Ahbourne CS - Annual Report - 2023/24

2023/2024

1, Deerpark, Ashbourne, Co. Meath. Eircode: A84 T925

T: 01-8353066 / 01-8353007

F: 01-8353083

E: admin@ashcom.ie / adulted@ashcom.ie

W: www.ashcom.ie

Welcome Message

Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, and esteemed members of our school community,

I am delighted to present to you the Principal’s preamble for the School Annual Report 2023/2024, a comprehensive reflection on the remarkable journey we undertook throughout the academic year 2023/2024.

The pages that follow encapsulate the vibrant activities, achievements, and developments that have defined our school’s spirit over the past year. As we delve into the various facets of our educational landscape, it is evident that the collective efforts of our dedicated teachers, enthusiastic students, and supportive parents have yielded a year of remarkable progress.

Our curriculum, the bedrock of academic excellence, continues to evolve, ensuring a dynamic and holistic learning experience for our students. In September we opened a new Special classroom. Special classes are now part of a continuum of educational provision that enables students with more complex special educational needs to be educated, in smaller class groups, within their local mainstream schools. By September 2024, we will see a second special classroom added and following this, the Department of Education wants us to develop two more special classrooms, bringing the total number to four over the next couple of years. These classrooms will all be developed inside the school by modifying some of the existing rooms. The rooms which are lost due to this development are being replaced with a new building outside. The plan is to build thirteen modular classrooms in two blocks adjacent to the GAA pitch. We look forward to these new rooms coming on stream as they are much larger than the existing ones and should be a fantastic addition to the school.

In the ensuing pages, each subject will provide a succinct account of the achievements and developments within their domain, showcasing the commitment to intellectual growth and academic prowess that defines our school.

One of the crowning glories of the year lies in our sporting achievements, where our Senior Boys and Girls teams have left an indelible mark by clinching Leinster titles. The relentless dedication, sportsmanship, and teamwork displayed by our athletes on the sporting fields have not only brought pride to our school but have also fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among our students.

As we navigate through the triumphs and challenges documented in this report, it is essential to recognise the collaborative spirit that permeates every aspect of our school community. The unwavering support of parents, the hard work of our teaching and non-teaching staff, and the resilience of our students collectively contribute to the success story that is the School Annual Report of 2023/2024.

However, with the highs, there have been moments of bittersweet farewells. This year witnessed the retirement of our esteemed Principal, Ciarán Stewart, a stalwart whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping the character of our school. We also bid farewell to Geri Lawlor after many years of dedicated service to ACS. Additionally, we said goodbye to Eoin O Connor who spent three years with us as he went on to pastures new as he resigned his PE post in October to pursue travels in Australia. Three other wonderful teachers resigned during the year as they exhausted their career breaks - Aine Tighe, Beulah McManus, and Ann Marie McEvoy. I extend heartfelt gratitude to them for their dedicated service and invaluable contributions to our school.

In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to everyone who has been an integral part of our journey this year. May this report serve as a testament to our shared commitment to excellence, growth, and the holistic development of each student under our care. Thank you for your continued support.

Pat Moriarty Principal

SUBJECT DEPARTMENTS

Art

The Sixth Year Art piece for 2023 was completed by Theo Johnson, Zosia Gozdzik, and Beatrice Uiuiu. It was kindly displayed on the curved wall at Reception by our caretakers. Huge credit goes to the students for the determination, creativity, skill, and time that went into creating such a fabulous piece.

The plan was put together by a team of Sixth Years during April and May 2023. Zosia explains below the concept behind the design.

“The base classes were named after rivers and the theme was journey. We decided to embark on one final journey of our own. Our inspiration came from a Viking longboat sailing from a river into the vast ocean.

We decided to portray one strong, powerful figure, our Head Student Laura Bolster, carrying our year group’s spirit on a journey into the world. She is shooting a pencil into a sky of stars to represent our future plans and dreams. The sea is created from a collage of textbooks that were used throughout our six years in ACS ”

Leaving Cert Results

Congratulations to LC 2023 for the fabulous results. They were very deserving as they were a hardworking and dedicated group of students who were always a pleasure to teach .

Junior Cycle Results

Congratulations to JC 2023. This was the second year that students in our school received results in JC Art. We had some exceptional work completed by our hardworking students.

First Year

A new group of First Years arrived in September, and they settled in well. They began the year learning new drawing and design skills before in clay creating coil pots based on the theme of “Nature”.

They entered the Credit Union Art Competition, and we had some excellent entries. The theme was “My Community and Me”.

The following were the winners.

11 - 13 YRS.

1st place: Simona Lukacova

2nd place: Saoirse Lovatt

3rd place: Matthew Young

Runners up: Amy Mc Carthy and Conor Beggy

Back row L to R: Amy McCarthy, Saoirse Lovatt, Ciarán Muldoon, Simona Lukacova.

Front row L to R: Matthew Young, Conor Beggy.

14 - 17 YRS.

1st place: Ciarán Muldoon

Second Year

They began the year with drawing and painting using shoes as their Primary source.

They also completed some lovely relief sculptures before Christmas based on Michelangelo’s David and they completed their CBA 1 in Strand Craft: Lino Printing. This includes researching artists and completing a three colour Lino print.

Third Year

Third Year students were busy completing CBA 2 before Christmas and then began working on their chosen exam piece for assessment in June. These included Paintings and Sculpture.

Senior Cycle Art

Transition Year

Students in Ms. Maher’s class were learning about Coats of Arms and Calligraphy. They designed and painted their own personal Coat of Arms together with a personalised motto in the Italic Script.

Fifth Year Visual Art

Students completed some excellent Sketchbook work, Imaginative Composition, Still Life paintings and they rounded off the year by working on Lino Printing. Just after Christmas they visited the Andy Warhol Exhibition in the Hugh Lane in Dublin.

Sixth Year Visual Art

Sixth years studied the Italian Renaissance in Visual Studies. They visited the Andy Warhol Exhibition in January. They worked on their art project from December, completing one artwork in class and a second in a five-hour exam.

Fifth Year LCA

Students completed their General Education Task with Ms. Aiken and Ms. Matthews. They designed and built coil pots and wrote a report on the process. They also visited the workshop of Thomas Diem. They also learned how to use watercolour, acrylic paint and how to mix colour.

Sixth Year LCA

Sixth Year LCA looked at The Local Environment. They researched through photographs and studied the work of collage artist Sean Hillen. They completed some excellent collage work for their key assignments.

Business

It has been a busy year for the Business Department for the academic year 2023/2024. Here are just a few of the highlights of another successful academic year.

Leaving Certificate and Junior Cycle results

A big well done to all our Leaving Certificate and Junior Cycle students who received their fantastic results. Many students received top results across Accounting, Business, Economics and LCVP for the Leaving Certificate while we had several students achieve a Distinction at Junior Cycle level - huge congratulations on your success. We are very proud of your hard work.

BFI European Money Quiz

A selection of Mr O’Shea’s Second Year Business Studies class participated in the BFI European Money Quiz on Thursday 21st March 2024. Students competed with over a hundred other schools and were placed in teams of two and had to complete fifteen questions against the clock. Although they did not have a podium finish, the students performed extremely well and enjoyed the experience. Great effort and well done to all.

Meath Student Enterprise Programme

Four Transition Year students - Finn Moylan, Darragh Meagher, Sean Ward and Ethan Walsh, competed in the Meath Student Enterprise Programme and got to the final of the competition which was held in November 2023. The students came third in their category “Most Innovative Idea” and received €100 to help kick start their business, ACS Apparel. Well done to the boys and Ms Cassidy, their Business teacher, on their success in the competition. This will be an annual event and the hope is to open the competition up to all students of ACS in 2024/2025. Thank you to the team at Meath Enterprise for running the competition .

Open Night

We held another very successful Open Evening where we welcomed incoming parents/guardians and students. Some of our young entrepreneurs set up a stall in RA4 and along the Red Area corridor. It was a great chance to showcase the practical benefits of our subject which we believe is essential to developing skills for the future. We had various games for our incoming First Year students to play and enjoy like Guess the Entrepreneur and Name the Logo. A huge thanks to our young entrepreneurs who set up on the night, to our students who demonstrated the Limited Resources Game, and to all department teachers for the preparation put into making it a success.

In March 2024, our Second Year students completed their CBA1. Students worked in groups to research and recommend a new family car. They also had to recommend a suitable source of finance and repayment plan for this purchase. The students worked very hard to get their task completed. Well done to all!!

Computer Science

Computer Science has garnered significant interest and enthusiasm among our students which is now in its second year in our school. We have seen a remarkable response, with nineteen students in Fifth Year and eleven students in Sixth Year eagerly participating in the program. This growing interest reflects the increasing relevance and importance of computer science in today’s world. Students have been engaged in a variety of topics, from programming and algorithms to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, gaining valuable skills that will be beneficial in both further education and future careers.

This academic year marks a significant milestone as we introduce our first Leaving Cert class in Computer Science. The students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment throughout the year, culminating in the completion of their projects. The standard of their projects has been remarkably high, showcasing their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and technical proficiency. These projects not only highlight the students’ individual talents but also reflect the comprehensive learning experience provided by the Computer Science curriculum. As we look forward to the students’ Leaving Cert examinations, we are confident that they are well-prepared and equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this rapidly evolving field.

CSPE

CSPE students have been engaged in several areas of active citizenship this year. There are three Strands for each year of CSPE education - Strand One: Rights and Responsibilities, Strand Two: Global Citizenship, and Strand Three: Democracy.

First Year Class Carrauntoohil were very busy learning about Human Rights and Responsibilities. After watching the critically acclaimed short film The Silent Child, they were inspired to do something to promote inclusion in our school. They decided they wanted to learn some basic sign language and then try to teach it to others in school to help foster a culture of inclusion and diversity and help to make our school a more equal place. They then made a video teaching sign language to be shown and taught to other classes in the school through CSPE.

Second Year students focused on a Fast Fashion Campaign after learning about the social and environmental issues surrounding fast fashion and the Rhana Plaza disaster. They wrote to their favourite brands asking about who made their clothes and the working conditions they face. They then surveyed some teachers and students on their favourite brands and encouraged them to write to the brands as well. They took pictures with these students and teachers holding a #whomademyclothes poster. The class collated all the images that they gathered for a post on Instagram where all of the brands mentioned were tagged.

Ashbourne Community School

Second Year Class Apollo students also took part in a Clean Up Day to celebrate World Earth Day where they picked up litter in and around the school grounds. As a class, they managed to gather one full bin bag of rubbish that otherwise would have made its way into our rivers and streams.

Third Year students in Class Potassium held a mock referendum regarding a four-day working week. Students from another Third Year group attended the referendum and cast their votes. This was an invaluable experience for students to learn hands on about how the referendum process works in Ireland including counting votes, spoiled ballots etc. In addition to this, Class Iron held a Mock Election, where they actively learned about election campaigning and the unique PR-STV voting system in Ireland.

Conor Dunne, one of our students from last year’s Third Year group, won a fantastic trip to Strasbourg, France and Germany to take part in the youth EU Council. This was a result of partaking in a competition in CSPE class run by Educate.ie. Conor embarked on the trip in November 2023 and had a fantastic time. He had the opportunity to meet with students from all over Europe, visit the European Union Headquarters and see firsthand the democratic processes that take place.

Overall, we’ve had a great year. Students across all years and Strands have had the chance to put their classroom learning to use and engage in practical activities that encourage students to develop a sense of active citizenship and a heightened awareness of the world around them.

Development Education

Development Education places an emphasis on understanding the unequal world around us and aims to empower learners to become active participants in creating a more peaceful, tolerant, and just world.

This is a half year module for TYs, with one group before September to Christmas and one group January to May. Students learned about issues such as poverty, resource distribution, sustainability, gender issues and more. Students focused on their area of interest and took action to play their part in addressing the issue in a meaningful way.

The first group wanted to focus on racism and women in politics. This was inspired by events such as the Dublin riots and the issue of migration, looking at Ireland’s progress towards SDG 5, and gender equality as Ireland has not yet achieved this goal due to the low number of female representatives in politics. Students researched their topics, made presentations, and delivered them to First Year CSPE classes. The students were very pleased with how the presentations went and the First Year students engaged very well.

The second group based their project around The Sustainable Development Goals. This is a useful framework for condensing global issues into a tangible context for students and we commonly refer to it in class. This group wanted to raise awareness about what the SDGs are and teach them to First Year students. They did this by creating their own educational boardgames around the SDGs and hosted a Game Morning for First Year students.

We also received our Global Passport award from WorldWise Global Schools (WWGS) this year. This is an award to recognises the implementation of quality whole school global citizenship education. This award is given every two years and involves a lengthy application process. WWGS is an organisation that works closely with partner schools to ensure high standards in this area via teacher training, funding, and recommendation of quality educational resources.

“So please, oh please, we beg, we pray, Go throw your TV set away, And in its place you can install, A lovely bookshelf on the wall.”

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (1964)

Throughout this academic year, our students have engaged with literary texts, films, and plays. From classic texts such as Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men and Hinton’s The Outsiders as well as some contemporary texts like Room by Emma Donohoe, Educated by Tara Westover, and Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan. Students have fostered a genuine enthusiasm for exploring the diverse worlds and narratives of their studied novels.

Our First Year students also explored novels such as The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien, Stone Cold by Robert Swindells, and Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo. Our Senior Cycle students had the chance to study film texts such as Ladybird directed by Greta Gerwig, Diego Maradona directed by Asif Kapadia, The Shawshank Redemption directed by Frank Darabont, Knives Out directed by Rian Johnson, and Rosie directed by Paddy Breathnach as part of their Comparative Study. While our Junior Cycle students had the opportunity to analyse Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Sing Street. It is through the investigation of these films that lively class discussions and insightful analyses were formed, and students deepened their understanding of cinema and developed their critical thinking and communication skills.

Our Junior Cycle students, after their study of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice had the opportunity to see the theatrics of Venice unfold in front of their very eyes this March at The Mill Theatre in Dundrum. Both students and staff thoroughly enjoyed the performance.

Our drama studies continued with Fifth Years studying King Lear and Sixth Years continuing their revision of Friel’s Philadelphia, Here I Come!, Arthur Miller’s The Crucible as well as Shakespeare’s Hamlet at Higher Level. These students visited the Smock Alley Theatre this October to see the Gaiety School of Acting’s production of Hamlet and the students really enjoyed seeing the play come to life.

World Book Day

World Book Day was a huge success in the ACS English Department. Competitions for both staff and students were held, and delicious Easter Eggs were up for grabs for the winners. Teachers and students also shared their books that they were reading and what they were enjoying about that book with our school community through our social media platforms.

First Year Carrauntoohil students chose their favorite books and wrote a review to encourage others in the school to read them. These summaries and their beautifully designed book covers are proudly displayed in the school’s busy White Area hallway for all to enjoy.

Second Year Classroom Based Assessments

Second Year Classroom Based Assessments took place in March. This assessment requires students to research and present a topic of their choice to the class through means of interview, presentation, performance or a response to a stimulus material. Students were given three weeks to choose a topic, research, plan and present their topic to the class. Students were encouraged to choose a topic that interests them and that they would enjoy talking about. This resulted in a myriad of topics presented such as “Gender Imbalances in Sport”, “Pros and Cons of Social Media”, and “The Chicken Fillet Roll Versus The Spice Bag”. Before presenting, students studied famous speeches and brainstormed techniques for a successful presentation and used this to help them plan their speeches. This assessment taught students about the importance of maintaining eye contact with their audience, creating clear and well-planned speeches and how to incorporate the audience into their presentation to keep them engaged. This assessment developed the student’s oral communication skills and all projects showed signs of improving the students’ confidence in public speaking - a skill they will carry forward into the future.

Gaeilge

An Triail

Eagraíodh turas go dtí an Axis i mBaile Munna i mí na Samhna le daltaí ón séú bliain chun féachaint ar an dráma An Triail. Bhain na daltaí an-taitneamh as an dráma a fheiceáil beo ar an stáitse. Ba thuras den scoth é a chur le Gaeilge na ndaltaí agus lena bhfeasacht chultúrtha.

Seachtain na Gaeilge

Bhí seachtain iontach againn sa scoil arís i mbliana ag ceiliúradh Seachtain na Gaeilge le chéile. Ba ócáid lán scoile í. Bhí Gaeilge le cloisteáil in a lán seomraí ranga, timpeall na scoile agus ar an idirchum mar chuid de fhógraí an lae. Molaimid go mór na daoine a bhain agus a bhaineann úsáid as a gcuid Gaeilge fós.

Ghlac na daltaí ón gcéad bhliain páirt i dTráth na gCeist sa rang, imeacht a bhí eagraithe ag an idirbhliain. Ba iontach an spraoi a bhí acu trí mheán na Gaeilge. Bhí go leor duaiseanna ar fáil freisin.

