newsletter christmas 2016 finished

December 2016

Dear Staff, Parents/Guardians and

Students,

It is that time of year again when

we wonder where the past 12

months have gone and in particular,

reflect on all that has happened here in the school since our last

newsletter in June. I would like to

acknowledge the contribution of

staff, parents and students to CCS

in 2016 and I look forward to con-

tinued teamwork and support in

2017.

It has been a very busy first term

here in school, where we had the

pleasure of welcoming a group of

new students into our school com-munity, both into 1st year and other

year groups. I hope that your ex-

perience to date has been a posi-

tive one and that you will continue

to be happy and successful with us.

In the course of this term, we have

seen our school continue to grow

and develop on many levels with the

introduction of academic monitor-

ing, which will aid all of our stu-dents to focus on their academic

potential and achieve to each one’s

own personal best, the continued

success of our new school canteen,

huge successes in the basketball

court with two of the ladies teams

– cadets and seniors - qualifying for

All Ireland Semi-finals in January,

qualification for National Finals in

Scifest and Technology Awards, raising of our second Green Flag,

many and diverse school field trips

as well as a nomination for Roscom-

mon Group Volunteer award for TY

class 2015-2016 and a ranking of

2nd place in County

Roscommon in the Feeder

School table 2016 published

on 6th December. Well done

and congratulations to all of

our students and staff on a

very busy and productive first term.

This Christmas Newsletter

gives an account of some of

those activities here in CCS

during the past number of

months and we hope you enjoy

the read. Thank you to the

staff and students who have

worked so diligently on its

publication and to those who

submitted articles and photo-

graphs for inclusion.

Unfortunately, for some of our school community, the

past few months have been a

difficult time with the loss of

loved ones and our thoughts

and prayers are with you at

this time of year. My wish for

each of you is that this

Christmas period will bring

peace and comfort to each of

you.

I would like to wish all of our

parents, students and friends a happy, safe and peaceful

Christmas and the very best

for 2017 and we look forward

to seeing you again on January

9th.

Nollaig faoi shéan is faoi

mhaise daoibh go léir.

Merry Christmas, Ms. Ryan

Inside this issue:

-Awards -Achievements -Scholarships

2

-Opening School Mass -Mass of remembrance -1st Year Night of Reflection

4

-German Exchange 5

-Instructional Leadership 6

-Green Schools -Hamlet Ag Science Trip

7

School walk 8

-Sport 9

-Team Hope 10

-CCS at town Expo 11

-Guidance News 12

-5th Yr. and LCVP trip to Harmac LTD. -LCA Field Trip

13

Student Contributions 14

December 2016December 2016December 2016December 2016

CASTLEREA COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Tel: 094 9620177

Email: [email protected]

Fröhliche WeihnachtenFröhliche WeihnachtenFröhliche WeihnachtenFröhliche Weihnachten

Bon NoëlBon NoëlBon NoëlBon Noël Happy Christmas

Happy Christmas

Happy Christmas

Happy Christmas

ZiemassvetkusZiemassvetkusZiemassvetkusZiemassvetkus

Priecigus

Priecigus

Priecigus

Priecigus

Feliz Natal

Feliz Natal

Feliz Natal

Feliz Natal

Nollaig ShonaNollaig ShonaNollaig ShonaNollaig Shona Fusventom KaledomFusventom KaledomFusventom KaledomFusventom Kaledom

Wesolych Swiat

Wesolych Swiat

Wesolych Swiat

Wesolych Swiat

Mary Rooney RIP

“And still they gazed and still the wonder grew,

That one small head could carry all she knew.”

Oliver Goldsmith

On a crisp, sunny November

day Mary Rooney – nee Gannon

– a former member of staff of

CCS was laid to rest in St

Joseph’s Cemetery, Castlerea, beside her baby son McCartan

and her baby daughter Mary.

Mary passed away after a long

illness bravely borne and cou-

rageously fought. Her passing

has left a deep void in the

lives of her family and friends,

those who knew and loved her.

Mary is remembered as an

excellent teacher and for her

dedication to her students.

She had a wonderful way of

reaching out to people in a

deep and positive way. This

was never more evident than in her role as Home School Liai-

son person in CCS.

Though her life was cut short

she lived it to the full, savour-

ing and cherishing every mo-

ment of it.

Mary is survived by her hus-

band and soulmate Ronan and

their five children, Síle,

Saoirse, Siobhán, Róisín and

Hugh.

Solas na bhFlaitheas ar a h-

Anam Uasal. Suaimhneas síoraí

ort go deo, A Mháire.

2

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

PLC Business and Social Studies GraduationPLC Business and Social Studies GraduationPLC Business and Social Studies GraduationPLC Business and Social Studies Graduation

Back Row:Back Row:Back Row:Back Row: Nicole Miley, Fiona Nolan, Chloe Carroll, Jimmy Connolly, Daniel Larkin, Damien Carty (PLC CoNicole Miley, Fiona Nolan, Chloe Carroll, Jimmy Connolly, Daniel Larkin, Damien Carty (PLC CoNicole Miley, Fiona Nolan, Chloe Carroll, Jimmy Connolly, Daniel Larkin, Damien Carty (PLC CoNicole Miley, Fiona Nolan, Chloe Carroll, Jimmy Connolly, Daniel Larkin, Damien Carty (PLC Co----ordinator) and Jarlath Burke (Deputyordinator) and Jarlath Burke (Deputyordinator) and Jarlath Burke (Deputyordinator) and Jarlath Burke (Deputy----Principal). Principal). Principal). Principal).

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

Each year the University’s Excellence Scholarships are awarded to first year students at NUI Galway who reached a minimum of 560 points in their Leav-ing Certificate examination. The Excellence Scholarships are designed to recognise and reward Leaving Cert success for the highest-achieving stu-dents and encourage their ongoing commitment to academic excellence during their time at NUI Galway.

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

3

Young Technologists’ Success

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

Pictured above receiving her ETTA National Technology Pictured above receiving her ETTA National Technology Pictured above receiving her ETTA National Technology Pictured above receiving her ETTA National Technology Award for her Junior Cert. Technology Project is Ailish Award for her Junior Cert. Technology Project is Ailish Award for her Junior Cert. Technology Project is Ailish Award for her Junior Cert. Technology Project is Ailish O’Rourke.O’Rourke.O’Rourke.O’Rourke.

Castlerea Community School once again had winners in the Re-gional Final of the ETTA (Engineering and Technology Teachers Association) Young Technologist awards.

The ETTA presents prizes for the best Junior Certificate and Leav-ing Certificate Technology projects.

Ailish O’Rourke came 1st for her Junior Cert. project. Guus Cas-pers and Daryl Rowntree were awarded 2nd and 3rd respectively for their Leaving Cert. projects.

They each received specially engraved Crystal Trophies and cer-tificates. Ailish and Guus went forward to the National Finals in Gorey, Co Wexford on the 19th November.

The Leaving Cert. projects involved designing an animatronics project and proved to be one of the most difficult in recent years. Both students included a programmable circuit in their projects. Ailish made a working model of a dumb waiter. All the projects were electromechanically controlled.

At the National Finals Ailish and Guus received Certificates of distinction for their projects.

Well done to all, this is a truly wonderful achievement and C.C.S.

is justly proud of these students.

Pictured above receiving his ETTA Regional Award is Pictured above receiving his ETTA Regional Award is Pictured above receiving his ETTA Regional Award is Pictured above receiving his ETTA Regional Award is Guus CaspersGuus CaspersGuus CaspersGuus Caspers

SEAI Sustainable Energy / SciFest Award

Having won a major award – SEAI Sustainable Energy Award, at the Regional SciFest

Final in Sligo last May, Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey, represented CCS at The SciFest

2016 National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin on Friday

11th November 2016. Their project titled “What is the best insulator” focused on examining

various materials for horse bedding – a topic which is close to the hearts of both girls. Fol-

lowing many months of fine-tuning and extending their initial project, guided and supported

by their Science teacher, Ms. Joan Farrell, the girls presented their project to the judging

panel with passion, confidence and great pride.

Castlerea Community School has a long and proud tradition of competing at a high level in

the SciFest Awards and Lisa and Cora join a prestigious group of students who have done

both themselves and our school proud.

Pictured right are Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey at The SciFest 2016 Pictured right are Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey at The SciFest 2016 Pictured right are Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey at The SciFest 2016 Pictured right are Lisa O’Rourke and Cora Sharkey at The SciFest 2016 National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin. National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin. National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin. National Final which was held in the Marino Conference Centre in Dublin.

