Annual Report - colaisteeoinhacketstown

Transcription

Coláiste Eoin
Annual Report
2015/16
“Education is not
preparation for life:
Education is life itself”
- John Dewey
Contents
Click on title to bring you to page
Foreword
1
Materials Technology Wood
22
Mission Statement
2
Construction Studies
23
Brief History of School
2
Metalwork
Staff 2015/2016
3
Parents’ Association
Details of Special Needs
Provision
37
24
Student Care
38
Engineering
24
Pastoral Care
38
4
Technical Graphics
26
Bullying
38
Student Council 2015/2016
5
38
6
27
Equality
Meitheal
Design &
Communication Graphics
Extra Curricular Activities
39
Board of Management
7
Science
28
Work of the Board 2015/2016
8
Biology
28
Physics & Chemistry
28
42
Stand Out Moments 2015/16
Subjects Offered
i
School News
Proclamation Day
48
30
School Play
50
Transition Year 2015/16
31
Graduation Ceremony
52
LCVP
33
Anti-Bullying Awareness
53
TY Tour to NY
54
School Awards
55
Programmes Offered
Art, Craft, Design
10
Business Studies
12
Adult Learning
CSPE
13
English
14
French
15
Mathematics
16
Gaeilge
17
Religion
35
Geography
18
SPHE
36
History
19
Guidance in Post Primary
37
Home Economics
20
Holistic Education Programmes
Click the arrow on each
page to return to Contents
Coláiste Eoin School Report 15/16
Foreword
2015-2016 was a successful year for students,
parents and staff of Coláiste Eoin. This annual
report is a reflection and snapshot of this success
and of the diversity of our school community,
the myriad of opportunities for its members and
the ongoing commitment to creating a learning
environment in which our students can discover
their talents, gifts and abilities and flourish.
We are very proud of the success of our students
who have excelled in their academic, sporting
and extra-curricular achievements. Our students
represented us to the highest level at local and
national events and this annual report gives you
a glimpse into the many and varied activities
that have taken place. To all of you who have
represented the school in whatever capacity, I
congratulate you and thank both you and your
parents for the support and commitment to
Coláiste Eoin this year.
We have had many joyous events to celebrate
throughout the year. We have celebrated the past
with our 1916 commemorations and have reflected
on the values, ideals, and hopes of the generation of
2016. We have re-imagined a new proclamation for
our young people:
“It is time for us to fight for a different type
of freedom. The freedom to be yourself; to
believe or not believe and for your opinions,
customs, traditions and expression to be
tolerated and respected.”
Leah Byrne – 2nd Year Student
I believe the 2015-2016 academic year was an
exceptionally good year. We achieved many new
initiatives and improvements that will greatly
benefit our students, parents and staff. Critical to
all that we do in our school is to maintain a caring
community where excellence in teaching and
learning prevails. We were very pleased to involve
members of our school community: students,
parents and staff in the updating of our teaching
and learning policy, which strives to hold dear
the values of respect, safety, trust, participation
and inclusion while endeavouring to ensure that
high quality teaching and learning takes place to
facilitate student achievement.
We successfully implemented the new Junior
Cycle Framework with the introduction of class
based assessments in our English curriculum. As
a school community we welcome this initiative and
are confident this new programme will preserve the
integrity of the learning experience. We look forward
to integrating the new subject specifications for
Science and Business Studies in the coming
academic year 2016-2017.
For our work to be successful we rely on the
dedication and commitment of our staff. The efforts
and dedication of our teachers, support staff and
ancillary staff create a positive environment in our
school where students can flourish, grow and most
importantly are challenged and inspired. I thank
you for your critical contribution.
I acknowledge our partners in education: our
Student and Parents’ Councils and our Board of
Management, who worked tirelessly this year
in the development of the school and who take
an active and engaged interest in the school. It
is their commitment that supports our school
improvement planning process.
Dr. Pauline Egan
Principal
1
Mission Statement of Coláiste Eoin
Brief History of School
Mission Statement
This School endeavours to nurture each student
academically, physically, morally, socially and
emotionally and to acknowledge the commitment
of students, staff and parents in their overall
contribution to the school as a community.
School Philosophy
As a multidenominational school, we provide for
the religious education of our students.
We aim to provide an education, which seeks to
promote in each student
An awareness of personal worth and dignity.
A sense of truth, self-discipline and responsibility.
An understanding of doing ones best.
A desire to co-operate with others.
In 2012 Coláiste Eoin celebrated 75 years (19372012) of providing second level education to
Hacketstown and the community of east Carlow
and west Wicklow at a special celebratory
occasion held on 20 December. To mark the 75th
milestone, we produced a commemorative booklet
which was launched by Ms. Mary O’ Rourke. This
commemorative booklet included memories from
past and present staff together with reflective
pieces from past and present students. This was a
great opportunity for all associated with the school
history to come together. We were very proud to
have former principals Mr. Larry Kavanagh and
Mr. Michael Daly and members of the Parents’
Association and Board of Management, Mr. Jim
Shannon and Ms. Jenny O’ Regan-Byrne, speak on
the day. In attendance also, were members of the
school community past and present, and members
of the ETB (formerly VEC) including former CEO
John O’Keefe.
A respect and tolerance of others.
through academic, practical, personal, social, physical,
moral and religious education. To achieve this we will
endeavour to work with and support each other as a
team. This team is inclusive of school management,
staff, students, parents, the local community and any
organisation which may be of benefit.
2
Staff 2015/2016
Pauline Egan – Príomhoide
James Burke – Deputy Principal
Teaching Staff
John Dunphy
Mary Hunt
Anne Hickey
Mary Cummins
Patricia Hodnett Barry Doogue
Liz Farrell
Darragh Kelly
Geraldine Dalton
Noelle King
Mairead O’Keeffe Melissa Broderick
Lil Hand
John Luttrell
Pat Fleming
Eamonn Doyle
Mairead Tompkins Frances Mullins
Maria Beagan
Administration
Dorothy Shannon – School Administrator
Caretaking Staff & Cleaning Staff
Jim Coleman – Caretaker
Breda Byrne
Dolores Byrne
Shirley Mullen
School Chaplains
Fr. J. Mc Cormack
3
Rev. Stella Durand
Parents’ Association
Parents’ Association Submission
Coláiste Eoin Parents’ Association meets regularly
and acts in an advisory capacity in drafting policies
and promoting the ethos of the school and the
general welfare of students. The association also
hosts occasional seminars for parents on adolescent
well-being which parents are encouraged to attend.
As the year draws to a close we would like to take
this opportunity to express how grateful we are
to Ms Pauline Egan and all the staff of Coláiste
Eoin not only for the welcome they extend to the
Parents’ Association but also for their help and
support throughout the year.
Parents’ Association 2015/2016:
Coláiste Eoin strives to provide informative and
relevant parenting talks that are facilitated by
experts in their field. During the course of the
school year, we hosted two talks. In October
2015, “Parenting in the Modern Age” by Michael
Byrne took place. This talk was very interesting
and parents in attendance found it to be very
beneficial. Therefore, it is the intention that
Michael will return in the next school year. In
January 2016, Harry Freeman spoke on the
“Teaching & Learning Policy”. We achieved our
highest attendance with this talk and it was well
received by all parents.
Ms. Jenny O’ Regan Byrne – Chairperson
Ms. Clodagh Hackett – Secretary
Ms. Deirdre Whelan – Treasurer
The next AGM of the Parents’ Association takes
place in October 2016
The Parents’ Association organised the Christmas
Raffle which was a huge success thanks to the
generous participation of parents and sponsors,
and not forgetting Dorothy without whom it would
not be possible.
4
Coláiste Eoin is getting a new school jacket. We
would like to commend the Student Council who
worked so hard on this process. They took time to
survey all students, liaised with suppliers and have
found the best possible option. They presented the
new jacket to the Board of Management and the
Parents’ Association and have our full support. Well
done to you all.
We really encourage any parent who wishes to be
involved to make contact. The greater the number
of parents we can involve the more beneficial it will
be for our school and for our children.
Student Council 2015/2016
At Coláiste Eoin we encourage students to take
part in the development of school policies and
procedures. Every year, two representatives are
elected from each year to form a Student Council,
one boy and one girl from each year. Our student
counsellors for 2015-2016 were:
1st Year – Sean Moran & Erin Byrne
2nd Year – Luke Connolly & Lorna O’Neill
3rd Year – Ruairi Tompkins & Kelly Hooper
4th Year – Brian Kearney & Lynn Fenton
5th Year – Steven Coogan & Kelly Nolan
6th Year – Dale McNamara & Chantal Kane
Chairperson – Dale McNamara
Secretary – Lynn Fenton
Adult Learner Representative – Natasha O’ Toole
Student Council Constitution - Under Section 27 of
the Education Act, 1998 the Board of Management has
responsibility for establishment of a Student Council
and its constitution. A Student Council Constitution
was adopted by the Board of Management at its first
meeting in September 2015.
