School News
December News
Please see the St Mary’s Twitter, Tik Tok and Facebook pages for more content.
Strasbourg trip
Our 6th Years had a fantastic time on their first day in Strasbourg! They explored the sights, soaked in the culture, and made memories to last a lifetime.
Study Skills
A Study Skills workshop facilitated by Inspire Education is scheduled to take place on Thursday
23rd January 2025 for 2nd Years. Time slots for each class will be provided nearer the date.
Mini Company / Trade Fair
1st Year Trade Fair 11th December 2024
TY Trade Fair 8th January 2024November News
November News
Open Night Thursday 28th November
The opening address for all students and their parents/guardians will commence at 6.30pm with guided tours for students and parents then commencing after the addresses. Refreshments will be served for students and their parents/guardians after the tours. Staff and current students will be on hand to answer any queries that students or their parents/guardians may have.
- The closing date for receipt of applications is the 3rd December.
- Applicants will be notified of the decision on their application by 10th December.
- Applicants who are offered a palace must confirm their acceptance by 17th December.
1st Year Trade Fair 11th December 2024
TY Trade Fair 8th January 2024
Transition year students organised a very successful Bakesale today in aid of Team hope Shoebox appeal. The students baked, displayed and helped to sell all their baked goods at break time and lunch time.
LCVP Speaker.
Speaker Geraldine Jones (owner of Skins Formulas Nenagh) will come to talk to both 5th and 6th
year students as part of their Portfolio items, entrepreneurship and starting a Business.
LCVP 5th Year and 6th Year Business Students 4th November 2024 from 11:15 – 12:35
LCVP 6th Year, 6th year Accounting and Business Students th November 2024 from 11:15- 12:35
Mini Company / Trade Fair
1st Year Trade Fair 11th December 2024
TY Trade Fair 8th January 2024
Science Week
Science Week Activities – 11th November – 15th November
11th Nov. 11.15 – 13.15 All 1st Year Science Fair PE Hall
12th Nov. 09.00 – 11.00 All 3rd Year Science Quiz Canteen
All other activities will be classroom based. We will also be running a photography and poster
competition throughout the week.
October News
Mid Term Break
School will be closed from Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November inclusive, we wish all students and staff a restful break.
Halloween dress up day
Students will be dressing up this Friday in Halloween costumes and all funds raised will go towards the schools extracurricular fund.
School Musical
Musical dates – Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th October 2024, tickets for evening shows are available from the school office, phone 067 – 31450.
First Year Cinema Trip
All first years will be going to the Cinema on the morning of Wednesday 23rd October to see Beatlejuice, we wish them an enjoyable trip..
Key Dates
Optional Heart Screening for teachers and students 6th /7th /8th November 2024
School Photographs Monday 21st October 2024
Oide Cluster Day 15 h October 2024
Oide Whole School Planning 13th November 2024
Musical dates – Wednesday 23rd & Thursday 24th October 2024
Sixth Year Parent Teacher meeting takes place on Monday 21st October 4:00 to 6:30.
Goal Jersey Day
A huge congratulations to all involver in this worthy fundraiser, in excess of €1000 has been collected to date, if you would like to donate you can do so on our fundraising page – online at: https://jerseyday.org/st-
marys-secondary-school-tipperary
Maths Week
Monday
2nd Years – online Maggie Gough problem-solving competition
Wednesday
3rd Years – Maths Olympiad competition
Thursday
5th Years – online Maggie Gough problem-solving competition
6th Years – research careers with Maths at the Limerick Colleges Open day
Friday
Pi day – judging of the entries for the Maths baking competition in Miss Shelley’s Home
Economics room
1st Years and some 2nd/3rd years – Maths challenges (rotation stations)
Maths Eyes (Junior school), A Puzzle a Day (whole school) and Pi day (whole school)
competitions begin on Monday 14th and will end on Friday 18th.
Various Maths activities will take place in individual teachers' classes throughout the week.
Junior Certificate Results
Congratulations to our Junior Cert students on their fantastic results, we wish them well in senior cycle.
School Calendar Change
In the calendar circulated at the start of September for the 2024/25 school year, the Open Evening was scheduled for
Thursday 16th January 2025. The Open Evening is now being brought forward to Thursday 28th
November 2024.
A Staff CPD day that was scheduled for Friday 17th January 2025 has also been brought forward to
Friday 29th November 2024. This means that students will not be in school on Friday 29th November
2024.
LCVP Speaker
Speaker Geraldine Jones (owner of Skins Formulas Nenagh) will come to talk to both 5th & 6th year students as part of their Portfolio items, entrepreneurship and starting a Business.
LCVP 5th Year & 5th Year Business Students 21st October 2024 from 11:15 – 12:35
LCVP 6th Year, 6th year Accounting & Business Students 6th November 2024 from 11:15- 12:35 (please note change of date)
Mini Company / Trade Fair
1st Year Trade Fair 11th December 2024
TY Trade Fair 8th January 2025
Extra-Curricular Activities.
Please see the timetable for extra curricular activities under the extra-curricular tab on the menu above.
Any late changes will be notified to students.
Science Week Activities – 11th November – 15th November
Date Time Group Activity Location
11th Nov. 11.15 – 13.15 All 1st Year Science Fair PE Hall
12th Nov. 09.00 – 11.00 All 3rd Year Science Quiz Canteen
All other activities will be classroom based. We will also be running a photography and poster competition throughout the week.
Careers
TY will attend the Midwest Careers Fair in UL on Tuesday 1st October- leaving approx 9am and
return for after lunch classes.
5th Years will attend the University of Galway open Day on Friday 4th Oct- they will be out of
school all day.
6th Years will attend the Limerick Colleges open Day on Thursday 17th Oct- they will be out of
school all day.
This is all of the career trips for this year so thank you to all teachers for your cooperation.
Important Dates
Optional Heart Screening for teachers and students 6 th /7 th /8 th November 2024
School Photographs Monday 21 st October 2024
Oide Cluster Day 15 th October 2024
Oide Whole School Planning 13 th November 2024
Provisional school musical dates – Wednesday 23 rd am and pm; Thursday 24 th October 2024
Goal Jersey Day
This October St. Mary's secondary School, Nenagh are taking part in GOAL Jersey Day 2024, on
Friday 11th of October 2024, to support GOALs live saving work with some of the worlds most
vulnerable communities.
You can join us by registering for GOAL Jersey Day 2024 online at: https://jerseyday.org/st-
marys-secondary-school-tipperary
All funds raised will support the work GOAL Global does to improve the lives of people living in
vulnerable communities across the world.
We are hoping to bring junior year groups today during the day to celebrate Jersey Day and join
as a school community to help to support a worthy cause.
Thank you so much. Hoping for your support on the day.
September News.
School Mass
The annual school Mass was held on Monday 23rd September at 12:00pm, we enjoyed marking the start of our school year with all members of the school community.
School Calendar Change
In the calendar circulated at the start of September for the 2024/25 school year, the Open Evening was scheduled for
Thursday 16th January 2025. The Open Evening is now being brought forward to Thursday 28th
November 2024.
A Staff CPD day that was scheduled for Friday 17th January 2025 has also been brought forward to
Friday 29th November 2024. This means that students will not be in school on Friday 29th November
2024.
Friday 17th January 2025 will now be a normal school day, and students will be in school as
normal on this day.
Christmas exams will take place from Monday 2nd December 2024
to Friday 6th December 2024.
Extra-Curricular Activities.
Please see the timetable for extra curricular activities under the extra-curricular tab on the menu above.
Any late changes will be notified to students.
Supervised Study
Full details are available under the curriculum tab.