4

Castlerea Community School 2016/2017 Castlerea Community School 2016/2017 Castlerea Community School 2016/2017 Castlerea Community School 2016/2017 “Mass of blessing on a new school year ““Mass of blessing on a new school year ““Mass of blessing on a new school year ““Mass of blessing on a new school year “

On Thursday September 29th, Castlerea Community School, staff and students gathered in St Patrick’s church for Mass to mark the beginning of another school year. The hope of this school community is that if they don’t notice God, that day by day God will notice students and staff and families. The Theme of this year’s opening Mass was, “Jesus Christ, the light of our lives”. Mass began this year with a ceremony of light. The school community’s attention was focused on the fact that like Je-sus, we his followers are called to be lights of wisdom, love, compassion, encouragement and fun to all whose lives are a valued part of this school year. The liturgy was enhanced with music, dance, readings, re-flections and prayers chosen by the students. The prayer for 2016/2017 is “that the invisible light of God will shine brightly in and through each member of the school community wherever they go in the days and months ahead”. The School Community was invited to reflect on this. In his homily Fr John McManus assured all gathered, that for the most part, whether the year will be fulfilling or some-what empty is in each person’s hands. In welcoming and speaking to the entire School Community after Mass, Ms. Eileen Ryan (Principal) complimented all involved, in particular the students, on how with such rever-ence they prepared and enhanced the liturgy through music, reading, reflections and prayers. In particular, she reminded all gathered, that as this new school year begins, we remain aware of the privileged educational environment available to all in CCS, where, unlike young people in troubled nations of our world, each person in CCS is given an abundance of op-portunities to set goals, to use their gifts and talents, to en-joy learning and to grow as a trusting, sharing community. She also took the opportunity to welcome Canon Joe Fitzger-ald back for the occasion and to make a presentation to him on behalf of the school and its BOM, wishing him good health and fulfillment during many years of retirement. Final-ly she expressed a special word of thanks to Fr John McManus, Celebrant for the Mass.

The sanctuary area in St Patrick’s church during the ceremo-The sanctuary area in St Patrick’s church during the ceremo-The sanctuary area in St Patrick’s church during the ceremo-The sanctuary area in St Patrick’s church during the ceremo-ny of light for the CCS beginning of year Massny of light for the CCS beginning of year Massny of light for the CCS beginning of year Massny of light for the CCS beginning of year Mass

Castlerea Community School First Year Mass of WelcomeCastlerea Community School First Year Mass of WelcomeCastlerea Community School First Year Mass of WelcomeCastlerea Community School First Year Mass of Welcome In keeping with tradition, a Mass of Welcome for first year students and their families was celebrated on Thursday October 26th by Fr. Micheál Donnelly. This year’s chosen theme was:

“ God is the potter, we are the clay ““ God is the potter, we are the clay ““ God is the potter, we are the clay ““ God is the potter, we are the clay “ In keeping with the theme and to link their lives to the liturgy, the stu-dents used their artistic gifts making clay pots in Art class. A key part of the design of the pots was to include each student’s signatures. In this way they acknowledged their uniqueness before God and each other. One pot became slightly cracked providing an apt title for the post Communion reflection..

First year students Sophie D’arcy & Rachel Feeney with the clay pots First year students Sophie D’arcy & Rachel Feeney with the clay pots First year students Sophie D’arcy & Rachel Feeney with the clay pots First year students Sophie D’arcy & Rachel Feeney with the clay pots they made as the key symbol in the “First Year Mass of welcome”they made as the key symbol in the “First Year Mass of welcome”they made as the key symbol in the “First Year Mass of welcome”they made as the key symbol in the “First Year Mass of welcome”

First year Musicians: Orlaith Smyth, Molly Cunnane, Ella Thompson, First year Musicians: Orlaith Smyth, Molly Cunnane, Ella Thompson, First year Musicians: Orlaith Smyth, Molly Cunnane, Ella Thompson, First year Musicians: Orlaith Smyth, Molly Cunnane, Ella Thompson, Katy Hannelly & Katelyn Hester waiting enthusiastically for their “First Katy Hannelly & Katelyn Hester waiting enthusiastically for their “First Katy Hannelly & Katelyn Hester waiting enthusiastically for their “First Katy Hannelly & Katelyn Hester waiting enthusiastically for their “First Year Mass of Welcome” to begin.Year Mass of Welcome” to begin.Year Mass of Welcome” to begin.Year Mass of Welcome” to begin.

Inspiring music was provided by the choir and a small group further

enhanced the liturgy with a 2016 conversational praying of the “Our

Father.” This was indeed a truly spiritual experience for all who gath-

ered, one full of welcome and hope.

Mass of Remembrance Mass of Remembrance Mass of Remembrance Mass of Remembrance

In thanksgiving and prayer, the school community gathered for Mass on Tuesday November 22nd to celebrate the lives of family members, friends and school staff gone to their eternal rest. Students led the prayers, readings and the reflection. Our thanks to Fr. Pat O’Toole, the

5

German ExchangeGerman ExchangeGerman ExchangeGerman Exchange This year, eleven TY and 5th Yr. German students from Castlerea Community School embarked on a school exchange with a secondary school from Helmstedt

near Wolfsburg in Germany. There they experienced the culture, food, school life and of course the language. Living with host families gave them a great in-

sight into life in Germany: mealtimes, early starts etc and it enabled them to use and improve on their knowledge of the German language. Great friendships

were formed. A quick tour around Berlin concluded the trip.

On the 20th September, Castlerea Community School welcomed fifteen German students and their mentors from Helmstedt to the school for a week, where they

got to sample the Irish educational system and the delights Castlerea and the west of Ireland had to offer.

5th Year student Megan Gaughan and her English teacher, Mr. McHugh, sat down with Castlerea CS students Shane Gordon and Alannach Severs and their

German teachers Ms. Kenny and Ms. Callanan to get a flavour of what the exchange entailed and how the experience was enjoyed by all.

Megan: How did Castlerea CS’s association with German school Julianum in Helmstedt originate?

Ms. Kenny: About 14 years ago we had a German assistant here in Castlerea CS, Verena Beu. We kept up contact with Verena through the years and in the

summer of 2015 Verena got in contact with Ms. Callanan about setting up an exchange with us here. So we started organising our exchange in September 2015

and last April we made the trip to Helmstedt with our students.

Ms. Callanan: That was our first visit to Helmstedt. There had been a previous exchange programme in place some years ago but this was our first time to

connect with Helmstedt.

Megan: What differences or similarities do you see between the educational system here in Ireland and in Germany?

Ms. Callanan: In Germany they have more of a choice with regard to what type of school students can attend. They have schools that would be more academi-

cally orientated and then ones that would cater for a more practical element. They do have a system similar to us in that they have an end exam like the Leaving

Cert and they also have the choice of studying subjects at a higher or lower level. However their points system and grading system is different.

Mr. McHugh: Shane, as a student you have experienced both our system and the German system. Which do you prefer?

Shane: Definitely the German system. They have shorter days so you have more time in the evenings when you get home. They finish school around 12 or 1pm

so you have more time for activities in the afternoon. They also get very little homework!! The early start took a little getting used to though: School for them

started at 7.45am!!!

Megan: How does the school exchange programme complement what the Irish students learn in the classroom?

Ms. Callanan: The exchange gives the students the opportunity to use the spoken language more often which is the trickiest bit to incorporate into the class-

room as you are so busy learning the grammar, comprehensions and written work trying to get students ready for exams. So it is hard to incorporate as much

oral work as we would ideally like. Also being able to correspond with their new German friends definitely helps the Irish students both orally and with their

written work. It also builds on opportunities in the future for potential travel for our Irish students.

Megan: How did you, as teachers, facilitate and make the recent visit by the German students a memorable and enjoyable experience?

Ms. Kenny: Firstly we matched each of the German students with a student from Castlerea of similar age. We had a total of fifteen students and two teachers to

be hosted altogether. All visitors struck up great relationships with their host families it must be said. Then the German students came into school for three days

getting to know our system which, as you heard, is very different to what they are used to. We also organised an official day out where we, along with their host

students, accompanied them to the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle. The host families and our students then organised their own entertainment at the week-

end.

Ms. Callanan: While in Germany, we attended classes, visited a WW2 museum, went on an excursion and spent time with host families. The same applied

then here. The German students got to sample everything from visiting grandparents to going to the bog! Before they returned to Germany we organised a

going away party where they got to experience some of our Irish culture and talents, such as Irish dancing, which went down really well.

Ms. Kenny: Also 2 German students, having never even seen Gaelic Football before, ended up making up the numbers and togging out in an U16 game be-

tween Castlerea St. Kevins and Elphin. Arnie played with Castlerea and Killian with Elphin. Killian actually scored a point for Elphin!!

Mr. McHugh: Shane and Alannach, how was the experience as students hosting the German students?