Our Student Council is supported by Miss Mairead
O’ Keeffe in their leadership role in the school. The
student council representatives meet regularly
over the school term.
Our Chairperson is 6th Year student Dale Mc Namara
and our Secretary is Lynn Fenton in 4th Year.
Our Student Council participated in a two hour
training programme on “The Role of the Student
Council” facilitated by Harry Freeman on 29th
September 2015.
Our Student Council participated in Comhairle na nÓg
hosted by Carlow Regional Youth Service on 08th
October 2015
As part of an initiative to raise the profile of the Student
Council and to promote the voice of the student, the
Student Council has installed a comment/suggestion
box in the General Purpose area of the school.
5
The Student Council has participated in a consultation
process facilitated by Harry Freeman on our Teaching
& Learning Policy. The Teaching & Learning Policy was
amended to include student feedback. The Student
Council is to be commended on their mature and
positive engagement with this consultation process.
Our Student Council has made an application to our
Board of Management for consideration of a second
option for our school uniform jacket. They have carried
out research and have surveyed the students on their
opinions. The proposal was supported by the Parents’
Council and Board of Management at their meetings,
in April. The new school jacket comes into effect
for the 2016-2017 school year.
Meitheal
The students selected as Meitheal leaders this
year were:
Thomas Whelan
Darren Daly
Rachael Hickey
Sarah Murphy
Padraig Byrne
Laura O Keeffe
Lauren Doyle
Emma Pearson
Megan Kane
Megan Byrne
6
Meitheal is a programme run in the school whereby
a selection of students are chosen following an
interview with Robert Norton (National Meitheal
Team) to mentor and assist in-coming First Years.
The school are mindful that the transition from
Primary to Secondary can be a daunting experience
for both students and parents alike. With this
in mind the Meitheal Programme offers the First
Years a chance to engage with peers who have
gone through the system. Our past pupils are
also involved in the current Meitheal National
Organisation and were in attendance at the
Meitheal Graduation.
Board of Management
Members of the Board of Management
2015/2019
The primary role of the Board of Management is
one of governance. Governance is about providing
direction and oversight for the school while ensuring
that the rights of all members of the school community
are upheld and that the school is accountable for
its work.
The functions of the board can be categorised
under the following headings:
Policy setting and strategic planning
Monitoring the implementation of policy,
strategy and plans
Supporting the principal and her staff
ETB Nominees – Ms. Caitlín Mhic Cárthaigh
Cllr. Jennifer Murnane, Cllr. Denis Foley
Teacher Nominees – Ms. Noelle King
Mr. Barry Doogue
Parent Nominees – Ms. Jenny O’Regan- Byrne
Mr. James Whelan
Community Representatives – Ms. Sinead Doyle
Fr. Jim Mc Cormack, Mr. MÍcheál Walsh
7
Work Of The Board 2015/2016
Student Council Constitution
Policy Review
Under Section 27 of the Education Act, 1998 the Board
of Management has responsibility for establishment
of a Student Council and its constitution. A Student
Council Constitution was adopted by the board at its
September meeting.
Our Health & Safety Policy was updated and readopted by the board. Our Child Protection Policy
was re-adopted by the board. The board undertook an
annual review of child protection in the school.
School Self Evaluation
The board was presented and circulated with the
School Improvement Plan (SIP) for Numeracy and
discussed the targets as set down in the plan. Our
School Improvement Plan setting goals for numeracy
was adopted by the board at its September meeting.
As part of the school self-evaluation process, Coláiste
Eoin is required to conduct a review of an aspect of
teaching and learning and to prepare a School Self
Evaluation Report for the Board of Management
and the school community. The area of Teaching &
Learning that we are focusing on in strand three of
our planning process is the area of wellbeing in the
new Framework for Junior Cycle. This report was
presented to the board at its May meeting.
The board also undertook an annual review
of Coláiste Eoin’s Anti-Bullying Policy and its
implementation.
The following three policies were amended and
adopted by the board at its November meeting:
CCTV policy
Admissions policy
Policy on International Trips and Overnight
Excursions.
At the January meeting of the board, members
adopted Coláiste Eoin’s revised and updated
Teaching & Learning Policy.
The following policies were amended and adopted
by the board at its May meeting:
Sport & Extra-Curricular Policy
Critical Incident Policy
Subject Inspections
The Board of Management congratulated members
of our Irish Department and Business Department on
inspections that took place during this academic year.
A Subject Inspection took place for Gaeilge at
Junior and Senior cycle on 19/10/’15. Jaqueline Ni
Fhearghusa from the DESk conducted the inspection.
A Follow-up Inspection on a previous Business
Subject Inspection took place on 05/02/’16. Julia
Lynch from the DESk conducted the inspection.
The following policies were amended and adopted
by the board at its April meeting:
Attendance & Punctuality
Further / Adult and Continuing Education Policy
Substance Use Policy
8
Subjects Offered for Examination
“Children must be
taught how to think
not what to think”
- Margaret Mead
Art, Craft, Design
Teacher - Miss Hunt
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
The syllabus, for first, second and third year students
in post primary education, aims to develop the
expressive, communicative and functional modes of
art, craft and design in the individual within the art
class with drawing as the central activity.
Leaving Certificate art is made up of four units
linked together and based on the everyday visual
experience of the student’s own environment.
This syllabus is assessed at the end of third year at
two levels, Ordinary and Higher. The quantity and
quality of work produced determine the differences
between the two levels.
The practical work can include Life Sketching,
Still Life, Imaginative Composition, Design and
Craftwork. Students also study the History and
Appreciation of Art, which covers Irish and European
Art, and Art Appreciation.
This syllabus is for students in the senior cycle
of post-primary education and is assessed at
Ordinary and Higher levels.
The Art Department plays a huge role in school life
from decorating the walls to inspiring creativity
and ingenuity in our students. The students are
entered into various competitions and visit
museums as an integral part of the program. The
success of students can be seen at the school play,
the graduation mass and in our everyday lives as
the vast creativity from the Art Department can be
seen as we enter the school on our embellished
gate to the general purpose area where Celtic
Warriors watch over us as we eat our lunch. Students
are fortunate that their teacher has been involved in
correcting for the State Examinations Commission.
Revised arrangements are being put in place for
students entering Leaving Certificate Year 1 in
September 2016 and taking their examinations
in 2018 and thereafter. The revision to the practical
components will include execution of the Imaginative
Composition or Still Life component and the Craft
or Design component as coursework in schools over
an extended period of time. Both components will
also be based on a single set of stimulus materials.
The Life Sketching and History and Appreciation
of Art examinations will continue to be held at the
same time of year as they are currently.
10
Art, Craft, Design
11
Teacher - Miss Hunt
Business Studies
Teacher - Mr Flemming
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
This new specification for junior cycle business studies
will be taken by first year students from September
2016. The specification covers teaching, learning and
assessment in Business Studies for the first, second
and third years in post-primary school.
Leaving Certificate business creates an awareness of
the importance of business activity and develops a
positive and ethical attitude towards enterprise. The
learning experiences in business develop students’
critical thinking, creative and organisational skills while
enhancing literacy and numeracy skills using real-life
examples. Business provides students with a learning
foundation for a wide range of careers in business,
marketing, law, enterprise and management.
The specification focuses on improving students’
understanding of the business environment and
on developing skills for life, work and further study
through the three inter-connected strands: Personal
Finance, Enterprise and Our Economy.
This syllabus is for students in the senior cycle of postprimary education and is assessed at Ordinary and
Higher levels.
The Business Studies Department overlaps with many
areas of school life and also life after school. At Senior
Level students involved in Business Studies participate
in competitions and master skills which will stand to
them in the future. Our students have performed very
well at National and County levels participating in
challenges such as Concept Awards, Mini-Companies
and much more. The Business Studies Department is
currently involved with marking State Exams and in
their subject association, they are also involved in the
current training for the new Junior Cycle which is an
exciting initiative for both staff and students alike.
12
Civic Social and Political Education (CSPE)
Teachers - Miss O’Keeffe, Miss King & Miss Hodnett
CSPE is changing in our school and will soon
become part of the Wellbeing Program. At present
CSPE looks at educating students civically, socially
and politically and developing them as citizens who
actively participate in society.
CSPE currently involves both a written exam and an
Action Project. The written paper which is offered
at Common Level tries to educate the students
to be more civically, politically and socially aware.
The Action Project gives students the capability of
driving an initiative they are particularly interested
in. Past projects have included raising awareness of
homelessness, building a well in Ghana and climbing
Lug na Coille in order to raise money for local charities.