Tháinig leipreachán go dtí an scoil ar cuairt mar chuid de Sheachtain na Gaeilge. D’fhág sé boinn óir timpeall na scoile. Bhí uibheacha Cásca mar dhuaiseanna do na buaiteoirí díograiseacha.

Bhí spraoi de gach saghas sna ranganna Gaeilge i rith na seachtaine. D’imir na dalta biongó, bhí siad ag rince, ghlac siad páirt i gcomórtas ealaíne agus i gcluichí ar líne chomh maith. Táimid ag tnúth go mór le Seachtain na Gaeilge sa bhliain 2025.

MRBanna

Rinne na daltaí sa tríú bliain Measúnú Rang Bunaithe ina ranganna Gaeilge, nós atá ag tarlú le cupla bliain anuas. Rinne siad obair den scoth ag ullmhú don chur i láthair os comhair an ranga. Bhí roinnt daltaí neirbhíseach ach ghlac siad páirt in ainneoin sin. Táimid fíor-bhródúil astu.

Gaelscoil na Cille

On Friday 20th October. 6th years along with their teacher Ms O’Connell visited Gaelscoil na Cille to speak to 5th and 6th class students about ACS and how secondary school changes from primary school. Seán Lambe, Fionnán Hogan, William Carr and Eve Whelan, all past students, spoke highly of ACS and gave the primary school students a short presentation on life in secondary school and what’s available here in the school. Two great information sessions by all students. Míle buíochas le Gaelscoil na Cille, leis an bPríomhoide, leis na múinteoirí agus leis na daltaí as an bhfáilte groíúil a chuir siad romhainn.

Galfairí ón scoil in Albain

Comhgháirdeas ó chroí leis na daltaí ón scoil a d’imir ar Links Naomh Anndra (in Albain) i 2023. Jack Mac Rónáin, Ruairí Ó Baoill, JJ MacMánais, Mark Ó Maoldúin, Darragh Ó Duibhir agus Conor Ó Duibhir a chuaigh ar an turas. Rinne cuid de na buachaillí agallamh leis an Uasal Ó Maitiú mar gheall ar an gcuairt ar leith seo. Foilsíodh alt bunaithe ar an agallamh, le griangraf, ar an gCéadaoin, 8 Samhain 2023 i SEACHTAIN (Irish Independent). Tá an t-alt úd, ‘Galfairí na hÉireann in Albain’, ar fáil go digiteach.

Úrscéal do dhaoine a bhfuil croí óg acu

Duine ar bith atá óg nó a bhfuil croí óg acu, molaimid dóibh ‘Cuairteoir nua na Nollag’ le Ciarán Ó Maitiú a léamh. Giota é seo dá úrscéal Oireachtais Grúgarú agus na Sionnaigh Liatha. Foilsíodh an giota ar an 20 Nollaig 2023 i SEACHTAIN san Irish Independent agus tá sé ar fáil go digiteach.

Geography

It has been another active and productive year for ACS Geography students this year. The Sixth Year students worked hard over the course of the year to prepare for their Leaving Cert exams this summer. They have completed their Field Work project which will be worth 20% of their overall grade. This year for the study they visited Balscadden Bay in Howth to study the impact of coastal erosion on cliff formation. The students were extremely productive and had a great day out. The high quality of their Field Work booklets, along with their excellent Mock exam results, bode well for the Leaving Cert in June.

There is another strong cohort of students opting for Geography in Fifth Year, with a total of four separate classes. Students have hit the ground running and have already finished learning about Physical Geography and are in a very strong position heading into their final year. Great results in their Christmas exams coupled with a strong work ethic are all good indicators of future performance.

In October, Fifth and Sixth Year Students went on a fantastic Geography trip to Iceland to see hot springs, geysers, waterfalls and volcanoes along with a special sighting of the Northern Lights. It was a fantastic way to immerse students in real life geography and we look forward to organising similar trips in the future.

Third Year students have prepared well for their coming Junior Cycle exams. Students performed fantastically well in their Mock exams, and it is hoped that this strong trend continues to the exams in June.

First and Second Year students learned about Volcanoes, Rocks, Rivers, the Sea and much more. The Second Year students completed their CBAs on Geography in the News in which they have had to research and write an account of a major Geographical events that has been covered in the media in recent years. They have shown a real interest in Geography and are really enjoying the subject and look set to following the high standards being set by this year’s exam groups.

Guidance

The past year has been another busy one for the Guidance Counselling Department. Each year group, each school term and each transition bringing its own demands and opportunities. In the Guidance Department we focus on eight groups: incoming students and outgoing students and First Years through to Sixth Years.

In September 2023 we were busy linking in with local feeder National Schools by visiting the town schools and organising a Zoom session for all. We were very well received by the primary school students, teachers, and Principals when we did our annual visit to the local primary schools. In October 2023 we hosted a very successful and busy Open Day where the school community displayed the work of students, senior prefects gave tours of the school. The Head Students also discussed their experience of Ashbourne Community School and parents heard how our pastoral and academic system work.

During the First Year Induction Week, the Guidance Department met all First Year groups to facilitate a workshop on Settling into Your New School. During Induction Week, ability testing was conducted with all First Years and the results were posted to the Parents/Guardians to give them an insight into their child’s learning styles and they were encouraged to contact us with any queries. High achieving students were linked with the CYTI DCU and they are undertaking courses of interest. This year we also facilitated an anxiety management course with selected First Years after Easter.

The Guidance Counsellors were available to inform and guide exiting Sixth Year students on the transition to the workplace, CFE and Third Level options following the Leaving Certificate and CAO offers. As the release of results were in late August, it resulted in the Guidance Counsellors working with the current cohort of Senior Cycle students simultaneously. Guidance was given both in person and on the phone to students/parents/guardians. The Guidance Department compiled a ‘Final Destinations Profile’ of the class of 2023 which entailed contacting each Leaving Certificate student or parent/guardian. In most cases students were content with their offers and in other cases we were able to offer guidance and re-direction depending on the students’ requests.

The Guidance Department created a Study Skills Booklet to be delivered later in the year through Second Year SPHE classes. In November, we participated in College Awareness Week (CAW) and collaborated with all teachers. We placed our qualifications and educational institution on the classroom door or whiteboard to open dialogue. The Guidance Department took workshops with Second Year students to create awareness around Third Level. We sourced a Resilience Programme through Pieta House called The Resilience Academy, a six-week programme aimed at Second Year students to equip them with emotional resilience tools. This programme, in collaboration with the Wellbeing Co-ordinator, was organised and delivered during SPHE.

Communication began in November with parents around Third Year EirQuest Interest and Aptitude Testing. Third Year students received lessons prior to testing to inform them about Senior Options and prepare them for this testing and explain its function. In December, the majority of Third Year students participated in the EirQuest Interest and Aptitude Testing. The results were immediate for students to see. These results inform and guide students around Senior Cycle subject options and course choices.

We welcomed the parents and guardians of our Incoming First Year cohort in February for an information evening detailing our subject options in ACS. At this successful, highly attended online meeting we gave a clear overview of the expectations of Post Primary education in ACS. Parents/guardians also had an opportunity to ask questions and receive links to further information.

During February and March, the focus was on Third and TY students transitioning into Senior Cycle and considerable time was spent in helping them make informed and wise decisions about their future choices. This is a good starting point for students to reflect on where their strengths lie and is a positive place to start discussion with them. Each subject department gave their time to outline the subject details of each Leaving Certificate subject to all Third and TY students in the GP. All the PowerPoint presentations were available for students to check out on SharePoint. Some students expressed a curiosity in Accounting and Engineering. However, not having had an experience of these subjects at Junior Cycle level hindered their decision making. Recognising this obstacle the Guidance Department spoke with their colleagues about having a taster class in Accounting and Engineering, and this proved very

successful. Students also met their Guidance Counsellors in small groups, and some got one to one support with their decision making. There was positive feedback from our evening information Senior Options session for parents/guardian and students. All presentations, information documents and forms were uploaded onto the School Guidance website. This year the Guidance Department created a Senior Options booklet in a hard and digital copy where students/parents and guardians have access to all the information and further research.

Most Fifth Year students settled into their chosen subjects at Senior Cycle but there were several students who needed assistance and guidance around subject levels and subject changes. We worked closely with the senior leaders and teachers and have a clear process that works quite effectively ensuring that students find themselves with the right fit for them. We like to begin Senior Cycle college and career classes in the final term of Fifth Year as it serves to focus and engage students. Every year we organise all Fifth Year students to attend a Campus Tour. This year all Fifth Years attended two local HEIs - Maynooth University and Dublin City University. During this term, we organised and facilitated CareerFit testing which helped students to choose their top three career areas. CareerFit allowed students to build on their interests from third year when they completed Eirquest. Students found this a very fulfilling and motivating experience. It also allowed for meaningful dialogue at home.

Communications and work with Sixth Year students are yearlong from group work to one-to-one work around CAO/UCAS/PLC/Apprenticeship applications, facilitation and access to college Open Days and careers events. We made the Sixth Year annual college/careers trip to the RDS for the Higher Options conference in September. The PLC College trips included Coláiste íde, Drogheda CFE and Dunboyne College of Further Education. Alongside the cocurricular events, we invited University Admissions officers for feeder colleges/universities to give talks to Sixth Years including: Maynooth University, Trinity College, DCU and TU Dublin. As in previous years, we assisted students with additional access routes to college such as DARE/ HEAR applications. DARE applications became a focus in January and February and we met students and parents and worked closely with the SEN Co-ordinator. Once the SUSI application cycle opened, we alerted relevant students and helped those who needed input.

Throughout the year we linked in with students in a one-to-one capacity to support them around their educational, vocational, and personal needs. We linked in with parents/guardians. We liaised with feeder schools, third level institutions and further education colleges. We worked with local authorities, businesses and services and supports.

“The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice.”

Brian Herbert

History

In the academic year 2023/2024 the History Department of ACS yet again proved to be innovative and adaptive in our work practices to make sure it was a successful year for our students. Thanks to the collective teamwork of all the department members, we ensured that our History students had a rewarding and enjoyable educational experience.

Our Second Year History students undertook their first Classroom Based Assessment. This CBA was called “The Past in my place”. Through this work students satisfied curiosities about their surroundings and connected with local history. A vast array of work was undertaken from planning and researching to site visits and report writing. Students with family connections further afield were also given the opportunity to connect with their heritage.

On the 16th of March the History Department led the school in a flag raising ceremony to celebrate Flag Day 2024 in conjunction with the Thomas F. Meagher Foundation. We raised our new tricolour and had some of our music students perform the national anthem. The event was organised to celebrate the Irish tricolour and to promote its message of peace and unity.

Some of our Junior Cycle classes took part in a “Cookie Excavation” to carefully remove chocolate chips from cookies using a toothpick, to demonstrate how carefully an archaeologist must be in their line of work. Some other classes got to try on replicas of Roman Armor when learning about Ancient Rome. While some of our First Year classes recreated the Roman Army “testudo” tactic, donning shields and spears while trying to avoid missiles raining down on them. They also got to try on some Roman armour and really put themselves in the shoes of a Roman soldier.

Sixth Year students successfully completed their research projects in March 2024. The breadth of topics which were investigated and written about was amazing once again. The class tackled everything from “The Carnation Revolution in Portugal, The Battle of Gallipoli, the use of chemical weapons in WWI, The Chernobyl disaster, Ireland’s participation in Italia 1990, and The Mongol Invasion of Japan”. All the students engaged wholeheartedly with the research process and honed their investigative skills over the last few months.

We also had some historical trips this year as a group of First Year students visited Trim Castle. This linked in with their studies on the Middle Ages and how castles were built and exploring the defensive and offensive features. They also learned about the history of Trim Castle itself and completed a worksheet to assess their learning from the trip. It was a fantastic day, and the students were a credit to themselves and the school.

Home Economics

First Year Cookery and Theory

First Year students began the year by making fruit salad to develop their skills before moving on to completing yule logs and sponge cakes before the Christmas holidays which incorporated aspects of raising agents, a topic in Baking in the Home. After Christmas, First Years also explored pastry and got to experience making some delicious sausage rolls.

First Year students have also been busy learning hygiene and safety in the kitchen as well as basic nutrition incorporating baking skills. In theory classes they have explored many Active Learning Methodologies such as Group Work, Individual Research projects, Mini whiteboards, reflection on Post-it notes throughout the year to help students to learn information in a manageable and student friendly manner.

Second Year Theory and Sewing

Active Learning Methodologies were also used by Second Year students by experiencing live samples when learning about cheese. They had mini cheeseboards to taste the different types of cheese before classifying them on a worksheet. They also analysed the differences between processed and natural cheese through examining cheese packaging.

Before Christmas, Second Year students were also busy developing and completing their CBA 1 – Creative Textiles. CBA 1 focused on creating a textile Christmas decoration. Students demonstrated a range of skills including embroidery, embellishing and hand stitching. Students used the design brief process from the beginning until the end of the project which involved researching possible designs, choosing their design as well as evaluating their finished design. Students had the opportunity to demonstrate their creative abilities as students chose to make snowmen, candy canes, Christmas puddings and more.

Third Year Cookery Exams

Third Years prepared for the Junior Cycle Cookery exams by making various products to meet the briefs including soup, flapjacks, sausage rolls, berry crumble, crudités, spaghetti Bolognese, burgers, and wedges. We were really impressed with their preparation, efforts and dedication during the cookery exams.

LCA

The LCA students organised a breakfast morning for some staff members in alignment with one of the key assignments in Hotel Catering and Tourism. They put on quite a spread which was hugely enjoyed by staff.

Fifth and Sixth Year

Fifth Year students worked hard throughout the

year completing their Journal Tasks, which are worth 20% of their overall grade for the Leaving Certificate exam. Students researched the daily activities of third level students and considered their nutritional needs. As a result, students cooked a chilli con carne dish with wholegrain rice and students also created a chicken and broccoli wholemeal pasta bake. These dishes were suitable for an individual who is trying to increase their fibre intake. Students also enjoyed learning in-depth about nutrition and enjoyed displaying their knowledge using mini whiteboards as well as graphic organisers.

Sixth Year students have had an extremely busy year as they sent off their Journal Assignments in November 2023. One topic that students particularly enjoyed from their Journal Assignments was sensory analysis as students got to get involved in creating their own mock sensory analysis tests. As a department, we are extremely proud of the dedication of our Sixth Year students and their hard work over the last two years, and we wish them the very best with their exams and any future endeavours.

World Home Economics Day

The Home Economics department also had the opportunity to bring our subject beyond our classroom as we celebrated World Home Economics Day on 21st March 2024. On this day, the Home Economics Department baked a number of delicious, sweet cakes and buns for staff which went down a treat with everyone.

LCA

LCA events and achievements are posted regularly on the school social media platforms – Facebook and Instagram are a very effective way of publicising all that is going on for LCA students.

Online courses were an option for Fridays where students did not have work placement. An example of one of the courses was the HSA Get Safe - Work Safe course: Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace for students starting work and work experience. It covers employer and employee duties, hazards and risks, as well safe decision making. Most LCA students found and enjoyed work placements every Friday for the year in a variety of settings.

In September 2023, TY students, and students from Fifth Year LCA Class O’Riordan took part in a two-hour team building workshop with Team-Works. Students completed many different team bonding activities such as a water relay race and Crack the Code game to help them bond. This was a great workshop full of a variety of activities that helps improves trust, energises the group, encourages collaboration, and increases productivity and creative thinking. Big thanks to the group leaders from @team_works20, who had a wealth of experience and charisma and delivered a positive day for everyone involved.

October was a busy month for Fifth Year Class O’Riordan took part in a @mobilemusicschool Drumming Workshop in October 2023, which is a great workshop for improving listening, communication, and teamwork skills. Lizzie McGhee visited LCAs later in the month for a Barbering and Hairdressing workshop. Students were taught multiple skills and tricks about barbering and hairdressing. They learned about hair loss, psoriasis, and head lice. Lizzie taught the students how to use hairdressing scissors, blades, and razors, and at the end of the workshop they practised cutting each other’s hair which was great fun. This was a very interesting workshop to participate in and a great life skill to have. Lizzie is over sixteen years in the hair industry and has worked with one of the leading names in the men’s hair world. She is a trained educator and assessor, has trained worldwide, works backstage at award shows and works with media companies too. Her workshop was hands on, and she busted myths to guide students into a career in hair. Thanks so much to Lizzie for linking in with ACS and passing on her wealth of knowledge .

Sixth Year LCA students looked at The Local Environment module in Art with Ms Maher. They researched through photographs and studied the work of collage artist Sean Hillen. They completed some excellent collage work for their key assignments. Well done to all.

A big thanks to Thomas Diem of Diem Pottery for facilitating the visit of Fifth Year LCA O’Riordan to his workshop and shop in Ashbourne in December 2023. This visit was part of the research section of their first task report for their Art module. Students created coil pots in Art with Ms Aiken. The students prepared and asked relevant questions about his business, his work, the impact of Brexit and Covid, his online presence and the processes he follows to make his pottery. Lots of information learned for the write up of the visit out. The Art Task report was completed in ICT with Ms Matthews and first of six task interviews with an external examiner for these students. Preparing them for the world of work.