New Leaving Certificate Subject
St. Mary’s has been selected as a pilot school for the new Leaving Certificate subject titled Drama, Film and Theatre Studies. Students who commence Fifth Year in September 2025 will have the option to study this subject. Mr Meally and Miss Minogue will be attending training days this year.
Key Dates
Optional Heart Screening for teachers and students 6th/7th/8th November 2024
School Photographs Monday 21st October 2024
Oide Cluster Day 15th October 2024
Oide Whole School Planning 13th November 2024
Provisional school musical dates – Wednesday 23rd & Thursday 24th October 2024
Mini Company / Trade Fair
1st Year Trade Fair 11th December 2024
TY Trade Fair 8th January 2025
Provisional Art Trip
Thursday 3rd October – 2nd Year Art Trip to Hunt Museum, Limerick. Students will depart at 9.00am approximately and will be back for 2pm afternoon classes.
Careers
Approximately 50 6th Years will be attending Higher Options in Dublin on Thursday 26th Sept- they will be out of school all day.
TY will attend the Midwest Careers Fair in UL on Tuesday 1st October- leaving approximately 9am and return for after lunch classes.
5th Years will attend the University of Galway open Day on Friday 4th Oct- they will be out of school all day.
6th Years will attend the Limerick Colleges open Day on Thursday 17th Oct- they will be out of school all day.
LCVP Speaker
Speaker Geraldine Jones (owner of Skins Formulas Nenagh) will come to talk to both 5th & 6th year students as part of their Portfolio items, entrepreneurship and starting a Business.
LCVP 5th Year & 5th Year Business Students 21st October 2024 from 11:15 – 12:35
LCVP 6th Year, 6th year Accounting & Business Students 23rd October 2024 from 11:15- 12:35
Geography Field Trip
A Geography trip to Ballybunion for all third year students will take place on Wednesday, 2nd October 2024. Students will leave at 8.00am and return at 6.00pm.
Welcome Back
We welcome back all students and staff this week and wish them well in the coming year, a special welcome to our first years as they make the transition to Secondary school we wish them all well here in St Mary’s.
Leaving Certificate Class of 2024.
We congratulate all our sixth year students on their fantastic results and wish them every success in the future.
New Principal.
We wish to announce the appointment of Mr. John Cullinane who will be taking up his appointment as Principal of St Mary’s for the new school year, we wish him well in his new role.
RETURN TO SCHOOL DATES:
Monday 26th August 2024:
1st Years Induction – 10.00am to 12.30pm
Tuesday 27th August 2024:
5th Years, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.15pm
Wednesday 28th August 2024:
3rd Years , 5th Years, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am – 1.15pm
Thursday 29th August 2024:
2nd Years, 3rd Years, 5th Years, LCA & 6th Years – 9.00am to 1.15pm
Friday 30th August 2024:
Second Day for First Years (Full Day)
TY return and all other classes as normal. Full Day for all students.
May News
Certificate Examinations
We wish all the best to our Junior and Leaving Certificate students the very best with their upcoming exams out thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Examinations
H0use exams take palce for all first, second and fifth year students from Monday 27th to Friday 31st May. We wish all our students well and have an enjoyable Summer.
TY Graduation
The TY graduation will be held on Tuesday 21st May, we congratulate our TY students on a fantastic year and wish them well going forward into Senior Cycle.
Sixth Year Graduation
The sixth year Graduation was held on Monday 20th May, we celebrated the successes of our students over the past six years and we wish them well in their upcoming exams.
Annual Awards Ceremony
1. Academic Awards
Junior Cert Clodagh Daly
Leaving Cert Tara O’Donoghue Grace Brennan
LCA Kaitlyn Pierce
2. Best Attendance
From 1 st Year
Emma Cleary Justyna Lasa Aoibheann McDonnell
Aine O’Keefe Maher Aoibh Cahill Caoimhe Cleary
Aiste Stulgaite
From 2nd Year
Valentina Lin Krystal Shanahan Kate Sullivan
Hazel Connolly Clodagh Murphy
From 3rd Year
Ruby-Mae Bourke Aisling O’Keefe Maher Sarah Williams
Treasa McDonnell
From 4th Year
Alicia Vulpe Lilly Ryan
From 6th Year
Ieva Dobrovolsky Emma Williams
3. Cara Leaders
Lucy Aherne Ieva Dobrovolsky Aishling Kennedy Justyna Was
Laura Boyle Rebecca Gaines Cara Kennedy Holly Whelan
Katie Brett Lena Gamon Alexsandra Lasa Emma Williams
Ella Cooney Louise Griffin Cara Mulcahy
Natasha Creagh Bronagh Kenneally Abbie O’Dwyer
Orna Daly Ellen Kennedy Maeve Steed
4. Prefects
Natasha Creagh Rebecca Gaines Nicole Murphy
Laura Boyle Katie Brett Iris Grace
Holly Whelan Louise Griffin Abbie O’Dwyer
Alexsandra Lasa Justyna Was Lucy Ahern
Emma Williams Katie Ryan Cara Mulcahy
5. Music Award
Junior Heidi Kelly Niamh McGrath
Senior (6th Year Trad Group) Lucy Jones Cara Kennedy Laura Kennedy Aishling Kennedy
Marie Ryan Laoise Smyth
6. CEIST Award
Holly Whelan Ieva Marija Dobrovolsky
7. Brian McDermott Award
Zia Davies Lena Gamon Katie Brett
8. School President
Cara Mulcahy
9. Enterprise Award
1 st Year – White Candles for All
Seasons Aoibhinn Kennedy, Emma O’Brien, Isobel Slevin
1st Year – Smokin’ Smores Aimee Brett, Aoibh Cahill, Saili O’Connor
TY – 4B Aoife Flynn, Ruby Power, Marissa Walsh, Roise O’Connor, Chloe Kennedy
TY – 4A Clodagh Daly, Jennifer O’Leary, Aine Grace
10. Sports awards
1.Presentation for Swimming
Bronze 200 IM Munster Senior Schools Lauren Duggan
Silver 200 Medley Relay Aiveen O’Brien, Rachel Quigley, Kseniya Nita, Lauren Duggan
2.Presentation for Rowing
Silver U16 Schools Rowing Rose Cunningham
3.Presentation for Tennis
U16 Munster Finalists Sarah Williams, Layla O’Dwyer, Katie Gleeson, Amy Ryan
4. Presentation to Athletics
Gold Tipperary Cros Country & Gold East Munster Athletics 1500m Jennifer O’Leary
Silver East Munster Athletics Long Jump Katie Howard
Silver East Munster Athletics 300m Anna Paxman
Bronze East Munster Athletics 300m Hurdles Sadhb Connolly
Bronze East Munster Athletics Long Jump Emma Beresford Miller
Silver Tipperary Cross Country Saili O’Connor
Tipperary Athletics 100m Emma O’Brien
5. Basketball – Presentation of medals to U16 team – Southwest Regional champions & Munster
champions
Captain – Rhiannon Jones
6. Team of the Year
U16 Basketball Team – Captain Rhiannon Jones
8.Sports person of the Year (2)
Junior Sports Star – Trophy
Isabelle Kingston
Senior Sports Star – Trophy
Jennifer O’Leary
9.Recognition of commitment to school sport
Kseniya Nita Swimming
Iris Grace Camogie
Marie Ryan Camogie
Emma Williams Camogie
Kerrie Howard Camogie
Bronagh Keneally Camogie
Laura Kennedy Camogie
Maeve Steed Camogie
Aisling Kennedy Camogie
Cara Mulcahy Camogie
Abbie O’Dwyer Camogie
10. Special merit awards for sport:
Clodagh Daly U17 Irish Soccer Team
Jennifer O’Leary Irish Athletics Team
11. Student of the Year Awards
Year Group Nominee A Nominee B Nominee C Nominee D Winner
1 st Year Roisin Hogan Lauren Hanrahan Ailbhe Gaynor Grace Peters Ailbhe Gaynor
2 nd Year Aoibhe MoranTannerHazel Connolly Roisin Nolan Moya Ryan Ailbhe Moran
Tanner
3 rd Year Orla Brislane Sophie Lynch Marie Gleeson Mairead O;Brien Marie Gleeson
TY Clodagh Daly Robyn O’Dwyer Ellie Chadwick Ellie Chadwick
5 th Year Andreea Ursan Emily Bourke Rachel Quigley Emily Bourke
6 th Year Katie Ryan Caoimhe O’Brien Ieva Marija Dobrovlskyte Kerrie Howard Ieva Marija
Dobroviskyte
LCA Kate Seymour Ciara Ryan Ciara Ryan
Sports Day
The schools annual sports day was held this week well done to all who participated.
