Lough Derg ffArt of the Month, October

ffKernius is Healthy Heart Week Poster winner ffCanoeing on Lough Derg September 2017

ffHealthy Lunch box of the Month winners ffArt samples October 2017 ff6th Class Trip to The Dunmore Caves

ffArtists of the Month, October

ffCBS Boys Choir before leaving for their trip to Poland ffAutumn in Kilkenny Primary

Winter 2017 Page 35 Edmund Rice Day

ffFlag Raising in Carrigaline

ffFlag Raising at Oatlands ffFlag Raising at Ardscoil na Mara

ffFlag Raising in Carrick-on-Suir

Síol Page 36 Kilkenny CBS

To celebrate the Edmund Rice Feast which relays the story of Edmund Rice Back in Kilkenny CBS an Edmund Rice day on the 5th of May 2017, First year - the Ireland in which he lived and the flag, incorporating the individual crest of students travelled to the Edmund growth of his congregation throughout our school, has been designed and given Rice International Heritage Centre in the world. It has many captivating to us by ERST and was raised in honour Waterford. It is the resting place of features, including a multimedia tour of of Blessed Edmund Rice. Together with Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian 18th century Waterford, complete with Chaplain Fr Jim Murphy, the Student and Presentation Brothers. the sights, sounds and even smell of the Council raised the flag in the front ​Students met with Br. John who gave city streets and dwellings. yard. The flag now hangs proudly in the them a guided tour of the heritage centre, entrance foyer to the school.

ffKilkenny CBS Primary enjoyed ice cream after a lovely mass in the school hall and sports in the field for the afternoon!!!

ffFirst Year CBS Kilkenny students travel to ffWaiting for Ice-cream in CBS Kilkenny Primary the Edmund Rice International Heritage Centre in Waterford

Winter 2017 Page 37 Coláiste Phádraig CBS Lucan Coláiste Phádraig Open Night 2017

Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald was the guest (NCAD), painted a beautiful mural on the of honour at Coláiste Phádraig’s latest other wall. Open Night which was held on Thursday The room is divided into six computer 5th October. pods and each one can cater for up to The school was packed with four students. The front of the room is enthusiastic primary school students and free standing which can be arranged their parents all eager to see the excellent into groups from two-twelve depending array of modern facilities on offer in our on the requirements of the teacher and school. The new and improved school students. The Classroom of the Future is app, as well as the new school website, ultimately designed for student led and were both launched on the night. student centred learning and the unique The new version of the school app, design really facilitates project work, peer packed with brand new features, mentoring and peer collaboration in ways is available now to download from that a traditional classroom cannot. It Google Play Store or the App Store is particularly useful for the new Junior while the school website address is Certificate Programme, with its emphasis colasitephadraiglucan.ie which also on project work, peer assessment and contains brand new features. collaboration, currently being rolled A promotional video of the school was out in schools. It is also useful for also played on the numerous TV screens Leaving Cert History and Geography around the school and the link for this as they involve projects as part of video can be found on the school website. their programmes. A video chronicling the school’s Zambia The Tánaiste addressed the huge Immersion Project in the summer was crowd in attendance about the room and also launched and this can also be viewed she made the point that just the previous on the website or on the school’s official day she saw similar rooms and designs Twitter page Lucan CBS Twitter. at the offices of Google and Fidelity The highlight of the night was the Investments (Ireland’s most recent official opening by the Tánaiste of the financial services sector). The Classroom school’s Classroom of the Future. A huge of the Future, therefore, is designed to amount of time and money was invested equip the students with real life practical into turning a traditional classroom into skills that will undoubtedly serve them a wonderfully equipped and creatively well in the world of Technology. designed classroom of the future. The The huge number of parents in school caretaker Barry Evers painted attendance were understandably blown three of the walls specifically to stimulate away by The Classroom of the Future student learning while former student and the young primary school students Daniel Whelan, who did his Leaving were excited about using it in the coming Cert this year and is now attending years. The parents were also especially National College of Art and Design appreciative of the guided tours they