Shane: It was very enjoyable. They were very easy going. For things like breakfast we showed Carl what we would eat and Carl showed us what he would

normally have in Germany. We learned a lot.

Alannach: The fact that they were so lovely and fitted in with anything we did was great. They came to swimming lessons. My student, Julianne, even came

and spoke to my little sister’s primary school class. She was also very happy to come along to my sister’s ballet lesson in Roscommon. They really fitted in

nicely and were so easy going and friendly.

Megan: Has the exchange helped you back in German class in school?

Shane: Definitely, yes. Now as we are working in the classroom I notice I understand words which I hadn’t understood before. For example when reading

through stories I notice how I have learned words from Carl without even realising I had learned them.

Alannach: Even when we were around them and they were all speaking German to one another I noticed how I was able to understand words and sentences

that they were saying. They were also very good at encouraging us in learning German so our interactions definitely have given me more confidence with the

language in the classroom.

Mr. McHugh: Finally, what benefits does learning a foreign language have for

Irish students in secondary school?

Ms. Callanan: As Alannach has already alluded to, it really helps with building

confidence in students and the endless possibilities for travel. With learning German

you have the scope to travel through three countries in Europe, Germany itself but

also Austria and Switzerland. Having studied the language really does give someone

far more confidence if they were travelling through any of those countries. Also from

a work point of view it gives you great possibility to gain employment in the future.

If students advance to 3rd Level Education they might be able to travel to different

countries in the summers and work in restaurants or bars whilst seeing a new part of

the world. We would hope our students here in Castlerea will keep up contact with

their new German friends and that will give them great contacts and possibilities in

the future. The exchange group outside CCS with teachers, Ms Callanan and Ms J Kenny.

6

Instructional Leadership ProgrammeInstructional Leadership ProgrammeInstructional Leadership ProgrammeInstructional Leadership Programme

Castlerea Community School teachers Mr. Jarlath Burke and Ms. Eithne Hurley have recently graduated from the Instructional Lead-ership Programme, initiated in the post primary sector in Ireland by the ETBI. The course involved four residential seminars conducted over two years. It was facilitated by Professor Barrie Bennett, au-thor of “Graphic Intelligence,” “Classroom Management” and “Beyond Monet.” His teaching and research focus on instructional intelligence. The course aimed to:

♦ Encourage teachers to consciously modify their instruction-al methods so as to maximise student learning

♦ Facilitate the conscious and deliberate utilisation of teach-er actions

♦ Foster an awareness of how teacher actions can impact on student learning

♦ Enhance classroom management

The key themes developed at the seminars related to how teachers acquire an instructional repertoire of skills, tactics and strategies and how they wisely draw on that repertoire so as to affect student learning. The workshops reflected on the need for teachers’ in-structional intelligence to be merged with real systemic change focused on how students are taught and learn.

It is envisaged that these methods will eventually become com-monplace in the repertoire of all professional teachers. It is ex-pected that these teaching methods will help to make the learning experience a more enjoyable and successful one for our students.

Pictured above are Ms. Pictured above are Ms. Pictured above are Ms. Pictured above are Ms. Hurley and Mr. Burke receiving their urley and Mr. Burke receiving their urley and Mr. Burke receiving their urley and Mr. Burke receiving their certificates on completion of the Instructional Leadership certificates on completion of the Instructional Leadership certificates on completion of the Instructional Leadership certificates on completion of the Instructional Leadership Programme.Programme.Programme.Programme.

GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATION GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATION GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATION GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATION

On Thursday 6th Oct. the Leaving Cert geography classes trav-elled to the Burren, Co. Clare to conduct their geographical in-vestigation. The geographical investigation is a compulsory part of the geography course and is worth 20% of the final exam. The topic under investigation this year is “An investigation of the impact of the processes of transportation and deposition on the formation of one coastal landform.” A study of marine transpor-tation and deposition was conducted at Bishop’s Quarter beach, Co. Clare. Much planning and preparation was undertaken in the weeks prior to the field study. On the day, the main focus was on the gathering of primary information. Practical skills were developed through the various tasks preformed, such as measuring the height of the sand dunes, measuring wind speed and direction, drawing a field sketch, measuring longshore drift, to mention but a few. It was a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience. Students are currently engaged with the writing up of their findings.

Some of the students who went to the Burren to carry out Some of the students who went to the Burren to carry out Some of the students who went to the Burren to carry out Some of the students who went to the Burren to carry out their Leaving Cert. Geographical investigation.their Leaving Cert. Geographical investigation.their Leaving Cert. Geographical investigation.their Leaving Cert. Geographical investigation.

An TriailAn TriailAn TriailAn Triail

D’fhreastal daltaí ón séú bliain agus ón gcúigiú bliain ar léiriú den dráma ‘An Triail’ a bhí ar siúl i mBaile Átha Luain ar an tríú la déag de Mhí Dheireadh Fómhair.Tá an dráma seo á staidéar ag na daltaí atá ag déanamh Gaeilge ag ardleibhéal do scrúdú na hArdteiste. Chuaigh beirt mhúinteoirí Gaeilge , Bean Uí Cheallaigh agus Bean Uí Cheallacháin in éineacht le na daltaí chuig an dráma seo.Léiriú nua-aimseartha ab ea é le haisteoirí den chéad scoth. Ba mhór an taitneamh agus an tairbhe a baineadh as an dráma

Reflect upon your present blessings Reflect upon your present blessings Reflect upon your present blessings Reflect upon your present blessings ----of which of which of which of which

every man has many every man has many every man has many every man has many ----not on your past not on your past not on your past not on your past

misfortunes, of which all men have some.misfortunes, of which all men have some.misfortunes, of which all men have some.misfortunes, of which all men have some.

----Charles DickensCharles DickensCharles DickensCharles Dickens

Christmas is doing a little something extra for Christmas is doing a little something extra for Christmas is doing a little something extra for Christmas is doing a little something extra for

someonesomeonesomeonesomeone.

Charles M. SchulzCharles M. SchulzCharles M. SchulzCharles M. Schulz

7

Green Schools Flag Raising CeremonyGreen Schools Flag Raising CeremonyGreen Schools Flag Raising CeremonyGreen Schools Flag Raising Ceremony On Monday September 26th , the Green Schools committee raised the school’s second green flag. This flag was awarded to the school for completing the Energy theme. The flag was launched by Mr Denis Naughton TD. Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, at a ceremony in the school. The after-noon was completed by First and Second year students attending the ‘’Bin- It’’ drama workshop. Well done to all committee members on this fantastic achievement. Work has commenced on theme three: “Water”.

Ms. Dervin, Green Schools coordinator, with the Green Schools Ms. Dervin, Green Schools coordinator, with the Green Schools Ms. Dervin, Green Schools coordinator, with the Green Schools Ms. Dervin, Green Schools coordinator, with the Green Schools Committee raising the Energy flag.Committee raising the Energy flag.Committee raising the Energy flag.Committee raising the Energy flag.

Agricultural Science FieldtripAgricultural Science FieldtripAgricultural Science FieldtripAgricultural Science Fieldtrip The start of a new academic year marks the eagerly anticipated

fieldtrip for the Sixth Year Agricultural Science students of Castle-

rea Community School. Reflecting on the success of previous

years, we returned to the farm of the well-known tillage farmer

Eddie Naughton in Fuerty, Co. Roscommon. As part of their Leaving

Cert. assessment, Agricultural Science students must complete a

number of projects to gain on-farm experience. One of these cho-

sen projects is on the cultivation of a tillage crop. During their visit,

Eddie kindly shared his time and in-depth experience and

knowledge with us. Students were guided through the step-by-step

processes involved in the cultivation of spring barley beyond the

harvesting stage, right through to storage and rolling. Students

were able to inspect equipment such as a batch drier, sub-soiler,

power-harrow and combine harvester. An on-farm experience such

as this offers students the opportunity to collect valuable

knowledge, photos and resources to complete projects of a high

standard. We would like to thank Eddie for his continued support.

HAMLETHAMLETHAMLETHAMLET Recently, Leaving Cert. English students attended a perfor-mance of “Hamlet” in the Dean Crow Theatre in Athlone. The play was staged by the Gaiety school of acting. It provided an opportunity for students to see Shakespeare’s work come alive. The performance covered every aspect of the text and connected it directly with the Leaving Cert. syllabus. The quality of acting could only be described as superb. The show was followed by a workshop designed to link the performance to the questions on the Leaving Cert. English exam. It was led by ex-pert tutors and curated by the director, Martin Maguire. Each student also received an in-depth study workbook containing exercises and information on themes, characters, quotations and language of the play. It was a very worthwhile experience and an enjoyable day was had by all!

