On Monday, Clonaslee College hosted a memorable awards and graduation ceremony, marking the achievements of its students with a celebration of talent, dedication, and hard work.
The community hall, transformed into a regal venue for the night, provided a fitting backdrop for the evening’s festivities.
Elegant drapes, twinkling lights, and floral arrangements set a sophisticated tone, creating an atmosphere of celebration and pride.
The evening was enriched by a captivating musical performance, orchestrated by Ms. Buckley and her talented students, whose harmonious melodies added a touch of elegance and emotion to the celebration.
The ceremony highlighted various academic and extracurricular successes, beginning with the Maths Competition.
The following students were celebrated for their outstanding performance in the ETB Junior Maths Competition, where they achieved runner-up status at the inter-ETB final:
Riagain Kennedy, Bronagh Carroll, Luke Conroy and Enda Feighery.
In the Junior French category, Bronagh Carroll was honoured as the Junior French Student of the Year for her remarkable curiosity and mastery of the language.
Her upcoming language exchange in Vichy promises further enrichment.
The Senior Agricultural Science Student of the Year award was bestowed upon Matt Keating, recognised for his exceptional coursework and practical knowledge, derived from hands-on farm experience.
Emma Kelly received the Junior Art Student of the Year award for her creativity and commitment, while Sam Thompson was celebrated as the Senior Art Student of the Year, showcasing his potential for a successful future in the arts.
This year, the school introduced the Inspiring Student Mentor programme as part of a broader initiative for academic improvement.
A group of senior students demonstrated remarkable dedication by offering tutoring and guidance to our most capable third-year students.
The primary aim of this project was to empower these younger students to achieve excellence in their upcoming Junior Certificate exams in Science and Maths.
The school are proud to highlight Clodiagh Kennedy as a standout mentor whose contributions have been particularly impactful.
The newly introduced EAL Student of the Year Award went to Adile Kholmatov, highlighting her perseverance and academic excellence in mastering English as an additional language.
A significant part of the ceremony was dedicated to the STEAM project awards. Students participated in various innovative activities, including coding, robotics, and podcasting.
The recipients were: Oona Scully, Jack Doyle, Evie Friel, Conor Mahon, Elisabeth Blacque, Conor McCann, Jack Crowley, Evan Hogan, Shay Conroy, Vincent Poole, Jamie Hibbits Dunne, Ollie Dooley, Tyler Barrett, Senan Traynor, Joseph McCarthy, Conor Reade, Matthew Conroy, Michael Poole, James McCann, Enda Feighery and Luke Conroy.
The Overall Junior Academic Student of the Year 2023 was awarded to Enda Feighery for his outstanding academic performance in his Junior Certificate and dedication to his work.
Other notable awards included:
- Ethos Award Winners: Adam Somers, Mary Kate Cuddy, Lennon Conroy, and Zoe Sheeran
- LGFA Player of the Year: Emma Brazil
- Junior Footballer of the Year: Gary Fitzpatrick
- Senior Footballer of the Year: James Dunne
- First Student Golfer to Represent Clonaslee College: Jack Smith
- Junior Hurler of the Year: Evan Dunne
- Senior Hurler of the Year: Sam Thompson
- Senior Soccer Player of the Year: Sam Sommers
- Basketball Players of the Year: Susan Conroy (1st Year), Niamh Coughlan (2nd Year), Laoise Harding and Caoimhe Barrett (U16), and Amelia Dunne (Senior U19)
- Overall Junior Student of the Year 2024: Emma Kelly
The emotional highlight of the evening was the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2024.
The graduation commenced with inspiring speeches from Principal Suzanne McMahon and Molly Buckley, chairperson of the Board of Management.
The principal urged all students to recognise and appreciate their families, parents and guardians who have been their pillars of strength, offering unwavering encouragement, and believing in them even when they doubted themselves.
She requested the student body to bid farewell to Clonaslee College knowing that the friendships forged here will endure, the memories created will be cherished, and the lessons learned will guide them on their journey.
On behalf of the Board of Management Ms. Buckley, extended their warmest wishes to all the Leaving Certificate students of 2024 for a bright and successful future.
Head boy and girl, Matt Keating and Roisin Russell, delivered heartfelt speeches reflecting on their time at Clonaslee College.
They paid tribute to their year head, Amanda Harkin, with a touching parting gift.
Yearhead Amanda Harkin gave an emotional speech on the night, addressing her students with heartfelt advice.
She said: “As you move forward to the next chapter of your lives, whether it’s further education, entering the workforce, or traveling the world, I want you to remember a few things.
“Believe in Yourself … embrace change … stay connected and give back.
“Go out into the world and make it a better place. The future is yours, and I have no doubt that it will be bright.”
Her words resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impression on all those in attendance.
On the night Fr. O’Reilly represented the Board of Managment, Kevin Callaghan represented the school staff, Oona Scully represented the student body and Emer Doyle represented the parents and guardians.
All four spoke to the students about their successes to date and how much their future holds.
They then took part in a candle lighting ceremony to represent the light that has guided the students and will now foster them in the future.
Sam Thompson’s reflection captured the sentiment of the evening, describing Clonaslee College as a ‘second home with supportive teachers and lifelong friends.’
Students were given the opportunity to reflect on all the activities they have been involved in over their time at Clonaslee College with videos organised by Ms. Maher and Mr. Madden.
They were also presented with a heartfelt keepsake by Ms. Fitzpatrick.
This special memento contained a collection of their first-year photos, sixth-year photos, and personal reflections, capturing their journey and growth throughout their time at Clonaslee College.
This touching gesture served as a reminder of their cherished memories and the bonds they have formed, symbolising the transition from their early days to their final year.
Students received their certificates of completion and a small present from their Yearhead before taking advantage of the fabulous displays organised by Ms. McLoughlin and Ms. Harkin for photos.
As always, the graduating class received special awards to honour their achievements and contributions.
The awards for Geniality and Determination were given to Jason Falkiner and Sam Thompson, respectively, acknowledging their positive attitudes and perseverance.
The event concluded with the presentation of the Overall Senior Student of the Year, awarded to Aisling Harding, celebrating her all-round excellence.
As the night drew to a close, the sense of community and achievement was palpable.
Clonaslee College once again proved itself a nurturing ground for future leaders, scholars, and artists.
All the staff of Clonaslee College wish the graduating class a bright and successful future, confident that their time at Clonaslee College has prepared them to face any challenge with courage and determination.
Remember Class of 2024, the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
Check out some great pictures above and below:
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