From Monday 14th  to Wednesday, 16th October, 115 of our Transition Year students took part in a three-day trip to Killary Adventure Centre. This excursion provided an excellent opportunity to support the goals of Transition Year, helping students build teamwork, communication skills, and closer connections with each other. Set amidst the scenic landscape of Killary, students participated in a range of outdoor activities that encouraged them to stretch beyond their usual boundaries and explore new challenges. Activities like high ropes, and team challenges helped develop resilience, cooperation, and an appreciation for the outdoors. This trip also offered a welcome break from the classroom environment, allowing students to relax, spend time together and build friendships that will support them through the year. We know this experience will be a memorable part of TY and their school journey.

Fingal Comhairle Youth Conference 2024

This week, four of our 5th Year students attended the Fingal Comhairle Youth Conference 2024, an important annual event that gives young people a platform to voice their opinions on issues that directly affect them. The conference brings together youth from across the Fingal region to share their views, ensuring that their voices are heard when shaping policies, services, and planning decisions that impact their lives and communities. The Comhairle na nÓg youth councils play a vital role in bridging the gap between young people and decision-makers at both the local and national levels. When government bodies, local authorities, and other agencies seek to improve services or introduce new policies, they often consult with Comhairle na nÓg councils to gain insights from the very individuals these decisions will affect most. By engaging young people in the decision-making process, these consultations help ensure that policies are relevant and responsive to their needs. At the Fingal Youth Conference, a range of issues important to young people are discussed, with topics often including mental health awareness, youth facilities, climate action, and educational reforms. We are very proud of our students for representing the school so well at this important event and for their commitment to making their voices heard on issues that matter to young people. Their participation not only reflects their passion for improving their communities but also helps ensure that the needs and ideas of the next generation are considered in the decisions that affect them.

Junior Debating

This week, three of our junior debate teams participated in the highly anticipated first round of the Leinster Junior Schools Debate Competition, held at UCD. The motion for debate was “Should voting be made mandatory?”, a topic that sparked insightful and spirited discussions among the teams. The teams consisted of four Third Year students and two Second Years, who impressively debated both for and against the motion. Their arguments covered a wide range of perspectives, exploring the potential benefits of increased civic participation as well as the challenges of enforcing such a policy. Each team demonstrated a strong understanding of the topic, and their passion and preparation were evident throughout the debates.

For some of the debaters, this was their very first formal competition, and the judges were thoroughly impressed with the high standard displayed. Their eloquence, confidence, and ability to think on their feet were noted as standout qualities. Special congratulations are in order for these students, who gave up their Wednesday half-day to travel to UCD and represent our school with pride and determination.  We wish the best of luck to the teams as they prepare for Round 2.