The subject sits well with the ethos of the school
where we endeavour to prepare the student for life
not just academically. The development of a social
conscience is an imperative of school life.
13
English
Teachers - Miss Dalton, Miss Farrell & Miss King
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
New features of this specification include learning
outcomes across three strands, oral language, reading
and writing.
Leaving Certificate English invites students into rich
experiences with language so that they become
fluent and thoughtful users of it and more aware of
its significance in their lives. It develops a range of
literacy and oral skills in a variety of areas, personal,
social, and cultural. Students develop a wide range
of skills and concepts. These will allow them to
interpret and enjoy a range of material so that they
become independent learners who can operate
independently in the world beyond the school.
There is a new focus given to oral communication
which aims to promote greater engagement and
thinking in the classroom and beyond. There will also
be a new assessment in oral language as well as of
students’ collections of written school work.
The English Department in Coláiste Eoin is excited
to be in Year Two of the new Junior Cycle English
Programme. The new syllabus involved a lot of upskilling and fresh thinking. The Department was
delighted with the challenge which saw this years’
2nd Year class complete an Oral Component which
will be reported as an addition to their JC English
results. The students were nervous and found
the new departure challenging but the end result
proved to be very rewarding. The Department work
hard to keep up to date with new methodologies
and educational developments, all of the teachers
involved are members of their subject association
INOTE and have all been involved in marking State
Examinations.
14
Leaving Certificate English is assessed at two levels,
Ordinary and Higher level.
English Students have represented Coláiste Eoin
at National and International level through their
involvement in Public Speaking. They are also
involved in essay competitions, poetry competitions,
drama and much more.
French
Teachers - Mr Kelly & Miss O’Keeffe
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
This syllabus, covers teaching and learning in French
for the first, second and third years in post-primary
school. It is assessed by examination at the end of
third year at Ordinary and Higher Level. The current
syllabus was introduced in 1993. A new specification
for Junior Cycle French will be taken by first year
students from September 2017.
Leaving Certificate French follows a common
syllabus framework for the teaching and examining
of modern languages in the Leaving Certificate. The
syllabus aims to develop learners’ communicative
skills in the French, to develop their strategies
for effective language learning and raise their
awareness of cultural, social and political diversity.
Assessment is by means of a written examination,
and an aural and oral examination at two levels,
Ordinary level and Higher level.
The French Department work very hard each year
to prepare students for examinations. The teachers
have attended all relevant CPD for their subject and
are au fait with new ways of bringing language alive.
Involvement in the Oral Exams and marking of State
Examinations also ensures that the Department is
constantly up-skilling for the benefit of their students.
The French Department has also been involved in
Foreign Exchanges and ETB Scholarship Awards.
15
Mathematics
Teachers - Miss Hand, Miss Hickey & Miss Hodnett
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Maths at Junior Cycle focuses on further developing
the mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding,
which students have gained from primary school,
applying maths to real life situations, developing
problem-solving skills and fostering a positive attitude
to maths. This syllabus is for first, second and third
year students in post-primary education.
Mathematics at Senior Cycle builds on the learning at
Junior Cycle and develops mathematical knowledge,
skills and understanding needed for continuing
education, life and work. Through their study of
mathematics, students develop a flexible, disciplined
way of thinking which enables them to solve problems
in mathematical and real world contexts.
The syllabus is provided at two levels only – Higher
and Ordinary level. It is assessed at Foundation,
Ordinary and Higher levels.
The syllabus is provided at three levels – Higher,
Ordinary and Foundation level and is also assessed
at these levels. There are two examination papers at
each level.
The Maths Department has taken on the challenge
of Project Maths along with their counterparts
nationally. This has ensured that all teachers in the
area have completed all mandated CPD for their
subject. The Department also comprises teachers
who have corrected for the State Exams Commission
and this is an added bonus for students.
16
Gaeilge
Teachers - Miss Cummins & Miss Dalton
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Junior Certificate Irish builds upon the language
developed during primary education. The learner’s
vocabulary is both reinforced and enriched at
this stage and the four language skills (listening,
speaking, reading and writing) are further developed.
In addition the learner’s linguistic and cultural
awareness are expanded over the three years of
junior cycle.
Leaving Certificate Irish builds upon the language
developed during Junior Cycle. All four language skills
are further developed in order to enable the learner
take an active part in the bilingual society in which we
live in today in Ireland. The learner is encouraged to
develop and share her/his views on a range of topics.
The learner is also prepared during Senior Cycle for
further study in or through Irish.
There is currently one Irish syllabus at junior cycle,
and a candidate may take the examination at one
of three levels i.e. Foundation Level, Ordinary Level
or Higher Level. An optional school-based oral
examination worth 40% of the overall marks is
offered at all three levels. Literary works, chosen
by the school and based on certain criteria must
be studied at higher level only, but the study of
appropriate literary works in order to promote
language development is also encouraged at the
two other levels.
Irish is assessed at three levels i.e. Foundation Level,
Ordinary Level or Higher Level. The learner’s oral
competency is assessed around Easter of the final
year, in an oral examination worth 40%, at each level,
of the overall mark, and the other three skills are
assessed in June. Aspects of literary works must be
studied at Ordinary Level while at Higher Level these
same works and additional material must be studied
in greater detail.
17
The NCCA is currently undertaking a review of the
Leaving Certificate Syllabus.
The Irish Department is currently involved in the
roll out of the new JC Curriculum and as with other
departments in the school has up-skilled and
attended various CPD days to facilitate the on-going
changes in schools. As a Department the teachers
involved have corrected State Examinations and are
involved in the Oral Exams at both LC and JC level.
Coláiste Eoin are proud to say that we have been
offering students the Oral Assessment at JC level
for a number of years, the teachers involved felt that
a living knowledge of a language is critical to its
study. It also is a huge advantage to our students
who have completed an oral at junior level before the
daunting LC exam. Similarly, the Department facilitate
speakers, Seachtain na Gaeilge activities and the
Fáinne Award is offered at TY level.
Geography
Teachers - Miss Cummins, Miss Hickey, Miss O’Keeffe & Miss Hodnett
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Geography in junior cycle aims to develop students’
understanding of the world they live in, what
shapes the environment and how the environment
is influenced by people in different ways. Students
learn how to source and use information from
different sources including the internet, books, maps,
photographs, graphs, diagrams and newspapers. As
students learn in Geography they are encouraged to
collect information related to their learning beyond
the classroom through fieldwork studies.
Leaving Certificate geography will help students
develop an understanding of the changing
relationships between the physical and human
worlds. Through their study of geography, students
will develop geographical skills that will help them
to make informed judgements about issues at local,
national and international levels.
The syllabus is provided at two levels only –
Higher and Ordinary. It is assessed at Higher and
Ordinary levels.
Leaving Certificate geography may be studied at
Ordinary or Higher level. The course is divided into
core, elective and optional units of study. Geography
is assessed at Ordinary and Higher level. Students
are expected to complete a report on a geographical
investigation and to sit a written examination.
The Geography Department has also completed
relevant CPD for their subject and try to bring the
subject alive in their classrooms. This is facilitated
through the use of DVDs, photographs and most
importantly the annual field trip to Kippure where
students take on the unenviable task of wading
through water, trekking through fields, all in an effort
to complete the Fieldwork Component which is
mandatory at Senior Cycle. The subject is a popular
option for students and encompasses not just map
work and physical geography but looks closely at
social issues too.
18
History
Teachers - Miss Egan, Miss Farrell & Miss King
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
This syllabus covers teaching and learning in History
for the first, second and third years in post-primary
school. It is assessed by examination at the end of
third year at Ordinary and Higher Levels.
Leaving Certificate history deals with the experience of
human life in the past. The study of history involves an
investigation of the surviving evidence relating to such
experience. It brings students into contact with human
experiences that are often very different from their
own and fosters their developing understanding of
the human condition and human motivation. Through
its focus on the evaluation of evidence, it contributes
significantly to the development of students’ skills
of critical thinking. Through its focus on research, it
allows students the opportunity to develop their skills
of independent learning.
The History Department is active in the school. All
teachers have completed CPD relevant to their area.
History at JC level has been brought alive in class
through cross curricular activities such as drama
and action projects. For the last number of years
students have been asked to complete projects as
part of final year assessments, the projects have
included a plethora of interesting historical artefacts,
from swords, to crannógs, to Viking long boats. The
creativity and thought process involved will be a huge
asset to students as they continue on their school
journey. The History Department was also to the fore
this year as they assisted in the planning and roll
out of the 1916 commemorations in school.
19
Home Economics
Teacher - Miss Tompkins
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Home economics at junior cycle focuses on the
knowledge, understanding and skills necessary for
living as individuals and as members of a family.