November 2023, Fifth Year Class O’Sullivan joined with the TYs, and completed their First Aid Certificate Training Day with Medicore Medical Services. Lots of valuable information and practical advice on how best to cope in a crisis. A vital life skill and an essential part of our TY and LCA Programmes. While in December 2023, LCA Fifth Year Class O’Riordan completed an Introduction to Barista Workshop with the Dublin Barista School. Content covered included understanding the espresso equipment, espresso technique, understanding the coffee grinder, milk chemistry and milk texturing techniques and understanding the coffee menu. All students got to make a speciality coffee .

Well done to our Sixth Year LCA Class O’Sullivan who completed their final interviews in their LCA with their Engineering Task Interview and their Practical Achievement Task Interview in February 2024. They have all come so far in the last year and a half. Beaming with confidence and ready for the world of work, apprenticeships, and college.

In February 2024, Sixth Year LCA students completed their practical achievement task interview. This task is where students in session three in the first half sixth year learn a practical skill, develop a product, or provide a service over six to eight weeks. This must be completed outside of school time, and it is all about challenging the students. Personal training sessions, boxing classes, driving lessons, nail technician courses and swimming lessons were some of the tasks undertaken. Thanks to Mr McCauley who anchored the practical achievement task with the class.

Ashbourne Community School

LCA students visited several Further Education Colleges including Drogheda Institute of Further Education, Coláiste Íde and Dunboyne College of Further Education with the Guidance Department this year. Students learned about many interesting Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) Courses at QQI level 5 and 6 and at Higher National Diploma in a wide range of disciplines. Most of the courses lead to entry to Universities and Institutes of Technology with some courses gaining entry to second year. Thanks to Ms Rahilly and Ms O’Neill for organising these educational trips.

In April 2024, Fifth Year Class O’Riordan had three task deadlines – to see the task work and products produced by these hardworking, enthusiastic, creative, and entertaining students, between midterm and Easter was fantastic. They rose to the challenge even when faced with illness and time constraints, and really impressed external examiners with the standard of their task work. One of the interviews was based on their task report for their Career Investigation Task. Thanks to Ms Mongey for anchoring the Career Investigation Task in Vocational Preparation. Also in April 2024, students did interviews on their wooden piece and task report for their Graphics and Construction Studies specialism task. Thanks to Mr Ormiston for anchoring the making of the wooden pieces (including tables, shelving units and birdhouses) and Ms Mathews for anchoring task report in ICT. It was lovely to hear the examiners say that these students are a credit to themselves, their families, and their school. Fifth Year Class O’Riordan have advanced so many life skills over the last few months, all of which they can apply to future projects and their working life. Once these task interviews were completed, it was back to class to complete the Personal Reflection Task with Ms O’Rourke which was posted off to the SEC in early May 2024. Students who study Irish completed their Oral Irish Exam in May 2024 and sat their Irish Exam in June 2024 during the State Exams. Thanks to Ms McCabe for preparing the students for the Irish oral and written exam. Fifth Year Class O’Riordan will all study a Modern Foreign language next year.

In ICT students complete a Mandatory ICT element in Fifth Year covering the modules of Introduction to the Computer and Word Processing, as well as Introduction to other Software Packages and Applications. In the Specialism ICT course covered across the four sessions of Fifth and Sixth year, students cover Word Processing, the Presentation of Ideas, Spreadsheets and the Internet and Digital Literacy. Students enjoyed learning about new ways to present their work, research, and presentations on applications such as MS Word, MS Spreadsheets, MS Sway, MS Forms, Canva, and Book Creator.

We are so proud of both LCA classes – Fifth Year Class O’Riordan and Sixth Year Class O’Sullivan. For all LCA students, a 90% attendance rule is applied to get credits for key assignments. It is a valuable life lesson about the world of work – if you do not attend work, you do not get paid. Thanks to all the LCA teaching team and our wonderful SNAs for their support. They say it takes a village.... we are lucky to have a fantastic staff to support these students prepare for college, apprenticeships and working life. I wish to thank the dedicated Senior Management team, teaching staff and office staff, who supported me with both LCA classes this year, especially Ms Scannell and Mr O’Shea, Year Heads for Fifth Sixth Years, and Ms Kelly, Deputy Principal for Senior Students, and the Tutors, Mr Ormiston for Sixth Year Class O’Sullivan and Ms McCabe for Fifth Year Class O’Riordan. LCA in ACS is a brilliant programme which needs the support of all the school and its stakeholders to be successful. There is a need for a programme like LCA to meet the needs of the students it caters for. LCA is suited to students who the school exams system does not suit. It is for students who have not had great success at Junior Cycle but want to remain at school to get a qualification. LCA is for students who much prefer a course that would recognise and credit (award marks to) practical skills. It is for students who want to go directly into a job, or into job training after school. LCA is for students who want a course that is closely linked to the world of work.

LCVP

LCVP is a practical programme that suits all students who enjoy practical work and is a real preparation for the world of work. 60% of the final mark for LCVP goes for the portfolio submitted on 1st March in Sixth Year. The primary goal of the LCVP is to prepare young people for adult life by ensuring that they are educated in the broadest sense, with an ability to cope and thrive in an environment of rapid change.

Sixth year students completed their LCVP Link Modules programme as part of their Leaving Certificate in 2024 in ACS – they sat their written exam on Wednesday 1st May 2024, having submitted their portfolios in March 2024. In November 2023, students completed their recorded interview for one of their optional items for their LCVP portfolio – this was their final of six portfolio items. The five typed portfolio items were mostly completed in Fifth Year, including work placement, which is a compulsory part of the Link Modules programme. We are hopeful of excellent grades from the Sixth Year group. The portfolios (60% of the final mark) that students submitted were of an excellent standard. A big emphasis was placed on preparing for the written exam (40% of the final mark) from fifth year with this group, as students often think LCVP is all about the portfolio. The LCVP results will benefit many students for CAO points, and prepare them for college, adult and working life, as well as giving them skills for getting involved in their community now and in the future. LCVP is a great programme for students of all abilities, but particularly beneficial for those who struggle with written exams.

A big thanks to Andrew Ruiter of New Barn Farm who visited Sixth Year LCVP class on Tuesday 7th November 2023. Andrew spoke about the history of the business, qualities and skills of entrepreneurs, products and services, health and safety, finance, supports for businesses, marketing, the use of ICT and social media, self-employment, the SEM, and Brexit. A very informative talk and a lot for the students to use for exam answers.

Our TY, LCA and LCVP students completed the HSA Get Safe - Work Safe course: Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace for work experience online certificate course. It covers employer and employee duties, hazards and risks, as well safe decision making. Well done to all who completed it and added it to their achievements in their CV. In September 2023, Ms Mathews Fifth Year LCVP class began the iDEA online course. This is an inspiring Digital Enterprise Award, which is internationally recognised, that helps students develop digital, enterprise and employability skills for free. Through a series of online challenges, the students can win career-enhancing badges, unlock new opportunities and ultimately, gain industry-recognised awards that help students stand out from the crowd. Students are working on their Bronze Award and will continue this into Sixth Year. Ms Mathews’ Sixth Year LCVP class started this online certificate course in 2023 and have continued working on it in 2024 – there are three levels of Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Ashbourne

LCVP students have used several different digital media to create assignments including Canva and Sway. Canva is primarily used as a graphic design platform that allows users to create a wide range of visual content. It provides a user-friendly interface and a variety of pre-designed templates, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced designers. Sway is an app from Microsoft Office that makes it easy to create and share interactive reports, personal stories, presentations, and more. Students started by adding their text and pictures and searched for and imported relevant content from other sources. They finished off their work with appealing design templates to make the assignments more appealing to look at and learn from. The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme Link Modules cover Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education, as well as developing life skills and ICT skills. LCVP Link Modules can be taken in fifth year instead of a language or as an extra subject instead of non-exam PE.

Over several weeks in November and December 2023, Ms Mathews’ Fifth Year LCVP class organised the St. Vincent de Paul Ashbourne Voucher, Food and Toy Appeal as their LCVP enterprise group task. In total 50 large cardboard boxes of food and gifts, €290 worth of vouchers, and €3000 was donated to St. Vincent de Paul in Ashbourne. The €3000 was a combination of the money raised from the Christmas Jumper Non-Uniform Day (€1440), the Christmas Concert (€1265), the First Year Christmas Movie Day organised by Ms McNamee’s Third Year CPSE class (€165) and a donation from the Board of Management to round it up. We also donated 20 x €20 SuperValu vouchers to Ann Moore of the Senior Citizens Group in Ashbourne. We are very proud of and thankful to all who donated. Everyone can make a difference in the lives of others. Students at ACS will always remember the link our school has with SVP and long may it continue. Voluntary Organisations and An Enterprise Activity are units in the LCVP course.

LCVP students completed work experience in Fifth Year from Wednesday 7th to Friday 9th February 2024. Students completed their Work Experience Diary, on return to school in late February and into March 2024. This is one of the optional portfolio items for their LCVP portfolio.

In April 2024, our Fifth Year LCVP groups attended a visit out to Butlers Chocolate Factory. A visit out to a local business is a requirement of LCVP Link Modules. Students learned about the history of the cocoa bean and the history of Butlers Chocolates in the Butlers Chocolate cinema and museum. There was a guided tour of the glasspanelled walkway over the factory floor. Students learned how to make the chocolates through an interactive chocolate demonstration. They decorated and took home their own Butlers chocolate novelty .

A big thanks to past pupil Mark Donnelly of HUH (How’s Your Head) Clothing for visiting our Fifth Year Link Modules classes and TYs on Thursday 25th April 2024. HUH Clothing aims to create a stylish and comfortable clothing brand whilst raising both money and awareness surrounding the importance of mental health. Mark talked about the business, the qualities and skills of entrepreneurs, the risk involved, his products and services, finance, supports for businesses, marketing, the use of ICT and social media, self-employment, the SEM and Brexit. The students now have valuable knowledge to apply in their LCVP and Business exam answers. We are lucky to have fantastic businesses in Ashbourne who facilitate visits in, visits out and work placements. We really appreciate it.

With 31 students studying Link Modules and 40 students in Fifth Year, we are delighted with the increasing numbers taking the programme, since the subject restrictions were dropped in 2022.

Mathematics

Maths Week

Maths Week took place from Monday 15th to Friday 20th October with daily puzzles at the on the white board in the Reception area. Students really enjoyed tackling the challenging tasks.

All Transition Year students took part in the competition, Peter’s Problem, which the IMTA (Irish Maths Teachers Association) organised in conjunction with Engineers Ireland. It aims to promote STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and show the connection between “real-life” problems and engineering. The problem-solving competition is named in honour of the late Peter Tiernan, a long-standing member of the IMTA. Thanks to all the TY Maths teachers for involving many students in this event.

Classroom-Based Assessment

Second Year Maths student completed their CBA 1 over three weeks. The CBA was based on Mathematical Investigation. Students got involved in a problem-solving cycle, in which they had to define a problem, dissect it into manageable steps, engage with the problem and solve it, if possible. This was a great opportunity for students to have a real-life practical experience.

Literacy and Numeracy

Literacy and numeracy are the two essential skills required by students of Maths. The Maths Department aims to assist students in improving and developing their literacy and numeracy skills. Keywords are used for each topic to build literacy skills as students need to be able to comprehend and use the mathematical language. Students should communicate mathematics verbally and in written form, analyse information presented verbally and translate it into mathematical form.

Modern Foreign Languages

French

This year in French to enhance the language learning experience and promote cultural awareness the students in First Year studied about French-speaking countries while our students Junior Cycle students completed different PowerPoint projects about French culture.

The students at both Senior Cycle and Junior Cycle enjoy learning French through various methodologies, including Quizlet, Kahoot, Blooket and the more traditional games such as dominoes, snap, snakes and ladders, bingo. Active engagement is encouraged, and the French students have made real progress this year.

Second Year students worked hard in the second half of the year to complete their CBA 1 – the Oral Communication task. This was a great experience for all students to enhance their oral practice and interaction.

The Sixth Year students had the opportunity to demonstrate their learning and knowledge of French as they sat their Oral Exam for their Leaving Certificate examination during the Easter holidays. Huge work was put in by all students in the run up to their exams to ensure that their success on the day.

German

This year in German, to enhance the language learning experience and promote cultural awareness the students sang songs by German groups such as Die Prinzen, Rammstein and Nena to name but a few. das Fliegerlied always proves to be a popular choice with students. Modern film classics Goodbye Lenin, Lola Rennt and The Lives of Others were enjoyed by Senior Cycle students, while the Junior Cycle students enjoyed Ostwind and Vorstadtkrokodile. The German Department also facilitated the enjoyment of a traditional German breakfast, sampling a variety of meat, cheese and savoury treats to introduce our students to German food culture.

The students at both Senior and Junior Cycle enjoy learning German through a variety of methodologies, including Quizlet, Wordwall, Kahoot, Blooket and the more traditional games such as dominoes, snap, snakes and ladders, bingo, and battleships. Active engagement is encouraged, and the German students have made real progress this year. Second Year students successfully completed their CBAs in April and displayed commitment to improvement and increased learner autonomy while Sixth Years students had the opportunity to demonstrate their learning and knowledge of German as they sat their Oral Exam for their Leaving Certificate examination during the Easter holidays.

Japanese

Japanese has grown this year as Second, Third, TY, Fifth, and Sixth Year students studied Japanese. Early this year, Fifth Year students started a pen pal project with the students of English at a high school in Osaka, Japan. Students share each other’s daily lives in English and Japanese through emails. In October, to deepen their understanding of different cultures, the TY, Fifth, and Sixth Year students watched the Japanese film, Your Name with English subtitles at the Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin. Since the Japanese film festival is held annually, there are many opportunities to see Japanese films in Ireland.

TY students learned about Japanese food in class and practised using chopsticks and then in December, we had lunch at the Japanese restaurant Yamamori to try out the experience. They tried sushi rolls, miso soup, fish tempura, and Japanese curry and rice. In the last class of the first term, the Third Year students cooked curry and rice at school. Although curry and rice are

not originally ancient Japanese food, it was first eaten in Japan in 1873 and has become very popular as it is easy to cook at home and is now considered one of the national foods. Japanese curry with rice is also very popular among children, and it is often the first dish that children learn to cook by themselves in Japan. While learning about this background, we made very delicious beef curry and rice.

Spanish

Throughout the year, Spanish teachers used a range of teaching methodologies and activities to help our students in their learning of the language, with a particular emphasis on digital technology.

In ACS, language students were timetabled classes using the brand new MFL Laptop Trolley each fortnight. This gave them the opportunity to consolidate the vocabulary and grammar topics learned in class with online activities. Students also had the opportunity to create cultural projects about Spanish speaking countries. Having this experience with the laptops, was beneficial when it came to submitting homework and assignments during the year through Teams.

A group of Fifth Year Spanish students meanwhile headed off for a week during their February Midterm to Salamanca in Spain with Ms Slevin and Ms McLoughlin. The students really immersed themselves in the Spanish language and culture by staying with local families, attending classes every morning in Colegio Delibes and taking part in various activities with their teachers in the afternoons and evenings. They also enjoyed the experience of exploring this beautiful, historic city, its art and architecture, great shopping, and varied cafes. An amazing experience for all with so much language and culture learned, as well as new friendships made.

TY students took part in their annual trip to see a Spanish language film. This year they travelled to the Irish Film Institute (IFI) in Dublin city centre to see the film Las Niñas, a coming-of-age film set in Spain in the early 1990s. Students really enjoyed the film and learned what it was like to live in Spain at a time of real social change.

The academic year of 2023/2024 saw all Second Year students completing CBA1, an oral language presentation in the target language. Students chose from doing roleplays with their partner based on topics that we had covered over the previous two years, individual presentations about themselves, or an interview-style format, similar to the Leaving Certificate oral exam.

Junior students also compiled pieces for their language portfolios, and we have seen great examples of work from comic strips, blogs, podcasts, to TikTok videos and letters and emails.

Music

“One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain” - Bob Marley.

Music plays a big part in students’ lives both in and outside the school. There is always music being played throughout the school whether it’s an informal lunchtime jam or one of the concerts that we put on every year.

Learning an Instrument

We always encourage Music students to learn instruments. Ukulele, guitar, bass guitar, keyboard and drums were all tried out by students with some great results and a lot of fun. This year we were very kindly given the price of an electric guitar which has made a great addition to our stock of musical instruments – a huge thank you to the Parents’ Association!

Composing

Students are given the opportunity to try to make sense of their circumstances through the creative process of writing music. We covered many different styles this year - everything from Rap to Ballads, Pop to Advertisements. We also included Instrumentals and we allowed students the flexibility to compose what they wanted to, and the results were incredible and the Second Year students used these as part of their Composing portfolio for their CBA. Ashbourne really has some amazingly talented students.