Síol Page 38 Coláiste Phádraig CBS Lucan received from Coláiste Phádraig students and they were very complimentary about their friendliness, manners and helpfulness on the night. A huge number of students, from 1st yr through to the 6th yr Prefects, were in attendance and this really impressed both the parents of the primary school students. In truth, the students’ charm, good humour and helpfulness throughout the night sold the school to the parents even more so than the Classroom of The Future. A special presentation was also made to the nine Leaving Cert students who attained over 500 points in their exams in the summer. Dr. John McGinnity, the assistant Registrar from NUIM, was also in attendance as he presented twelve current 6th yr students from the different subject areas certificates and prizes for academic excellence in those subjects. The Coláiste Phádraig Parents Association again were pivotal to the night’s success as they provided an abundance of refreshments to complete a wonderful evening for all in attendance. Coláiste Phádraig CBS Lucan Cyclathon

The 3rd year students of 3Clarke raised €555 for Focus Ireland by holding a full day Cyclathon in the school on Tuesday 24th October. Last year, the class had a guest speaker in from Focus Ireland who gave a moving talk on the current plight of homeless people in Ireland. The students were very determined to do something constructive that would help Focus Ireland is a small way so they chose to fundraise as part of their CSPE project. The Cyclathon was a great success and not only did the students raise important funds for a great cause, they also raised awareness about a wonderful charity who do so much fantastic work for the most vulnerable in our society.

Winter 2017 Page 39 Coláiste Phádraig CBS Lucan Coláiste Phádraig CBS Lucan Zambia Immersion Project 2017

On Thursday the 25th of May 2017, goes towards these health clinics. The incubators and irrigation equipment to a group of 9 students and 5 teachers group were privileged to meet Sr. Mary, farms to enable the farmers to become departed from Dublin Airport for Lusaka who was in charge of running these self-sufficient. They also hope to airport in Zambia, undertaking Coláiste health clinics. build a playground for the orphanage Phádraig’s first trip to Zambia as part A visit to a local youth and community they visited. of the Zambian Immersion Project. Also training centre was another very The group also managed to take in accompanying the group was Mr Willie enjoyable experience for the group. some of the awe-inspiring beauty of Quinlan. Mr Quinlan has previously While there, the lads and teachers played Africa. They visited Victoria Falls, one travelled to Zambia four times with St. a friendly game of football with the of the seven wonders of the world. In Mary’s CBS, Portlaoise. They flew from young trainees. Coláiste Phádraig won Botswana, they embarked on a one Dublin to Amsterdam, from Amsterdam the match, with Mr Brady scoring the day safari, taking in some of the extra- to Nairobi & finally, from Nairobi to winning goal! ordinary sights and sounds Botswana has Lusaka. The group spent one night Next up was a visit to the local to offer. in Lusaka and then travelled 8 and a Christian Brothers’ School, St Raphael’s. The group were enthralled by the 1/2 hours to Livingstone the following There the group met with the local stunning beauty of the sunset on the day. There they arrived at their hotel, Christian Brother community, and its Zambezi river, the same place the film ‘Fawlty Towers’. five members. ‘African Queen’ was made. Three dare- The group visited three townships on The group from Coláiste Phádraig did devil teachers also did a bungee jump off their trip; Linda, Libuyu and Nwenya. not journey to Zambia empty handed. Top Livingstone Bridge! While there, they volunteered their time of their list was helping the communities Overall, the trip to Zambia was a on many humbling projects. They had and centres to prosper and grow long resounding success. Not only did our great fun visiting schools and teaching after they had left Zambia. The teachers students do us proud with their kindness the students different subjects and and students donated materials gathered and empathy towards others, but the topics. They also visited orphanages and from the school community in Coláiste trip proved a reminder of the power of interacted with the children there, an Phádraig, and donated them to the humanity for all involved. experience they found very emotional schools and orphanages they visited. The Zambian Immersion trip will leave and eye-opening. Among the donated items were jerseys, an indelible mark on our whole school The group were also very humbled clothes, footballs, jewellery, pens, pencils community, and all involved in the trip on their visit to a centre for abused girls. and first aid equipment. The ‘Zambia will have returned with some wonderful, Mobile health clinics were also on their 15’ also hope to use the funds they have and sometimes emotional memories they busy itinerary. Students and teachers also raised throughout the year to build will cherish for the rest of their lives. visited two farms where the sale of goods toilets in one of the schools, provide