Home economics is very relevant to the present and
future social, creative and management needs and
skills for living.
Leaving Certificate home economics provides
students with knowledge, understanding, skills and
attitudes necessary for managing their own lives, for
further and higher education and work. The learning
experiences in home economics develop flexibility
and adaptability in students, prepare them for a
consumer-oriented society and provide a learning
foundation for a wide range of careers in food,
textiles, science, design, social studies and tourism.
This syllabus is for students in the senior cycle of
post-primary education and is assessed at Higher
and Ordinary levels.
The syllabus is based on a core of five areas of study
that will be studied by all students and one optional
study, from a choice of three.
Home Economics is assessed, at Ordinary and Higher
Level, through three different methods of assessment:
a food studies practical examination, an elective study
project and a written examination.
20
The Home Economics Department caters for every
child, every palate and every interest in the school.
Activities organised range from Flower Arranging
to Bake Offs to Photography. Students enjoy the
challenge the subject offers while also gaining
from the practical approach the subject affords.
The subject department is a vibrant vigorous one
which adapts to new methodologies and subject
specifications with ease. The teacher is also an
Examiner for the State Exams Commission and as
with other subject areas has a wealth of knowledge
to pass on to students as a result of this.
Home Economics
21
Teacher - Miss Tompkins
Materials Technology Wood
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Junior Certificate Materials Technology Wood provides
students in the junior cycle of post-primary education
with an opportunity to explore their role in making
and shaping their environment. It involves the use
of a design process, which is a central feature of the
subject, through which students undertake tasks that
require the use of practical problem-solving skills
and the application of scientific and technological
knowledge. Materials Technology Wood is assessed at
two levels, Ordinary level and Higher level, by means of
a written examination paper and a student project.
Leaving Certificate construction studies provides
students in the senior cycle of post-primary education
with an introduction to the knowledge and skills
involved in construction technology and construction
materials and processes. Students develop their ability
to communicate ideas and information and to apply
accurate observation and scientific investigation
through exploring materials and processes.
Teachers - Mr Burke & Mr Doyle
Construction studies is assessed at two levels,
Ordinary level and Higher level, by means of a written
examination, a practical test, and an assessment of
student project work.
This area affords the students the chance to
be creative and learn life skills while in a safe
environment. The Department has state of the art
tools, machinery and equipment and the teachers
in the Department are constantly up-skilling and
re-training in an effort to ensure they are up to
date with current methodologies. The teachers are
also involved in their subject association and with
corrections for the State Exams Commission.
Recent training has been facilitated through the
T4 Initiative which is a government sponsored
programme.
22
23
Teachers - Mr Burke & Mr Doyle
Metalwork
Teacher - Mr Doogue
Engineering
Teacher - Mr Doogue
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Junior Certificate Metalwork provides students in
the junior cycle of post-primary education with an
introduction to materials and process engineering
and an insight into associated technology. It is
founded in practical activity that seeks to link
observation and action with ingenuity and creativity
in a problem-solving context. The course has two
main sections: (i) Techniques and Design, which
incorporates all of the practical work, and (ii)
Materials and Technology, which is the related
technical and technological principles and theory.
Leaving Certificate engineering is the study of
mechanical engineering for students in the senior
cycle of post-primary education. Students develop
the skills and initiative in the planning, development
and realization of technological projects in a safe
manner. Practical resourcefulness, creativity
and design in the planning and development of
technological projects are emphasised. There are
two main areas of study: workshop processes, and
materials and technology.
Metalwork is assessed at two levels, Ordinary level
and Higher level, by means of a written examination
paper and a student project. At Higher level, in
addition, there is a practical examination.
24
Engineering is assessed at two levels, Ordinary level
and Higher level, by means of a written examination,
a project and a practical examination.
Metalwork and Engineering are practical subjects
which afford the students the opportunity to create
and learn simultaneously. The project components
of both mean that from the very first day in Coláiste
Eoin students are expected to work with the state of
the art tools and equipment in order to familiarise
themselves with them. The teachers involved are also
involved with the State Examinations Commission
and can use this experience to assist students when
preparing for exams.
Engineering
25
Teacher - Mr Doogue
Technical Graphics
Teachers - Mr Luttrell & Mr Doogue
Junior Cycle
Junior Certificate Technical Graphics involves students
in the development of a range of skills associated with
the management of spatial problems and the graphical
communication of spatial ideas and solutions. In
Technical Graphics, students in the junior cycle of postprimary education construct, and study the properties
of, plane geometrical figures; they also develop skills in
graphical communication using current standards and
conventions, including drawing and sketching and the
use of computer graphics.
Technical Graphics is assessed at two levels,
Ordinary level and Higher level, by means of a
terminal examination paper.
26
Design & Communication Graphics
Teacher - Mr Luttrell
Senior Cycle
Leaving Certificate design and communication
graphics involves comprehending, analysing and
communicating information presented verbally or
graphically. Problem solving and creative thinking
skills are developed through the analysis and solution
of problems in both two and three dimensions
graphics. Graphics and design are communicated
using a variety of media, including computer-aided
design (CAD). The main areas of study are: Plane
and Descriptive Geometry, Communication of Design
and Computer Graphics, and Applied Graphics.
Design and Communication Graphics is assessed
at two levels, Ordinary level and Higher level, by
means of two assessment components: a student
assignment, of which CAD forms a significant and
compulsory element, and an examination paper.
A relatively new subject DCG has really taken off in
Coláiste Eoin. As part of the T4 Initiative supported
by government funding schools were encouraged to
invest in the best equipment and upskill all teachers
in an effort to promote subjects for the future. The
Department has completed all the relevant CPD and
the facilities offered to students are exemplary.
27
Science
Teachers - Mr Dunphy & Miss Hand
Biology
Teacher - Mr Dunphy
Physics & Chemistry
Teacher - Mr Hand
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
Senior Cycle
New features of this specification include learning
outcomes across the unifying strand, Nature of
science, and the four contextual strands:Physical
world, Chemical world, Biological world and Earth
and space.
Biology is the study of life. Through the study of
biology students explore the diversity of life and
the inter-relationships between organisms and their
environment. They become aware of the use of living
organisms and their products to enhance human
health and the environment.
The Physics and Chemistry syllabus is a discrete
syllabus and students presenting for this subject in the
Leaving Certificate examination may not present for
either of the individual syllabuses, Leaving Certificate
Physics or Leaving Certificate Chemistry. Physics and
Chemistry is an experimental and practical subject and
practical work by students is regarded as an integral
part of the course.
There is a new focus given to the Nature of science
which aims to promote greater engagement and
thinking about how science works; carrying out
investigations, communicating in science, and the
role and contribution of science and scientists to
society. There are also new assessments which offers
students a chance to demonstrate their achievement
as creators of scientific research reports.
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The Leaving Certificate Biology syllabus is for students
in the senior cycle of post-primary education and is
assessed at Ordinary and Higher levels.
This syllabus is for students in the senior cycle of
post-primary education and is assessed at Higher and
Ordinary levels.
Science students in Coláiste Eoin are offered every
opportunity to succeed while participating in a vibrant
and practical subject. Course work takes place in
tandem with science competitions, experiments and
courses such as First Aid are completed within the
school. The Department is actively involved in their
subject associations and also participate in relevant
CPD. They are currently working diligently to implement
the new Junior Cycle Programme within the school
and have attended a plethora of in-service to facilitate
the new course.
Programmes Offered
“The roots of
education are bitter
but the fruit is sweet”
- Aristotle
Adult Learning
Adult & Continuing Education
PLC Programme 2015/2016
Post Leaving Certificate courses began in
September and ran for the academic year
as follows:
Health Care Support FETAC 5
Early Childhood Care & Education FETAC 5
Evening Classes
Term Two commenced on Monday, 11th Jan 2016.