Castlerea Community School Art Trip to Castlerea Community School Art Trip to Castlerea Community School Art Trip to Castlerea Community School Art Trip to

Roscommon Arts CentreRoscommon Arts CentreRoscommon Arts CentreRoscommon Arts Centre Miss Connaughton, accompanied by her 5th and Leaving Cert. Art students, travelled to Roscommon Arts Centre on the 28th Oct to view the Red Bird Youth Collective Exhibition. This was a fantastic experience for both groups. For some students this was their first time to ever view an exhibition. In the exhibition there was a great range of Art to view from sculpture, audio and visual installations, photography and beautiful city paint-ings. The group was given a fantastic workshop by Orla who was one of the organisers of this exhibition. In her workshop, Orla covered a major area in the Appreciation of Art section that involves the Leaving Cert. Art Gallery question and this was of particular importance and interest to the Leaving Cert. students.

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

8

Carol ServiceCarol ServiceCarol ServiceCarol Service Well done to all those involved in the recent Christmas Carol Service. It was a most uplifting and enjoyable occasion. A collection was held on the night for St. Vin-cent de Paul.

Pictured above are the students who participated in the choir for the Pictured above are the students who participated in the choir for the Pictured above are the students who participated in the choir for the Pictured above are the students who participated in the choir for the school’s annual Carol Service.school’s annual Carol Service.school’s annual Carol Service.school’s annual Carol Service.

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

Warming up for the school walk.Warming up for the school walk.Warming up for the school walk.Warming up for the school walk.

Fergal Mahon leads off the school walk.Fergal Mahon leads off the school walk.Fergal Mahon leads off the school walk.Fergal Mahon leads off the school walk.

School CanteenSchool CanteenSchool CanteenSchool Canteen

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

Students enjoying the new canteen facilities.Students enjoying the new canteen facilities.Students enjoying the new canteen facilities.Students enjoying the new canteen facilities.

9

Sports News

Ladies Football Ladies Football Ladies Football Ladies Football 1st and 3rd Yr. girls participated in the U-14 competition. They have one game left with Roscommon Community College.

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

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

Basketball NewsBasketball NewsBasketball NewsBasketball News Cadet Boys’ Basketball.Cadet Boys’ Basketball.Cadet Boys’ Basketball.Cadet Boys’ Basketball.

The cadet boys were beaten in the Regional Final by St. Endas, Galway, but they are still in the playoffs.

The 1st and 2nd years start their competitions after Christmas.

The senior boys’ Team was unlucky not to reach the Regional Final.

Gaelic FootballGaelic FootballGaelic FootballGaelic Football

First YearFirst YearFirst YearFirst Year

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

JuvenileJuvenileJuvenileJuvenile

The juvenile boys participated in a blitz at the Connacht Centre in October. They had games against Charlestown and Swinford, winning one and losing one. The juvenile captain is Adam McDermott and managers are Mr. Carty and Mr. McHugh.

JuniorJuniorJuniorJunior

The junior boys have qualified for the play-off stage of the league/championship in January. They enjoyed wins over Davitt College, Castlebar, St. Tiernans, Crossmolina and Jesus and Mary, Enniscrone, before losing to Swinford. Jonathan Hester is the team captain and they are managed by Mr. Reidy and Mr. Danny Burke.

SeniorSeniorSeniorSenior

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

Roscommon URoscommon URoscommon URoscommon U----16161616

Four members of our senior panel – Jack Keane, Donal Bren-nan, Andrew Lyons and James Larkin - were members of the Roscommon U-16 team that won the Fr. Manning Cup in Novem-ber. Well done lads!

The school year to date has turned out to be a very suc-cessful one for our basketball teams.

Cadet Girls’ BasketballCadet Girls’ BasketballCadet Girls’ BasketballCadet Girls’ Basketball In the Schools’ Cup the cadet girls team defeated High School, Rathgar and Mercy College Sligo. They play Coláiste Pobail Setanta, Dublin in the Semi-Finals in Limerick on January 9th. This team won the Regional Title in the League easily beating St. Nathys in the Final.

The Cadet Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.The Cadet Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.The Cadet Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.The Cadet Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.

Senior Girls’ Basketball Senior Girls’ Basketball Senior Girls’ Basketball Senior Girls’ Basketball The senior girls are also in the Cup Semi-Final on January 13th against Charlestown.

The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team with coach Mr. Henry.

10

Team Hope Shoe Box AppealTeam Hope Shoe Box AppealTeam Hope Shoe Box AppealTeam Hope Shoe Box Appeal

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

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

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

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

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

A small sample of CCS student reactions to being involved in the shoebox appeal:A small sample of CCS student reactions to being involved in the shoebox appeal:A small sample of CCS student reactions to being involved in the shoebox appeal:A small sample of CCS student reactions to being involved in the shoebox appeal:

“I enjoyed doing the shoebox appeal very much because it hopefully will make Christmas special for some girl or boy who is not as fortunate as I am. I hope they enjoy my shoebox.” (1st Year)

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

11

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

Some of the highlights of the Expo for CCS were:Some of the highlights of the Expo for CCS were:Some of the highlights of the Expo for CCS were:Some of the highlights of the Expo for CCS were:

• The Bank of Ireland Enterprise Award was presented to Michael Conroy, on behalf of the members of The Woody Wood-pecker business team, which also included Amy Malone, Jennifer Keane, Sarah Diggins and Megan Lattimore. The Award was in recognition of their commitment, hard work, team effort and their success in achieving 2nd place in the County Enter-prise Final in Roscommon earlier in the year.

• Principal of CCS, Eileen Ryan, interviewed special guest Rachel Allen.

• Congratulations to Chloe O’ Brien, 5th Yr. who won the C.C.S. Bake Off. The six finalists illustrated their baking expertise and their creative skill. The finalists were Megan Gaughan (Strawberry Whip), Ailbhe Woods (Chocolate Orange), Jessica Connolly (Carrot Cake), Chloe O’ Brien (Festive Red Velvet), Aishah Sattar (Almond Carrot Cake) and Laura Harte (Chocolate Surprise). Celebrity chef, Rachel Allen, was very impressed with the students and their produce and affirmed the work of each competitor, deliberating for a good while before choosing a winner. Chloe O’ Brien received a Tablet for first prize with her festive snowmen on red velvet cupcakes. All students received a plaque for their efforts. Many visitors to the CCS stand were left astounded and aghast by the samples of student work, projects and awards on display in The Hub over the week-end.

• The recent successes of the Ladies Cadet and Senior Basketball teams on reaching the All-Ireland semi-final stage at both levels was acknowledged by MC Danny Burke, when he invited the joint captains from each team on stage to talk about their journey this far. Those interviewed were Holly Hopkins (Joint captain Cadet team), Shannon Caulfield and Amy Malone (Joint captains’ Senior team), Lisa O’Rourke (Joint captain Cadet team)

• A group of very gifted students from Castlerea Community School provided wonderful entertainment to the many visitors attending the Castlerea Enterprise Town, Business and Community Expo held in The Hub last weekend. A mix of traditional Irish music played on tin whistle by Rosin Igoe, a version of the contemporary song Photograph, sung beautifully by Ciara Mulheir, complemented magnificently the dancing talents of Shannon Flynn, the voices of Roisín and Ciara singing the timeless ballad “Go Lassie Go” and the musical and singing talent of Alannach Severs.

• Our very own Sporting Hero, Mr. Joe Henry, PE teacher in CCS, took part in a most engaging panel discussion on the Satur-day morning where he spoke about his basketball journey to date, from playing hurling at County level to his introduction to basketball when he joined the staff in CCS to the present day, having secured many titles for coaching both school and community teams at various levels. Joe was recently awarded with a National Community Games Volunteer of the Year Award for his contribution to basketball, among other sports, during his involvement at County and Connaught levels since the early 80’s. Many congratulations to a most deserving recipient.

Thank You to Sean Beirne, Manager BOI and his staff on organising a very successful Expo.

Castlerea ExpoCastlerea ExpoCastlerea ExpoCastlerea ExpoCastlerea ExpoCastlerea ExpoCastlerea ExpoCastlerea Expo

12

NUIG Talk to Leaving Cert. Students.NUIG Talk to Leaving Cert. Students.NUIG Talk to Leaving Cert. Students.NUIG Talk to Leaving Cert. Students. Recently,Grainne Dunne, Liaison Officer NUIG, visited the school. She spoke to all Leaving Cert students and gave them a brief introduction to the 60 undergraduate courses available at NUIG. She stressed the importance of making an early application for on-campus accommodation, and highlighted the benefits at-tached to scholarships, especially for those who have an interest and achievements in the areas of sport and creative arts. Finally, she invited students to attend the Spring Open Day on April 1st 2017.

Study SkillsStudy SkillsStudy SkillsStudy Skills Students of Castlerea Community School took part in learning skills workshops recently. The workshops were organised in con-junction with the Super Generation learning organisation and were delivered to students from second, third, fifth and sixth years.