Tennis
Well done to our U16 Tennis team who won the Munster schools title
Athletics
East Munster Schools athletics confirmed for Thursday 2nd May 2024.
Link Modules
The Link modules exam will be held on Wednesday morning 1st May at 9:30, more information available in school.
April News
We welcome all staff and students back to school for the final term after the Easter break.
Senior Trip
6th year and LCA 2 students will travel to Ballyhass Adventure Centre on Monday April 29th for the full day.
Athletics
Tipp schools athletics in Templemore Wednesday 24th April 2024
East Munster Schools athletics Thursday 2nd May 2024
Soccer
Junior Soccer away to Carrick on Suir Tuesday 23rd April 2024
Junior Trip
All 2nd and 3rd Year students will visit Nenagh Court House on Tuesday 14th May 2024 (time to be confirmed). Students will be taken in groups of two classes. More details to follow.
March News
We wish all our students, staff, parents and members of the wider community an enjoyable Easter break.
Please keep an eye on Twitter for all recent posts.
Easter Exams
We wish all our Leaving Certificate students the best of luck in their upcoming oral examinations.
Sixth Year Trip
6th year and LCA 2 students will travel to Ballyhass Adventure Centre on Monday
April 29th for the full day.
1st Year Soccer
First year soccer match away to Cahir on Thursday March 7th leaving class at 9:40.
Maths Quiz
The following students will participate in the IMTA Pi quiz on Thursday 14th
March in Newport.
Lucy Brett, Hannah Dillon, Isabelle Kingston, Marie Gleeson
Ella Ryan, Amy Ryan, Grainne O’Brien, Sasha McDonnell
Layla O’Dwyer, Treasa McDonnell, Katie Gleeson, Amy O’Dwyer
Gabi Wesolowska, Orla Brislane, Anna Paxman, Elli Konstantina Kourousi
February News
Mocks
We wish our exam classes well in their upcoming Mock JC, LC and LCA examinations.
Parent Teacher Meeting
First Year Parent/Teacher Meeting will take place on Thursday 1st February 2024 from 4.15pm – 6.45pm.
Maths Competition
The following 6th year Higher Level Maths students will be participating in the Irish Team Maths Competition Tuesday 27th February.
Location: Borrisokane Community College
Natasha Creagh, Justyna Was, Louise Griffin, Caoimhe O Brien, Abbie O Dwyer, Maeve Steed, Laura Kennedy, Aisling Kennedy, Holly Whelan, Cara Mulcahy, Nicole Murphy, Ieva Dobrovolskyte.
Activities:
Date Activity Time Location
29th January Driver Theory Test
Workshop – 4 groups
30th January Driver Theory Test
Workshop – 4 groups
1st February Chinese
6th February Social Concern 4B
7th, 8th & Amsterdam School Tour
9th February (until 10th)
December News
We wish all parents, students, staff and members of the wider community a happy and peaceful peaceful Christmas.School reopens on Monday 8th January at 9:00 AM.
School Events
Tuesday 19 th December – Christmas Concert – starting before lunch and finishing at 4.00pm. Can all teachers this afternoon please remind students to bring in €3 tomorrow for entry to our Christmas Concert.
Thursday 21 st December – Carol Service – starting sometime after break and will finish at 1.15pm.
School Photographs – Provisional date for School Photographs Tuesday 30 the January 2024.
The First Years Christmas Market Day will take place in the Sports Hall on the morning of Tuesday 12th December. It will run from 9.00am to 12.35pm approximately.
Ms. Tina Mulhearne the Schools Enterprise Co-ordinator of Tipperary LEO will be the officiating judge on the day.
Study Skills
A Study Skills workshop provided by Inspire Education will take place for 2nd years on Thursday 25 th January 2024.
Religon
Students will be on Retreat in De La Salle Pastoral Centre in Castletown, Co. Laois
on the following dates:
Monday 15 th January 2024 – 5 th Year Students.
Students will leave school at 8.30am and will return for 3.30pm.
TY Activities
Fri 1 st Dec Week
Mon 4 th Dec Tinpot Productions 4C 9-11 GP Room +
4B 11.15-1.15 Van outside
4A 2-4 PE Hall
Tues 5 th Dec Panto 9-4 Dublin
Thurs 7 th Dec Forensic Workshop 9-11 GP Room
(All Classes)
Thurs 7 th Dec Ascend Workshop 11.15-1.15 GP Room
Mon 11 th Dec-Work Experience
Fri 22 nd Dec
November News
Musical
The school musical will take place on Wednesday 22 nd and Thursday 23 rd
November times tbc.
TY Activities:
Please see a list of TY activities taking place this term.
Date Activity Time Location
Mon 16 th Oct – Musical Rehearsals/
Fri 24 th Nov Musical
Mon 27 th Nov- Think Languages TBC TBC
Fri 1 st Dec Week
Mon 4 th Dec Tinpot Productions 4C 9-11 GP Room +
4B 11.15-1.15 Van outside
4A 2-4 PE Hall
Tues 5 th Dec Panto 9-4 Dublin
Thurs 7 th Dec Forensic Workshop 9-11 GP Room
(All Classes)
Thurs 7 th Dec Ascend Workshop 11.15-1.15 GP Room
Mon 11 th Dec-Work Experience
Fri 22 nd Dec
Religon
Students will be on Retreat in De La Salle Pastoral Centre in Castletown, Co. Laois
on the following dates:
Monday 20 th November 2023 – 6 th Year Students
Monday 15 th January 2024 – 5 th Year Students.
Students will leave school at 8.30am and will return for 3.30pm.
Remembrance Tree – for November is set up outside the Chapel. If anyone would
like to add a name to the tree. We will take the names to mass at St. Mary’s at the
end of the month.
Talk for Second Year Parents
The HSE “Lets Learn About Drugs and Alcohol Together” programme will be
delivered in school on Tuesday 21 st November for all second year parents and
pupils, time tbc.
Athletics
Tipperary schools cross country will take place on Thursday 16 th November
Soccer
Minor Soccer match V St. Mary’s Newport – Tuesday 14 th November in Newport.
Science week
To celebrate Science week we will be carrying out a number of activities
13th Nov: 09:00-11:00 1st Year Science Fair (Library & GP) – All first years
15th Nov: 9:40-11 Engineering talk (Mr Corcorans 2nd Year Class)
14:00 -15:20 3rd Year Science Quiz (GP room) – All third years
16th Nov: 14:00 – 15:20 Year Science CBA Fair – All second years
-Lunch time experiment activities will be carried out for different groups with
Mr .Corcoran.
-A Poster competition will also be held.