Síol Page 40 Ennis CBS Primary All Ireland History Competition Win

Bobby Power, 5th class Ennis CBS Primary, won one of the four primary school prizes on offer in the All Ireland Decade of Centenaries Competition. He was awarded his prize by David Ryan, Head of History UCC in April for his project entitled “The Key in the Cake”. His project tells the story of the Talty sisters from Rahaniska, Co. Clare who were instrumental in the escape of Eamon de Valera from Lincoln Jail in February 1919. Kathleen Talty and her sister Susan had been teaching in Manchester at the time. DeValera was arrested in Ireland and was sent to Lincoln Jail in June 1918. While there he made a wax copy ffPhoto: Front: Bobby Power, 5th Class, Ennis CBS Primary at History Prize Giving Ceremony in the “Aula of a priest’s prison key and Seán Milroy Maxima” in UCC on April 26th last. Back Row: Grandparents; Mary Power, John Power, Joan Power and copied it onto a Christmas Card. The first C BS teacher, Brian Spring. Photo: Tomás Tyner UCC. two keys sent into the prison in cakes did not work. Susan baked the third cake, an escaped in February 1919 and was Bobby’s motivation for the project oblong fruit cake, in her house in Victoria brought to a safe house in Manchester. He came from the fact that his great great Park. A blank key and files were hidden had to be moved a few days later to avoid grandfather was married to Mary Anne inside the cake. the police. Kathleen escorted DeValera Talty, a sister of Kathleen and Susan. Kathleen took the train from on the long walk from Fallowfield to This is the second year the Ennis CBS has Manchester, met Michael Collins and Susan’s house in Victoria Park. De Valera won this category. Last Year’s winning Frank Kelly and took a taxi to Lincoln eventually made it to Liverpool and back project, Winnie’s Typewriter (Winnifred Jail with the cake. Peter de Loughrey, to Ireland. Susan passed away in 1945 but Carney), has been uploaded onto the a prisoner used the blank key and files Kathleen met Eamon de Valera again in Scoilnet website. to make a key to fit the lock. De Valera 1966 on his visit to Clare.

All Ireland Sportshall Athletics Title Retained

Ennis CBS Primary has won the All Ireland Junior Boys’ Sporthall Cup for the second year in a row. The competition was held in March in Athlone IT and consisted of six track events and six field events. The team made a strong start in the track events followed by a great performance in six field events. The field events included standing long jump, triple jump, vertical jump, soft javelin, chest push and speed-bounce. The experience of three athletes; Ben O’ Halloran, Leo Johnson and Niall McMahon, who were also on last year’s winning team, was a great asset to the current team. The team qualified for the ffFront L to R: Niall Doyle, Jack Dunleavy, Justin Norvaisas, Niall McMahon, David Cahill, Keelan Bane, national event in impressive style at Samuel Akinsola and Darren Moroney. Clare finals, organised by Clare Sports Middle L to R: Eoin O’Donovan, Leo Johnson, Rhys Flynn, Rian Glynn, John Tuohy, Ben O’Halloran, Partnership, scoring 118 points out of Conor Nash and Pádraic O’Donovan. Back L to R: Teachers: Gary Bell, Brian Spring (Athletics Co-ordinator) and Liam McGuane. a maximum of 120 points.

Winter 2017 Page 41 Charleville CBS Woodwork at Charleville CBS

Woodwork was introduced to the school in September 2013 as a need was highlighted by many of the students / parents, who felt that the subject was of high importance for both the personal and academic development of our pupils. Funding was secured from the Department of Education to allow the subject to be implemented in 1st year in a temporary practical room. A purpose- built technology suite which includes a woodwork room, dedicated wood turning area, material preparation room and store ffTiarnan McCarthy, Scott Culloty, Daniel O’Connell room was completed in April 2016 and officially opened in September 2016. The suite is designed to cater for the provision of both Materials Technology Wood and Construction Studies into the future. The suite contains a full range of woodworking tools, thirteen woodworking lathes as well as a full range of power tools. The school also secured funding to purchase a state of the art laser cutter and 3D printer which allow students to gain experience in modern computer aided design and manufacture techniques. Over the last five years the subject has grown from strength to strength and is now offered to all students between first and third year. Our first Junior Certificate class undertook their Junior Certificate examination in 2015. Construction studies has also been introduced to the ffCathal Canning Leaving Certificate, with our first cohort of students due to complete their Leaving Certificate examination in 2018. Materials Technology Wood and Construction Studies have had a really positive impact on the school community within CBS Charleville. Currently, all incoming first years’ experience Materials Technology Wood for the entire year. The subject is one of the most popular subjects with over 45 students choosing to continue the subject for the Junior Certificate. Construction studies has also proved to be a great success, with two classes now being offered at senior cycle to cater for the demand for the subject. Results wise, our student body have excelled in recent years, with 15 A’s and 35 B’s awarded to students in the first two years of the subject at higher level. ffBen Herlihy, Ciaran O’Regan, Connery