Super Generation is Ireland’s leading learning skills organisation and delivers workshops to both students and teachers through-out the country. The concept of the Super Generation workshops is to empower students to take charge of their own learning by providing them with the skills required to maximise their potential in the classroom, in homework and study and ultimately in the exam setting. Students were also inspired and motivated to re-new their approach to learning and their will to reach their poten-tial.

During the workshops the students learned about key skills such as time management, revision and study planning, learning styles and strengths, mind-mapping, active reading and memory tech-niques. The workshops certainly got the thumbs up from the stu-dents. Many commented that they enjoyed the active nature of the seminars and all came away with some very useful and prac-tical methods for improving their approach to study and for opti-mising their performance in exams.

Students attending the Study Skills Workshop pictured with their Students attending the Study Skills Workshop pictured with their Students attending the Study Skills Workshop pictured with their Students attending the Study Skills Workshop pictured with their facilitator.facilitator.facilitator.facilitator.

Careers in Technology and ScienceCareers in Technology and ScienceCareers in Technology and ScienceCareers in Technology and Science In conjunction with Science Week, Aoife Fallon spoke to 5th year students about careers in Technology and Science.

She outlined her own career path and how she progressed from a background in Social Science to her graduate entry to Ericsson. Based in Athlone, Ericsson is a global leader in delivering ICT solutions. ranging from Cloud services and Mobile Broad-band to Network Design and Optimization. Aoife explained her job as a computer coder in the company.

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

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

Career NewsCareer NewsCareer NewsCareer NewsCareer NewsCareer NewsCareer NewsCareer News

13

LCA visit Roscommon Women’s NetworkLCA visit Roscommon Women’s NetworkLCA visit Roscommon Women’s NetworkLCA visit Roscommon Women’s Network

LCA2 recently visited the Roscommon Women’s Network in The Mill, Castlerea, to research the work and services provided by this local organi-sation. This is an organisation that provides a huge range of supports and services to men, women and children throughout the county. It is a needs-driven organisation responding directly to the community it serves. Stu-dents were really impressed with the many and varied services and sup-ports it offers – Counselling, Citizens Information, Training Programmes, Confidence Building Workshops, Fetac Courses, Retail Courses and much more. The staff was very welcoming and engaging. Ms. Maria Harris, Development Worker and Mr. James Derrig, Training Co-ordinator, gave a very informative talk and students had an opportunity to engage in a Q & A session afterwards. Students and teachers Ms. Larkin and Ms. Joyce thoroughly enjoyed their visit to the Women’s Network.

Leaving Cert Applied Tourism TripLeaving Cert Applied Tourism TripLeaving Cert Applied Tourism TripLeaving Cert Applied Tourism Trip On Wednesday the 19th October, the LCA classes went to Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle with Ms. Collins and Ms. Bruen (SNA). This trip was organised as part of the Tourism module of the Hotel and Catering course of the LCA programme. On a crisp autumnal day with hazy sunshine breaking through the trees, the beauty of this attraction was shown at its best. The students were guided through the history of the Rockingham estate by an excellent guide, Andy, who held their atten-tion with stories and anecdotes.

Then the class went into groups and took on the challenge of the Boda Borg. These challenges can be physical, mental or a combination of both. This proved to be fun, frustrating at times and competitive. The students really embraced the “quests” and after much trial and error got a great sense of satisfaction at getting their first “stamp”. As Fergal Mahon (a wheelchair user) was restricted to the mental challenges, he later explored the trails in Lough Key in the “Wheel O” orienteering with Ms. Bruen. He then interviewed the staff on the profile of tourists to Lough Key.

It was a memorable day, enjoyed by everyone.

LCA students at Lough Key Forest ParkLCA students at Lough Key Forest ParkLCA students at Lough Key Forest ParkLCA students at Lough Key Forest Park

LCA Visit Careers FairLCA Visit Careers FairLCA Visit Careers FairLCA Visit Careers Fair

Leaving Cert Applied students attended a Careers Fair in Kil-bride on Wednesday 12th October. The students gathered information on careers and courses available to them after the Leaving Cert. In particular they were interested in Post Leaving Cert courses and Apprenticeships. They also picked up a lovely cookery book from MABS that contains healthy recipes ideas. It was an enjoyable and worthwhile day.

Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students visit to Harmac Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students visit to Harmac Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students visit to Harmac Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students visit to Harmac

Leaving Cert Business and LCVP students recently visited Harmac Ltd, Castlerea to gain a deeper insight into local enterprise. The Managing Director, Mr. Mick McEnroe gave a very informative presentation which consisted of a video about the company, its background and production processes. He referred to multiple aspects of the Leaving Cert Business course during the visit ranging from Human Resource Management, Product Development to Global Business. He informed the students that Harmac Ltd first set up in Castlerea almost 20 years ago with a total of 20 employees and today it provides employment for over 300 people. He spoke about the importance of quality assurance, given the nature of their business quality marks and the high standards required to achieve them. Sample products were displayed for the students.

After the presentation the students had the opportunity to get involved by asking Mr. McEnroe some questions. He explained further about the contributions Harmac makes to the local community in terms of both direct and indirect employment and sponsorship of local sports clubs and charities. The students then had an opportunity to view one of the clean

rooms where product assembly takes place. Mr. McEnroe encouraged all the

students to consider future jobs in the medical technology area given its im-

portance to the Irish economy. The students found the trip interesting and

insightful, not only for their Business and LCVP course but also for their

future careers.

LCVP and 5th Yr. students visit Harmac with teacher Ms. Y LCVP and 5th Yr. students visit Harmac with teacher Ms. Y LCVP and 5th Yr. students visit Harmac with teacher Ms. Y LCVP and 5th Yr. students visit Harmac with teacher Ms. Y Ryan.Ryan.Ryan.Ryan.

14

GAEILGEGAEILGEGAEILGEGAEILGE

∗ Críochnaigh teideal an amhráin seo. ''Do You Want To Build A...''?

(Snowman)

∗ Cé a scríobh an leabhar '' The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe''?

(CS Lewis)

∗ Cé a dúirt ''Bah Humbug'' go minic?

(Ebenezer Scrooge)

GEOGRAPHY

∗ Name the three categories of a volcano.

(Active, Dormant and Extinct)

∗ Name the three types of weathering.

(Mechanical, Chemical and Biological)

∗ Name two examples of Igneous rock.

(Granite and Basalt)

HISTORY

∗ What two metals are used to make bronze?

(Copper and tin)

∗ What does Mesolithic mean?

(A period when hunter-gatherers used simple stone tools)

∗ What do the letters AD and BC stand for?

(AD: Anno Domini BC: Before Christ)

MATHS

∗ What is the square root of 64?

(8)

∗ If X=2 and Y=3, evaluate the expression 2x2+3y2 -x+1=

(34)

∗ Is 1 a prime number?

No. An integer greater than one is called a prime num-ber if its only positive divisors (factors) are one and itself.

Saba Sattar

“Our hearts grow tender with childhood “Our hearts grow tender with childhood “Our hearts grow tender with childhood “Our hearts grow tender with childhood

memories and love of kindred, and we are memories and love of kindred, and we are memories and love of kindred, and we are memories and love of kindred, and we are

better throughout the year for having, in better throughout the year for having, in better throughout the year for having, in better throughout the year for having, in

spirit, become a child again at Christmas-spirit, become a child again at Christmas-spirit, become a child again at Christmas-spirit, become a child again at Christmas-

time.”time.”time.”time.”

― Laura Ingalls WilderLaura Ingalls WilderLaura Ingalls WilderLaura Ingalls Wilder

ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIRST YEAR CCS STUDENT?ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIRST YEAR CCS STUDENT?ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIRST YEAR CCS STUDENT?ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIRST YEAR CCS STUDENT?

MUSICMUSICMUSICMUSIC

∗ What do you call the motion to pluck the strings when playing an instrument?

(Pizzicato)

∗ Who composed “The Messiah?”

(Frideric Handel)

∗ Name the four families of instruments in an orchestra.

(Brass, Woodwind, String and Percussion)

SCIENCESCIENCESCIENCESCIENCE

∗ Who is the scientist who did most of his research on ge-netics?

(Gregor Mendel)

∗ What is the job of the vacuole in the plant cell?

(It stores food)

∗ What are the three states of matter?

(Solid, Liquid and Gas)

RELIGIONRELIGIONRELIGIONRELIGION

∗ What are non-Jewish people called?

(Gentiles)

∗ The Vedas (The Hindus’ sacred text) is written in Sanskrit. True or False?

(True)

∗ When does the Christian New Year start?