October News
Junior Soccer Match – Wednesday 11 th October Away to St. Anne’s Tipp Town.
Minor Soccer Match – Monday 16 th October Vs Borrisoleigh.
Camogie
Friday 13 th October – Junior B team travel to Charleville for championship.
Monday 16 th October – TY Future Leaders have planned a 1 st Year Camogie Blitz in
MacDonagh Park for our 1 st year players along with schools from Borrisokane and
Birr.
Student Enterprise
St. Mary’s will host the official launch for the Tipperary Student Enterprise Awards 2023/24 programme on Monday 2nd October 2023. Representing the Tipperary Local Enterprise Office will be the Enterprise Schools Co-ordinator Ms. Tina Mulhearne while the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland will be represented by Ms. Diane O’Dwyer, Executive Officer.
Sport
Junior Soccer Match Thursday 5th October 2023 in Tipp town.
Junior Camogie 7 aside Wednesday 4th October
September News
Please follow our twitter page for recent events including all extra curricular activities
Please see a list of TY activities taking place this term.
Date Activity Time Location
Mon 11 th Sep Law Module All Day GP Room
Tues 12 th Sep Law Module All Day GP Room
Mon 18 th Sep Walk/Hike TBC TBC
Mon 25 th Sep RSA Shuttle Bus 10.20-11; 2-2.30 Outside
PE Hall
Tues 26 th Sep Retreat Group 1 All Day Castletown
Retreats
Wed 27 th Sep Retreat Group 2 All Day Castletown
Retreats
Thurs 28 th Sep RSA Shuttle Bus TBC Outside
PE HALL
Mon 2 nd Oct RSA Talk TBC GP Room
Fri 6 th Oct Marie Keating TBC GP Room
Foundation Talk
Mon 16 th Oct – Musical Rehearsals/
Fri 24 th Nov Musical
We welcome back all our staff and students and wish you well for the year ahead.
May News
We wish all our students well as they undertake house and Certificate exams in the coming weeks.
Second Year Activities
We are planning to run activities on Friday 5 th May (time to be confirmed). Class 4B as part of
their Future Leaders Program are organising a set of activities that the second years will be asked
to donate money towards two charities. Daisy Lodge and Crumlin Children’s Hospital.
Geography Trip
A Geography field trip has been organised for all 2 nd year students to Crag Cave and Ballybunion
on Wednesday 3 rd May 2023.
Timetables
Timetables for the 2023 Leaving Certificate, Leaving Certificate Applied and Junior Cycle
Examinations have been published on www.examinations.ie
The SEC recently published important information in relation to the acceptance and authentication
of Coursework for the State Examinations, this information can be accessed on
www.examinations.ie
May Activities TY.
Tues 2 nd Coding 4C 9.30am – 1.15pm
Tues 2 nd Driver Theory Test Workshop – GP Room – Teachers to supervise please
9.00am to 10.20am 4C 10.20am to 11.55am 4B
11.55am to 1.15pm 4A
Wed 3 rd Coding 4C 9.30am to 1.15pm – Canteen
Thurs 4 th Coding 4C 9.30am to 1.15pm – Canteen
Thurs 4 th Water Safety talk from MLI – 9.00am GP Room
Fri 5 th Coding 4C 9.30am to 1.15pm – Canteen
Mon 8 th Breast Cancer Awareness talk
Tues 9 th Kilfinane – overnight stay – group 1
Wed 10 th Kilfinane – group 1
Thurs 11 th Kilfinane – overnight stay – group 2
Fri 12 th Kilfinane – group 2
Mon 15 th Ballcuggaran Mountain Walk – TBC
Wed 17th Driver Theory Test Workshop – GP Room –
March /April News
School will close on Friday 31st March at 3 20 and reopen on Monday 17th April, we wish all students, parents, staff and members of the wider community a happy Easter.
Transition Year Newsletter
Camogie
March 9th Minor Camogie Vs Ursuline in Nenagh @11
March 10th 1st yr Camogie Vs Laurel Hill in Nenagh . Time TBC
Soccer
Junior match vs St Anne's Tipp Town – Tuesday 7th March
Junior & 1st Yr match vs Borrisokane – Tuesday 28th March
Athletics
Munster Schools indoor athletics – Wednesday 8th March
Our whole school wellbeing week will take place next week from the 13th to the 16th of March.
There will be various activities running throughout the week for each year group so some class
time may be affected.
1st year vaccinations will take please on Wednesday 29 th March 2023. (full year group)
Camogie training will continue weekly for all years and will be scheduled through Google classroom.
Soccer training continues weekly.
First year Soccer 17th January.
Junior Soccer TBC.
Minor Soccer 25th January.
First year basketball continues lunchtime on Thursdays
Junior Rugby continues after school on Thursdays.
Match dates
1st and 8th February.
1st and 15th March.
Camogie.
We wish our Senior Camogie team well in their upcoming Munster Semi-Final.
Hard luck to our Junior camogie team who were beaten by Hazelwood College in their recent Camogie Semi-Final.
Physics Trip
Friday 13 th January 2023 – 6 th Year Physics Students will be attending the UL Physics
Experiment Day.
Chemistry Trip
Wednesday 11 th January 2023 – 6 th Year Chemistry Students will be attending the Chemistry
Laboratory Day in UL and will be leaving the school at 9.00am.
Exam Timetables
Timetables for the 2023 Leaving Certificate, Leaving Certificate Applied and Junior Cycle
Examinations have been published on www.examinations.ie
The SEC recently published important information in relation to the acceptance and authentication
of Coursework for the State Examinations, this information can be accessed on
www.examinations.ie
We welcome back all students and staff after the Christmas break and wish all our students well for the new year.
December News
We wish all students, parents, staff and members of the wider community a very happy Christmas.
School will close for the Christmas holidays on Wednesday 21st December at 1:15 and will reopen on Thursday 5th January.
The annual Carol service will be held on Tuesday 20th December.
The annual Christmas concert will be held on Friday 16th December.
The proposed date for the First Year Christmas Trade Fair is Thursday 15 th December 2022. An
outside judge will hopefully be available to us.
The study skills seminar for 3rd year students will take place on Monday 12th December 2022.
Times to be confirmed.
November News
Sport
Students will be participation in Junior and Senior Camogie matches this month as well as Soccer and Rugby we wish them well in all competitions.
Important Dates – Provisional
February Tasks 30 th January – 3 rd February
LCA 1 – General Education
LCA2 – Vocational Education: IT
LCA2 – Practical Achievement
May Tasks 24 th April – 28 th April
LCA1 – Vocational Preparation
LCA1 – Vocational Education : Childcare
Oral Exams 9 th May – 12 th May
LCA1 & 2: French & English
ICT Practical Performance & Written Test Wednesday 10 th May
LCA2
Practical Performance Tests 15 th – 19 th May
Assessment of Practical Coursework 6 th June, 12 th June – 16 th June
LCA2: Childcare
Careers
Sixth year students will travel to UCC on Friday to a career’s exhibition.
Science Week
Science Week is running the week on 14 th November 2022. The following activities will be taking
place:
1 st Year Science Fair:
Date 14 th November 2022 – Time:11.15am – 13.15pm
Location: 1A & 1B in the Library
1C & 1D in the GP Room
2 nd Year Science Fair:
Date 15 th November 2022 – Time 14.00pm – 16.00pm
Location: Canteen
3 rd Year Quiz:
Date 17 th November 2022 – Time 14.00pm – 15.20pm
Location: Canteen
Also we will be running a poster competition for the school. The themes this year are famous
female scientists or Agricultural Science – Format A3 Poster.