The Use of Music Technology

The students had great fun using GarageBand on the iPads to help them with their composing which was also useful to the Second Years who used this software to help them with the CBA 1 in Composition. TYs also used Garageband which proved a very popular class with the students while the Leaving Certificate students used Musescore on their mobile devices with great results.

Christmas Carols in the Library and Christmas Concert

The Choir and School band played music for the Ashbourne Music Appreciation Club in the Library. The Choir and School band put on a concert of Christmas songs and Carols in aid of the St Vincent de Paul. The GP was packed on the night, and it was an enormous success.

Seachtain na Gaeilge

The Irish Musicians played for some of our very young members of the community during Seachtain na Gaeilge! It is great to get out into the community to play music.

The TY Show

This year the TYs had their show “Musical Mayhem”, directed by the brilliant Grainne Kennedy, on Tuesday March 27th in the Sports Hall. It featured music from well-known shows and it proved to be a memorable night for all involved.

The Variety Show

The annual Variety Show took place in the GP this year on May 1st. As always, the Variety Show features students from all year groups performing their favourite music. We are always so proud to watch our students perform at this show.

A sincere word of thanks to all students who took part in any of the events during the year. Thank you for giving up your time and sharing your immense talent.

Phyiscal Education

Introduction

The Physical Education Department aims to provide students with a broad and balanced experience in a wide variety of activity areas. These activities are shaped by the specifications laid out at both Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle PE with the aim to develop students Physical Literacy, alongside with their knowledge and understanding of Physical activity and Education.

Junior Cycle Programme

Some of the activity areas delivered over the three years of Junior Cycle that our First and Second Years experienced included Athletics, Gymnastics, Volleyball, HRA (Health-Related Activities), Basketball, Dance, Orienteering, Badminton, Adventure and Team building, Softball, Ultimate Frisbee and Olympic Handball. Third Years participated in Athletics (Running/Jumping/Throwing), Sport Education Model, Teaching Games for Understanding through an invasion game, Badminton and Volleyball, HRA circuits with CBA style Assessment, Gym equipment and induction module-squat rack basics, Table tennis/Tennis and Rounders/Cricket.

Five-week blocks were used, and progressions and regressions were used depending on the skill level of the groups. Junior students worked on skill development and learning the specifics of each game/activity.

Transition Year (TY) Programme

In 2023/2024 it was agreed that the TY modules would contain Health Related Activities (HRA), Leaving Cert PE link module, Tag rugby, Games (Invasion), Table Tennis, (Net Games) Badminton, Volleyball and Striking and Fielding. HRA allowed the students to learn how to monitor and assess fitness components as well as holistically evaluate and learn the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.

A LCPE link module was also set up to try and bridge the gap of knowledge for students making their subject choices and interested in LCPE (as an exam subject). A variety of practical and theory-based classes were completed over the course of a five-week module. The students also experienced modules in Badminton, Volleyball, Table tennis, Basketball and Rounders delivered by PE staff.

Senior Cycle PE

Senior Cycle students had a higher skill level and knowledge of the games/activities, so the focus switched to several curriculum models. A variety of activities were taught through the following curriculum models: Health-related physical activity, Sports education, Contemporary issues in physical activity, Adventure education, Personal and Social Responsibility and Teaching games for understanding.

Students practiced a range of skills in a variety of ‘live’ play scenarios. They covered a variety of activities such as Basketball, Handball, Badminton, Volleyball, Foot Tennis, Table tennis, Tennis, Fitness and HRA, Dodgeball, Futsal, Tag rugby and Frisbee. The curriculum for Senior Cycle aims to extend beyond just teaching skills and sport-specific aspects, it is also envisaged that the curriculum teaches several key skills such as information processing, being personally effective, communicating, critical and creative thinking, and working with others.

All blocks for all year groups were assessed via an end of block reflection, a task/assignment or an in-person question and answer session.

Leaving Certificate Physical Education (LCPE)

LCPE has been received very well by the students in ACS with a large number picking it for their Leaving Certificate, this academic year we had two sixth year classes and two classes of fifth years.

Students engaged in topics such as Skill Acquisition, Biomechanics, Stages of Learning, Psychology of Performance, Diet and Nutrition, Health and Fitness, Training Programme Design, Target Setting, Analysis of Performance. The specification is vast and has promoted student learning in many areas of Physical Education and Sport.

There are three elements to the course which students successfully navigated. Sixth Year students completed the Physical Activity Project (PAP) which was submitted late December 2023, and the Performance Assessment (PA) which was submitted late March 2024. These projects make up 50% of the marks with the other 50% coming from the written paper in June.

Fifth LCA and Sixth LCA: Leisure and Recreation

To successfully complete the Leisure and Recreation course students are required to complete two modules over the two-year course. Module One: Physical Activity for Performance, Module Two: Physical Activity for Health and Fitness Module Three: Physical Activity for Recreation. Both Fifth and Sixth Years engaged well with the course and the modules to complete the course to a high standard to gain the necessary credits.

Outside Facilitators and Facilities

We were fortunate to secure the services of outside facilitators and facilities for some activities to further enhance students’ experiences of the PE curriculum in ACS.

First Year Tag Rugby

Judy Bobbett, who is the Leinster development officer for the area and works with Ashbourne Rugby Club, came into the school to do an intro Tag rugby module with the majority of our First Year groups in early February. Students learned the basics of the game as well as looking at the key skills such as passing, throwing, catching and evasion techniques. There was a wide range of skill levels as some students had played before, so a variety of strategies were employed to cater for all levels with the main aim for everyone to get involved and play the game in a safe manner.

Tennis club and Tennis courts

We secured use of the tennis courts that are a two-minute walk next door to the school for many classes across the year. Each group was led by their PE teacher who ensured the net game module ran smoothly and the facilities were utilised to their full potential.

Politics and Society

The Politics and Society department had yet again another busy, innovative, and successful year. Students will sit the Leaving Cert in this subject for the seventh time this summer and the numbers taking the subject are growing each year.

This year has been a very engaging and eventful year for our Fifth and Sixth Year students with plenty of fantastic classroom debates, discussions, and research into a wide range of topics that were relevant to the world they live in. From the conflict in Israel and Gaza, to civil disobedience, to human rights and gender quality to identity politics.

This group of students had a wide-ranging, and at times a conflicting, set of views that they were able to express and discuss in what were some remarkably interesting classes. Students lived through and learned about challenges effecting the world from global warming, gender politics, homelessness and the Cost-of-Living crisis.

Our Leaving Certificate class completed their citizenship projects, worth 20% of their exam, which challenged them to play an active role in several issues in their society. They investigated the concept of sports washing as a political and human rights issue. The surveyed a group of Senior Cycle students on their understanding of sustainable consumption and what they believe is their responsibility as young consumers. They undertook a comparative case study between public service media and privately owned media in a democracy. They delivered a webinar to highlight their findings and they researched the role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) in a humanitarian crisis.

Throughout the year, the Politics and Society class has allowed students the chance to think critically and be challenged in their thoughts and opinions. It is fantastic to know that several students have since gone on to Third Level where they are studying some courses that include elements of either Politics or Sociology.

Exams results at Leaving Cert have been excellent with the majority of students taking the Higher-Level paper at Leaving Certificate. The students this year within the department are extremely gifted and talented. Some of the Leaving Cert research projects were among the best ever produced in Ashbourne Community School. We look forward to awarding two students the Politics and Society Award this year as we feel that it’s important to recognise the outstanding work of our most talented students.

Looking forward, we are delighted to see such a keen interest in this still relatively new subject with many students wanting to study this very relevant subject in our everyday lives. It is both a challenging and rewarding subject that suits any student who is interested in human rights, equality, diversity, sustainable development, power, and democratic decision-making while becoming a more informed and active global citizen.

Religious Education

Religion Education continues to be an important subject in Ashbourne Community School. Religious Education focuses on developing knowledge, understanding, skills, attitudes, and values to enable young people to come to an understanding of religion and its relevance to life, relationships, society and the wider world. The course is built around three interconnecting Strands: Expressing Beliefs, Exploring Questions and Living our Values. As ACS is a multi-denominational school, we celebrate all faiths and none. Some examples of religious dates that we celebrated this year were St. Patrick’s Day and World Hijab Day.

A huge addition to of RE Dept this year has our Meditation Room which was reopened last year after being closed in previous years due to Covid. The Meditation Room provides an area for meditation and prayer within the heart of ACS. A huge thank you to Transition Year students who helped get the room back to the peaceful and sacred space that it is today.

First Year students focused on the major world religions. Students completed projects on a particular world religion. We ran numerous competitions in First Year throughout the year for creative work. Junior Cycle students completed several fundraising projects to support local charities. These projects included decorating the school’s memorial garden with Christmas lights for all to enjoy, and a sponsored walk for St. Vincent de Paul.

TYs completed various modules throughout the year from Faith and Film to Cults and Sects. Class Orion held a Bake Sale in October for Breast Cancer Ireland. They raised €631 for Breast Cancer Ireland which was an impressive achievement.

Fifth Years discussed the death penalty and morality while Sixth Years worked on various topics as well on displays which were shown at their graduation in May.

Our principal aim of religious education in Ashbourne Community School is to explore what people believe and what difference this makes to how they live so that our students can gain knowledge, understanding and skills needed to handle questions raised by religion and belief, reflecting on their own ideas and ways of living.

Chaplaincy

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 10:4)

This year began as busy as ever and as always, the school year began with an opening prayer for both staff and students.

As part of the ‘First Year Induction Programme’ into ACS, we met the new cohort of First Year students and facilitated workshops on ‘Friendship’ with each class group. When the First Years had begun to settle in, we then facilitated Inhouse Retreats that took place in our prayer/meditation room.

Throughout the school year, we celebrated many key aspects and celebrations from the Church’s celebrations of the liturgical calendar. These included, ‘In November We Remember,’ Advent, Christmas, St. Bridget’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter, incorporating students from across all year groups to help, and participate in these celebrations.

As Chaplains, we worked closely with the local Ashbourne St. Vincent de Paul in the run up to Christmas. As well as working towards the major liturgical events throughout the year, we also worked as part of the SST (Student Support Team) to identify and liaise with the most vulnerable of our students, offering support. Again, the year saw a rise in the number of students seeking support related to anxiety, general wellness, or bereavement. The provision of bereavement support was a key element again this year. Support was offered to both staff and students as necessitated.

To convey the liturgical message throughout the year, a variety of prayers and reflections were communicated to the school community via the intercom and online assemblies. Various visual exhibits were also created with students from various year groups and displayed around the school to communicate the gospel message.

Meetings were also held this year between the school Chaplain’s and the new priests to the parish – Fr. Stephen and Fr. Brendan. The parish have asked that Fr. Stephen step into the role of supporting the school when and where he can. The school have been delighted to have had visits from Fr. Stephen to meet various year groups, as well as meeting with both management and staff. We look forward to further school – parish collaborations in the future.

The year will close with our usual farewell to our Sixth Year class of 2024 with their graduation. This year it was themed ‘Be the Best that You Can Be’. It is an important rite of passage and celebration for our students marking their time spent in the school. For the first time, Fr. Stephen took part in this Liturgical celebration with us in Ashbourne Community School, to pray with, and bless our students. The year overall has been very fruitful.

Science

Junior Cycle Science

Our Third Year science students performed well in their mock exams and are on track to complete their exams in June. Second Year students have completed an array of interesting investigations as part of their Extended Experimental Investigation CBA. Topics ranged from how our sense of smell affects our ability to identify flavours, to the effect of concentration on chemical reactions. Students worked well and enjoyed the experience of carrying out their own scientific research. In May, the best projects from each class were entered into our SciFest@School event.

Leaving Cert Biology Trip

Sixth Year Biology students carried out an ecological field study of a grassland ecosystem at Dublin Zoo. Four classes of Biology students went on the trip and the staff at the zoo commended the students for their behaviour and respect shown to the facilities and other visitors on the day. Students measured abiotic factors (wind speed, soil temperature, light intensity) on a decidedly cold, bright October morning. They used animal collection devices to assess the types of invertebrates inhabiting the grassland and had a lecture on biodiversity from the Education Officer at Dublin Zoo. From this data, they constructed food chains and webs to show the interconnection between plants and animals in the natural world.

TY World of Science

In April, Transition Year students also undertook a trip to Dublin Zoo. They had the opportunity to learn about the conservation practices that we can all do to contribute to healthy ecosystems.

All TY students take part in the World of Science module every year which allows them to explore all the aspects of science, including Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. As well as this, the students completed experiments and projects in these areas. For example, Ms. McHugh’s classes completed a research project on a disease/ illness of their choice, and have completed various experiments, including titrations and flame tests. They also enthusiastically took part in challenges including designing a way to protect an egg when dropped and designing a bridge. Ms. Kendall’s class explored microbiology. They swabbed different surfaces and places in the classroom and grew bacteria in nutrient agar plates. They also explored the vital capacity of the lungs.

TY Environmental Science

Ms. Dornan’s TY Environmental Science groups have focused on Sustainable Energy and areas of Biodiversity and Food, in line with our current Green Schools theme. Students have completed projects exploring where common food products such as coffee and chocolate come from and how their production impacts on the environment.

Certified Angus Beef Competition

Two groups of TY students entered this year’s Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition. Each group produced a three-minute video based on the theme of their choice as their entry into this excellent competition. William Delaney of Certified Irish Angus was blown away by the high standard of this year’s entries. Judges shortlisted several groups for interviews based on their video, including our TY team of Danny Dunne, C.J. Tuite, Colm O’Leary and Shane Andrews. On Wednesday 10th January 2024, the group headed off to Rockfield House in Kells for their interview with the judges.

Following the interview, the group successfully advanced to the final stage of the competition in Croke Park. On Monday 1st March, the boys presented their project titled ‘Moo Gen - Genotyping’ where they were interviewed by several judges from the Certified Irish Angus Beef organisers. In total, there were forty two groups presenting their work on the day, with the aim of being chosen in the ‘Top 5’ to win Angus calves to rear. Unfortunately, the boys were not shortlisted in the ‘Top 5’, but their effort and progress throughout the competition was without a doubt noteworthy. They should be immensely proud of their hard work.

Agricultural Science

Congratulations to students Amy O’Leary, Fionnan Hogan, Thomas Mangan and Ellen O’Connor, who won the Meath Second-Level Schools Agricultural Science Quiz in November. Also, congratulations to John Dardis, Jake Dennehy, Ellen Gough, and Michael McIvor who were runners-up. We also want to congratulate ACS past pupil, Óisín Gryson,who has become a UCD Ambassador for recruiting new students to Agricultural Science in UCD as a career path.

Polytunnel

Our new Polytunnel was up and running at the start of the 2023/2024 academic year. Funding was sourced through Meath County Council for the construction and Mr. Gibney arranged a topsoil donation. The Sixth Year Agricultural Science class contributed to the project by moving the topsoil into the Polytunnel in September. Going forward, the Polytunnel will be utilised by GreenSchool’s initiatives, Ag. Science projects and Junior Cycle Projects, if the need arises.

SEN

This was a busy year for the SEN Department with a number of firsts beginning with the running of the Summer Programme, the setting-up of the Autism Special Class - Clann Ash, and a SEN Inspection. There have been changes to the team this year with the departure of Geri Lalor as she commences her retirement, the arrival of Aoife Healion to the SET Team and Emma Beggy as the Autism Special Class Co-ordinator. They join the team of Miriam Boylan, Dorothy Butterly, Stephen Dunning, Áine Jacob, Miriam Meade, and Aoife Oates. There have been additions to the SNA Team with the arrival of Nettie Cahill and Trudie Roxburgh who join Kerrie Coughlan, Maureen Flanagan, Carmel Mc Connell, Nuala Mc Donnell, and Lisa Smith. Of course, the team is not complete without Alfie who has attended twice weekly this year, and he continues to bring a smile to all who meet him.

We work closely with our colleagues in Chaplaincy, Career Guidance and Counselling, and Subject Departments to deliver support to students. The SEN Department continues to provide programmes of support for students in the areas of literacy, numeracy, emotional literacy, and social skills to name but a few. The supports offered are student focused and aim to support the learning of students within our school community.

The SEN Department continues to link with the many outside agencies that may be involved in the care of students within our school community. These include: National Educational Psychological Services, Education Welfare Officers, Túsla Education Support Service, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Children Development Network Teams, Speech and Language Services, Occupational Therapy Services, and the National Council for Special Education who work with us to determine our Resource hours and our SNA allocation each year.

This year a SEN Inspection was carried out over a period of three days from 9th to 11th April. As expected, several SET and mainstream classes were visited over the three days. The inspection Report is available on the school website for your perusal. We are very thankful to all parents who completed questionnaires and who met with the Inspectorate as part of their focus group discussion. A Junior and Senior focus group of students met with the Inspectors also. The report highlighted a number of positives from both the point of view of the SEN Department, and of the development of inclusion practices throughout the whole school.

Overall, we’ve had a productive year this year and we look forward to the Summer Programme 2024 and to the setting-up and the opening of our second Autism Special Class in the coming academic year.