First Sunday in Advent)

HOME ECONOMICSHOME ECONOMICSHOME ECONOMICSHOME ECONOMICS

∗ What is bicarbonate of soda more commonly know as?

(Bread soda)

∗ When dough stretches up and rises, a crust forms on top. What is this crust called?

(Dextrin)

∗ What does plaque consist of?

(Bacteria and food)

ENGLISHENGLISHENGLISHENGLISH

∗ Who wrote the poem ''A Child's Christmas in Wales?”

(Dylan Thomas)

∗ In which Dickens novel did Tiny Tim appear?

(‘A Christmas Carol’)

∗ Which children's Christmas story takes place in ''Whoville''?

(‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’)

1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ 1st Year Students’ ContributionsContributionsContributionsContributionsContributionsContributionsContributionsContributions

15


WinterWinterWinterWinter `When icicles hang by the wall,

And Dick the shepherd blows his nails,

And Tom bears logs into the hall,

And milk comes frozen home in pail`

Yes, it’s that time of year ! The evenings are long and the cold win-ter frost appears on the windows. Robin redbreast bobs along. How delightful to feel the heat and glow of the burning fire from granny’s stove. Now we smell the aromas of cinnamon, cloves and ginger. It has to be granny’s tea brack baking golden brown. We await with mouth- watering anticipation!

Granny Farrell's Tea BrackGranny Farrell's Tea BrackGranny Farrell's Tea BrackGranny Farrell's Tea Brack Makes 1 loaf Ready in 2 hours 180ml [6 fl oz] strong tea

450g [1lb] mixed fruit [ sultanas, raisins , currants]

170 [6oz] brown sugar

1 free-range egg , lightly beaten

25g [1 oz ] butter or margarine, melted

225g [9oz] wholemeal flour, sieved

1 ½ tsp bread soda

1 tsp mixed spice

Method Method Method Method

1. Preheat oven to 180*C/350*F/ Gas 4 .

2. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.

3. Mix the tea , fruit and sugar together , cover and leave to soak overnight .

4. Add egg and melted butter to the fruit mix . Fold in sieved flour, bread soda and mixed spice .

5. Transfer to the tin and bake for 1 – 1½ hours , until a skewer inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean .

6. Leave to cool for 10 minutes before removing from tin .

David Farrell

SnowballSnowballSnowballSnowball I made myself a snowball as perfect as could be ,

I thought I’d keep it as a pet , And I let it sleep with me.

I made it some pajamas

And a pillow for its head

And then last night it ran away,

But first it wet the bed!

Darragh Sharkey

Unusual factsUnusual factsUnusual factsUnusual facts 1. Banging your head against a wall burns 150 calo-

ries an hour. 2. In the UK, it was illegal to eat mince pies on Christ-

mas Day in Oliver Cromwell’s time! 3. Pteronophobia is the fear of being tickled by feath-

ers! 4. When hippos are upset, their sweat turns red. 5. 29th May is officially “Put a Pillow on Your Fridge

Day“. 6. Cherophobia is the fear of fun. 7. If you lift a kangaroo’s tail off the ground it can’t

hop. 8. King Henry VIII slept with a gigantic axe beside

him. 9. Heart attacks are more likely to happen on a Mon-

day. 10. You cannot snore and dream at the same time. 11. A baby octopus is about the size of a flea when it

is born. 12. A sheep, a duck and a rooster were the first pas-

sengers in a hot air balloon. 13. Hitler’s mother considered abortion but the doctor

persuaded her to keep the baby. 14. Catfish are the only animals that naturally have an

odd number of whiskers. 15. Facebook, Skype and Twitter are all banned in

China. 16. 95% of people text things they could never say in

person. 17. Boanthropy is a disorder making people believe

that they are a cow. 18. Snails have 14,000 teeth and some can even kill

you. 19. The smell of freshly cut grass is actually the scent

that plants release when in distress. 20. A female dolphin will assist another dolphin giving

birth. Orlaith Smyth

Memories of Christmas.Memories of Christmas.Memories of Christmas.Memories of Christmas. 1. USA boxes of biscuits

2. Christmas sweaters

3 Yule log

4. The Christmas Swim

5. Little Christmas

6. Pantomimes

7. Advent calendar

8. Christmas crackers

9. Wren boys

10. Frost

Stephen McNeill

16

“Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and “Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and “Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and “Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and

reflect on the important things around us reflect on the important things around us reflect on the important things around us reflect on the important things around us ---- a a a a

time when we can look back on the year that has time when we can look back on the year that has time when we can look back on the year that has time when we can look back on the year that has

passed and prepare for the year ahead. “passed and prepare for the year ahead. “passed and prepare for the year ahead. “passed and prepare for the year ahead. “

David CameronDavid CameronDavid CameronDavid Cameron

Christmas Food QuizChristmas Food QuizChristmas Food QuizChristmas Food Quiz 1. True or False:

Before turkeys arrived from the New World , the

traditional English Christmas dinner included a

pig's head smothered in mustard.

2. In Northern England Christmas cake is often eaten with which

dairy product?

A. Yoghurt

B. Butter

C. Cheese

3. What would you be drinking if you had Gluhwein?

4. Which Christmas dish developed from frumenty, a thick por-

ridge of cereal, dried fruit and spices ?

5. What alcohol is traditionally added to butter and used in

Christmas pudding?

A. Rum

B. Brandy

C. Whiskey

D. Wine

6. In which direction should you stir mincemeat for good luck?

A. Clockwise

B. Anti- Clockwise

7. What should you eat one of on each of the 12 days of Christ-

mas for good luck?

A. Oranges

B. Chestnuts

C. Cranberries

D. Mince Pies

8. In “The Night Before Christmas” visions of sugar plums danced

through the children’s heads. What is a sugar plum?

A. Sweets made from dried fruit

B. Sugar- coated plums

C. Boiled sweets in the shape of plums

D. Mini cakes filled with cooked plums

AnswersAnswersAnswersAnswers

1. True

2. C — Cheese

3. Mulled Wine

4. Christmas Pudding

5. B — Brandy

6. A — Clockwise

7. D — Mince Pies

8. A — Sweets made from dried fruit

Charlotte Gardner

10 Celebrities Who Died in 201610 Celebrities Who Died in 201610 Celebrities Who Died in 201610 Celebrities Who Died in 2016 David Bowie – Singer

Prince – Singer

Muhammad Ali – Professional Boxer

Leonard Cohen – Songwriter / Singer

Terry Wogan – Radio & Television Broadcaster

Gene Wilder – Actor

Fidel Castro – Dictator

Harper Lee – Novelist

Caroline Aherne – Actor

Paul Daniels – Magician

Jason Lyons


10 Reasons Why English Is Hard To Learn10 Reasons Why English Is Hard To Learn10 Reasons Why English Is Hard To Learn10 Reasons Why English Is Hard To Learn

∗ The bandage was wound around the wound.

∗ The farm was used to produce produce.

∗ The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.

∗ We must polish the Polish furniture.

∗ The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.

∗ Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was

time to present the present.

∗ I did not object to the object.

∗ The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

∗ After a number of injections my jaw got number.

∗ Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

Mikaela O’Brien

17

THE OFFICIAL TOP TEN THE OFFICIAL TOP TEN THE OFFICIAL TOP TEN THE OFFICIAL TOP TEN MOST STREAMED ALBUMS MOST STREAMED ALBUMS MOST STREAMED ALBUMS MOST STREAMED ALBUMS

OFOFOFOF 2016 2016 2016 2016

PURPOSE JUSTIN BIEBER VIEWS DRAKE X ED SHEERAN CRY WHEN I LAUGH JESS GLYNNE ANTI RIHANNA BEAUTY BEHIND THE MADNESS WEEKND COMMUNION YEARS & YEARS IN THE LONELY HOUR SAM SMITH A HEAD FULL OF DREAMS COLDPLAY BLURRYFACE TWENTY ONE

PILOTS

Niamh Shriane


Christmas RiddlesChristmas RiddlesChristmas RiddlesChristmas Riddles ♦ What did the golfer get for Christmas? Two pairs of pants in case he got a hole in one !

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

♦ What do you get if you cross Santa and a detective? Santa clues

♦ What do monkeys sing at Christmas Jungle bells

♦ What is the best Christmas present in the world? A broken drum, you just can’t beat it.

♦ What did Santa shout to the toys? It’s sack time

♦ Why does Santa have three gardens? So he can ho, ho, ho

♦ Knock knock? Who’s there? Holly Holly who? Holidays are here

♦ Where do penguins go to the movies? At the dive-in

♦ What do elves learn in school? The elfabet

Ethan Donlon Franzoni

The True Meaning of ChristmasThe True Meaning of ChristmasThe True Meaning of ChristmasThe True Meaning of Christmas A child is snuggled up in bed

Festive thoughts running through her head,

She wants to cheer and she wants to shout

But she must keep quiet because Santa’s about.