October News
TY Musical
Musical: The musical will take place on Monday 24 th and Tuesday 25 th at 7.30pm.
The matinee for the local primary schools is at 10.30am on Monday and our
own school matinee will be between break and lunch on Tuesday.
Well done to the TY class of 2022 on their fantastic musical which was staged in the school this week.
LCAs Go Off Grid
The LCA students in St Mary’s experienced a lovely bonding day of bushcraft, all thanks to local Nenagh man, Tom Bán. By sharing his wide range of knowledge, we were very fortunate to learn various survival skills in order to fend for ourselves in the wild, if such time ever came.
We were taught how to start our own fire, purify water, set up shelter and many other useful tricks to keep ourselves safe. From start to finish it was a very positive experience for all involved. I feel privileged in LCA to be able to do intriguing and practical things like this that I wouldn’t get the opportunity to do otherwise. Many thanks to Tom for providing us with such a wonderful and memorable experience.
Alannah Slattery
Follow St Mary’s twitter on this page for up to date news on all school activities
September News
Camogie
A number of Teams have commenced training in preparation for upcoming competitions, we wish them well in the year ahead
Soccer
First year soccer has commenced and training will be announced on the sports noticeboard.
Our U15 soccer team had a brilliant victory last Friday in Cahir where they beat Loretto Kilkenny 1-0 in the minor girls National Cup semi-final. We now play Pres Athenry in the National Cup Final on Wednesday 28th September with the venue and time yet to be confirmed. Well done to the whole squad and to manager Mr. Doherty.
Leaving Certificate Class
Congratulations to the Leaving Certificate class of 2022 on their fantastic results, we wish them all the very best in the future.
We are available to assist any student who need to seek the advice of a guidance counsellor.
August News
Friday, 26th August 2022: 1st Years Induction – 10.00am to 12.30pm
Monday, 29th August 2022: 5th Years, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.15pm
Tuesday, 30th August 2022: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.15pm
Wednesday, 31st August 2022: Second Day for 1st Years
Transition Years return and all other classes as normal
Full Day for all students
May News
We wish our Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate class of 2022 the very best as they start their exams this Wednesday 8th June. They have been a credit to themselves and their families over during their years in the school and we the school community wish them every success at this time. The exam timetables can be viewed at www.examinations.ie.
Our 6th year Graduation will be held Monday 23rd May at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church, we look forward to welcoming our 6th years and their families as they celebrate this fantastic occasion. A number of events will be held for the students in school to mark the occasion on the preceding Thursday and Friday. House Summer exams will be held on the week commencing 30th May, timetables have been distributed to students. A huge thank you to Siobhan O’Leary from Nenagh Yoga for her very generous sponsorship of a new set of Atheltics singlets for our athletics team. Well done to the first year Camogie panel who were recently crowned Munster A champions. Congrats to our U-14 Ladies Football squad who today won the Tipperary Schools blitz. We bet Scoil Ruain, Presentation Clonmel and Rockwell in the group. Saint Ailbe’s from Tipp Town in the Semi and Scoil Mhuire from Thurles April News School will close for the Easter holidays on Friday 8th April at 3:20 and will reopen on Monday 25th April at 9:00. On Wednesday 6th April 2022 – Tipperary Schools Athletics Championships – Templemore. On Thursday 7th April 2022 – Minor Soccer Munster Semi Final vs Hazelwood College. On Thursday 7th April 2022 – All 5th and 6th year Leaving Cert Art students will be attending a gallery visit to the Hunt Museum. The 26th April 2022 provisional date for Tipp schools 1st year camogie competition. More details to follow. March News School will be closed this Thursday 10th March for staff training. We wish our first year and TY students well as they make their subject choices in the coming weeks, details will be sent to parents in due course. February News Follow St Marys twitter on this page for up to date news on all school activities. Updated Leaving Certificate Written Exam Copy and paste the link below for full details. https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/59139-further-adjustments-to-the-written-examinations/ January News Camogie News We wish our Junior camogie team well on Monday 17/1/22 as they play in their Munster semi-final in Nenagh at 1 15pm. We wish our Senior camogie team well this week as they play their munster final on Thursday evening at 7pm in Caherlohan/
Exam Success
In the Irish Independent Feeder Schools League Tables 2022 published last week we performed very well. We are the joint top school in Tipperary. For two years running now we have had 100% progression to third level courses with a sizeable percentage of those to Universities.
Enrolment
Enrolment is now open for new 1st years starting in 2022. Application forms can be posted or dropped to Reception in person. Closing date is Thursday 27th January 2022. For enquiries please phone 067=31450 or email admin@stmarysnenagh.ie
Students who have symptoms of COVID-19 should stay at home, isolate and arrange to have a COVID-19 test. There are two types of tests. Initially, students are offered antigen tests. If the antigen test is positive, they should book a PCR test. For further information: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/covid19/testing/get-tested/ If a student tests positive for COVID-19 following a PCR test: 1 They will be contact traced by the National Contact Tracing Team who will ask them to identify their close contacts. 2 The student will have to isolate for 10 days from the day their symptoms started or for 10 days from the day they had the positive PCR test. 3 The student can return to school after this isolation period, provided they do not have a fever/temperature during the last 5 days of their isolation period. If a student is identified as a CLOSE CONTACT of a case in their HOUSEHOLD, they will have to restrict their movement as per the national guidelines for a household close contact and get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible. December News We wish all students, parents, staff and members of the wider community a peaceful Christmas. For parents of students in sixth class, if your daughter did not receive a pack in school or does not attend one of our feeder schools please contact us at 067-31450/admin@stmarysnenagh.ie and we will arrange to get an enrolment pack to you Congratulations and best of luck to 2nd year student Clodagh Daly who has been selected to play on the Munster schools soccer team in the upcoming U15 interprovincial competition Well done to our second year science students who presented their CBAs in a science fair for science week. Excellent work Sport Well done to our 2nd yr Camogie players, almost 40 girls braved the elements this morning and played an enjoyable blitz against Borrisokane Community College . Great win today for our Junior Camogie team against Laurel Hill in the first round of the Munster Championshi Our 1st yr Camogie continues organised by Transition Years as part of their @gaafutureleaders . Great to see over 50 first yrs in action . A wide range of sporting activities are up and running so keep an eye on the sports noticeboard and all are welcome to get involved. Other News TY’s participated in a six word short story competition with Mr O Connell. John Ryan, from the Nenagh Bookstore, picked the winning entry from a shortlist and kindly sponsored the winning entry with a €25 voucher. Well done to Emma Williams who won the prize. Congratulations to Jennifer O Leary who is the U15 Munster Cross Country champion. Also well done to Niamh and Ellen Cunneen who came 2nd and 6th in U19 Munster Cross Country Study Supervised study continues for sixth and third year students. October News Well done to all for getting into the Halloween spirit in St Mary’s. A huge congratulations to all involved. Sport We look forward to the resumption of School games in recent week a soccer league has been held and Camogie leagues are starting shortly. Mind your mental health. This years theme of ‘Mind your Mental Health’ was chosen to promote and reinforce the resilience shown by the students in the last two years. We hope that the students of 2021/2022 embrace all the opportunities that come their way and have a very enjoyable year. Study Supervised study is well underway for sixth and third year students, we wish them well in the year ahead. September News Well done to the class or 2021, we wish them all the very best in their future careers. We look forward to welcoming back all students from 27th August and hope you all had an enjoyable Summer break. Updated Exam Information 19th August Assessment Certificate Exams 2022 Leaving Cert Applied RETURN TO SCHOOL DATES: Friday, 27th August 2021: 1st Years Induction – 10.00am to 12.30pm Monday, 30th August 2021: 5th Years, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.15pm