The u19s and u16s Girls Basketball Teams travelled to Easkey today for the first round of their competition. The u16s were unlucky and lost their game despite putting in a great performance. The u19s secured a victory and played excellently. The next round of the competition is played this Tuesday the 17th of October. Well done to all involved.

On the sun-kissed morning of Thursday, September 7th, 2023, our Transition Year students embarked on an unforgettable adventure that marked the perfect beginning to their TY journey. Accompanied by teachers, Ms. Carty, Mr. Lyng, and Ms. Cryan, they set out to Strandhill for their surfing experience. This outing was a resounding success, with 29 students riding the waves under the expert guidance of David and his team at Strandhill Surf School.

The picturesque backdrop of Strandhill provided the ideal setting for a day filled with sunshine, sea, and surf. The clear skies and radiant sunshine created an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation among our students, setting the stage for an extraordinary experience.

David and his team at Strandhill Surf School deserve special commendation for their exceptional expertise in teaching the art of surfing. Their meticulous guidance, clear instructions, and commitment to safety ensured that our students had an unforgettable and educational experience. The students' learning was not only about riding the waves but also understanding the ocean's dynamics and respecting its power.

For some of our students, this was their first time on a surfboard. As they navigated the waves, it was heartening to witness their determination and resilience. The initial trepidation quickly transformed into exhilaration as they paddled out and attempted to catch their first waves. Each ride, no matter how brief, was met with cheers of triumph and encouragement from their peers.

The surfing trip also provided an excellent opportunity for our students to bond and collaborate. Surfing requires effective communication and support from peers, which was evident in the encouraging words and high-fives exchanged among the students. The camaraderie that developed during this experience was a significant and positive outcome.

This surf trip was a fantastic initiation into Transition Year. It not only offered a thrilling adventure but also promoted personal growth, resilience, and teamwork. Students were able to challenge their limits and gain a newfound confidence that will undoubtedly serve them well throughout the year and beyond.

The first surfing trip to Strandhill on that beautiful sunny day was a day to remember. It was a testament to the endless possibilities that lie ahead in Transition Year. We are immensely grateful to David and the Strandhill Surf School team for providing our students with an incredible experience. This outing not only allowed our students to catch waves but also provided them with valuable life lessons that will shape their character and enhance their journey through Transition Year. Here's to more adventures and growth in the months to come!

On Thursday, October 12th 2023 31 enthusiastic Transition Year students,  accompanied by teachers Ms McGrath, Mr Lyng and Mr O’Mainnín, embarked on an exhilarating journey into the treetops of Lough Key Forest Park, where they experienced the adrenaline rush of high ropes, cargo net challenges, and breathtaking ziplines at Zipit Forest Adventure.

Upon arrival, our students were greeted by the lush greenery of Lough Key Forest Park, setting the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure. The Zipit Forest Adventure course, nestled among the trees, immediately captured everyone's attention. The guides, with their safety expertise and friendly demeanor, made our students feel secure and ready for action.

The highlight of the day was, undoubtedly, the high ropes course. With a mix of nerves and excitement, students scaled ropes, traversed wobbly bridges, and braved Tarzan swings—all while suspended high in the treetops. This experience not only challenged them physically but also encouraged teamwork and support among peers.  The ziplines were the pinnacle of excitement. Students soared through the treetops, experiencing a bird's-eye view of the forest, which added an educational element by allowing them to appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of this natural wonder.

One of the most significant takeaways from this trip was the development of team-building skills. As students navigated the challenging courses, they learned the importance of communication, trust, and collaboration. This adventure promoted a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, with each student pushing their boundaries and encouraging one another to succeed.

In addition to team building, the Zipit experience provided a unique opportunity for personal growth. Many students faced their fears head-on, conquering heights they never thought possible. This will undoubtedly have a positive impact on their self-confidence and their ability to overcome challenges in the future.

Beyond the exhilarating adventure, this trip offered an educational element, allowing students to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of Lough Key Forest Park. They learned about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship, fostering a greater understanding of our natural surroundings.

The Zipit Forest Adventure at Lough Key Forest Park proved to be an unforgettable and transformative experience for our Transition Year students. It not only offered an exciting outdoor adventure but also promoted personal growth, teamwork, and environmental awareness. We are grateful for this opportunity to challenge our students physically and mentally, and we look forward to more educational adventures in the future. Sincere thanks to Ms McGrath, Mr Lyng and Mr O’Mainnín for accompanying the students and kudos to the team at Zipit for creating a memorable day that our students will treasure for years to come.

Our students and have been busy decorating our school ahead of Halloween, Thank you to all the students involved and their teacher Mrs. McGrath. We will be hold a Halloween fancy dress competition on the last week of school before the midterm. Details to follow.....

Our Under 19's and under 16's Basketball teams had a win apiece yesterday against St Attracta's Tubbercurry. Both teams performed well despite a tough opposition with the under 19s winning 32-25 and the under 16s winning 22-16. Next game is set for this Monday the 16th at home against Grange. Well done to both teams and their coaches.

On Tuesday 26th September our TY students went on a visit to The TY Show 2023 which was staged in the Sports Campus Ireland National Indoor Arena. The TY show 2023 had exhibitors from across Ireland & international exhibitors. As Ireland's only event dedicated to TY students there was a huge turnout of TY students from all over Ireland. Following the show we stopped in Liffey Valley for 2 hours. A very enjoyable day was had by all. 

14-22 October

Maths Week takes place from the 14th – 22nd October.  The school will run Maths Week Olympiad with 1st and 2nd years in their Maths class during the week.  Last year Maths Olympiad had over 80 000 learners taking part and this year we look forward to the participating in the national competition. All details with be outlined on your Maths team. We will run a daily Maths problem for all year groups. The problem will be put up outside Ms Cryan’s room each day with all the details.

Our 6th year students were visited by Jacqueline Mellett from ATU Sligo today to hear about the range of courses they offer and the faciliteis they provide.  This is a great overview of the University in advance of their Autumn open days (including St Angelas) which are taking place on 17th and 18th November from 10am-1pm.

A number of our students from all year groups recently attended the Sligo Comhairle na nÓg in the Radission Hotel where they had the opportunity to collaborate and discuss issues of importance to young people in Sligo.  Well done to all on representing their school and contributing to these important discussions.  Further detail on the work of Comhairle na nÓg can be found at www.comhairlenanog.ie/local-comhairle/sligo/

The 3rd year students had a great day in Dublin on Wednesday 11th October when they had the opportunity to visit Kilmainham Gaol, Collins' Barracks and of course the obligatory stop at Liffey Valley.  The trip focused on the work that is being covered in history class as part of the Junior Cycle curriculum.  Well done to all the students who were a credit to the school and represented the school very well on the day.