Classes on offer were:
FETAC Level 6 in Early Childhood Care and Education
* Special Needs Assisting
* Supervision in Early Childcare
FETAC Level 5 in Healthcare Support
The following evening classes were on offer at
Coláiste Eoin for autumn 2015:
FETAC Level 5 in Early Childhood Care and Education
* Creative Crafts for Childcare
* Early childhood play and practice
Level 5 Healthcare
* Work Experience
* Intellectual disability studies
Started 14th September 7-9:30pm 12 weeks
Hobby Art Class
All classes are delivered were on Monday evenings
from 7.00pm -9.30pm
Level 5 Childcare
* Early childhood Ed & Practice
* Special Needs Assisting
Level 6 Childcare
* Work Experience
* Creative Studies for children with special needs
Art Hobby Class
Started 5th October 7-9:00pm 8 weeks
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Certification
Activities
First Aid
GAISCE
GAA- courses in the following:
* Coaching
* Refereeing
* Concussion Awareness
Term 1
* Baltinglass Adventure Centre
* Mini Companies
* Christmas Craft Fairs
* Ducketts Grove & Rathwood Home & Garden Centre
* Ploughing Match
* Volunteer Fair
* Flower Arranging Workshop
* Enterprise Show-GBS
* Youth Connect Speaker
* AIB Build A Bank Speaker
* Beat the Blues speaker - AWARE
* Mental Health - MENSANA Speaker
* Dance Workshop-Danielle Byrne
* KAS Programme-Rape Crisis Centre
* Trampolining – Adventure Alley Gorey
* Ice Skating-Dundrum on Ice
* Work Experience
* Table Quiz Fundraiser
* “ WAKE UP” Programme
FETAC Modules – Level 4/5
* Desktop Publishing
* Anatomy
* Nutrition
Wednesday Afternoon Activities
6 Week Programmes are provided
in the following areas:
* Tae kwondo – Self Defence
* Injury Prevention and Sports Fitness
* Zumba
* Bootcamp
Community Involvement
* Homework Club- St Joseph’s NS & Tynock NS
* GAA coaching in national schools
* Hacketstown Daycare Centre
* Fund Raising for Charities
* Work Experience
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Term 2
* Variety Show
* Dancing Workshops-Variety Show
* Self Help Africa Speaker
* Mini Company Competition - Carlow Enterprise Board
* Anti Cyber Bullying Speaker
* GAA Coaching skills- Brendan Hayden
* GAA Refereeing skills-Go Games
* Concussion Awareness Course-GAA
* Chocolate Garden
* Driving Skills Workshop
* Zumba
* Work Experience
Term 3
* Drugs Awareness Speaker
* GAISCE (President’s Award)
* Get Up & Go Mini Company Finals (PDST)
* 1ST Aid Assessment and Certification
* FETAC Examinations
* Road Safety Roadshow
* Splatball
* Horse Riding
* National Aquatic Centre & Dublin Zoo
* Make Up Workshop
* Foreign Trip- New York
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LCVP
LCVP is a Senior Cycle Programme of the Department
of Education and Skills, designed to give a strong
vocational dimension to the Leaving Certificate
(established). The programme combines the virtues
of academic study with a new and dynamic focus
on self-directed learning, enterprise, work and the
community. Young people taking the LCVP have a
unique opportunity to develop their interpersonal,
vocational and technological skills. These skills are
equally relevant to the needs of those preparing for
further education, seeking employment or planning to
commence their own business sometime in the future.
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Holistic Education Programmes
“Educating the mind
without educating
the heart
is no education at all”
- Aristotle
Religion
As a multi-denominational school, we provide for the
religious education of our students which seeks
to promote in each student an awareness of personal
worth and dignity and a respect and tolerance of
others, through our moral and religious education
programme in accordance with our school ethos.
Junior Cycle
Senior Cycle
At junior cycle the programme aims at supporting the
moral and spiritual development of the young person
and to develop a tolerance and respect for the values
and beliefs of others. It seeks to develop in students
the skills needed to engage in meaningful dialogue
with those of other, or of no religious traditions. It has a
particular role to play in the promotion of tolerance and
mutual understanding.
Religious education at senior cycle builds on the
curriculum at junior cycle in facilitating students in
their search for meaning and to identify the great
questions concerning the goal and purpose of life
and the exploration of one’s ethics. The programme
introduces students to a process for moral decisionmaking and provides students with the space to
consider the implications of these for personal
decision-making. It challenges students to reflect
on a range of justice issues, reflecting on one’s
own situation and context in light of questions of
power, resources, meaning, values and relationships.
It aims at fostering awareness that the human
search for meaning is common to all peoples, of all
ages and at all times and; to appreciate the richness
of traditions and to acknowledge the non-religious
interpretation of life.
Religious education can justly claim to be an integral
part of any curriculum that aims to promote the
holistic development of the person. It provides the
time and space for students to reflect on their own
being and their place in society.
Students of Coláiste Eoin are provided with religion
at both junior and senior cycle. This subject is a nonexaminable subject in our school.
35
SPHE
Social, personal and health education (SPHE)
provides particular opportunities to foster the
personal development, health and well-being of
the individual child, to help him/her to create and
maintain supportive relationships and become an
active and responsible citizen in society. Through
an SPHE programme that is planned and consistent
throughout the school, children can develop a
framework of values, attitudes, understanding and
skills that will inform their decisions and actions
both now and in the future. Since SPHE has a
moral and a spiritual dimension, its development
and implementation are influenced significantly by
the ethos or characteristic spirit of the school. The
learning and teaching climate that prevails in the
classroom, the methodologies and approaches
used and the relationships that the children
experience and witness in the school, all
contribute to their social, personal and health
development. Similarly, many of the themes and
topics addressed in the various subjects have a
social, personal or health perspective, as will
many of the incidental happenings that occur
in the everyday life of the school. There are also
particular issues that are intrinsic to SPHE that
need to be explored and examined in some detail.
An effective and meaningful SPHE programme will
cater for all these dimensions by providing learning
opportunities in a combination of three ways: in
the context of a positive school climate and
atmosphere, through discrete time
36
(a specific time on the timetable) and through an
integrated approach across a range of subject areas.
Implementation in this way will enable the teacher to
adopt a coherent approach to the programme, take
cognisance of the learning experience in the home
and make use of the most appropriate learning and
teaching strategies. As children progress through
an SPHE programme, they will encounter a wide
range of issues. These will include substance misuse,
relationships, sexuality, child abuse prevention,
prejudice and discrimination. The SPHE curriculum
is structured in such a way that these issues are
not explored in isolation; rather the emphasis is
on building a foundation of skills, values, attitudes
and understanding relevant to all these issues, with
specific information provided where necessary.
Guidance in Post Primary
Guidance in post-primary schools within the lifelong
context is aimed at students from the ages of 12
to 18 and relates to programmes from levels 3 to 5
on the National Framework of Qualifications. The
Guidance programme is provided to both junior and
senior cycle students.
Guidance is an entitlement in post-primary schools as
per the Education Act (1998) Section 9 which states
that a school shall use its available resources ... to (c)
ensure that students have access to appropriate guidance
to assist them in their educational and career choices.
Guidance in post-primary schools is a whole
school activity that is integrated into all school
programmes. Guidance in schools “refers to
a range of learning experiences provided in
developmental sequence, that assist students to
develop self-management skills which will lead to
effective choices and decisions about their lives.
It encompasses the three separate, but interlinked
areas of personal and social development,
educational guidance and career guidance.”
(DES, 2005, pg. 4).
37
Details of
Special Needs Provision
The document Guidelines for Second-Level
Schools on the Implications of Section 9 (c) of the
Education Act 1998, Relating to Students’ Access
to Appropriate Guidance (DES, 2005), indicates
that a guidance programme should be part of a
school plan and identifies the central role of the
guidance counsellor as well as the important
contribution of different members of staff to the role
of guidance. The Whole School Guidance Plan for
the school should take account of the needs of all
Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate students.
Guidance also forms part of the curriculum in the
Transition Year Programme (TYP), the Leaving
Certificate Applied (LCA) and Leaving Certificate
Vocational Programme (LCVP).
Every reasonable effort is made to accommodate
students with special needs. The school will meet
with the parents/guardians to discuss the student’s
needs and the school’s suitability or capability to
meet those needs.
Coláiste Eoin will use resources both financial
and personnel provided to it by the DES to make
reasonable provision and accommodation for
students with disabilities or special educational
needs. While recognising and fully supporting
parents’ rights the school’s ability to accept
students with particular needs is contingent upon
the particular relevant resources suitable to the
needs of the particular student, being supplied by
the DES.
In making provision for special needs students all
relevant information must be supplied to the school
by the parents/guardians e.g. relevant reports etc.
and the school will usually confirm a place for the
student on confirmation from the DES that all the
necessary resources are available.
Student Care
Pastoral Care
Equality
The school is organised in such a way that each
individual student is cared for so that his or her
potential is maximised. We will care for and challenge
your children to use their talents to be the best that
they can be. Each class is looked after by a Class
Teacher who works closely with the Year Head, who
has overall responsibility for all classes within the
year group. Together with the Principal and Deputy
Principal, Year Heads and Class Teachers work hard
to help students get the most from their education
at Coláiste Eoin.
The school has a Pastoral Care Team that provides
support and guidance for students. We pride ourselves
on the close contacts we have with our students. As
the school is of medium size, teachers are enabled
to know students individually. In addition, each class
has a Class Teacher responsible for the welfare of
students in that class. Regular staff meetings are
held where the progress of students is discussed. The
Class Teacher also liaises with other members of the
pastoral care team including the deputy, principal, and
school chaplain. As a result, difficulties that may arise
for individual students are quickly noticed and acted
on before serious problems develop.