SPHE

SPHE continues to be an important part of student life here in ACS. Our theme for this year was ‘Connection’ and we wanted all students to focus on their connection to the school and wider community.

We celebrated several awareness weeks across the whole school, these included important messages such as Road Safety, Internet Safety, Anti-Bullying and celebrating Stand Up Week - a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.

This was also the first year that our Second Year students undertook a CBA. Students showcased their excellent project work on a range of issues including the relationship between TikTok and mental health, and ways to tackle vaping.

We are fortunate in ACS to have a fantastic Relationships and Sexuality Education programme (RSE). Each year group receives lessons created with the most up to date specifications in mind. The TYs engaged in workshops. This is an ever-changing area where we continue to try to be ahead of the pack and encourage healthy conversations around this topic. We strive for inclusion, engagement, and enjoyment in our SPHE classes.

Technology Engineering

This year has been busy within Engineering. We have two full class groups between two different option lines which is great for the subject and all the students have been working very hard since September to build up key engineering skills. Some skills that our First Years have been working on are marking out, drilling, cutting, and filing. Students manufactured many projects to learn and practice these skills such as keyrings, phone holders, desk tidies, and coat hooks. Students also gained a basic experience of heat treatment when working with steel when creating the coat hook.

Second Years worked on a fox and airplane project to build upon skills of working with different materials and assembly skills. Both projects had multiple parts which students had to manufacture as accurately as possible to ensure all components fit together. Electronic components were also explored as part of the airplane project. Students were also given the chance to explore an element of the world based on their interests through their first Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) in Engineering. Many different topics such as cars, locks and different materials were researched and explored as part of the CBA.

Third Years were busy from October working on their Junior Cycle project. These projects aim to consolidate the students learning over the three years in manufacturing their projects. Students found this project enjoyable but at times, challenging. Students worked well throughout the course of the project.

Transition Years gained a taste of Leaving Certificate Engineering mainly through practical tasks. Students created a phone holder out of plastic to gain and build upon the practical skills necessary for the subject.

Fifth Years joined and settled into Engineering with the bulk of the theory topics being studied throughout the year. Practical skills were developed and practiced through the manufacture of a model truck with an individual student design element. Students had to focus on their practical skills by following engineering drawings and then create their own for the design task of the project.

Sixth Year students designed and manufactured their project, which was a drop tower amusement ride, and his posed a challenge to the students as there were different criteria they had to incorporate. Students performed well in this project, which was accompanied by a portfolio, with some great projects being created.

Overall, it has been a successful year within the Engineering subject with students gaining and developing practical skills whilst also gaining theoretical knowledge which they can apply to their work and everyday life. We wish all our exam students the best of luck in June .

Graphics/DCG

Graphics/DCG has had a very good year with a very good uptake of students in First Year. These students immediately began exploring Graphics in September where they mainly worked with two dimensional shapes, learning how to construct them accurately and exploring where they appear in everyday life. They have also been introduced to the CAD program of OnShape where they are creating 3D objects to help with the visualisation of their drawings.

The Third Year cohort completed their CBA 2 on ‘The Geometry of Candle Holders’ which directly informed their Junior Cycle project on the same theme. Students used their research from their CBA 2 to sketch and accurately draft a candle holder, while studying the basic geometry that makes up the holder. The Computer Aided Design (CAD) element was omitted from the project this year as an allowance for the time missed during the Covid Pandemic. Nonetheless, students put in excellent effort to completing their projects to a high standard.

The Sixth Year DCG students began the year by completing their Leaving Certificate projects, which is worth 40% of their overall grade in the subject. Students worked diligently since September on the theme of a ‘Lamp’ at higher level, where research was carried out on existing lamps before sketches and CAD models had to be completed. Students then created their own concept designs for the lamps which were all excellent and displayed very well within their portfolios.

Transition Year students were offered a flavour of DCG this year as they were given the chance to complete a CAD module. This module consisted of using the computer software Solidworks where they were tasked with completing a slimmed down version of the DCG project. This was a great learning experience for the TYs who chose this option as it gave them an insight to DCG as a subject and kickstarted those who may pick the subject for Fifth Year. Overall, we have had a good year with Graphics/DCG, and we wish all of our students best of luck in their exams.

Wood Technology/Construction Studies

This year has been a very busy year within the Wood Technology/Construction subject department. From First Year to Sixth Year there has been a wide variety of projects completed. Students have gained many different skills at different stages throughout the year. From beginners learning how to use many hand tools by marking out their pieces, being able to read working drawings and learning the different techniques on how to process pieces by cutting out, drilling, sanding, varnishing etc. to fine crafts people, creating their own unique and creative designs for projects and using these techniques they have learned over the years to bring their projects to life.

The Third Year students completed their CBA 2 and then began exploring the different themes for their Junior Cycle projects. The themes for this year’s projects were centred around decorative artefacts to display household notices and reminders, music as a form of relaxation and an elegant footstool. Students put in a great effort into designing and manufacturing their projects to their chosen theme. The chosen design and project evaluation was also worked on by each student in the slimmed down ‘My Design Journey’ folio, which is usually more comprehensive, but adjustments were made due to the Pandemic.

The Sixth Year students were busy throughout the year working on their Leaving Certificate projects and portfolios. They have all worked very hard to create projects to a high standard that they all should be proud of. The main types of projects created have been coffee tables, bedside lockers, side tables, models of a passive standard house and models showing all the different technologies that can be added to their homes to make them energy efficient so have it will have a positive effect on the environment. All types of projects were great learning curves for the students which will aid them in their upcoming exams in June but also in the future if creating their own homes.

This year was the second year of the Fifth year LCA students completing the ‘Graphics and Construction Studies’ subject. Some students who had not set foot into the construction studies classroom up to this point had to first learn about the different tools and equipment used to create projects. Students explored different aspects of design and manufacture and put their learned skills to the test to create models of garden furniture and decorations.

Overall, this year has been successful for the Wood Technology/Construction Studies subject, and we wish all the students the best of luck in their exam in June.

Transition Year

An Overview

The journey for the TY group of 2023/2024 journey began in September 2023 with an email or two, and five tutor groups called after Constellations – Aquilla, Cygnus, Hydra, Lyra, and Orion. Our TY theme for the year was Constellations. TY is a great time to start something new which brings new opportunities and is so empowering. TY is a chance for students to learn important lessons about themselves. We looked at the importance of positivity for the year of TY. Every TY student on their own or in a team, found solutions, were the difference, played their part, and impacted positively on their own life at home, in school and in the community, and in the lives of others. TY is about developing skills, thinking outside the box, and finding the solution, not dwelling on a problem.

The TY Class of 2024 have had a fantastic year with lots of workshops, activities, guest speakers, projects, events, achievements, online courses, TY programmes and work placements. There have been many highlights, too many to mention them all - Dublin Zoo trip , GoQuest, LeisurePlex Bowling, Airport Driving School, TeamWorks Teambuilding Day, Medicore First Aid Certificate Course, Drumming Workshop, Movie Magic Workshop, Skipping Workshop, GAA Future Leaders, TY Journalists, Meath Enterprise Challenge, Certified Angus Beef Schools Competition, Relay Marathon in aid of Daffodil Day, Foróige Leadership for Life Programme, Green Schools, Climate Ambassadors, Rubbish Film Festival Team, and our TY show, A Night In The Spotlight.

It has been a pleasure to work with the TY class of 2024 to see them mature, advance their skills, learn new skills, become more confident, make new friendships, and move out of their comfort zones.

Many thanks to the TY students, parents/guardians, teachers, support staff and management of ACS for all their input and assistance this year. My job was made easier with the support of the TY tutors: Ms McNamee, Ms Mongey, Ms Callaghan, Ms White and Mr Sheerin. All Senior Management team in ACS and in particular, Ms Hogan and Ms Kelly, have been a great support to me with every project, initiative and idea I had all year. I cannot forget Ms Casey who had a year of changing rooms to fit over sixty workshops, trips and initiatives.

Graduation Day was again held in our fantastic Sports Hall on Tuesday 21st May 2024 – what a rollercoaster of emotions for TYs and their families. As students finish TY, they should remember all the fun they had, the lessons they have learned, the friends they made, and all their achievements.

I wish all the TY Class of 2024, the best of luck as they head into Fifth Year. I hope that the confidence and knowledge they have gained, together with the new friends they have made, will encourage, and inspire them towards success. I hope they will not miss my emails too much! They have taught me a lot, and I will miss them and remember them all fondly. I am very proud of them all.

Finishing TY is a milestone. Students should look at how far they have come. Keep learning, keep trying, keep accomplishing, and keep venturing on through their journey. Finally……… the Class of 2024 – some advice…… There are 3 Cs in life – Choice, Chance and Change. You must make the choice, to take the chance, if you want anything to change. Best of luck.

Congrats to the TY Award Winners for 2024. There were many students in the running to win awards. So well done to all. Ms Matthews, TY Co-ordinator.

Online courses completed in TY included:

• IACT Computer Skills, Career Skills, Driving Skills, Hospitality, Citizenship

• Health and Safety Authority Get Safe – Work Safe: Health and Safety in the Workplace for Students Starting Work Placement

• Concussion Coach

• Climate Changers

• HSA Safety at Work

• Project One Sky Wellbeing

• Alzheimer Society of Ireland Dementia Awareness

• How To Land Your First Job in Hospitality

Trips, workshops and talks in TY included:

• Causey Farm Team Building Day

• CreateSchool Podcasting Workshop

• Rubbish Film Festival Workshop

• Dublin Barista Workshop

• Performing Arts Workshop with George McMahon (Fair City)

• School of Life Etiquette Workshop

• Spanish Film at IFI

• Airport Driving Skills Workshop

• Meath Enterprise Challenge

• SKIPnROPE Skipping Workshop

• Mobile Music School Drumming Workshop

• PALS Positive and Assertive Life Skills Programme Workshop

• Medicore First Aid Course

• The Fundamentals TY Workshop (personal development, leadership, team building and goal setting)

• Movie Magic Workshop

• Balance Nutrition Workshop with Paula Duggan

• Dublin Zoo Conservation Workshop

• Team-Works Team Building Workshop

• Circus Skills Workshop

• GoQuest Teamwork Activity

• Bloom The Art Project Wellbeing Art Workshop

• Relationships and Sexuality Workshop

• Tony O’Reilly Gambling Awareness Talk

• Lizzie McGhee Barbering and Hairdressing Workshop

• Grainne Kennedy Dance Workshops

• Sports Psychology Workshop with Anthony Sheriff

• FitFor45 Fitness Workshops

• Inspire Ireland TY Poetry Slam Workshop

• Croke Park Tour

• Awesome Walls Trip

• Mark Donnelly HUH Clothing Talk

Programmes and initiatives undertaken throughout the year included:

• Foróige Leadership for Life Programme

• FAI Kickstart 1 Soccer Coaching Course

• Walk in my Shoes Programme

• DNG Real Estate TY Programme

• Houses of the Oireachtas TY Programme

• TEFL Programme

• STEPS Engineering Your Future Programme

• DkIT Computers Week

• Camino and Gaisce Walk

• Lollipop Day Collection

• Special Olympics Collection

• St Francis Hospice Bake Sale

• Lots of Socks Day for Down Syndrome Ireland

• St Francis Hospice Coffee Morning in Ashbourne House Hotel

• Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Day TY Relay Marathon Challenge

• TY Show A Night In The Spotlight

• Certified Angus Beef Schools Competition

• Jigsaw One Good School Programme

• Foróige Leadership for Life

• Mini-Companies

• Gaisce

• TY Journalists

• Young Social Innovators

• GAA Future Leaders

• Climate Ambassadors

Ms. Caroline Mathews – Programme Coordinator

Foróige

In October 2023, a group of 60 students in TY started Module One of the Foróige Leadership for Life Programme. Ms McLoughlin, Ms Mathews, Ms Mongey, Ms Kavanagh, and Ms Hogan are trained facilitators for the programme. This year Ms Mathews and Ms Mongey facilitated the course with 60 TY students. The programme empowers young people with leadership capabilities to reach their full potential and have a positive impact on the world around them. It allows young people to learn, practice and develop the core soft skills they will need in their future lives. Module One is a 15-week leadership programme to help students to become a good leader by building different skills like confidence, communication, teamwork, and self-esteem. Students did different teamwork activities to help them interact with others and to get familiar with their peers in the classroom. The workbook completed during each session helps students to assess their progress including reflections. Each student finished the programme by completing a two-minute presentation on their leadership goal to their class. Some of the topics covered included: Definitions of Leadership, Leadership Qualities, Communication Skills, Problem Solving, Self-Awareness, Values, Community Leadership, Philanthropy and Global Leadership, Goal Setting and Presentation Skills.

Gaisce

Gaisce is a direct challenge from the President of Ireland to all young people between fourteen and twenty-five years. Gaisce is an opportunity for young people to find their passion, get active and make a difference in their community. It also encourages young people in our society to challenge themselves, grow their confidence, meet people, make friends, and share new experiences, develop your interests and discover new opportunities. The Gaisce Awards is a fantastic addition to student CVs.

Each year in ACS, Students in TY sign up for the Gaisce Bronze Award. It is a great opportunity to take on the Four challenges.

1. Community Involvement

2. Personal Skill

3. Physical Activity

4. Adventure Journey

Students are presented their award and certificate at their graduation ceremony at the end of the year. Ms O’Connell is the PAL (Presidents’ Award Leader) in ACS who guides and supports students throughout their Bronze Award. Students can continue their Gaisce experience by moving forward with the Silver and Gold Award.

Young Social Innovators

This year our dynamic team of Megan Byrne, Sarah Morris, Eve O’Connor, Holly Bonny, Natalie de Vries, Katelyn Foran, Katie O’Connell and Ella McCarthy spearheaded the creation of Detect, Treat, Defeat as part of the Young Social Innovator’s initiative.

In September 2023, they decided their social issue was going to be breast cancer – a topic the girls felt passionately about. Throughout the year they held many events to raise money for Breast Cancer and Irish Cancer Society. In total this year they raised €2,610.50.

The first event they held was in October at our School’s Open Night where they hosted a mouthwatering bake sale. Later in the month, they also organised a Pink Day for all the years in the school. Pink Day was a day where students could wear any pink accessories with their school uniform. All students had to bring in €2. To promote the event, they made a video with the teachers wearing pink glasses to post on the school’s Instagram.

In December, they hosted another bake sale to make money to get prizes for the Breast Cancer Art Competition. All students were asked to design a poster to create awareness for breast cancer.

Lastly, the group organised a Fun Run for the Irish Cancer Society. On the day they received donations of Tayto and Keogh’s crisps to give to the participants after they had completed the run. This was a great event as students and staff members took part in this great cause.

Well done to the team. They have worked hard throughout the year to bring awareness and funds to cancer charities. They should be proud of their efforts of creating a positive impact on our school community and beyond .

Snapshot of TY Journalist Articles

Movie Stars in the Making - Lights, Camera, Action!

Written by Arieanna Canning, Abigail Puthuppillil and Conor Dunne, TY Journalists

Across three days, (Wednesday 27th and Thursday 28th September 2023, and Monday 2nd October 2023) all Transition Years took part in a half-day Movie Magic for TY workshop.

This was something that we had never experienced before, and it brought great excitement. Our instructors, Susan and Lavinia began the workshop by introducing themselves before introducing us into the world of filming and editing by sharing their experiences in this line of work.

We learned about the dramatic camera angles used to create emotions for the audience and they showed us some of the special equipment used to make videos such as the tripod for the camera and the mini microphones to record dialogues. They also showed us iPads that were not only for filming, but also for using editing software such as iMovie.

After the presentation, we became instantly ecstatic as they explained that we would make our own little video in separate groups as our project. There were many genres to choose from, such as music videos, interviews, short films and so much more.

After all the scenes for each film were filmed, every group edited their piece to make the production better by adding music, texts, effects, and nice background filters. Everyone put in a lot of effort, thought and creativity to capture the

scenes they wanted to bring to life which was achieved with great teamwork present in every group.

We thoroughly enjoyed this workshop, and our videos were absolutely fantastic! We would highly recommend this for the future TYs to come as the workshop was so interactive and memorable.

A big thanks to all the staff and students who starred in our videos, and to Susan and Lavinia from Movie Magic for all their energy, support and guidance and finally, to Ms Matthews for organising the workshops for us.

Skip Yourself Fit!

Written by TY Journalists Abigail Puthuppillil and Ciara Joyce Foley.

TY is all about learning new things and on Wednesday 17th April as part of our fitness wellbeing, TY base classes participated in the SKIPnROPE workshop where they have learned what skipping brings to the table.

They were put to the test by Mark McCabe who has been going around schools for roughly twenty years to both primary and secondary schools to showcase the importance skipping has to offer our health and enjoyment.