Tuesday, 31st August 2021: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.15pm Wednesday, 1st September 2021: Second Day for 1st Years Transition Years return and all other classes as normal Full Day for all students DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: The full School Calendar 2021/2022 is available on our school website, www.stmarysnenagh.ie. Please note school will be closed for students on the following dates due to compulsory staff Continuous Professional Development: Tuesday, 14th September 2021 Friday, 21st January 2022 Thursday, 10th March 2022 Friday, 18th March 2022 May News We wish our leaving certificate class the very best over the next few weeks as they complete the state exams. We wish our leaving certificate class of 2021 the very best as they graduate this week . Please see the twitter link on this page for all updates Information for Parents 23/4/21 Dear Parent, If you have received a text from St Mary’s today 23/4/21 to say your daughter has been deemed a close contact of a confirmed covid case please see correspondence from the HSE below. Thank you, M Dineen, Principal Close contacts in school_letter to parents_St Marys Update for Parents 23/4/21 Principal Update 23rd April 2021 Information for Parents 22/4/21 Update letter to parents – 22 April 2021 12/4/21 We welcome back all our students after the Easter break, we ask all our students to have completed the Covid self declaration form before returning on Monday. March News 17/3/21 We wish all the members of our school community a happy St Patrick’s day 15/3/21 We welcome back all our 5th Year students this week. 10/3/21 The Leaving Certificate 2021 candidate portal will open today, Wednesday March 10th and will close on Tuesday next, March 16th at 6:00pm. A clear guide for students on how to use the portal and the choices that they need to make is available on gov.ie/en/publication 1/3/21 We welcome back all our 6th Year students this week and look forward to a successful school reopening. February News We wish all our students and their families well as we continue through lock-down. For all enquiries, the school office is open between 10 00 am and 1 00 pm and can be contacted at 067 31450 or admin@stmarysnenagh.ie January News Recent News 14/1/21 Letter to Parents re January School Closure and Remote Learning – 13 January 2021 Letter to Parents from Dept of Education – 12 January 2021 Recent News 8/1/21 Letter to Parents re January School Closure and Remote Learning – 8 January 2020 December News Christmas Message We wish all students, parents, staff and members of the wider community a happy and peaceful Christmas. CAO Presentation CAO Presentation St Marys 2021
Science Week
To celebrate Science Week all first year classes were given the opportunity to host a science fair throughout the week and they came up with brilliant presentations and experiments, everything from a Potato Battery to Volcanic Explosions, writes Natalia Leszczynska. Everyone had plenty of fun watching their science experiments in action whilst also promoting the subject amongst the students.
Science teacher Ms. Hogan was delighted with the event, especially their “presentation skills were second to none and we are very proud of them”.
The winners of the Science Fair were; 1A: Abbie Mae McGrath, Jennifer O’Leary, Martha Devaney 1B: Aine Grace, Emma Costello, Katie Hayes, Aoife Flynn, Ava Moroney, Rena Ryan 1C: Ellie Ryan and Aoife O’Meara
November News November Examination Timetables 2nd Year Exams Christmas 2020 (2 5th Year Exams Christmas 2020 (1) 5k run- CRY Recently as part of the 4C future leaders programme the class organised a transition year mini- marathon for the organisation CRY which stands for cardiac arrest in the young. CRY provides a free counselling service and support for families and friends affected by sudden death or cardiac conditions. They provide free heart screening for families and individuals. From speaking to members of 4C they informed me on the different tasks they did to prepare for the 5K mini-marathon. Firstly they were split into groups within their class. Each person was given their own job including Event manager, Stewards, Covid officer and Poster makers. The class then made sponsorship cards to allow people to raise money for the organisation. After that, they organised a suitable route for the 5k run to take place. The Event managers then went to each class and put us in pods of people that we would be running with to maintain social distancing. The poster makers made a virtual poster that can be found on the St.Marys Instagram. I know myself as a TY student that we are all looking forward to this mini-marathon and are very happy we are able to raise money for the CRY organisation. Health and Safety Covid 19 Policy for Students Notification from the Board of Management Health & Safety Control of COVID-19 rev Policy for Students – 9 November 2020 Notification from the Board of Management Notification regarding the Board of Management’s Review of the Child Safeguarding Statement Child Safeguarding Risk Assessment Child Safeguarding Statement Child Safeguarding Risk Assessment Child Safeguarding Statement Child Safeguarding Statement Annual Review of Anti-Bullying Policy Notification regarding the Board of Management’s annual review of the Anti-Bullying Policy Anti-Bullying Policy Anti-Bullying policy November Exams November Exams for 2nd and 5th years will take place from Monday, 23rd November to Tuesday, 1st December 2020 inclusive. Congratulations to Brid Hayes who has been elected school President for the coming year. Well done also to Sarah O’Brien and Anna Powell who ran fantastic campaigns during the election. October News Walk in my shoes by Ellen Mulligan Walk in My Shoes October Newsletter for Parents Update Letter to Parents – 7 October 2020 6/10/20 Transition Year 5k Run Film Club Please note the twitter link is available on the Home Page Letter to Parents re Bus Capacity (updated) – 30 September 2020 Welcome A big welcome to our newest members of staff; Miss Shanahan and Mr McGrath. New Students We are delighted to report that our first years have settled into school life and are enjoying the experience of many new subjects. We wish them well. We also welcome all students who have joined other years and hope they settle in well and enjoy their time in St Mary’s. Transition Yr History Module, Report Grainne O Meara TY History Walk September News Return to School by Cadhla Shanahan, TY. Return to school Clarification on the use of face coverings in Post Primary schools The Department has issued the following clarification on the use of face coverings in post primary schools: Wearing a face covering or mask does not negate the need to stay at home if symptomatic. Wearing of face coverings – a requirement Staff and students, at post-primary level, are required to wear a face covering. The exemptions to this are set out below. Cloth face coverings Cloth face coverings are recommended for staff and students. Cloth face coverings act as a barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from travelling into the air and onto other people when the person wearing the face covering coughs, sneezes, talks or raises their voice. Cloth face coverings are therefore intended to prevent transmission of the virus from the wearer (who may not know that they are infected) to those with whom they come into close contact. Face coverings must not contain any slogans/logos/images that may cause upset or be deemed offensive to any member of the school community. Visors Cloth face coverings are more effective than visors. In the limited circumstances where a cloth face covering cannot be worn clear visors must be considered. The alternate use of a clear visor can also be considered when a staff member is interacting with students with hearing difficulties or learning difficulties. Exemptions A medical certificate to certify that a person falls into a category listed below must be provided to the school by, or on behalf of, any person (staff or student) who claims that they are covered by the exemptions below:
- any person with difficulty breathing who cannot wear a cloth face covering or a visor
- any person who is unable to remove the cloth face-covering or visor without assistance
- any person who has special needs and who may feel upset or very uncomfortable wearing the cloth face covering or visor, for example persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, sensory concerns or tactile sensitivity.
In circumstances where a medical certificate is not provided that person (staff or student) will be refused entry to the school. The Department has also issued the following clarification regarding the physical distancing requirement when a face covering, supported by a medical certificate, cannot be worn: The view is that there will be a very small number who are covered by the limited exceptions who cannot wear a cloth face covering or visor and that in these limited circumstances the arrangements in place for physical distancing (1m), hand hygiene, cough etiquette and cleaning would apply and should be strictly observed. Directions for effective use of face coverings
- Information should be provided by schools on the proper use, removal, and washing of face coverings. Advice on how to use face coverings properly can be found here.