Students are encouraged to pick the subjects for
which they have the greatest aptitude. Consequently,
boys have the option of studying Home Economics
and girls – Materials Technology (Wood), Metalwork
and Technical Graphics. Personal development
classes are provided for students. All classes have
representation on the Students’ Council.
The curriculum offered in Coláiste Eoin aims to meet
the needs, interests and abilities of its students.
The curriculum aims to equip students with the
knowledge and skills to progress to further and
higher education or to enter the world of work.
Students are challenged to grow academically,
socially and personally in their development in
an inclusive and caring teaching and learning
environment.
38
Bullying
Bullying behaviour is not acceptable in Coláiste
Eoin. Teachers make a special effort to ensure
that all cases of bullying are taken seriously and
investigated by the school. We believe everyone
has the right to grow in a positive environment.
This right extends to all members of our school
community.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Sport
In Coláiste Eoin, students are given the opportunity
to excel in sports and many other extra-curricular
activities. Students are encouraged to take part in
activities where they learn about effort and teamwork.
Available research would seem to strongly indicate
that students who participate in any form of extracurricular activities benefit from enhanced status
amongst peers, a wider social network, and an early
understanding of several crucial ‘life skills’.
The potential self-esteem gains to be made from these
outcomes can lead to improvements in other areas
and can in many cases act as a deterrent to poor
behaviour. These effects are particularly important
in ‘at-risk’ students who may struggle to gain similar
benefits in class as a result of low academic ability,
poor social skills, or physical restrictions. Students are
recommended to try as far as possible to participate
in a few different activities. The benefits to be gained
from extra-curricular activities vary from type to type
and focusing exclusively on team sports for example
is a very one-dimensional strategy which eliminates
numerous learning opportunities. We hope our
students become well-rounded young adults that can
work on their own or in a team and are as comfortable
in a sporting environment as they are speaking in front
of a large group. Removing oneself completely from
certain types of extra-curricular activities by definition
closes the door on the opportunity to develop the
associated skills. Carefully considering the options
available and choosing those activities with the
greatest learning potential and enjoyment outcomes,
is a vital part of the school experience.
39
Students are afforded the opportunity to participate
in a wide range of sporting activities in our school.
We pride ourselves on the fact that we instill a real
sense of community spirit in our students as they
participate and compete against larger schools. We
have continually and sometimes bafflingly excelled
as a direct result of our lesser numbers. Students
experience the sense of camaraderie and collegiality
so often absent in large school communities. They
realise that they are an important and integral part
of the team. Despite our numbers we have excelled
at every level and in every field. This year the First
Year Girls won the Leinster Soccer Final and a South
Leinster Final, Under 15 and Under 16 boys claimed
the Runners-Up positions in the South Leinster
Final. Our Senior Boys and Girls both competed
in the South Leinster League also, although took
home no silverware.
We had teams participate in Camogie and Football
Leagues at every age group.
Futsal which has taken off in the school proved
popular and the teams are developing their skills
and hope to make the County Final next year.
Ladies’ Rugby is a recent development and having
two of our Senior Girls, Bethany Sharpe and Rachael
Hickey being chosen to represent Leinster has
certainly advanced its standing among the school
community. This year our Ladies’ Rugby Team won
three blitz competitions and we know they are
destined for further success.
Our Junior Hurlers proved successful winning a
County Blitz.
The Annual School Sports Day took place at the
end of the year where students jumped on bouncy
castles and completed obstacle courses in order to
be team winners on the day.
Other less physical sports catered for in the school
include Draughts, Yugio Card Competitions, Foosball,
Pool and Table Tennis.
We pride ourselves on having an extra-curricular
activity for every student. The myriad of competitions
and events organised for and by the students is
testament to the passion they hold for sport in all of
its guises.
Cross Country is ever popular and the school had
representatives at every age level in the Carlow League.
Our athletes come together very well as a collective to
represent the school in the ETB Annual County Sports
and individual performances are always a secondary
requirement as the school team takes priority.
Extra-Curricular Activities
40
School News 2015/16
“There are two educations.
One should teach us how
to make a living and
the other how to live”
- John Adams
School News 2015/16
Coláiste Eoin welcomed our new First Years who
were embarking on an exciting educational and social
journey. They were well looked after by our Meitheal
Group. Meitheal is a leadership programme which
operates in Coláiste Eoin. The name Meitheal was
taken from an old tradition in the West. Farmers living
in the same area would have a Meitheal every
year, the idea being that they would work together to
bring in their crops. This built up strong friendships
and relationships among all involved. This is exactly
what we try to do in Coláiste Eoin. The programme
is designed to educate and empower young people in
their schools. We are certain the students will all
benefit from their involvement.
Debs
Coláiste Eoin said farewell to their Leaving Cert
class at the Debs’ Ball in The Arklow Bay Hotel.
The evening was a great success and as always
tinged with sadness for all involved. We wish the
group continued success academically and hope
they continue their journey with the same spirit of
positivity they shared with us in school.
School Service
All members of Coláiste Eoin attended a service
to celebrate the return to school. The service was
led by Father Sean Maher and he offered words of
wisdom and inspiration to all who attended.
42
Junior Cycle Results
QQI Awards
Well done to all the proud recipients of their Junior
Cert results. The group did exceptionally well and
we wish them continued success. Academic
Awards were presented to Niamh Byrne and
Matthew Mulhall who achieved the highest
results in the year. Well done to all.
Congratulations to the proud recipients of our
QQI Awards in Coláiste Eoin. As a school we pride
ourselves on offering education to the community,
as such each year we run both day and night
classes. This year we had successful candidates
at both QQI Level 5 and 6 Childcare and Healthcare
Support Level 5 and 6. The remarkable students
were presented with their awards by their coordinators and mentors, Miss Tompkins and
Miss Hickey also in attendance were Jim Whelan,
Chairperson Coláiste Eoin Board of Management,
Pauline Egan, Principal and James Burke, Deputy
Principal. A huge crowd gathered to celebrate
and share their experiences of Coláiste Eoin. One
of the most positive aspects of the evening was
that the award recipients were almost all either
engaged in employment or further study. The
occasion was used to swap stories and generally
catch up with the friends they had made in the
process of late evening and early morning study.
We are proud of all our Further Education students
and would like to wish them continued success in
their careers.
TY Trip to Baltinglass
The TY Class had their first big adventure of the year
when they travelled to Baltinglass Outdoor Education
Centre with Miss Tompkins. The day was action
packed with kayaking, orienteering and general team
building skills. The day is a wonderful opportunity for
the students to get to know each other as individuals
and experience challenges outside the school setting.
It proved to be very successful and hopefully the spirit
of camaraderie will translate into academic and social
life in Coláiste Eoin.
Ploughing Championships
The 2nd Year and TY classes took off to Stradbally and
spent the day perusing the Ploughing Championships.
Fortunately the weather was dry and a great day was
had by all.
School News 2015/16
CSPE Project
Study Skills
Student Concept
The third year students took part in a Charity Fancy
Dress Football Match as part of their course work for
CSPE on 20th October. The students organised the
match as a means of raising funds for their selected
charities; the Laura Lynn Children’s Hospice, Friends
of the Coombe and The Irish Cancer Society. The
students were sponsored by friends and family to
play the match and the school community were
greatly entertained by Spiderman, the headless
horseman, zebras, lions, tigers, clowns and soldiers
who all participated on the day. The match was
played on the school pitch and students played
with a rugby ball to add an extra element of comedy.
However, the students surprised their supporters
with a fast and competitive game which ended in a
draw. To date, the students have raised 600 euro for
the charities. Well done to all involved!
Coláiste Eoin embarked on its in-house Study
Skills Programme which is implemented annually.
The programme devised by teachers in the school
to suit the aptitudes and talents of our students
assists all years in the development of study skills.
The programme identifies the type of learner the
student is and equips them with the knowledge
to use this to their advantage. Setting goals,
motivation, time-tables and exam structures are
also dealt with. We hope the students find this
to be of assistance and wish them continued
success in their endeavours.
Well done to Leah Byrne and Roisin Hennessey
Murphy both Runners-Up in The County Enterprise
Concept Competition. Leah had a wonderful idea
called “Super Slipper”; the slippers were activated by
weight causing them to light up. The idea was that
no one would need to grapple in the darkness to
find a light switch any more. Roisin similarly had a
wonderful idea, she created “The Fireband”. The band
was to be used by deaf people and worn on their
wrists. The band vibrated in the event of a fire alerting
them to the dangers. Both ideas were very clever and
well thought out.