Studies show that just ten minutes of skipping is just as effective as thirty minutes of active running. Imagine the results of routinely skipping every day for only ten minutes can lead to. And it doesn’t have to be boring, ask any of the TYs and they’ll tell you so. They all really enjoyed learning to skip, jumping on one leg, doing jumping jacks, arm loops, double jumps and even crisscross.

Although everyone’s favourite part would have to be the Knockout Competition, which involved everyone jumping the large rope as fast as they could or risk of missing the jump and stopping the loop.

As TYs have come to learn, skipping is an incredibly important and creative way of exercising that is often overlooked or passed off, but it can help us in our other sports if we use the right drills and creative thinking.

Many thanks to Ms Matthews for arranging this Workshop and to Mark from SKIPnROPE for giving us this workshop.

Wellbeing

The objective of the Wellbeing Programme is to deliver a spec-made Wellbeing Programme that is responsive to the needs of our students in ACS. To build connectivity with the Class Tutor and encourage the One Good Adult model as we are a Jigsaw school.

The Wellbeing programme encourages accountability, agency and responsibility in the student body and affords everyone an opportunity to become a ‘gatekeeper’ of the characteristic spirit of the school. It echoes OECD research in 2017 that revealed “When students feel that they are a part of a school community, they are more likely to perform better academically and are more motivated to learn.” The topics explored by base groups varied from weekly to monthly check-ins, financial and digital literacy, road safety awareness, lessons on empathy, and breathing exercises. It is an extensive list. The goal is to create a climate of connection and responsibility in our Junior Cycle cohort.

Clann Ash

This year saw the opening of our first Autism Class, Clann Ash. We began the year in the Meditation Room but soon moved across into WA08, the old computer room, to a new fit-out with a Sensory Room included to support and promote regulation for our students. Our classroom has an open-door policy to those who need that extra level of support, with positive reverse inclusion taking place.

It is a very inclusive classroom with clear and identifiable student workstations, as well as a group lesson area in the middle of the room. We start each day with a relaxation and organisation class to help students regulate before the start of the day, as well as organising their materials for their next classes. This is their safe place where they can be comfortable in their surroundings and to take the time that they need to get ready for the busy environment that is ACS.

Teaching and Learning in Clann Ash is focused on building confidence around academic subjects as well as developing communication and interaction skills, as well as functional living skills. Our students are supported by a number of teachers who work with them and cover a wide array of subjects. The work of all the teachers involved has

been invaluable to the success of the first Autism Class. Next year will see the opening of the second Autism Class with a number of new students and staff joining our school community.

On Mondays, we have a Social Club at lunch time with a number of students joining us for games and conversation. This has been a huge success and the relationships built amongst the students has been fantastic to witness.

At Christmas, we had our first-class trip to the High Street in Ashbourne to shop for Christmas presents. This was based on the work that took place in Clann Ash and in Ms. Healion’s L2LP Math class where budgeting and researching gifts, as well as researching lunch options, took place. We shopped, we went to McDonalds, and we went to the Library to access the Sensory Room and other resources before we headed back to school for some treats as we wrapped the presents purchased. This was a great day out with the students showcasing their independence skills in using money and interacting in different situations, from shops to McDonalds. We were incredibly proud of them as these kinds of experiences can be very daunting and over stimulating for students with Autism.

This May we took an end of year trip to Emerald Park. We took the 105 bus to and from Emerald Park, again a focus on independence skills with using money and services in the community. The students were very excited for this trip and an invite was extended to a number of other students in First and Second Year to reward them for their great work this year.

ACS Summer Programme 2023

The Summer Programme affords students with complex needs an opportunity to further engage with school during the summer break. The theme for the programme this year focused on building confidence and connections.

The programme was offered to a number of ACS students and 21 accepted from across both Junior and Senior Cycle. Many of the students who are now in Clann Ash, our new Autism Special Class, engaged with the Summer Programme.

The Programme began on Friday 18th August and ran until 23rd August. Staff who taught on the programme engaged learners actively and reflectively. There were opportunities for Senior students to take on leadership roles throughout the two weeks. Staff took curricular leads in areas such as the mural, healthy eating, literacy, numeracy, IT, the newsletter, orienteering, and organising a trip to the cinema, all while reflecting the theme of building confidence and connections. The programme offered was diverse and allowed for students to work at many levels, thus catering for the needs of all. There was a lot of planning and preparation undertaken for the Summer Programme but there was also room for flexibility and student choice. A few tried Engineering, cooking, and photography for the first time thanks to Mr. Walsh, Ms. Bonner and Des from Photos By Des. The support of Carmel and Nuala, our SNAs, was invaluable for a few who participated.

During the course of the two weeks, students read The Wall Between Us by Dan Smith led by Ms. Mc Namee. The novel chosen was in keeping with the theme and explored many issues associated with building connections in a community. This was also linked to Numeracy as students aimed to read a million words during the two weeks. We might not have quite reached the one million mark but the learning for next time would be to invite all staff present in the school to join with us in reading the novel. Ms. Morrissey kept all students engaged with Active Maths and honing our calculation skills. She and Ms. Mc Namee organised the trip to the cinema which was a huge success and the pizzas on the return to school were very welcome. The students must be commended for their engagement at the cinema and indeed their engagement throughout the whole programme was excellent. From Meet and Greet in the mornings to Tidy and Bye in the evenings, students were fully engaged.

The afternoons often had a lot of activities such as basketball, Irish Dancing, orienteering and board games. Thanks to Mr. S. Walsh and Ms. Mc Cabe for many of the fun ideas and thanks to Ms. Bonner for the Irish Dancing. We have a lasting memory of the Summer Programme with the mural in the WA Carpark. Work on the mural was led by Ms. O’Rourke and the Senior students. Every student on the programme left their mark in the form of a handprint on the mural’s tree.

Finally, thank you to Ms. A. McGuinness who ensured that each group and activity had a mention in the Newsletter, which captures a snapshot of the activities that happened - a lovely memory for students to have.

In keeping with the theme of building connections, a celebration was organised on the afternoon of the last day to which parents and guardians were invited. It was impressive to hear the students talk about what they did during the week from how important community is to ACS, and how the mural represented that connection to, “why not try the carrot and coriander soup at home?”.

On the last day Mr. Stewart spoke about how the Summer Programme would be a permanent fixture on the school calendar in the years to come. In many ways that is the legacy of the first group of students and staff who engaged with the 2023 Summer Programme and a mark of the confidence, and connections built. All students said they would return next year, and parents and guardians commented on how much their child enjoyed participating in the programme, how positive it was, and how it made returning to school that little bit easier.

Once back in school several parents and guardians mentioned that their child, who might normally experience some unease at settling back into school, found it much easier this year as a result of reconnecting with school during the Summer Programme prior to the start of the academic year. Looking towards next year’s Summer Programme we hope to invite our incoming students to participate to allow them to get to know ACS a little before they start and to support them to settle into life in our school community .

Student Voice

Head Students 2023/2024

The Head Students of 2023/2034 Jake Dennehy, Emma Gallagher, Ana Rita Vera, and Amy Spratt worked tirelessly over the course of the academic year to enhance life for the student community and beyond. They played a key part during the year to help our incoming First Year students to settle into secondary school life by making their presence known to this cohort through tutorials and assemblies, and by assisting with the First Year Activity Afternoon earlier in the school year.

They also visited assemblies across all other year groups, and took on the important task of promoting and facilitating the running of Guth Na nDaltaí in order to help enhance the student experience in our school. Huge care and attention was taken by the Head Students with regards the organisation of the Sixth Year Graduation and with the Year Book Committee before signing off their posts by giving their Head Student speeches at the Sixth Year Graduation in May.

Senior Prefects 2023/2024

On Wednesday 23rd August, the Senior Prefect time met for the first time as a group at their Training Day. The main focus of the day was establishing a team mentality and to also explore the various roles they, as Senior Prefects, would undertake. Challenge activities engaged the students and framed their interactions with each other- what skills are used when interacting with people, verbal and nonverbal language, and body language. These activities were later discussed in the context of what it means to work in a team. Prefects reflected on their year ahead- goals, aspirations, challenges -with an emphasis on being realistic and helping teammates. The day culminated with an energetic, positive attitude for the year ahead.

The seven Senior Prefects and four Head students started the 2023/2024 school year with a positive and capable demeanour. The First Year Orientation Day immersed them in helping First Year Tutors, giving small tours, helping students to sort lockers and keys and assisting the First Years navigate the complex world of their timetable and “the journal”. In the first term they maintained a presence in the First Year corridor at lunch time and before school int for any First Years who might be finding the transition to secondary school difficult. They also popped into tutorial occasionally in the first month to say “hello, how are things going?”

Throughout the year, Senior Prefects helped out at the five Parent Teacher Meetings after school as well as being a positive presence on the corridors, liaising with the Student Council and attending Guth Na nDaltaí term meetings.

Student Council

Throughout the school year of 2023/2024 the Ashbourne Community School Student Council engaged in many endeavours.

We evaluated applicants who wished to join the Student Council before holding a series of interviews to ultimately decide who would be awarded membership. We strived to gather voices from a range of voices across all year groups of the school.

We conducted surveys on the student body and analysed the results to ensure that we were representing the issues faced by the school community to the best of our abilities, with accurate, truthful, and unbiased data to support our work. We looked at areas such as the uniform policy and lunch options in the canteen. We reviewed the topics raised in the forum of the 2024 ISSU event that occurred during the February Mid-Term break to discuss the unacceptable instances of racist and bigoted behaviour taking place in some schools across the country.

As members of the Student Council, we would like to thank you for taking the time to read our annual productivity report and sincerely hope that you will continue to support us in our attempts to improve school life for all.

Guth Na nDaltaí

Guth Na nDaltaí is an initiative to allow all students within our school to voice their opinions and concerns for positive change to happen. Meetings are usually held once a term, during lunchtime, to allow for full student participation. These meetings are organised and chaired by the Head Students, with a teacher aiding in the facilitation of the meetings.

This year, the Head Students held several meetings during lunchtimes over the year to gain views of students and to allow students to help try bring about positive change for the whole school community. The Head Students undertook the task of aiming to reach as many voices as possible.

The Head Students trialled, with Junior Students, going into assemblies and asking students to complete a quick survey on their phones. This survey allowed students to express any opinions about their school life which they found positive and areas they would like to see change. This survey was responded to very positively with many student voices being expressed and this allowed all students in those year groups to participate and be included in the school community.

The Head Students have completed some positive work through their tenure and we, as a school community, would like to thank them for their work.

Student Wellbeing

Active Days

In the months of September and October all students from First to Sixth Year took part in their Annual Active Wellbeing Days. Students participated in a variety of activities facilitated by the PE Department including table tennis, volleyball, basketball, and soccer. The students were reminded of the importance of trying new activities to develop and maintain personal wellbeing.

Building Connections

A group of students in Second Year undertook the first Building Connections Programme of its kind in ACS. The students wanted to “pretty up” the outside of the school by planting up planter boxes and creating a floral display to the front of the school. The flowers were kindly donated by the local ASAP community group, and we were delighted with the beautiful displays created.

Community Links

Garda Barbara spoke to all First and Second Year students in November about anti-social behaviour and sharing inappropriate images online through social media platforms. It is vital that students are aware of their personal safety and responsibility when communicating online.

Annual First Year Activity Afternoon

Our new First Year students had a fantastic time on Friday 10th November at the annual First Year Activity Afternoon. 140 students took part in multiple activities over three hours after school which included soccer and basketball, gaming vans from GameVan Ireland, inflatable games from Sonix Entertainment as well as a brilliant interactive animal experience with Paul’s Pet Parties where the students had the opportunity to interact with and were taught how to hold a snake, a tarantula, a parrot, and several other animals.

The afternoon gave the students a great social experience by encouraging them to interact with other students from their year that they may not know too well or have met before. Plenty of staff also got involved in the activities with the students highlighting the positive connections our staff and students have in ACS. Over a dozen staff members also gave their time to facilitate and the day, which couldn’t have happened without them and their help.

A huge thank you to the Parent-Teacher Association who part funded the event which allowed for such a huge range of activities on the day and such a great experience for our First Year students.

Humourfit

Mike Sullivan visited ACS in October to speak to Second Years about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. The messaging was delivered in a creative way and told through a powerful narrative. It is crucial that students recognise and understand the dangers of drugs and alcohol and become more informed and aware.

Mike also facilitated a workshop to all First Year students about bullying and the importance of calling it out and reporting incidents of bullying.

Journal January

In January 2024, ACS students pressed the ‘reset button’ and refocused on the value and importance of using the school journal to reflect their efforts in school each day. The initiative ran throughout the month and students who met the expectations set were rewarded with a certificate, a cookie voucher and put in a raffle to win a €25 voucher that was donated by the school. Eighty students, Senior and Junior were acknowledged for their efforts.

Shona Project

Our Shona Project Ambassadors, Isabelle Harland and Lauren Warnock, created a PowerPoint to compliment a presentation that they delivered to First Year girls throughout the month of February. The Shona Project highlights the importance of a good healthy mindset, realising signs of toxicity in friendships and relationships, finding your selfworth, whilst looking at social media, body image and embracing what you have.

The talks centred on inspiring young girls to become tomorrow’s strong, resilient, and confident young women. Isabelle and Lauren also mentored two of their classmates, Jodi Purcell and Molly Kennedy, to assist them in the delivery of the talks. This talk was well received as the girls received lots of great feedback and some great questions from the First Year girls.

Awareness Days and Weeks

Anti-Bullying Week

November 13th -17th marked Anti-Bullying Week in ACS. Our theme was “We all have a responsibility to stand against bullying.” We held an online Whole School Assembly to begin the week where students were reminded about what we as a school can do together to stand against bullying. We had student and staff representatives who spoke about the importance of “taking a stand” by sharing information and advice with students on how to do so.

We also encouraged parents and guardians through our online platforms to support our efforts in taking a stand against bullying. Second Years commenced their DCU FUSE Anti-Bullying programme. FUSE is the first researched based Anti-Bullying and Online Safety Programme designed to comply with UNESCO’s Whole Education Approach to tackle bullying and online safety issues in schools. All Junior Cycle students discussed bullying in all forms in their Wellbeing Programme lesson while Senior students examined Coco’s Law to help them understand that their online actions can have consequences for themselves and others while empowering them to speak up about online harassment and where to go to seek help if it occurs.

World Down Syndrome Day

On World Down Syndrome Day on the 21st of March, students, teachers and even Alfie got into the spirit of the day by wearing colourful socks. World Down Syndrome Day is marked every year on the 21st of March as the 21st of March was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Syndrome.

School Ambassadors

Climate Ambassadors 2024

In January 2024, TY students Liam Tannam and Conor Dunne were selected to become Climate Ambassadors. Climate Ambassador is Ireland’s pioneering initiative to empower individuals to act on climate change. Coordinated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce with support from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, this program equips participants with the knowledge and tools to make a positive impact in their communities.

After much research, Liam and Conor decided to focus their efforts on waste. “Let’s talk trash” became their mantra for the remainder of the school year. They collaborated closely with Mr Ryan, who had identified the issues associated with the school waste and recycling plans. Together, this team has streamlined and improved how waste is dealt with in ACS on many fronts.

The multifaceted approach focused on education, bin location, clear labelling, and student involvement. Much of the groundwork was achieved at an interactive TY workshop run by Craig Benton, who specialises in waste issues. The students then met with Principal, Pat Moriarty, who fully endorsed their proposals. Their actions included running a video competition which targeted the proper use of bins, updated bin labelling, strategic location of bins, introduction of compost bins and use of screen and noticeboard to keep the school population updated with new initiatives. Conor worked closely with St. Andrew’s AC to ensure their road race remained a waste-free event.

Well done to Liam and Conor for their diligent work and positive contribution to ACS. We wish them continued success as they continue their work as Climate Ambassadors for the rest of 2024 and into the future.

Green Schools

The Green Schools committee have had another busy year saving the planet! As always, students have shown immense commitment meeting every Tuesday at lunchtime to discuss issues and get plans into action.

The theme this year was food and biodiversity, where an emphasis on the importance of growing food and eating local produce was emphasized, and the positive effects this can have on local ecosystems to encourage biodiversity. This was achieved through surveys, peer learning, school noticeboards, and social media. We also made a food habitat map of the school, showing all the areas where food is eaten and prepared in our school, along with a species and plant map. With the help of the expertise of agricultural science teachers Mr Ryan and Mr Gibney, we managed to secure and build a polytunnel to grow our own crops in the school. This has been a fantastic addition to our school and has been imperative in embedding our theme. Various

Mentor: Irene Hughes.

classes have planted crops in the polytunnel such as scallions, potatoes etc that will be reaped and prepared in Home Economic classes recipes.

For Christmas, we made sustainable Christmas tree decorations using old pieces of wood and toilet paper tubes for our school Christmas tree and reception area. Our Christmas collection is growing nicely year by year!

The Green Schools committee also had the opportunity to participate in the Lions Club of Ireland Climate Change Online Event for Secondary Schools in Ireland. They heard lectures and participated in activities on the local impacts, impacts on the global south, corporate response and most importantly, what we can do.

