Week 2

Friday 16th September 2022

Hi Everyone

Another week over and gosh it has been really busy. Positive energy is flowing everywhere. Year 8 have settled in brilliantly and are beginning to find their way around the different classrooms; Years 11 & 13 are coming to terms with the demands of GCSE and A Level subjects; Years 12 & 14 know they have a hard working year ahead of them; Year 10 are preparing to select their GCSE subjects next February; and Year 9 are maturing and becoming more independent. Classes are engaged in their learning, coursework dates are being scheduled and there is a collective effort to ensure that the basic procedures and routines are being followed. This reflects our Code of Conduct: Be Respectful; Be a Learner; Be Responsible; Be Safe.

There has been no time to waste for Year 14 students, who made their way to St Mary’s University College in Belfast to find out more about a teaching pathway and in preparation for their forthcoming UCAS Applications. These decisions have to be made extremely early in the year so it is important to put a lot of thought, effort and research into future pathways.

Last night was fabulous – our School Formal of course! Well, talk about style….. the girls and boys were absolutely stunning - a very enjoyable evening was had by all. A pre-reception was held in the College followed by a lovely hot meal in the Greenvale Hotel, then Formal Awards, craic and off they went!. Well done to the Senior Prefect Team – you organised everything to perfection and did yourselves proud. A huge thanks to the Greenvale Hotel and their very efficient staff for a lovely meal; and also Mrs Conway, Miss Dillon and Mrs Quinn who helped ensure all was in order.

Extra-curricular activities are currently being advertised to occur either at lunchtime or after school, so be sure to avail of these great opportunities either in football, STEM, E-Sports and so on. These activities bring enjoyment, improve self-esteem and develop leadership skills.

Thank-you parents/guardians, for your support with uniform and ensuring standards are maintained. We want pupils to wear their uniform with pride, be proud of their personal appearance and be focused in their learning. We will support pupils should there be a concern. Let’s support our positive behaviour procedures and receive those achievement points!!

Don’t forget, Monday 19th September is an additional Bank Holiday for the State funeral of the Queen. The College will be closed and will reopen on Tuesday 20th September.

And that’s it, folks – the hustle and bustle has started – simply great!

Have a lovely weekend

Isabel Russell