Transition Year Fundraiser
Flower Arranging
Well done to the TY Class who generated over 1000
euro in a fundraising Table Quiz. The MC for the
evening was Terry Martin; Terry had the capacity
crowd in stitches for the entire evening. 32 tables took
part with people arriving from the local area, students,
and teachers and of course regular table quiz buffs.
Transition Years had a wonderful day with Lillian Steel
from “Daisy A Day” in Baltinglass who demonstrated the
art of flower arranging. Lillian came in equipped for the
lesson and all the students were fortunate enough to go
home with a beautiful bouquet. Lillian demonstrated the
skills and techniques involved in the process and the
students had a thoroughly enjoyable day.
Student Representatives
Well done to the chosen Student Representatives
in Coláiste Eoin, Stephen Coogan, Kelly Nolan,
Chani Kane, Dale Mcnamara, Bryan Kearney, Lorna
O’Neill, Luke Connolly, Erin Byrne, Sean Moran,
Rory Tompkins and Kelly Hooper. We wish them
success in their endeavours.
The school would like to thank all who assisted on the
night and again the local community for spot prizes
and their support. TY is a busy year for all involved and
sometimes a costly one. Events like this help alleviate
the pressure on parents and students alike.
The evening brought triumphs and disappointments
but most of all it was fun filled family event. We look
forward to similar events in the future.
43
Gold Gaisce Award by Andrew Byrne
Eoin Fitzgerald received the President’s Award from
Michael D. Higgins during an award ceremony in
Dublin Castle.
Fitzgerald, who resides on the Wicklow border
outside of Hacketstown, undertook the Gold Gaisce
School News 2015/16
in November 2013 and completed the task after an
87km hike around the Kerry Way in July this year.
After receiving the award, he said: “I don’t think
I could have went through with it if it weren’t for
Miss Cummins, she helped me so much and made
everything so easy for me, which I have so much
gratitude for.”
Eoin completed his Bronze and Silver Gaisce Award
while attending Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown, and
used the schools President’s Award Leader (PAL),
Mary Cummins, to help him take on the final stage of
the Gaisce awards.
Over the 21 months that Eoin took to complete the
challenge he coached an u-8 football team, he learned
how to play the Ukulele, he attended the gym three
times a week, he worked with the youth leadership
programme Meitheal, and he spent four days hiking
the Kerry Way.
“It was such a long journey from starting way back
in 2013 and I felt a lot of times like it was never
going to get finished but the moment I received the
invitation to the ceremony with the President was
surreal and I’m so happy to have made it through to
the end.”, he said.
Eoin completed the hike with three of his friends
which helped push him through difficult obstacles
he faced along the way. He said, “I was delighted to
44
know the lads were always there for me even though
they weren’t getting an official award out of it like
me. They didn’t have to be there with me in the rain
and I’ll be forever grateful.”
achievements and delighted to see friendships and
careers blossoming.
The Gaisce Award is a presidential award for young
people up to twenty-five who have to fulfil a number
of activities that benefit themselves or others in a
specific period of time. President Higgins said the
President’s Awards are a form of recognition of the
efforts of many young people in our society who are
prepared to challenge themselves and transform
ideas into actions as they strive to reach their full
potential.
The TY class arrived in New York on Tuesday 16th
of March. The trip was the culmination of hard work
on their behalf and on behalf of the organising
teacher Miss Cummins. The idea came to fruition
after months of planning and all involved were
delighted to experience The Big Apple with friends.
Well done to Eoin and all those who helped him on
his journey.
One of the young men who assisted Eoin on his
arduous adventure was none other than the writer of
the above article Andrew Byrne. Andrew was a year
above Eoin but as always the spirit of community
and camaraderie evident in all aspects of school life
in Coláiste Eoin seems to remain with the students
even when they leave the school. Andrew is in DCU
currently undertaking a Degree in Journalism; he
decided to not only write the article on behalf of his
friend Eoin but also to help him as he completed the
Gold Gaisce Award. Andrew has kept us all up to
date on his adventures in college with his hilarious
blog and video clips. We wish both young men
continued success and are proud of their
New York
The students were lucky enough to be allowed join the
parade with the Carlow delegation and joined them
later that evening for their annual Dinner Dance.
Sights included The Empire State Building, St Patrick’s
Cathedral, The Chrysler Building, The Rockefeller Centre
Jersey Gardens Outlet Centre, Madame Tussauds,
Ice Skating in Central Park, Radio City Music Hall,
Ellis Island, The Statue of Liberty, a cruise around
Manhattan, Les Mis, China Town and Little Italy.
The students and teachers who accompanied them
were exhausted by the frantic itinerary but thrilled
to see New York in all its splendour. The behaviour
of all involved was commended by those they
encountered and all came home safe and sound.
The experience literally is a once in a lifetime
opportunity and created memories that will last a
lifetime.
School News 2015/16
Meitheal Graduation
‘Meitheal’ is a developmental support and training
organisation, within the school, working for equality
and social justice. Marking a year of hard work
Meitheal 6th Years celebrated their Graduation
from the organisation with flying colours this week.
The students included Darren Daly, Emma Pearson,
Megan O Regan Byrne, Rachel Hickey, Lauren Doyle,
Laura O Keeffe, Megan Kane, Sarah Murphy, Thomas
Whelan and Darragh Byrne. The group are selected
and trained for the role which involves inducting
First Years in the school while simultaneously
building relationships and smoothing the transition
from primary school. Coláiste Eoin is proud of the
achievements of this year’s Meitheal who bonded
very well together and assisted the First Year
students throughout the year.
This year’s ceremony was particularly important for
Coláiste Eoin as this year’s group were joined by six
past pupils who are still currently engaged in the
programme. Having participated and shown great
leadership skills, Sadhbh Byrne, Anthony Byrne, Eva
Byrne, Eoin Fitzgerald and Shauna Hickey decided to
continue to participate in the programme as trainers.
We are thrilled that so many of our past pupils are
still involved with this commendable organisation.
Kilkenny Carlow ETB Debating Competition
Well done to Oisin Dalton, Bethany Sharpe and
Kelly Nolan who competed in the KCETB Debating
Competition last week. The team met Coláiste
45
Pobal Osrai in the semi-final of the event and was
narrowly defeated. The students were proposing
that ‘Ireland needs to focus on its own social issues
before helping other countries with theirs.’ Despite
their protestations and valid arguments they were
narrowly defeated. The team who was selected
from a panel of interested 5th Year students were
vociferous and coherent in their presentation, rebuttal
and content, unfortunately Coláiste Pobal Osrai had
the edge. Well done to all involved, we would like to
commend the enthusiasm shown to the school and
wish the team every success in the future.
TY Go Karting
The TY Class celebrated all their hard work in Coláiste
Eoin to date this year by taking to the tracks and
burning some rubber in Kylemore Karting. The event
which is Ireland’s largest indoor karting arena left them
spoiled for choice as they embarked upon the tracks,
underpasses, hills and banked corners. Typically the
competitive edge came to the fore as individual class
members drove with conviction in order to achieve the
fastest time. The class thoroughly enjoyed the day.
First Year/Second Year Trip to Glendalough
First and Second Years are aiming to walk through the
scenic countryside of Glendalough in order to raise
money for the local Day Care Centre as part of their
CSPE Project. The Project is a mandatory component
of the CSPE programme. The programme examined at
JC ensures students understand and explore their civic,
social and political obligations to the community and
country. Well done to all involved and congratulations
on the supreme effort.
Carlow Historical Society Chain of Office
Well done to Orla Byrne who won the Carlow Historical
Society Chain of Office Competition. Schools in the
county were asked to submit their designs and the
Chain of Office would then be commissioned based
on the winner’s interpretation of what the society
represented. Orla’s design was chosen as the society
felt she captured the essence of what the group are
trying to achieve. Orla was delighted to receive her
award and see the Chain of Office in all its glory worn
with pride by this year’s President Bertie Watchorn.
TY Quad Attack!
After an exhilarating year the TY Class culminated the
year with some speed and drama as they went quad
biking. The students many of whom are familiar with
quads enjoyed the thrill of the course as they trekked
through the countryside through hills, valleys and
forest trails. The day was the perfect way to end a
stimulating and educational year. The students then
returned to school and received their TY Certificates
during the Annual Graduation Ceremony. Well done
to all who participated with enthusiasm and diligence
throughout the year.
School News 2015/16
46
Stand Out Moments 2015/16
“Doubt kills more dreams
than failure ever will”
Proclamation Day
March 15th Proclamation Day was celebrated in style
in Coláiste Eoin. The Principal Dr. Pauline Egan had
attended the ceremony in Croke Park where she and
students Niall Tompkins, Niall Byrne and Padraig
Dowling were presented with the National Flag.
The school had been preparing for Proclamation
Day for some time and competitions included “A
Proclamation for the 21st Century” and a 1916
inspired art competition.