To finish off the year, we have received the fantastic news that we have successfully attained our tenth Green Flag. This is a fantastic achievement and is reflective of twenty years of hard work in our school with Green Schools. We are the only secondary school in Meath to achieve this number of Green Flags. We also designed our noticeboard to reflect all of the themes we have worked on since beginning our Green School journey twenty years ago.

Clubs

Drama

Throughout the first term, the ACS Drama club met during lunch breaks, consistently refining their skills, and polishing their performances. Their steadfast dedication culminated in a standout presentation during the school’s annual Christmas show where they astutely delivered a condensed rendition of A Christmas Carol with aplomb. The collective excellence displayed by all involved has emboldened our aspirations for the future, prompting plans to amplify our theatrical endeavours with a grander, more elaborate production slated for the upcoming year.

JIGSAW - One Good School

Ashbourne Community School is delighted to have been awarded a JIGSAW One Good School, Gold Award. On Monday, the 9th of October, Brenda Bradley from JIGSAW Meath, proudly presented members of the One Good School Team with the Gold award.

The award recognises the hard work of the students, staff, and parents of the school who actively promote and support youth mental health across the school community. The school’s participation and completion of the initiative demonstrates the school’s commitment to supporting positive mental health.

The school would like to thank all students, staff and the wider community for their part in this programme and showing that every young person’s mental health is valued.

Solace and BeLong to Q Mark

The Solace Group has continued to provide vital support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ students throughout 2023/2024. Committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, the group has organised various events and initiatives to promote awareness, education, and acceptance within the school community.

The Solace Group remains a cornerstone of support for LGBTQ+ students, providing a safe and welcoming space every Tuesday at lunchtime. This weekly gathering serves as a platform for students to connect, share experiences, and receive support from their peers and staff members.

In 2023, ACS signed up to work towards the BeLong To Q Mark, demonstrating its dedication to becoming a more inclusive school for LGBTQ+ individuals. As part of this commitment, all staff completed 3.5 hours of training to enhance their ability to support LGBTQ+ students effectively. In November, the school had an accreditation visit by a member of BeLong To and met with Management and Students to see how the Q Mark was coming along.

During the first week of November, the Solace Group organised a series of events to celebrate Stand Up Week, an annual campaign against LGBTQ+ bullying. The school was adorned with vibrant rainbows, symbolising solidarity, and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Staff and students were invited to join the weekly Solace gathering for tea, cake, and conversations about LGBTQ+ issues.

Throughout the week, students spoke at assemblies about the importance of being an Ally to LGBTQ+ peers, emphasising the role of support and solidarity in creating an inclusive school environment. Additionally,

Peer EducationLet’s

Talk Change!

This year a further six Transition Year students were trained as JIGSAW Peer-Educators. JIGSAW is an early intervention service which seeks to support young people to manage their mental health. Over 50 TYs applied for the opportunity, but following an application process, the successful applicants were Jodi Purcell, Lila Moran, Simon Donnelly, Sarah Moss, Arieanna Canning-Keenan, and Indie Comiskey.

Peer Mentors delivered lessons to all Junior Cycle SPHE classes, educating students on LGBTQ+ issues and promoting empathy and understanding.

First Year students were invited to a quiz organized by members of the Solace Group during Stand Up Week. The quiz served as an engaging and interactive way to promote LGBTQ+ awareness and foster a sense of community among students. Furthermore, the Solace Group made friendship bracelets and sold them at lunchtime, with proceeds going towards the creation of a new LGBTQ+ library in the school. In conclusion, the Solace Group has continued to play a vital role in promoting inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ students throughout 2023/2024. Through its ongoing efforts in education, advocacy, and community building, the Solace Group ensures that ACS grows in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. Looking ahead, we remain committed to furthering our mission of creating a safe and affirming environments for all students.

These six students underwent training with Ms. McLoughlin, where they learned how to deliver a workshop entitled ‘Let’s Talk Change’. The aim of this workshop was to provide Junior students with strategies to support their mental health during times of change - both big and small. These students visited First and Second Year Wellbeing classes where they delivered engaging, professional and supportive workshops. Feedback from the Junior students was very positive, and they appreciated having Senior Students deliver an important message.

Congratulations to our Peer Educators 2024, who served as powerful role models to other students in our school.

School Trips

Camino

On the 23rd of March thirty TY students and three teachers met up at Terminal 1 at 4am to embark on our 2024 Camino trip. This year we were taking on a new route - the Portuguese Coastal Route.

Our first day of walking began after a vital SSS session (Shea’s Stretching Session) and our daily mantra “Head good, heart good, feet good all good”. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t great for walking this year, but the students were excited to get going and took on the weather with gusto.

Along the way, students and teachers chatted, laughed, and listened to music. Students found their own pace very quickly and settled into a rhythm that was comfortable for them. There were times when students walked in large groups and other times when they walked in twos or threes. Teachers worked through the group and engaged with students along the route. Generally, we arrived at our destination each day around 3pm. Students took time to relax and recover after the day of walking each evening before dinner. Afterwards students and teachers enjoyed some board games, table quizzes and general chat before hitting the hay at about 10.30pm.

We walked a total of 120km over five days passing through some of the most beautiful countryside and small villages along the Portuguese route. The group got on well and there was a good sense humour and the comradery among the students and teachers was a real highlight. Before the trip I explained to the students that this journey was more than just a walk and so it proved to be. Students ran the full gamut of emotions from excitement, happiness, sadness and at times reflection. It was great to hear from students along the way about the various reasons they were walking. In some cases, they were walking on behalf of someone or in memory of someone. Others looked forward to the physical challenge and the sense of achievement they would feel upon completion of “The Way”.

Along the route, students collected stamps or “sellos” in their Camino passports and chatted to many people from across the globe and many also took the opportunity to practice their Spanish.

The final day of walking saw us enter the city of Santiago in epic fashion to the sounds of Amhran na bhFiann and walking behind the school flag - the locals certainly knew the Irish had arrived in town. Arriving at our destination, the cathedral of St James, it was hard to hold back the tears as students and teachers hugged and congratulated each other on completing the Camino and achieving something very special.

The following day students collected their certificates “Compostela” and enjoyed a tour of the cathedral and some free time to enjoy the city of Santiago. We also had an awards event where students and teachers voted for students in such categories as Most Likely to Return to the Camino, Most Disorganised Student as well as the Most Dehydrated Student.

I would like to pay tribute to teachers Elaine McBride and Brendan Howlin, without whom this trip would not have been as successful as it was. A huge amount of time went into organising this trip from September last year and the trip simply would not have happened without their considerable dedication and hard work. The care and attention given to students throughout was second to none and it was a pleasure to walk and work with them on this trip. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, humour and a little “madness” to head off with a group of thirty students for a week. The students themselves were great ambassadors for the school and Ashbourne town. It was a pleasure and a privilege to walk with them and share in the experience of “The Way ”.

Iceland

In November 2023, thirty-five ACS Geography students along with four teachers embarked on a trip of a lifetime to Iceland. Our first stop upon arrival, the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa in Grindavik. We thoroughly enjoyed bathing in the naturally heated waters and trying out the silica facemasks! We were incredibly lucky to have had the chance to visit this very popular tourist destination as a week later it was temporarily closed due to heightened seismic activity in the area.

Our first full day kicked off bright and early with a trip around the Golden Circle. We arrived at Golden Falls, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, where the water in Hvítá river travels from the glacier Langjökull. It was an amazing sight to see as we all held on to our hats as the wind and the spray from the waterfall were quite intense! We then travelled to Haukadalur Geothermal Field where we had the opportunity to witness a geyser ejecting steam from the geothermal heated water below. After lunch, we visited Thingvellir National Park where the Mid Atlantic Ridge can be seen above ground. We walked through the rift valley and witnessed incredible scenery while hearing about the interesting history of Iceland from our fantastic guide.

The following day began with a visit to the Lava Centre where students experienced a short film about the impacts of past volcanoes on Iceland. They then toured a variety of interactive displays regarding the formation of Iceland on plate tectonics, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. Afterwards, we moved on to Skogafoss Waterfall which stems from the River Selijalansa and drops 200 feet to the ground. Next on our list was Reynisfjara Beach, otherwise known as the Black Sand Beach. The combination of the black sand from the eroded volcanic rock and large basalt columns made this a breathtakingly beautiful and unique place to visit. The students had lots of fun climbing on the basalt columns and exploring the sea cave.

We rounded off our trip by taking in the sights of Reijvakik city to see areas of interest such as ‘The Sun Voyager’ which depicts a Viking boat and Hallgrimskirja Church, whose design was based on the basalt columns that we had just seen at the black sand beach. A stroll down the harbour was an idyllic end to our trip as we were lucky enough to spot the Northern lights! This was a memory that we will all cherish for many years to come.

Our trip to Iceland was an unbelievable experience as the students were able to connect their classroom-based learning related to plate tectonics, volcanoes, earthquakes, rocks, coastal erosion, and glaciation and apply it to real life. As teachers, we would like to commend our students on how well they represented themselves and their school on this trip.

Manchester Trip

Following an unfortunate hiatus due to the pandemic, the Manchester Trip returned for the first time since 2019 as forty eight Second Year students and six teachers set sail last November. For the first time in the history of the trip, the students were lucky enough to get to see one of the biggest fixtures in the Premier League season, Manchester City vs Liverpool in the Etihad Stadium.

An early 12.30 kick off on the Saturday morning meant a midnight ferry and an overnight crossing to Holyhead. Luckily, the seas were calm and the lack of sleep did nothing to deter the students from enjoying the crossing. We had a long bus journey from Holyhead straight to the Etihad Stadium where the group found out they had fantastic seats right behind the goal which was a delightful added bonus!

In a very entertaining match the score finished 1-1, a disappointing result for the City fans and Mr.Howlin, but the Liverpool fans in the group were delighted with the late equaliser. After the game there was a shorter journey to The Trafford Centre in Manchester where the students were able to get dinner and do some shopping. Later in the evening, we headed to our hotel which was part of Bolton Wanderers Stadium which in itself was great for the students as they had another view of a large stadium.

Before heading back to the ferry the next morning, students got to stop off for a tour of Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool FC. The group got to see the pitch, the dressing rooms, and the press room among other parts of the stadium in what was a great tour. Then back on the road to the ferry for the last leg home on Sunday evening.

It was a welcome return for the trip and the entire group had a fantastic time. The students were a credit to themselves, the school and their parents as they were exceptionally well behaved over the entire weekend. A huge thanks to the teachers who gave up their time to allow the trip to happen: Mr. Howlin, Mr. Glynn, Mr. Murphy, Mr. Leahy, Ms. McLoughlin and Ms. McHugh.

Salamanca

The Spanish Department were delighted to have another group of Senior ACS students experience the delights of a week of Spanish immersion during the February midterm. A group of fifteen higher and ordinary level Fifth Year students, along with their Spanish teacher, Ms Slevin, and accompanying teacher, Ms McLoughlin had a fantastic time in Salamanca.

The students truly got to experience Spanish culture first hand whilst also improving their Spanish skills as they stayed with local Spanish families. In addition, they had twenty hours of Spanish lessons in Colegio Delibes over the course of the week, and every afternoon and evening they enjoyed the delights of this beautiful and historical city while taking part in various activities. These activities ranged from salsa and cooking classes to cultural and art focused walking tours of the city.

An unexpected fun activity was a myths and legends tour where we got to roam the city late at night learning about unusual and dramatic tales of some real people and families from the city. A great week was had by all students who brought a lot of memories home with them.

Ski Trip

During the February Midterm, a group of seventy enthusiastic students and seven dedicated teachers embarked on our annual ski adventure to Andorra. We stayed at the Hotel Diplomat in Andorra de Vella and spent five days on the slopes of Grau Roig in Grandvalira.

Immersed in four hours of daily ski lessons, our students exhibited remarkable determination and commitment, progressing to conquer the challenging blue and red ski trails by the trip’s end. Their impressive achievements filled us with great pride, and their exemplary behaviour did not go unnoticed - they were a true testament to the values of our school.

Amidst the thrill of skiing, we took an excursion to the nearby town, indulging in some retail therapy. Additionally, we were fortunate to enjoy a rejuvenating experience of Caldea Spa, adding an extra layer of relaxation to our adventure.

It was undoubtably unforgettable week for students, brimming with laughter and cherished moments, and many incredible memories were created together.

Extra Curricular

Athletics

The first half of the year is a tough one for athletics as we faced the brutal winds, long grass and soggy muddy grounds of cross-country season. In October, on a gloriously sunny yet deceptively windy day, a brave group of students toughed it out in the northern reaches of Meath in Oldcastle at St. Brigid’s Athletics Club.

In January the conditions were even harsher for the North Leinster Cross-Country Trials in The Phoenix Park. Another ‘sunny’ day was challenged by the bitter winds howling across the playground of the deer, as we ran underneath the towering Papal Cross.

Amidst all of this, the McGrath brothers, Tomás and Shane, have had great personal success (and rivalry we believe) in the Combined Events, in which they show great personal dedication, training almost every day. This is a gruelling multi-disciplined event of: 200 metres, 800 metres, shot put, long jump, high jump, and 60 metre hurdles.

Tomás triumphed nationally becoming the Combined Events Minor Boys’ All-Ireland Champion, an amazing testament of endurance, hopefully following in older brother Shane’s previous many successes. Shane himself hasn’t let his younger brother outdo him; he has been selected for and is training at the Training National Pathway with Athletics Ireland. Only the top eighty athletes in the country get invited to these prestigious camps. A future Olympian? We hope so. Congratulations to them both and their family, we are mightily proud of them in ACS.

The athletes look especially smart this year in their new ACS singlets, and we thank their parents, Paul and Triona McGrath for supporting the school and sponsoring us with these new sleek singlets.

‘Newcomer’ Finn Donnelly is also showing great promise and form recently finishing fourth in the under seventeen 1500 metres in the Meath Championship. We wish him well as he continues to show an upward trajectory.

A successful end to the school year in North Leinster Track and Field Trials at Morton Stadium in Santry. Tomás McGrath claimed two golds in the minor boys’ high jump and shot put. While Kayla Abdul-Kareem won silver in the junior girls’ discus, at her first attempt at the event. Good luck to all those who dare to push and put themselves forward in individual events, a true test of physical and mental strength.

Basketball

Boys Basketball

The Boys basketball teams at Ashbourne Community School may not have won any championships or titles, but the overall experience was still highly enjoyable for the staff and students involved. Our U19 and First Year Boys teams both landed in Regional Finals this year, ending their seasons on close games, particularly the First Year team who lost by a single point in the end of their final. The team members developed strong bonds with each other and had a lot of fun while also improving their skills on the court. Special thanks to the TY and Fifth Year students who helped train and manage Junior Teams, all of which bodes well for the success of the program in the years to come.

Girls Basketball

We had several teams for Girls basketball this year- First Years, Second Years, U16 and U19. It was a thoroughly enjoyable year for all, and our students displayed a fantastic sense of teamwork, dedication and good sportsmanship. For the younger teams, many of them were playing basketball in a team for the first time, and every player showed steady growth and development as a player as the year progressed.

Our most successful team were our U19 girls who progressed to a semi- final, but unfortunately, they were beaten at the post. As we bid farewell to some of our best players in Sixth Year, we wish them the best of luck and hope that our younger players can follow in their footsteps in the years to come. We must also give a special mention to Fifth Year students, Cillian Gleeson and Max Duffy, who have been an integral part of the girls’ training and coaching.

Equestrian

The Killossery Interschools League

Following the success of the ACS Equestrian Team in 2022/2023, we were able to field a team for both the Killossery Interschools League and the TRI Equestrian League for 2023/2024.

Taking part in the Interschools League requires dedication and hard work. It enables students with an interest in equestrian sports to come together and plays an important part in student life for those involved. It was wonderful to see the team spirit and camaraderie grow over the season, as well as witnessing the confidence and skill of students increase with each leg of the league. We fielded a full team for each leg of the Killossery League with students borrowing horses to compete on when their own were unavailable, and we were lucky to have other riders willing to step in to complete the team when we needed them. The students represented their school proudly and were a credit to ACS. There was fierce competition each week and students gave it their all in the arena.

Thanks should also be given to the Chef D’Équipe and parents, without whom the students would not be able to participate. This league is so much more than just turning up on the day, and we recognise all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes preparing and practicing for the event.

The team finished in third place overall and are looking forward to trying to improve on this for 2024/2025. I think it’s fair to say as well as aiming for the title, everyone would like to take home a rug !

GAA Football

Second Year Boys

The Second Year Boys were in a very tough group this year but showed great heart and spirit in their three games against St. Josephs, Boyne Community School and Dunshaughlin Community School. Unfortunately, they did not make it to the Championship Semi-Final, but they did make it through to a very tough Shield Semi-Final against St. Peter’s Dunboyne. The tough training sessions and previous games really paid off as the boys won on a scoreline of 8-4 to 3-6. They then went on to play a tough game against Dunshaughlin Community School in the Shield Final where the teams were so evenly matched that the game had to go to extra time. It was only a last-minute goal for Ashbourne that stopped the game from going to penalties. Congratulations to the lads on a great win and for all their hard work throughout the course of the year.