Síol Page 42 Christian Brothers College, Cork Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders

ffVisit to CBC by Dr Wayne Tinsey and Mr Brian Garrone of Edmund Rice Education Beyond Borders, Austrailia, joined by Mr Pat Keating, Ms Louise Callaghan of Edmund Rice Schools Trust

First Years’ Mass

149 New First Year Pupils September 2017 are introduced to the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice. Bishop John Buckley celebrated Mass for new First Years, parents and teachers; followed by Ceremony of Light. Later, all new First Years visited the Edmund Rice Heritage Centre at Mount Sion, Waterford.

New President of University College, Cork

Professor Patrick O’Shea (newly appointed President, UCC, Cork) meets CBC Parents Council. ffL to R: Mr Donal O’Mahony, Deputy Principal, Mr Peter Doyle , Chairperson, Parents Council, Mr David Lordon, Deputy Principal, Dr Larry Jordan, Principal, Professor Patrick O’Shea, President of UCC, Mr Seamus Bruton, Deputy Principal, Mrs Marnie Lane, Secretary, Parents Council, Mr Tom Casey, Teacher Liaison.

Winter 2017 Page 43 St Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy

St. Mary’s CBS Enniscorthy – Naming our Extension

A past pupil of our school who was greatly influenced by the spirit of Blessed Edmund Rice was a young man named Ned Kerrigan. He must have been very impressed by the Brothers who taught him since he decided to follow the road they had taken. A large proportion of his career was in the service of education in England. However, it was his final years in Sierra Leone that renewed his link to our school. Ned worked for his final years in Bo, in Sierra Leone but tragically his life was cut short when his mini bus was ambushed on the road between Bo and Freetown in 1996 during the civil war. When our school looked to open a link with a school in the developing world it seemed only fitting to follow the same route as our neighbour and past pupil, Ned Kerrigan. When we were thinking about a name for our new extension we didn’t have to ponder for long, we felt that it was appropriate and fitting to name the extension Áras Kerrigan in memory of our inspirational past pupil Ned.

ffTop Right: Official Opening of the School Extension

ffRight: Áras Kerrigan

St Mary’s CBS Enniscorthy OLYMPIAN

St Mary’s CBS student, Conor Boylan, was presented with a gift from the board of management in recognition of his tremendous achievement in winning the Irish Science Olympiad last November and then going on to represent Ireland in the World Science Olympiad in Indonesia. The Irish Science Olympiad was organised by the School of Chemical Sciences in D.C.U. University. As a result of his achievement Conor spent nine days in Bali, Indonesia along with five others from Ireland and hundreds of other students from across the globe, taking part in this internationally renowned and prestigious competition. Conor was invited to take part in the Olympiad on the basis of his academic excellence in science in the Junior Certificate examinations in 2016. He competed with 126 other students and in the end he was selected as the top student at IrJSO. For this achievement he was presented with the inaugural Dr Paraic James memorial shield in memory of Dr James who died last year. Dr James was Vice President and President of the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland and most recently as the Institute’s Registrar. He was founder of the Science Olympiads ffSt. Mary’s student, Conor Boylan, was presented with the inaugural Dr. in Ireland. Paraic James Memorial Shield in recognition of his tremendous achievement in winning the Irish Science Olympaid