- All staff and students should be reminded not to touch the face covering and to wash or sanitise their hands (using hand sanitiser) before putting on and after taking off the face covering.
- All staff (and students, where applicable), should be aware that they should wash or sanitise hands (using a hand sanitiser) before and after helping a student put on or adjust a face covering.
- Face coverings should be stored in a designated space, for example, in an individually labelled container or bag.
- Cloth face coverings should be washed after every day of use and/or before being used again, or if visibly soiled.
- Face coverings should not be worn if they are wet. A wet cloth face covering may make it difficult to breathe.
Whilst staff and students may wish to utilise their own face covering on a day-to-day basis, schools should have a stock of additional disposable or multi-use face coverings (or if appropriate, visors) for staff and students in case a back-up face covering is needed during the day or where required on an ongoing basis. Use of medical grade face coverings Schools should consider the specific circumstances where the use of medical face masks (to EU Standard EN 14683) may be more appropriate for staff as part of their risk assessment for employees returning to work (for example where staff by necessity need to be in close and continued proximity with students with intimate care needs such as SNAs). Students using school transport All students on the post primary transport scheme are required to wear face coverings subject to the exemptions above. Policy Statement Covid 19 Covid 19 Policy Statement Tipperary School’s Bike Week Competition To celebrate national Bike Week 2020 which is from the 19th-27th September, Tipperary Sports Partnership are inviting school children across Tipperary to get cycling to be in with a chance of winning a €50 voucher for themselves and a €200 voucher for their school. To be in with a chance to win parents or guardians can tag Tipperary Sports Partnership on social media with cycling photos mentioning the nominated Tipperary school or cycling photos can be emailed to info@tipperarysports.ie with the name of the nominated school. For any further information please go to www.tipperarysports.ie and see the attached poster. We would appreciate if you would kindly promote Bike Week in your school as it aims to increase participation in cycling around Tipperary and the week also coincides with the European Week of Sport (23rd-30th) which encourages people of all ages to be active. Let’s Get Tipperary Cycling! We welcome back all our staff and students and wish them well for the year ahead. School Response Plan Download Response Plan August News 24th August 2020 Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s), We hope that you are safe and that you have enjoyed the Summer Break. As we plan for our return to school, we wish to inform you of a variety of measures that will be in place when your daughter returns to St. Mary’s next week. The return dates for each year group are as follows:
- Tuesday, 1st September: First Year induction from 10.00am to 12.30pm.First year students are not required to attend school from Wednesday, 2nd September to Friday, 4th September and will return to school fully on Monday, 7th September. On Tuesday, 1st September, First Years should arrive at the school gates from 9.45am onwards and staff will be on hand to welcome new pupils and direct them to their induction venue.
- Wednesday, 2nd September: Second Year induction from 9.00am to 1.15pmSecond Year students are not required to attend school from Thursday, 3rd September to Friday, 4th September and will return to school fully on Monday, 7th September. On Wednesday, 2nd September, Second Years should arrive at the school gates from 8.45am onwards and staff will be on hand to direct them to their induction venue.
- Thursday, 3rd September: Fifth Year and Transition Year induction from 9.00am to 1.15pmFifth Year & TY students are not required to attend school on Friday, 4th September but will return to school fully on Monday, 7th September. On Thursday, 3rd September, Fifth Year and TY students should arrive at the school gates from 8.45am onwards and staff will be on hand to direct them to their induction venue.
- Thursday, 3rd September: Fifth Year LCA induction from 11.15am to 1.15pmFifth Year LCA students are not required to attend school on Friday, 4th September but will return to school fully on Monday, 7th September. On Thursday, 3rd September, Fifth Year LCA students should arrive at the school gates from 11.00am onwards and staff will be on hand to direct them to their induction venue.
- Friday, 4th September: Third Year, Sixth Year and Sixth Year LCA induction from 9.00am to 1.15pm.Third Year, Sixth Year and Sixth Year LCA students will return to school fully on Monday, 7th September. On Friday, 4th September, Third Year, Sixth Year and Sixth Year LCA students should arrive at the school gates from 8.45am onwards and staff will be on hand to direct them to their induction venue.
On return to school it will be compulsory for all pupils to wear a face covering at all times and each student must supply their own face covering. Some of the changes in school protocols include the following: Uniform Full uniform must be worn every day. Face covering are now a compulsory part of school uniform and must be worn on entry into the school building. Entry/Exit from school To avoid congestion, each year group will be allocated a door for entering and exiting the main school building. At the end of each school day students are asked to promptly exit the school. Base Rooms As recommended by the Department of Education, each year group will be based in a zone of the school and each base class will have a base room. Before school and at break-times, students must remain in their base room. Doors and windows must remain open for ventilation. Breaktimes There is no school canteen this year. Students may eat a packed lunch in their base room. We ask that all students co-operate with cleaning rotas at the end of break and lunch which will be essential for good hygiene with people eating in rooms. Toilets In order to keep different year groups apart, where possible we will be allocating each year group a designated toilet and we ask each student to only use the toilets designated for their particular year group. Lockers We will be issuing each student a locker as normal. All students must continue to wear face coverings when visiting lockers. Sanitisers Hand sanitising stations will be present throughout the school. We recommend that students sanitise their hands regularly but especially when entering/leaving the school and after visiting the toilets. Yours sincerely ___________________ Michael Dineen Principal RETURN TO SCHOOL DATES 2020/2021 Tuesday, 1st September 2020: 1st Years Induction Wednesday, 2nd September 2020: 2nd Years return Thursday, 3rd September 2020: 5th Years and Transition Years return Friday, 4th September 2020: 3rd and 6th Years return
- Each year group only returns for one day on this first week to allow for important briefing on Covid-19 protocols [Starting & Finishing times for this first week will be updated]
- Full return to school with all students together from Monday, 7th September 2020
- For now we wished to simply issue a return date for all year groups but we will be in contact next week with more details.