She heard him creeping around the tree

So she snuck down stairs, just to see!

Santa had never let her down before

The empty tree was a mistake, she was sure!

The closer she looked, the less she saw

All that was there was a note on the floor,

As she looked around for something more .

Her parents stood there merry and bright

As they read the note that Santa left that night.

‘I forgot some toys, be back soon‘.

But she finally realized, that

The greatest gift, was under no tree,

The greatest gift was spending Christmas with family.

Mia Southhall

Next Christmas?Next Christmas?Next Christmas?Next Christmas?

As I huddle in the doorway watching the masses rushing by to complete their Christmas shopping, it takes me back to happi-er times when my circumstances were so different. It was always a time when my mother, RIP and my two brothers, longed for Christmas. Although there was never much money, my mother always managed to feed us and keep a roof over our heads. Unfortunately, through illness, my mother passed away two years ago when I was 16 years old. My brothers went to England. I remained in my family home. Feeling so lonely and alone, I resorted to drugs and alcohol. Before long I became addicted.

As a consequence of this I lost all my material possessions but most of all I lost my dignity. Two years later, here I am in the doorway wondering if I will get enough money to have a hot meal today. Christmas, well for me, it’s just another day. Today, I am five days drug free and attending a methadone clinic. Could I, by next Christmas, be one of those people en-joying the festive atmosphere and be reunited with my family?

But, just for today, I need enough coins for a hot meal! Next Christmas! Who knows? “Hope springs eternal in the

human breast!”

Katelyn Hester

18

My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas Movies!My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas Movies!My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas Movies!My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas Movies!

Christmas movies have the power to make you cry, to bring on the Christmas feeling and can take you right back to when you experienced the innocence and wonder of Christ-mas.

My teachers’ favourite Christmas movie: My teachers’ favourite Christmas movie: My teachers’ favourite Christmas movie: My teachers’ favourite Christmas movie:

MS. Connaughton – Elf

Ms. Kelly – Home Alone

Ms. McNulty – Elf

Ms. Duffy – Home Alone

Ms. Gormally – Home alone

Mr. O’Rourke – Home Alone

Ms. O’Dea – Santa Clause

Ms. Dervin – Home Alone

Ms. Moran – Love Actually

Ms. Y Ryan – The Holiday

Ms. Colleary – Home Alone

Mr. Mulhern – Home Alone

Mr. Gooney – Home Alone

Ms. Ryan (Principal) – Home Alone

Ms. Galvin – A Christmas Carol

Ms. Collins – Home Alone

Katie Mee

My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas TV Ads 2016My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas TV Ads 2016My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas TV Ads 2016My Teachers’ Favourite Christmas TV Ads 2016

Ms. Galvin: Lidl

Ms.C.Kenny: John Lewis

Mr. Boland: Coca-Cola

Ms.Dervin: Lidl

Ms.Colleary: Tesco

Mr.Whitney: Vodaphone

Mr Gooney: Coca-Cola

Mr Burke: Aldi

Ms. Duffy: Coca-Cola

Mr. McHugh: Coca-Cola

Ms. McNulty: Aldi

Ms. Connaughton: Lidl

Mr. Henry: Lidl

Ms. Callanan: Lidl

Orlaith Smyth

My Teachers’ Least Favourite Thing About Christmas My Teachers’ Least Favourite Thing About Christmas My Teachers’ Least Favourite Thing About Christmas My Teachers’ Least Favourite Thing About Christmas

Ms Galvin: The Festive Season begins too early!

Mr Whitney: Not knowing what to buy people for Christmas

Ms C .Kenny: The weather is too cold

Ms Dervin : Putting away the decorations when Christmas is over

Ms Colleary : The paper mountain left over after Christmas!

Mr Boland: Shopping

Ms McNulty: “Nothing! I love everything about Christmas”

Ms Connaughton : Cleaning up after the dinner

Ms Callanan: Icy roads

Mr Gooney : Christmas songs in shops start too early

Ms Duffy: When the Christmas music stops.

Seán Travers

My Teachers’ Least Favourite Christmas Food. My Teachers’ Least Favourite Christmas Food. My Teachers’ Least Favourite Christmas Food. My Teachers’ Least Favourite Christmas Food.

Mr McHugh – Brussels Sprouts

Mr Gooney- Christmas pudding

Ms Callaghan – Brussels Sprouts

Ms Galvin – Bread Sauce

Mr Mulhern – Mince Pies

Ms McNulty – Christmas pudding

Ms Molloy – Prawns

Ms Farrell ─ Christmas cake with almond icing

Ms Dervin ─ Too many onions

Ms Sloyan– Christmas pudding

Ms. McIntyre – Christmas cake

Ms O’Grady – Brussels Sprouts

Mr. Boland – Mince Pies

Rachel Keane

Favourite Christmas SongsFavourite Christmas SongsFavourite Christmas SongsFavourite Christmas Songs

1111stststst Year Year Year Year ---- Ms Callaghan’s Tutor GroupMs Callaghan’s Tutor GroupMs Callaghan’s Tutor GroupMs Callaghan’s Tutor Group

Music is a big part of our lives. Most of us listen to it every day. Music becomes especially popular at Christmas, when Christmas songs are prevalent everywhere. We decided to find out the favourite Christmas songs of Ms. Callaghan’s Tutor Group. Michael Callaghan – Fairytale of New York

Rachel Casey – Twelve Days of Christmas

Siobhan Casey – Merry Christmas Everyone

Jack Cassidy – Jingle Bells

Odhran Costello– Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

Molly Cunnane – Winter Wonderland

Alan Glynn – Jingle Bells

Katie Hannelly – Fairytale of New York

Cian Haynes – Feliz Navidad

Frank Hester– Fairytale of New York

Katelyn Hester - Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas

Cian Kelly– Jingle Bells

Rachel Keane – All I Want For Christmas

Megan Maloney – Winter Wonderland

Adam O’ Flanagan – Let it Snow

Ella Thompson – All I Want For Christmas

Michael Callaghan


19

May Peace be your gift at Christmas and May Peace be your gift at Christmas and May Peace be your gift at Christmas and May Peace be your gift at Christmas and

your blessing all year through! your blessing all year through! your blessing all year through! your blessing all year through!

----Author UnknownAuthor UnknownAuthor UnknownAuthor Unknown

““““

If you haven't got any charity in your heart, If you haven't got any charity in your heart, If you haven't got any charity in your heart, If you haven't got any charity in your heart,

you have the worst kind of heart trouble. “you have the worst kind of heart trouble. “you have the worst kind of heart trouble. “you have the worst kind of heart trouble. “

Bob HopeBob HopeBob HopeBob Hope

This Festive Time of YearThis Festive Time of YearThis Festive Time of YearThis Festive Time of Year

We are fast approaching Christmas

As lists and shopping begins,

But please do not forget

It is the Season of Goodwill.

Many homeless on our streets

Nowhere to turn and nothing to eat,

As you pass them by give them a thought

A hot drink perhaps and a treat.

Looking in the windows

Of happy houses full of cheer,

How they wish they had a home

At this Festive Time of Year.

We all have elderly neighbours

Living on their own,

Christmas can be a lonely time

So pop in and say ‘Hello’.

Think of all the children

Who may not get a toy,

Why not donate one of yours?

It would bring much Christmas joy.

So Happy Christmas one and all

I hope it brings much cheer,

To you and all your families

At this Festive Time of Year. Molly Cunnane

“I cannot go back and make a brand new start, I can start from now and make a brand new ending.”

With this in mind I asked my fellow classmates about their intended New Year’s Resolutions.

New Year’s Resolutions New Year’s Resolutions New Year’s Resolutions New Year’s Resolutions ---- Ms C Kenny’s 1st Year Tutor GroupMs C Kenny’s 1st Year Tutor GroupMs C Kenny’s 1st Year Tutor GroupMs C Kenny’s 1st Year Tutor Group

Ethan Donlon Franzoni: Do well in my exams

David Farrell: Get fitter

Charlotte Gardner: Eat fewer sweets

Dean Glancy: Get back playing football

Kevin Lambert: Healthy eating

Jason Lyons: Stop cursing!!!

Stephan McNeill : Try to get my dog to walk on a lead

Mikaela O’Brien: Drink fewer fizzy drinks

Saba Sattar: Listen to the orthodontist more!

Darragh Sharkey: To be more attentive in class.

Niamh Shriane: To be more organised for class

Orlaith Smyth: Exercise more

Mia Southall: Help more around the house

Seán Travers : Remember to lock in the hens!

Mark Winston : Remember to feed the sheep

Garron Wrightson: To be more positive in school

Mark Winston

RIDDLES RIDDLES RIDDLES RIDDLES Q1: What kind of coat is always wet when you put it on?