Síol Page 44 O’Connell Secondary School, Dublin East View High School Band from the USA visits O’Connell Secondary School

ffEast View High School Band from the USA visits O’Connell Secondary School

“That was deadly Sir!” – so said First Year Eastview High School has consistently China, Hungary, Italy, and Spain. pupil Conor Leavy on exiting the school been recognised as one of “America’s Best Mr Duffy welcomed the band and its hall on March 30th 2017. Conor and the High Schools” by Newsweek, US News directors to the school. He also thanked rest of the school community had just and World Report magazines as well as them for their wonderful performance witnessed a spectacular live performance the Washington Post. as we all enjoyed a fantastic 45 minute from 120 school musicians from an The school’s Instrumental Music eclectic mix of beautiful and uplifting original American High School. Programme consists of 400 students musical sounds, culminating in the East View High School, a in grades 9-12. The department is theme to Star Wars. After the gig, the comprehensive and college preparatory staffed by 3 directors who meet with students and directors from East View high school, located in eastern Apple and instruct ensembles and lessons High were guests at a reception in the Valley, Minnesota, completed their 2017 every school day. The philosophy of school assembly area. Here they mixed Irish tour in O’Connell School Hall on the programme is centered on a quality freely and chatted with staff and students March 30th this year. music education through performance from OCS. Our thanks go to the directors East View High opened its doors in centered experiences in concert band of the Eastview High School Band: Mr. the autumn of 1997 and currently has an and individual lessons. An emphasis on Frank M. Pasquerella, Mr. Richard A. enrollment of 2,150 students. solo and ensemble participation also Berggren and Mr. Matthew R.Gullickson The school is very proud of its state- promotes individual music development and to Ms Kidney, Mr Kilbride and Ms of-the-art facilities including a 650 seat and performance confidence. Eastview Shanahan for organising the event. Performing Arts Centre, a 3000 seat Band is active in local, regional and stadium, television studio and unique national music events, Autumn marching classroom cluster areas and near 1:1 access band competitions, percussion ensemble to technology. Students can participate and jazz festivals. Eastview have had in a wide variety of curricular and co- a wonderful tradition of international curricular programmes in academics, travel where they have had the privilege arts and athletics, demonstrating a strong of sharing their musical gifts with people commitment to student involvement and around the world. They have travelled individual achievement. to England, Germany, France, Austria,

Winter 2017 Page 45 Scoil Chiarain, Donnycarney Active Learning at Scoil Chiarain CBS, Donnycarney

ffScoil chiarain CBS, Donnycarney – Playground Activities

Síol Page 46 Scoil Chiarain, Donnycarney

Winter 2017 Page 47 St Joseph’s Secondary, Fairview Positive Mental Health in St. Joseph’s CBS secondary school, Fairview, Dublin 3

Promoting positive mental health is to create a resource that will appeal to week of the 22nd of January. Feel free to central in St. Joseph’s. This year many young people, one where they can read come along and help us promote positive initiatives are in place to promote about people, who have gone through mental health! positivity and wellbeing amongst our struggles with their own mental health, The week of the 22nd of January holds students and staff. but have conquered and won their battle. extra importance to our school. That is To begin, St. Joseph’s is working to It is of utmost importance to raise mental the week we have chosen as our school become an Ambassador School for Cycle health awareness and to promote help- Mental Health week. Although we will Against Suicide’s positive mental health seeking behaviour, and this book is the celebrate World Mental Health day in promotion initiative, and is also aiming to tool which will lead us to do exactly October, our school feels that January is raise its first Amber flag for the continued that! There will be sections dedicated to the prime time that students and teachers promotion of mental health awareness. To helplines, helpful websites and resources may need the most motivation and achieve this, we have adopted many new that young people can use to help them inspiration. Throughout this week many strategies to assist us in our strive for a through their own personal battles. events will take place. Our very own mental health awareness status. A resource like this can improve their Mr. Quinlan will be doing Mindfulness Firstly, each week, TY students update quality of life by promoting recovery workshops with all class groups at our Room Quotes. In every classroom, through awareness and education. All different times, ‘3’ Ireland will be coming a positive quote is put up, to inspire the articles, opinions, interviews etc. are to the school to focus on life skills and students as they enter each lesson. These more than welcome for publication in CV skills, various guest speakers are quotes are updated every week to further our book! We want to make a resource being organised along with much more. promote positivity and wellbeing in our that our students can be part of, a Furthermore our Home School Liaison school environment. resource from which they can read, learn, team and parents council will be teaming Ms. Leetch’s TY mini-company class and grow! up to send out inspirational messages have decided to write and design a book In addition, another plan for the year to all parents including the numbers of based on positive mental health and the is to organise a large school dodgeball useful contacts that we can all use to Cycle Against Suicide message ‘It’s okay tournament with teams made up of promote a positive mentality. not to feel okay and it is absolutely okay teachers and students. This fun filled Another school initiative has also to ask for help’. This is a project being physical activity will make the event an begun that focuses on three main carried out by a group of 15 students enjoyable one for all ages and will most aspects of mental health; the physical, who are passionate about the promotion definitely enhance a positive mind-set. the mental, and nutrition. TY students of positive mental health in our school With this, a cycle-athon will also take are working in co-ordination with and in our locality. So far, students have place. Students, in a rotation system, their Gaisce teachers Mr. Stack, Mr. carried out various interviews with sports will cycle 247 km to further spread the O’Callaghan and Mr. De Poire to learn people, psychologists and the Rose of Cycle against Suicide message. We have more about the impact of these factors. Dublin to name but a few. Their aim is chosen 247 km because our mental health They are carrying out various projects should be looked after 24/7. Please do throughout the year and aim to get our ffMs. Leetch and 6th year students during the walk keep an eye out for this event during the first Amber Flag and to take part in