Leah Byrne 2nd year based her proclamation
around Conor McGregor, “The Notorious” and felt he
epitomised the ideals of the revolutionaries of The
Rising by advocating self-belief and the notion that
we should all follow our dreams. The argument
made was a true idealistic wish for the current
generation and Leah was commended on her
sustained thought-process and creativity.
The art competition saw fantastic paintings of
characters ranging from James Connolly to Enda
Kenny, past and present entwined. Katie Phelan took
first place in this competition with Kerry Timmons,
Nicola Murray and Laura Jackson finding themselves
highly commended.
The National Flag was raised and the entire school
listened as the Proclamation was read as gaeilge
and as bearla. Student contributions came from,
Luke Connolly, Willie Whelan, Ryan Byrne, Lorna O
Neill, Chani Kane, Sean Moran, Dale McNamara, Mary
Mulhall, Leah Byrne, Padraig O Toole, Bethany Sharpe
48
and Bailey Sharpe while Miss Dalton spoke on behalf
of the staff.
The day was a celebration of past and present and a
discreet glance to the future as we look forward to an
exciting and inspirational future.
Following this the ETB held a Commemorative Event
in The Dolmen Hotel in Carlow. Here the students
and Principal, Dr. Egan showcased the wonderful and
inspirational work that had been happening on the
ground in Coláiste Eoin.
Following the moving Focus Ireland ad, which
featured Johnny Sexton, and played before the
Ireland Wales match, class plans went out the
window. The ad campaign was startling and
moving. It used Johnny Sexton and “Ireland’s Call”
to discuss the homelessness crisis in Ireland.
Second and First Year students were asked to watch
the video which uses the lyrics of “Ireland’s Call” to
portray the many issues we need to stand, “shoulder
to shoulder” against.
In light of the special year that is 2016, students
were asked to consider whether or not, “Ireland’s Call
is an appropriate song to be used as an alternative
National Anthem”.
The students could choose sides and while all
overwhelmingly felt that Ireland’s Call was an
appropriately rousing song, they also believed it
should contain at least one verse, “as gaeilge”.
Then they felt it could be used instead of Amhrán
na bhFiann which many argued was not suitable as
it did not represent the North of Ireland. It was also
commented that Ireland has moved on and that “A
Soldier’s Song “ was not the anthem that we wished
to be associated with, rather the generic lyrics of
“Ireland’s Call” would be more fitting for modern society.
So with that in mind, we in consultation with the
muinteoirí gaeilge created a version of the song
as gaeilge.
The song was sung beautifully on the day by Katie
Phelan who wowed the crowd with her dulcet tones.
As part of the new JC English Programme students
are encouraged to involve themselves in “Digital
Literacy”, hopefully time permitting, we can present
the song to the school with an accompanying
slide show, using the magnificence of the Wicklow
landscape as our backdrop.
Watch this space!!!
Events and celebrations are still on-going in Coláiste
Eoin, all History students have covered 1916 this year
and hopefully there will be more exciting work on the
way. The school has been mindful of the intricate
balance between the portrayal of the idealistic
martyrs and the sad fact that many lost their lives. To
finish with Pearse’s words would be apt here; Coláiste
Eoin has certainly “kept faith with the past, and handed
on a tradition to the future.”
Proclamation Day
49
School Play
There was great excitement in Coláiste Eoin as the
Transition Year students took to the stage for the
twenty-second annual show and as usual they did
not disappoint. The students performed their own
original fairy tale entitled “Big Bad” which included
the Three Little Pigs, Red Riding Hood, The Boy Who
Cried Wolf and of course the Big Bad Wolf. Talent was
evident from start to finish and the students amazed
the audience with their acting and dancing.
Dylan Tracey was superb in his role as the Big Bad
Wolf and his comrades, Fantastic Mr. Fox (Ryan
Whelan) and Badger (Kristofer Phelan) were also
excellent. The princesses provided great entertainment
and Nicola Murray, Shannon Just, Shannon Timmons
Amy Lee Weekes and Annie Tallon were particularly
noteworthy in these roles. Their long suffering Princes
were on hand to provide the comedy on the night
and CJ Wybrant, William Whelan, Christopher Doyle
and Adam Teevan were charming in their roles. Luke
Mullins was a clear star of the show in his role as
Prince Conor McGregor and he even took out the Big
Bad Wolf in 13 seconds flat! The fairies (Amy Kearney,
Millie Cullen, Sarah Kennedy, Aoife Hickey and Aoife
Byrne) were kept on their toes as always in their efforts
to ensure the kingdom ran smoothly.
50
The Three Little Pigs, played by Joshua Hunter, Oisin
Kelly and John Daniel Kennedy teamed up with Little
Red Riding Hood (Lynn Fenton) and The Boy Who
Cried Wolf (Keane Doyle) in an attempt to get revenge
on the Big Bad Wolf for his life of crime. Luckily,
Granny and Grandad, played by Niall Gartland and
Bryan Kearney, were on hand to provide the voice of
reason in the courtroom of Judge Juicy Tender (Sean
Byrne). Fairy Godmother and Evil Stepmother (Niamh
Byrne and Esther Keogh) battled it out in court and as
always, good overcame evil.
The students danced to all the latest hits on the
night. Hits including “Downtown”, “Better When I’m
Dancing” and “Easy Love” ensured the atmosphere
was electric on the night.
Coláiste Eoin extends its sincerest thanks to the
entire community and surrounding communities
for their continued help, support and generosity. Once
again, due to the students and staff of Coláiste Eoin,
two great nights entertainment were enjoyed by all.
Congratulations to all who were involved.
School Play
51
Coláiste Eoin Graduation Ceremony
One of the most moving and poignant celebrations of
the school calendar took place in Coláiste Eoin as we
said goodbye to our Leaving Cert Class. The students
have reached the end of their time with us and are
about to embark on their exciting futures.
A beautiful service was conducted for students,
staff, parents and the community at large by Father
McCormack and assisted by Reverend Stella. The
event was a celebration of fantastic memories and
shared dreams. On the evening some special awards
were presented, “Student of the Year” was awarded to
Shane O Toole and Chloe Smyth, while “School Spirit”
was awarded to Dale McNamara and Laura O Keeffe.
It is with sadness that the school community said
goodbye to friends and students who have contributed
greatly to Coláiste Eoin. We wish the students well in
their exams and with their future careers.
52
Anti-Bullying Awareness Week
Words Are Weapons Too
Coláiste Eoin introduced an Anti-Bullying Awareness
week two years ago. The school try to raise awareness
of the insidious nature of bullying and invites students
to share openly their thoughts and opinions in order
that they may be addressed. The week kicked off with
a survey and discussion, each class was spoken to by
the Principal and engaged in the week’s events. Class
groups are all involved in different activities throughout
the week ranging from expressions of self through
art, to slide shows, to discussion. As always the
regular school structures are on hand to deal with the
issues that arise in the form of Class Teachers, Year
Heads, Guidance Counsellor and Meitheal. The school
prides itself on the fact that there are representatives
from all sections of the school community whose
opinions are valued and addressed. The First Year
English Group produced a video which they shared
with the entire school community and well done to
them for their achievements. The theme for this year
was “Words Are Weapons Too” and the First Years
wrote and produced a video we were all very proud of.
The week has proven to be a huge success bringing
groups together and raising awareness of a topic
which may have been taboo in the past but is certainly
now out in the open.
We hope the event will raise awareness and in some
way assist students on their journey in Coláiste Eoin.
53
TY Tour to New York
The TY class arrived in New York on Tuesday 16th of
March. The trip was the culmination of hard work on
their behalf and on behalf of the organising teacher
Miss Cummins. The idea came to fruition after
months of planning and all involved were delighted
to experience The Big Apple with friends.
The students were lucky enough to be allowed join
the parade with the Carlow delegation and joined
them later that evening for their annual Dinner Dance.
Sights included The Empire State Building, St
Patricks Cathedral, The Chrysler Building, The
Rockefeller Centre, Jersey Gardens Outlet Centre,
Madame Tussauds, Ice Skating in Central Park,
Radio City Music Hall, Ellis Island, The Statue of
Liberty, a cruise around Manhattan, Les Mis, China
Town and Little Italy.
The students and teachers who accompanied them
were exhausted by the frantic itinerary but thrilled to
see New York in all its splendour. The behaviour of all
involved was commended by those they encountered
and all came home safe and sound.
The experience literally is a once in a lifetime opportunity
and created memories that will last forever.
54
School Awards
55
Coláiste Eoin,
Hacketstown, Co.Carlow
T (059) 6471198
F (059) 6471263
E [email protected]
www.colaisteeoinhacketstown.ie
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Annual Report - colaisteeoinhacketstown

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