A: A coat of paint. . Q2: How many seconds are there in one year? A: 12 of them , January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd, April 2nd, May 2nd, June 2nd, July 2nd, August 2nd, Sep tember 2nd, October 2nd, November 2nd, December 2nd. . Q3: A man rode in to town on Tuesday, left two days later on Tuesday. How so? A: His horse’s name was Tuesday!

Q4: Why did the boy throw his watch out the window?

A: He wanted to see time fly. Q5: Why can’t someone living in Maine be buried in Florida ? A: Because he’s still living. Q6: What starts with a P, ends with E and has 1000s of letters? A: The post office! Q7: What word begins with an E, but only has one letter? A: An envelope.

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

Q9: The man who made it doesn’t want it. The man who bought it doesn’t need it. The man who needs it doesn’t know it. What am I talking about? A: A coffin!

Q10: What does December have that other months don’t?

A: The letter D. Kevin Lambert.


20

Some Charitable Organizations That Help People Some Charitable Organizations That Help People Some Charitable Organizations That Help People Some Charitable Organizations That Help People During Christmas And Throughout The Year.During Christmas And Throughout The Year.During Christmas And Throughout The Year.During Christmas And Throughout The Year. Coming up to Christmas we seem to get into a bit of a panic in order to get everything ready for the day. However, there are some people who don’t need to get into a rush because they simply don’t have a Christmas like us. Their circumstances are indeed very different.

There are many charitable organizations in Ireland that are doing excellent work for those less fortunate than us, work that they do all year round and right through the festive season.

Below are some of these organizations that help people in Ireland in the build-up to and at Christmas.

Organizations that Help the Homeless and those in need:Organizations that Help the Homeless and those in need:Organizations that Help the Homeless and those in need:Organizations that Help the Homeless and those in need:

The society of St. Vincent de Paul:The society of St. Vincent de Paul:The society of St. Vincent de Paul:The society of St. Vincent de Paul:

This is the largest voluntary organisation in Ireland. It focuses on the practical approach to dealing with poverty, working primarily in person to person contact by visiting families and seeking to achieve social justice and equality of opportunity for all citizens. It enables people to help themselves and assist them towards long term self-sufficiency.

Focus Ireland:Focus Ireland:Focus Ireland:Focus Ireland:

Focus Ireland is an organisation that is working to prevent homelessness in Ireland. They help people at Christmas by trying to get as many people who are sleeping ‘rough’ into accommodation during this cold season and then continue to further support them.

The Simon Community:The Simon Community:The Simon Community:The Simon Community:

The Simon Community operates across the entire country helping the homeless. They have centres in most of the main cities. This organisation also supports those who are homeless by giving them food and emergency accommodation.

Samaritans Ireland:Samaritans Ireland:Samaritans Ireland:Samaritans Ireland:

Samaritans Ireland provides confidential and non-judgemental emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including feelings that could lead to suicide. Samaritans operate a 24 hour service by telephone, email, letter and face to face in most of their branches. You do not have to give your name and they will work with you to sort things out.

Organizations that help Children:Organizations that help Children:Organizations that help Children:Organizations that help Children:

ISPCC:ISPCC:ISPCC:ISPCC:

The Irish Centre for the prevention of Cruelty to Children is one of the oldest charities in Ireland. The organisation provides support through their Childline services and volunteers who help children who are suffering from abuse, anxiety, stress, grief and risk of drug and alcohol abuse. This charity has a 24hr call service for children and adults. During Christmas they try to help as many children as possible by taking calls and trying to help them with whatever problems they may encounter.

Charities that help Animals:Charities that help Animals:Charities that help Animals:Charities that help Animals:

ISPCA:ISPCA:ISPCA:ISPCA:

ISPCA deal with cases of cruelty and abuse and constantly lobby for better laws around animal welfare. They help and collect animals that are in need of help and bring them to many shelters. They then take care of them and try to give them a new home.

Dogs Trust:Dogs Trust:Dogs Trust:Dogs Trust:

The Dogs Trust is Ireland’s charity for looking after dogs. Dogs Trust looks after education around dogs and also re-homing for dogs. They also advise the government on matters of pet ownership.

Katie Hannelly

Ke

Students’ Favourite MoviesStudents’ Favourite MoviesStudents’ Favourite MoviesStudents’ Favourite Movies

Ms. Y Ryan’s Tutor Group/Maths’ ClassMs. Y Ryan’s Tutor Group/Maths’ ClassMs. Y Ryan’s Tutor Group/Maths’ ClassMs. Y Ryan’s Tutor Group/Maths’ Class

Some of our deep emotional experiences come when we are watching a movie and this is especially true of Christmas movies. Whether they be happy, sad, funny or otherwise, we will all be transfixed by the goggle box, watching festive movie after festive movie. We decided to ask each student in 1st Year what their favourite Christmas movie was to date. Here are the result of our findings:

CHRISTMAS WORDSEARCHCHRISTMAS WORDSEARCHCHRISTMAS WORDSEARCHCHRISTMAS WORDSEARCH

Z Q C Z P C J Y M W U X H Q B

K X O G R M F P H G O K X E C

C H F V E R F A T N A S C M B

C H R I S T M A S I Z G J I R

A Z I G E C F D M V N O R R I

R E E D N I E R T I K D N M E

O Q N A T I I U V G L U J K T

L E D P S P R O U T S Y R E E

S U S E J K L A R T Z R V N F

G S M T E T F E H G X X R A J

V N Z Y K E E G G S V C T A I

C E K H F D I E Q T H P S M D

Y E U O F L O D U R D Q T X P

X Z G S L H Y Y V V J X W L V

Z N D A S L A L H P K D A B Z

CAROLS

CHRISTMAS

FAMILY

FRIENDS

GIVING

HAM

JESUS

LIGHTS

LOVING

PRESENTS

REINDEER

RUDOLF

SANTA

SHARING

SPROUTS

TREE

TURKEY

Cian Haynes


21

Christmas in RomaniaChristmas in RomaniaChristmas in RomaniaChristmas in Romania My name is Christina and I moved to Ireland when I was nine years old. I have vague memories of celebrating Christmas in Romania. However, my mum and dad helped me recall some of the festive celebrations in my home country, Romania.

Christmas is the most celebrated event in Romania. In Romania Christmas has always been a great opportunity for family members to get together in order to spend time in the warm, loving and cozy atmosphere of their home.

Food is probably the central part of any holiday in Romania, but Christmas is a true feast for the senses. The traditional food is Pork and on Christmas Eve women make sarmale sarmale sarmale sarmale (meat and rice rolls wrapped in cabbage) and bake cozonaccozonaccozonaccozonac (a sort of sponge cake with nuts, cocoa and Turkish delights, similar to the Italian panettone). Christmas dinner is always a rich, multi-course meal.

The best part of a Romanian Christmas is the carols that are heard all over the country during this wonderful time of the year. Children go in groups from door the door singing carols. Christmas carols usually come together with rituals, special costumes, tools and even short theatrical performances. Most popular include Steaua (Steaua (Steaua (Steaua (the star boys’ singing procession) and Copra Copra Copra Copra (the Goat).

Other Christmas traditions in Romania like Ireland are, the decorating of the Christmas tree, the arrival of Santa Clause and the decorating of each city with millions of glowing lights.

Christina Dragan

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

year.year.year.year.

“Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dóibh, a Thiarna”“Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dóibh, a Thiarna”“Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dóibh, a Thiarna”“Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dóibh, a Thiarna”

Christmas Day Weather PredictionChristmas Day Weather PredictionChristmas Day Weather PredictionChristmas Day Weather Prediction

Will it Snow? Will it snow? Will it snow?Will it Snow? Will it snow? Will it snow?Will it Snow? Will it snow? Will it snow?Will it Snow? Will it snow? Will it snow?

“The North wind doth blow and we shall have snow, And what will poor robin do then, poor thing? He'll sit in a barn and keep himself warm

and hide his head under his wing, poor thing.” Unfortunately, for most of us who love snow during the festive season this will not come to pass on Christmas Day according to weather guru Ken Ring, author of “Weather Almanac of Ireland”. His prediction of the weather for Christmas day is as follows:- “Cool early in the day with morning fog and some ground frost scattered over the country. Dry in many areas with some bright spells while some well-scattered showers occur, some isolated heavy pockets and some thundery at times. Winds light south westerlies increasing to moderate or fresh around the north and western coasts. Afternoon temperatures well above normal for this time of year.” Is he accurate? We will just have to wait and see!! Dean Glancy


22

Spot yourself?Spot yourself?Spot yourself?Spot yourself?Spot yourself?Spot yourself?Spot yourself?Spot yourself?

newsletter christmas 2016 finished

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