Síol Page 48 St Joseph’s Secondary, Fairview

‘Darkness into Light’ later this year. In more current news, all TYs and our student council will be attending the Zeminar in the RDS in October. Zeminar is ‘a social enterprise created to bring all those invested in the development and well-being of young people in Ireland to one place.’ This exhibit is the perfect event to attend as we have such a strong focus on promoting positive mental health in our school. Not only do we attend these type of events, we strive to promote this mentality every day. Our ffMs. O’Donnell and TY students during the walk school walk took place during European Week of Sport to promote their slogan #BEACTIVE. Furthermore, we also run a Big Brother program in association with Foroige. This group pairs a senior student with a 1st year student to help ease their transition from primary to secondary school in the most positive manner possible. Wellbeing and positive mental health promotion is something we absolutely strive for in Joeys Fairview and that is clear from the many things our school community is doing every day! A huge thank you to Ms. Martin, who is the head of our mental health initiatives, for all of the work she puts in every day organising these ideas and events! ffA group of the first runners back!

Computer Science in St. Joseph’s CBS Secondary School, Fairview, Dublin 3

Stephen Hawking once said ‘Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe or you want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential Once they have mastered the skills of basic coding, the skill to learn’. In the Joey’s TY program we highly value this students are introduced to the programme Scratch. This is quote. As of last year, TY students take modules in computers designed in association with MIT (Massachusetts Institute and computer coding. At first, students are taught about the of Technology) and is a visual programming language that basic aspects of using a computer e.g. using word, PowerPoint makes it easy to create your own characters, worlds, games and uploading to the cloud. However, a new aspect of the and much more through computer coding. It is often the programme centres on computer coding. Students have been students’ first experience of coding and computer science and taught how to design their own computer games based on is most definitely the way of the future! Every year we update Star Wars or Minecraft, depending on their interests. our plans to enhance student understanding of computer They have learned how to formulate and type their own science and coding. After all, 71% of all new jobs in STEM code and have also focused on the importance of accurate (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) are in command writing to ensure optimal functioning. This computing and here in Joeys, we highly value that! module really appeals to students as it is outside the usual scope of the computer’s plan. Ms. Leetch

Winter 2017 Page 49 CBS The Green Tralee CBS The Green Tralee Celebrates it’s 90th Anniversary in style

ffPlanting a tree in memory of the late Tom O’Halloran were Phyl O’Halloran, Vice Principal Robert Flaherty, Mayor of Tralee Norma Foley, Maureen O’ Brien and Principal Anne O’Callaghan at the CBS The Green.

