Farewell to the Class of 2023

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14 TOPIC • 8 June, 2023 CLASS OF 2023 FEATURE Farewell to the Class of 2023 On 17 and 25 May, Castlepollard celebrated their most successful Awards evening in their history and also bid farewell to the class of 2023. Over the past three academic years, the school has transformed into an ambitious and successful environment for children to flourish both acadecmically and in a sporting field. A testament to the work that has gone on in the school was on clear display for everyone who attended the events. Mr Walsh thanked the staff, students, and parents for supporting him during his time at the helm as he bid farewell to the community in preparation for taking up a new principal post in the west of Ireland. He also thanked the Longford Westmeath ETB and the Board of Management for their support with resources to support the school on their quest to surpass all previous achievements at the school. Donie Cassidy, chairperson of the Board of Management, sincerely thanked the parents for their loyalty to the school and stated that the school was currently at the planning permission phase for a the new building work which will create a school building 3 times the size of its current footprint. He thanked Mr Walsh for the pivotal role he has played in the success of the building work and stated that the facilities will be world class as intended. Prior to 2023, the school hadn’t contested a Leinster final in girls sports. To win three in one year provides an insight into the ambition and work that has gone on in the school in such a short space of time. A junior camogie title was achieved under the tutelage of Aoife Brady and Karen McDermott. Both teachers have significant county playing experience and this paid dividends during the campaign. Ms McDermott also managed the girls Gaelic teams ably assisted by April Kiernan. The junior title and senior title was achieved in succession, a feat that may go unmatched. Mr Walsh introduced soccer into the school this year and thanked the LWETB for providing funding for the goals and new kit. The goals allowed the team to hone their skills during weekly training sessions. The 1st year team won the LWETB cup and the U15 team reached the Leinster final, narrowly losing out to eventual All-Ireland champions Clara. All award winners received a commemorative trophy and certificate. It was noted that every child in the school had played a key role in the school’s trajectory and they were encouraged to maintain these high standards moving forward. The sixth-year graduation was a roaring success thanks for the work of Ms Katie Johnston (tutor) and Mr Brian Caffrey (Head of Year). The students have helped younger students throughout their time in the school and have developed into active citizens who will go on to make a positive impact in the world. Ms Johnston and Mr Caffrey wished them well in their exams and whatever lies ahead for each of them. Ms Karen McDermott presents Alisha Harte Bulloch with the Junior Sports Person of the Year. Members of the Castlepollard Community College Girls Senior Football team and Senior Camogie team that won their Leinster Championships in 2023, pictured with their managers Karen McDermott, Aoife Brady and April Kiernan, along with Westmeath Camoige player Fiona Keating who presented the medals. Ms Aoife Brady presents the Senior Sports Person of the Year award to Emma Gilchrist. Jasmine Chen, centre, receiving her award for ‘Five Years Perfect Attendance’ at Castlepollard Community College, from Ms Breege Smith and James McGrath (Vice- Principal) of Castlepollard CC. Ms Katie Johnston presents Hannes Dietrich with the International Student of the Year award for 2023. Dorian McDonald, Senior Student of the Year in Castlepollard Community College for 2023, receives his award from Mr. Wayne Walsh, Principal of Castlepollard Community College and Donie Cassidy Chairperson of the Board of Management of Castlepollard CC. Chairperson of the Board of Management Mr Donie Cassidy presents the ‘Most Improved Student of the Year’ Award to Cole Murray. Chairperson of the Board of Management Mr Donie Cassidy presents the Student Leadership Award to Martin Boyhan. Ms Anne-Marie Casey presents Vanessa Doras with the Senior award for Best School Ethos. Chairperson of the Board of Management Mr Donie Cassidy presents James Sheehan with the Misneach Resilience Award.
TOPIC • 8 June, 2023 CLASS OF 2023 FEATURE Celebrating the Class of 2023: A Walk Down Memory Lane in Oaklands Community College An evening of warm words, memories, and best wishes for a bright future The Class of 2023. Farewell to the Class of 2023 It was a day filled with pride, nostalgia, and anticipation as staff at Oaklands Community College bid farewell to its graduating class of 2023. On 29 May, students, parents, guardians, and teachers gathered in the Edenderry school’s auditorium for the highly anticipated graduation ceremony. The event served as a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the academic and social experiences that have shaped the lives of these remarkable young individuals. The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome from the Head Boy and Head Girl, Niall Walsh and Megan Murrin who praised the Class of 2023 for their resilience, dedication, and remarkable achievements over the years. They spoke of their fellow classmates, and addressed the gathered parents, guardians and teachers, not only welcoming them, but thanking them for sharing this most special evening for the class group, and acknowledging their pivotal role in supporting them along their educational journey to this day. As the graduates reminisced about their time at Oaklands Community College, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and sentimental moments. Warm words from teachers, both past and present, brought back cherished memories and highlighted the impact they had on the students’ lives. The school Principal, Mr Kehoe, addressed the graduates with an inspiring speech. He praised their achievements and reminded them of the valuable life lessons they had learned during their time at Oaklands. Mr Kehoe emphasised the importance of embracing challenges, pursuing passions, and maintaining a strong sense of integrity as they embarked on the next chapter of their lives. The graduation ceremony also served as a time to celebrate the friendships and bonds that had been 15 forged throughout the years. The Class of 2023 took a moment to reminisce about their shared experiences, from the excitement of starting second level school together to navigating the ups and downs of adolescence. These cherished memories will forever hold a special place in their hearts, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of friendship. As the students prepare to take their Leaving Certificate in June, the management and staff of Oaklands offered their best wishes for success in whatever path the graduates choose to pursue. Whether their future endeavours lead them to higher education, vocational training, or directly into the workforce, the Class of 2023 has been equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resilience to make a positive impact on the world. Mr Courtney, reflecting on the graduating class, said, “I have witnessed these students grow and evolve into remarkable individuals. They have not only excelled academically but have also developed a strong sense of compassion and leadership. I have no doubt that they will go on to achieve great things.” As the ceremony drew to a close, the room was filled with a mix of emotions - joy, pride, and a touch of bittersweet nostalgia. The Class of 2023, armed with their accomplishments and the memories they have created, now embarks on a new and exciting journey. School photo in hand and dreams in their hearts, the graduates of Oaklands Community College are ready to face the world, leaving an indelible mark wherever their paths may lead. Congratulations to the Class of 2023, and may your future be filled with boundless opportunities and immeasurable success. Enjoying the graduation ceremony at Oaklands Community College is Leah O'Toole from the class of 2023. Sophie Moore, 6th year graduate, Oaklands Community College. Fionn Brereton, Oaklands Community College class of 2023. Head Boy Niall Walsh addressing the crowd. Stephen Kenny presents a lantern at the graduation ceremony. Megan Murrin, Head Girl Oaklands Community College addressing the guests at their Graduation ceremony. Jannes Bayer, Oaklands Community College, at the recent school graduation. Clodagh Davy, Oaklands Community College class of 2023. Shauna Phelan, Keelyn Glennon, Megan Murrin and Tori Lynch, Oaklands Community College class of 2023.
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Farewell to the Class of 2023

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