Under 16 Boys

Our under 16 boys Gaelic football team found themselves in a championship group with St. Joseph’s Drogheda and Ardee Community School. Unfortunately, we were well beaten by both teams in the group matches. Inconsistency in training and application this year meant that we found ourselves in a Shield Final. We faced our neighbours Dunshaughlin in the final and the match was played in Dunshaughlin GAA club. Our lads saved their best team performance of the year for the final, running out convincing winners. Hopefully, the disappointing Championship performances and Shield success can be used as motivation for this team in the future. Most of this team will go on to represent the school team at Senior Level next year. We hope that the team can take some inspiration from our Men’s Senior team’s success this year and have a triumphant year next year.

Senior Boys

Cluiche Ceannais Peile Uile-Éireann na n-Iar-Bhunscoileanna

Corn Phádraig Uí Dhroma (Peil Shinsearach B), 2024

Gairmscoil na Mainistreach 1-15 vs Pobalscoil Chill Dhéagláin 0-9.

Máistreacht sa chomhimirt, clisteacht sa pheil agus obair chrua fud fad na páirce a chuidigh le Gairmscoil na Mainistreach an lámh in uachtar a fháil ar Phobalscoil Chill Dhéagláin ar lá bog fliuch i bPáirc Thiarnaigh Naofa, i gCluain Eois, Dé Sathairn 9 Márta. Bhí Cill Dhéagláin chun tosaigh le haon chúilín tar éis sé nóiméad imeartha, trí chúilín i gcoinne a dó, dhá cheann acu gnóthaithe ag Michael O’Sullivan. Níor aimsigh buachaillí na Cille scór ar bith eile roimh leathama, áfach, cé gur aimsigh na Conallaigh ocht bpointe breise sa tréimhse úd, le pointí luachmhara ó Conor Meehan ach go háirithe, agus cúilíní eile ó Aaron McGrory, Kevin Muldoon agus Turlogh Carr. Bhí tús níos láidre ag Pobalscoil Chill Dhéagláin sa dara leath agus d’éirigh leo ceithre chúilín breise a aimsiú taobh istigh de naoi nóiméad, dhá cheann ó O’Sullivan agus cúilín (cic saor) ó Dylan Kettle ina measc. Níor fhada gur éirigh leis na Conallaigh ceithre chúilín breise dá gcuid féin a aimsiú agus mhéadaigh an bearna idir na foirne in athuair. Conor McCahill na gConallach a d’aimsigh an t-aon chúl a scóráladh, cúl a chloígh buachaillí na Mí gar do chríoch an chluiche, d’ainneoin a gcuid díograise agus a gcuid gcrógachta. “Lá iontach peile” dar le Stuart McFadden, ceann de na bainisteoirí buacacha, Corn Phádraig Uí Dhroma bronnta ar a fhoireann, agus pobal na Gairmscoile thar a bheith bródúil as “na gasúir a thiomáin achan rud i mbliana.”

Ciarán Ó Maitiú, suíomh idirlíne, Pobalscoil Chill Dhéagláin.

*Cluiche Ceannais Peile Uile-Éireann = All-Ireland Football Final

*Fud fad = throughout;

*an lámh in uachtar = the upper hand

*gnóthaithe = earned / scored by

*níos láidre = stronger

*díograis = hard work (of ACS)

*crógacht = bravery (of ACS)

Under 16 Girls

In September 2023 Ms O’Connell, Ms Cassidy and Ms Mc Namee started training for the Under 16 competition. There were many girls at every training session, all showing great enthusiasm, and over forty signed up in total. Training took place each Wednesday from 4-5pm.

We started off the year with a great win against Ratoath. Following our first win, we ended up winning our next two games versus Coláiste Chiaráin, Leixlip and St Oliver’s, Oldcastle.

We made it out of our group and secured a place in a Leinster semi-final versus Callan, Kilkenny. We travelled to Kilkenny to play the semi-final. It was a tough game with terrible conditions, but the girls came out on top and booked our place in the Leinster Final.

The Leinster Final was played on April 22nd in St Loman’s, Mullingar against Gallen CS, Ferbane. Unfortunately, our girls fell short and were beaten by a strong Gallen team on the day.

Overall, it was a very successful year for the team, they trained hard, bonded together as a group, and represented ACS and themselves with such pride. As coaches, we are very proud of this group. A Group of TY students helped with training and matches which was a great help and advantage to us all. There are some very talented players with great potential for the coming years as they move on to the Senior Team.

Golf

Ashbourne Community School entered golf teams into the Leinster Boys Junior and Senior Championships this year.

The Junior Boys team of Mark Muldoon, Michael Kennedy, and brothers Conor and Darragh Dwyer represented the school at Greystones Golf Club in September. The boys played very well but the stiff competition and local knowledge from rival teams meant that they didn’t progress through to the All-Ireland Finals.

The Senior Boys teed it up in the spectacular surroundings of Stackstown Golf Clubs. The team of JJ McManus, Mark Muldoon, Jack Ronan and Rory O’Boyle turned heads with their attire but unfortunately, they didn’t manage to turn in enough birdies and pars against the top-class opposition that included Junior European Ryder Cup members and they didn’t progress to the next round.

On the day, both teams are as good as any other school team in the country and with a growing number of new players taking up the sport the future looks bright for golf in Ashbourne Community School.

Hurling

Junior Hurling

The Junior Hurlers had an outstanding year filled with remarkable achievements and inspiring performances. They kicked off the season in style, dominating their group games against Dunboyne and Castlepollard with impressive displays of skill, determination, and teamwork. Winning both matches comprehensively not only showcased their talent, but also demonstrated their unwavering commitment to success.

They went on to face Gallen CS in the semifinal in a game where we were missing several key players. It wasn’t to be their day and despite playing well they lost narrowly to an impressive Gallen outfit.

Senior Hurling

Our Senior Hurlers have had another successful season. They have qualified again for the North Leinster Final which was played on April 29th against Athboy CS. The panel is made up of twenty-three hurlers from Third Year up to Sixth Year. They began their season with a comprehensive victory against Dunshaughlin CC and enroute to the final, they beat Marist College (Athlone) and Scoil Dara (Kilcock) and drew with Athboy CS. Unfortunately, they were narrowly defeated in the North Leinster Final on Monday 29th of April with a scoreline of 1-14 to 0-14. The panel did their school, clubs and families proud.

Rugby

Senior Boys

The Senior Rugby team took part in the Leinster Branch Development Cup. They reached the semi-final where they narrowly lost to Newbridge. Star players Daniel Holmes and Sean Lambe were nominated for the DKIT Future Stars Awards.

Junior Girls

First Year girls Touch Rugby Team Blitz took place in North Meath Rugby Club on Tuesday 30th April 2024. The girls were trained by Naoise Smyth. For the majority of the team, it was their first-time playing rugby, but that didn’t hold them back as the girls had a great day out and represented the school really well.

Senior Girls

This year the rugby teams were trained and coached by Judy Bobbett of the Leinster Branch of IRFU and Ashbourne Rugby Club. The Senior girls team participated in several Interschool Blitz competitions before getting to the Leinster Finals Day. They came across tough opposition and defeated several North Leinster schools and amalgamated school teams, showing the strength and talent within the squad. They topped the group in the North Leinster qualifier and progressed to the Leinster finals. They represented the school with pride.

Massive congratulations to Katieanne Bobbett who was selected to play for Leinster U18 15s and Leinster U16 7s summer programmes. Siún Douglas was chosen to be on the Leinster Rugby and Dundalk IT Future Stars rugby team at number 5 following her individual performances in school competitions.

Ms. White and Ms. McBride are extremely proud of the rugby team. A huge thank you to Judy who has been training the team.

Soccer

First Year Boys

The First Year boys soccer team had an tough start to their first experience of football at ACS. Competing in the Metro North A League Division One, they had some tough games in the group stage and narrow losses to Chanel and St Paul’s. A good performance against St Declan’s earned a 2-2 draw but unfortunately it was not enough to qualify from the group. Despite the disappointment, it was a great first year for the lads with fantastic potential for the years to come.

Under 15 Boys

The U15 Boys had an unlucky season this year as they narrowly lost to Fingal Community School and then drew against Castleknock Community College. Having the lowest goal difference, the lads lost out on moving on to the next round. There were some great performances from Gerard Tyrell Foran and with lessons learned and some more hard work, the lads will come back stronger next year.

Under 17 Boys

The U17 squad had a very positive season, getting to the quarter final of the Leinster Cup, the furthest this team has got in the cup only to go out on penalties. This run included a fantastic win against a strong De Le Salle College Dundalk side, coming back from 3-1 down at halftime to win 4-3. Some great performances against quality opposition saw them reach the semi-final of the league but with injuries and suspensions, it was not to be their day. This team has some fantastic players and will be formidable opposition next year.

Under 19 Boys

This year saw many of this group play their final game for ACS. A fantastic win in the first round of the Leinster Cup against St Kevins College saw Leeland Burtenshaw pick up a hat trick. However, the lads went out in the second round which unfortunately ended their season early.

Under 15 Girls

Our U15 girls had a great group stage this season. Their first match was against Ratoath in the group stage. They had a comprehensive win with a standout performance from Aerwyn Moss who scored a hat trick on the day.

The girls then came up against local rivals De Lacy College, in the second group stage match. The girls put in a great performance, winning well and captain for the match, Gracie May Corcoran, was awarded Player of the Match for her performance. Other stand out players included Maisie Lawlor, Molly Dunne, Faith Sommers.

Topping the group, they entered the knockout round where unfortunately they lost out to Drogheda. Although the match didn’t go their way, the girls worked hard and played with a smile throughout!

Student Achievement Outside of School

Football

Katieanne Bobbett and Abigail Gough

Huge congratulations to TY students and @donashgaaclub players Katieanne Bobbett and Abigail Gough, who were selected for the Meath U16 panel for 2024.

We wish you the best for the year along with your team and management.

Ciara Doherty

Congratulations to our Sixth Year student Ciara Doherty who made the Meath Senior Ladies Football Panel for this year. What an amazing achievement Ciara, we are so proud of you.

Daniel Doherty, Seán Ward and JJ McManus

Huge congratulations to @donashgaaclub players, Daniel Doherty, Fifth Year, and TY students, Seán Ward, and JJ McManus as they are named on the Meath Minor Hurling Panel for 2024. They played against Offaly in the Leinster Minor Championship in March.

Dylan Kettle

Congratulations to Dylan Kettle, one of our Sixth Year students, who was part of the U20 Dublin Panel and had a great win over Westmeath in the Leinster Football Championship on Tuesday 26th March 2024.

Equestrian

Sixth Year student Leeland Burtenshaw undertook on the Antler Challenge 2024 on Sunday 10th March. A gruelling three-mile horse race which includes thirty-two jumps. He finished in eighth position in competition with over thirty riders! An incredible achievement.

Golf

Well done to six of our students and Ashbourne Golf Club members, Mark Muldoon, Jack Ronan, JJ McManus, Rory O’Boyle, and Conor and Darragh Dwyer, who made the school proud playing in the inaugural St. Andrew’s Trophy against St. Leonard’s School at the famous St. Andrew’s Links last October This was brought together by former ACS student Fintan Bonner. Fintan is a Senior Instructor at the St. Andrew’s Links Academy along with being Director of Golf at St. Leonard’s School.

Fundraising

Amy and Ellen

Spratt

For the month of September 2023, my sister Ellen and I decided to fundraise for Childhood Cancer Ireland. We took on the challenge of doing 5km of exercise a day to raise awareness for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. We set up an iDonate page, promoted our fundraiser through social media, and mapped our 5km route around Ashbourne.

Across the month, we balanced our Sixth and Third Year schoolwork while completing 5km a day. Together we walked a total of 300km and raised an amazing €2550 in total. As a childhood cancer survivor, raising awareness is so important to me and my family. We would like to thank the school community for all their kind donations and support!

Go Gold for children fighting cancer and Never Give Up!

Past Student Achievement

All Ireland Scholarship

Congratulations to Ellena Huang from the Leaving Cert class of 2023 who received the prestigious All Ireland Scholarship Award sponsored by JP McManus presented in April 2024 in The University of Limerick. Ms. Ryan, Year Head to Sixth Year 2023, accompanied Ellena and her parents to the event.

The All-Ireland Scholarship awards were established in 2008 to financially support gifted young students across the island of Ireland. Each year 125 students are chosen from the thirty-two counties. Ellena is currently studying Engineering in Trinity College Dublin and we wish her every success in her future.

DCU Scholars Award

Huge congratulations to Milo Connolly, Méabh O’Grádaigh, and Joseph Madigan from the Leaving Certificate Class of 2023 who attended DCU’s Academic Scholarship Awards on Wednesday, 29th November 2023 in The Helix.

Over 4000 First Year students joined DCU in September 2023.

Milo, Méabh and Joe are part of a small group of 117 students in DCU acknowledged by DCU for their outstanding Leaving Certificate results for having achieved over 600 CAO points.

We are very proud of this wonderful achievement by Milo, Méabh and Joe and would like to acknowledge the ongoing support of their parents and teachers throughout their time in ACS. Milo is currently studying Actuarial and Financial Maths, Méabh is studying Accounting and Finance and Joeseph is studying Engineering. We wish them every success in the future.

Naughton Scholarship

Well done to past pupil David Carr who was awarded the Naughton Scholarship to go and study a Masters at the University of Notre Dame in the US. The Masters is in Entrepreneurship in STEM. (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) David was one of five students in Ireland to be awarded the scholarship.

A fantastic achievement David, we wish you all the best as you go off to study in America for the next year.

Junior Cycle Results for 2023

Congrats to the JC Class of 2023 on your excellent results after three difficult years. Thanks to all the staff and your families who supported you. The results are a milestone, but they won’t define you. Please be mindful of those who may be disappointed. Tomorrow is a new day full of possibilities, promise and hope. We at ACS are very proud of your efforts.

Sixth Year Graduation

Retirements

Geri Lalor

Geri began working in Ashbourne Community School in 2007 and later joined the SEN Team. Geri brought great energy, fun and passion to her work every day. She was a joy to work with, always questioning and curious in the work and the processes we engage with in SEN. Geri was very generous with her time in planning, sharing with the team, and supporting her colleagues in the SEN Department. Geri’s presence, way with words, quick wit, repartee, enthusiasm, passion, and drive for the work she undertook will be greatly missed. She shared her knowledge willingly. Willingy and often advocating for students. She had particular expertise in developing students’ writing skills. Her passion for English and for writing was contagious. We wish Geri good health and every happiness in her future endeavours.

Ciarán Stewart

In November 2023, our much-loved and very popular principal Ciarán Stewart bid farewell to ACS as he retired. After teaching in the UK for a number of years Ciarán returned to Ireland and joined the staff at ACS in September 1999. Ciarán has been an integral part of our school community for an impressive twenty-four years. His journey began as a Mathematics and IT teacher. He also served as a tutor and then Year Head. Subsequently, he dedicated over nine years to the role of Deputy Principal before taking on the mantle of Principal for nearly four years.

Throughout his tenure, Ciarán not only managed the school with unwavering dedication and professionalism, but he also served as a trusted friend and mentor to many of us. His wisdom, guidance, and steadfast support have enriched the growth of both students and staff alike.

Ciarán exemplified the great human virtues of kindness, honesty, integrity, and generosity, values that we, including myself as the new principal, pledge to uphold as we forge ahead. Ciarán was a people person and he loved nothing better than to sit down and chat over a coffee – and yes, that coffee had to be brewed perfectly and very strong. Coffee was his “God”, and it still is, I’m sure.

Ciaran’s passion for sports, particularly soccer, was unmistakable. His allegiance to his beloved Arsenal was very evident as he was often, well not too often, on a high after they had won 4-0 on a Saturday and nobody ever dared to touch that Arsenal mug in the staffroom cupboard! He was a formidable player himself and feature on numerous staff teams, his deadly right-footed strikes leaving many goalkeepers stranded.

Ciaran possessed a delightful sense of humour that never failed to brighten our days. Even amid serious discussions, he had a knack for injecting levity and bringing smiles to our faces. One example that springs to mind is when the discussion turned to SSE (School Self-Evaluation) Ciarán quipped, ‘I didn’t think we changed energy supplier.’ (SSE Airtricity).

Thank you, Ciarán, for your humour, leadership, friendship, and kindness. Thank you also for your tireless commitment to our school community spanning almost a quarter of a century. Your departure leaves a void that has been keenly felt by staff and students alike. Although your physical presence is hugely missed, your legacy will endure within each of us.

We extend our heartfelt wishes to you, your wife Helen, and your children Lorcan and Riona.

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Ashbourne Community School

Deerpark, Ashbourne, Co. Meath