THE history of the CBS The Green was recalled at a special O’Callaghan, detailing the history of the building of the school celebration of the school on Friday October 6th on the occasion along with the cultural, sporting and academic achievements of of the 90th anniversary since the building of the school. the school down the years, followed by Brother James Whelan There were many past members of staff and former pupils recalling his time as principal in the 90’s and early 2000’s present for the event which also saw the official opening of the Mass was celebrated by Bishop William Crean, The Bishop of new all-weather training facilities, the unveiling of a beautiful Cloyne with Bishop of Kerry, Bishop Ray Browne and ten other stone sculpture at the Dan Spring Road entrance to the school clergymen, many of whom are past pupils. and the planting of a tree in memory of the late Chairperson Afterwards, Former Principal of The Green, Brother James of the Board of Management, Mr Tom O’Halloran, who passed Whelan cut the tape to open the all- weather training facilities. away last year. Mayor of Tralee Norma Foley then unveiled the stone sculpture A huge amount of work had gone into preparations for the made by local stonemason Billy Leen, which will be lit up each occasion, including the compiling of photographs of classes night at the entrance for all to see. There followed the planting from over the decades and articles from down the years which of the tree in memory of Tom O’Halloran, the former chairperson featured in the local press. Past pupils could also search through of the Board of Management, attended by his wife Phyl. the roll books from down the years to find their names and After these important activities, everyone enjoyed recall who was in their class refreshments and no doubt shared some tales about the days of The day began with Principal of CBS The Green, Ms Anne old, in this historic yet now modern school building.

Síol Page 50 CBS The Green Tralee Colaiste Ris Dundalk News From Coláiste Ris, Dún Dealgan

With barely the first term completed the students of Coláiste Rís are back in harness and planning a wide range of activities that engage them outside of the classroom. Already one Junior Cert Group have visited Dáil Éireann as part of their CSPE studies while another group attended a sitting of the Dundalk District Court. The school’s annual 5 km run took part on October 12th. as part of the Dundalk Mental Health Awareness Initiative which is attempting to emphasise the ffBrother James Whelan, Past Principal of the School cuts the tape to officially open the new all weather training facilities at the CBS The Green importance of regular physical exercise as part of a healthy 90th anniversary celebrations at the school. Photo by Dermot Crean mental health regime. Rehearsals for the school’s annual show, All Shook Up, are already in full swing. The staging of musical stage shows is a tradition that stretches back to the time of the late Roy Magee and has been revived under the direction of Evan Markey. Last year saw the very successful staging of The Wedding Singer. Coláiste Rís students raise a lot of money for local charities each year and this year is no different. Plans are already being laid in place for the annual Croagh Patrick Climb in the New Year. Our Fifth Year group hope to repeat last May’s feat of travelling to and from and climbing Croagh Patrick, under the direction of Martin Kavanagh, who raised over €1,500 for the organisation SOSAD, the suicide prevention charity. The climb marked Edmund Ignatius Rice Day. On the sporting front all school teams have tasted both victory and defeat. Aliyah Clarke and Éadaoin McCrave both represented Ireland in the European Kick-boxing Championships in Macedonia during the summer. Both girls ffPrincipal Anne O’Callaghan addressing the gathering at the CBS The Green 90th anniversary celebrations at the school on Friday, in the open area of won bronze medals. On the golfing front Sixth Year Student the modern extension to The CBS. Photo by Dermot Crean Eoin Murphy represented Ireland in the Home Internationals Golf Competition held in Lytham, England. Eoin is a member of Dundalk Golf Club.

ffAliyah Clarke & Éadaoin McCrave who represented Ireland at the European Kickboxing Championships in Macedonia last summer ffFormer Sixth Year ffVice Principal Robert Flaherty, Principal Anne O’Callaghan, Mayor of Student Eoin Murphy who Tralee Norma Foley and artist Mary J Leen (daughter of stonemason represented Ireland in the Billy Leen) at the unveiling of the newly carved limestone sculpture at the Home Internationals Golf entrance of The CBS The Green. - 90th anniversary celebrations at the Championship in Lytham school on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Winter 2017 Page 51 Scoil Mhuire, Marino Excited students welcome Sam Maguire Cup

Published at Áras Éamainn Rís Meadow Vale Blackrock Tel: 01 289 7511 Co. Dublin Fax: 01 289 7540 A94 YN96 e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01 289 7511 web: www.erst.ie

Síol Page 52