Dear Parent/Student, I hope this communication finds you well. No doubt all our students are eager to come back to school and we at St Mary’s are also very keen to have all our students back in school. We are doing our upmost to ensure that all students can return to school safely and reengage with teaching and learning in the school once more. We are following all the government guidelines and are doing our upmost to ensure that students will have the best possible educational experience under the circumstances. There are a few issues we wish to bring to your attention at this stage: Covid-19 Symptoms You must not send your daughter to school if she shows signs of any Covid-19 symptoms. Based on current advice the symptoms are:
- High Temperature
- Cough
- Shortness of breath of breathing difficulties
- Loss of smell of distortion of taste
Also if you feel your daughter is in a Very High Risk category please contact the school directly for further information. Break & Lunchtime Procedures We will not have a canteen this year. We are reviewing breaktime and lunchtime procedures at the moment and will communicate any updates in due course. Movement within the school As is recommended in the Roadmap, students will remain in classrooms as much as possible and teachers will move between rooms. Your daughter will be assigned a base room. Before school, at break-time and at lunchtime, it is important that your daughter remain in this base room and not mix with other students from other base classes. Eating will be permitted in base rooms and we ask that students use the bins provided and comply with cleaning rotas. Lockers In the coming days we will be making a decision on whether we will be issuing lockers to students. End of School Day We ask that students leave the school premises promptly at the end of the school day. This is to facilitate a full cleaning of the school which will take place each day after school. Supervised Study Unfortunately, there will be no Supervised Study programme in place during the first term and we will review the situation as the year progresses. School Reception Contact Our school reception will be open from Monday 10th August. All payments can also be made from 10th August and this year we can facilitate payment by credit/debit card over the phone. Sanitizers Hand sanitizers will be in place throughout the school. Best advice is that students should sanitize:
- On arrival
- Before eating or drinking
- After using the toilet
- After playing outdoors
- When their hands are physically dirty
- When they cough or sneeze
Yours sincerely ___________________ Michael Dineen Principal The most recent guidelines for return to school are available on the Department of Education website, Corona Virus Update Please check updates on the Department of Education and Science website. Please see attached link for an update. https://www.education.ie/en/The-Department/Announcements/information-for-schools-preschools-and-third-level-institutions-on-the-coronavirus.html Book lists are available on the website, the TY booklist will be added later. More detailed return to school information will be added later. Please note the twitter feed is now available on the home page for up to date news. 8/6/20 Please keep an eye on the Twitter feed on the home page for some recent news. We wish all our students and staff well during their Break. 13/5/20 Parents Association Competition How I got through Living in lockdown!!! Prize – School tracksuit – half zip, jersey and shorts What did you do to keep yourself occupied during quarantine? Send a photo of your activity to this email : parentsassociation@stmarysnenagh.ie Remember to be creative !! The winner will receive a school tracksuit and the photos will be displayed on our school social media platforms. This competition is open to all incoming 1st year students 2020 / 2021 Closing date for entries – Wednesday 20th May. Have fun ! School News Exam Fees COVID-19 Examination Fees 2020; The closing date for payment of the Leaving Certificate exam fee is being extended until after the exams are completed and the results are to be issued. Students will not be required to pay examination fees to the SEC in relation to the 2020 Junior Cycle examinations. The SEC will be issuing a refund to all students who have already paid. At this time there are no firm decisions regarding opening of school or Certificate Examinations. Teachers are engaging with students and are progressing with coursework. We wish all students, staff, parents and members of the wider community well at this difficult time. As soon as information becomes available it will be passed on to students and parents. Below is a link for application to Transition Year 2020/21 TY App Form 2020_2021 Any information regarding the opening of schools will be added as it becomes available. We wish all our students, staff, parents and members of the community every blessing at this time. Details for accessing School Email Account
- A school email account has been created for each student
- Emails are firstname.lastname14@stmarysnenagh.ieAn example of an email for a 1st year student is joan.ryan19@stmarysnenagh.ie
- An example of an email for a 6th year student with a double barrel surname is joan.ryan-hogan14@stmarysnenagh.ie
- (the number represents the year you started, i.e. 6th years – 14, 5th years – 15, TY – 16, 3rd year – 17, 2nd year – 18 and 1st year – 19)
- Access to the email is from www.gmail.com or by downloading the Gmail App on your Android or iPhone.
- The password for everyone is “Tipperary20” and should be changed to a password of your own choice as soon as possible.
- If any student has any difficulty in accessing their school email account please contact the school on 067 31450.
School will close at 6 00Pm on 12/3/20 as per DES instructions, please check the DES website for updates. Success in History Quiz for Junior Cert Students Forty third year students, accompanied by their History teachers, travelled to Ardscoil Muire Corbally, Limerick last week for the annual History quiz. The night was very enjoyable and resulted in one of our teams achieving second spot, after Ardscoil Ris. The students –Ellen Quigley, Grace Brennan, Emma Gaines and Ellen O’Dwyer – will take part in the National Final on 25th April. Senior Film Club at the IFI Transition, Fifth and Sixth year students with an interest in film and the world of the movies are members of the school’s film club, which is run by Mr. Meally. Sixteen of those girls availed of the opportunity to learn about working in film by attending a Careers in Screen Day in the IFI building in Temple Bar. They heard well known people from the film world talking about their work, the opportunities and the difficulties .Among those presenting was actor-writer-producer Amy Huberman, actor-writer-director John Connors, director –Dearbhla Walsh and musician Ray Harmon. A particular favourite was young Cork actor Alex Murphy who is best known for his role as Conor in “The Young Offenders”. The importance of networking and necessity of collaboration were stressed by the speakers. They painted an image of an industry where teamwork is an essential quality. Students were afforded an opportunity to ask questions also. Before the end of the day numerous colleges attended the Careers Fair so the students were able to access information and collect material with details of courses which are available in Ireland. Upcoming Events Monday, 2nd March 2020 – 2nd Year Parent/Teacher meetings Tuesday, 3rd March 2020 – 2nd Year Retreat – 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the GP Room Tuesday, 3rd March 2020 – 3rd Year students will attend a revision History Quiz in Limerick at 7.00pm. Teachers are asked to be understanding re homework. Thank you – History Dept Wednesday, 4th March 2020 – Senior Students trip to IFI Dublin with Mr. Meally Thursday, 5th March 2020 – TYs will attend the YSI Speak Out in Limerick. Students will be absent from school all day and hope to be back for 3.20pm. Friday, 6th March 2020 – 2nd Year Basketball students will play Nenagh College at 10.am in the school PE Hall. Monday, 23rd March 2020 – 1st Year Vaccinations Previous Events Friday 28th February – TY students will visit Limerick Prison. Tuesday, 3rd March 2020 – 3rd Year students will attend a revision History Quiz in Limerick at 7.00pm. Wednesday, 4th March 2020 – Senior Students trip to IFI Dublin with Mr. Meally 10/2/20 School will reopen after the mid term break on Monday 24th February, we wish all our students and staff well on their break. Upcoming Events Wednesday, 12th February 2020 – Minor soccer away to Presentation Thurles Friday, 14th February 2020 – Leaving Cert Applied students held a Movie Afternoon for all 1st years in the GP Room from 1.20pm to 3.20pm. Friday, 14th February 2020 – Ty’s payed a visit to Limerick Prison. 3/2/20 Well done to Rebecca Conway who recently conducted an interview at A Country Practice as part of her Level 2 Learning Programme. Caroline, the vet, was most helpful. She showed Rebecca a variety of animals in recovery and allowed her to see a cat having an operation. We wish all our junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate students well as they commence their examinations this week. POETRY SLAM WORKSHOP FOR TY Last week poet and founder of Inspireland, Stephen Murray, visited the school and presented poetry workshops to the three Transition Year classes. The day began with a conversation about topics of relevance to teenagers like how girls and boys differ in their reactions to situations. Stephen shared stories of his experiences in schools around the country and used lots of humour which made the workshops very enjoyable. He worked with the students on writing skills and towards the end of the day they created their own poems. They were able to submit the completed works to the Brave New Words Schools Poetry Blog, where they can be read. The workshops provided an interesting and challenging experience which was appreciated and enjoyed by the students. 20/1/20 “HAMLET” IN NENAGH ARTS CENTRE Cyclone Rep Theatre Company brought “Hamlet” to the Leaving Cert Established and Leaving Cert Applied classes of St. Mary’s and the CBS students on Fri last. The interpretation was tailored to the Leaving Certificate with an emphasis on the motivation of characters and dominant themes which was welcomed by students who are revising for Pre exams at present. The audience was actively involved in the show and used the opportunity provided to ask questions and express opinions on the play. A couple of brave souls accepted an invitation to go on stage. In fact we saw Ciara Sherlock playing Queen Gertrude in the closing scene. Leaving Physics Class Trip to UL Mr. Richardson and his Leaving Cert Physics class recently attended the University of Limerick and were accompanied by Ms. Slattery. The 16 students had the opportunity to revise all 24 experiments on the examination syllabus. They received great benefit from the day, practicing the skills acquired in the past two years as well as enjoying access to the University’s facilities. Apart from its educational value the students also enjoyed the day out. 
Tuesday, 28th January 2020 – Good luck to 1st Year and 2nd Year Basketball teams will play their first matches of the year in the school hall against Nano Nagle, Limerick. Friday, 31st January 2020 – Good luck to our Cross Country Athletes in Waterford – Mix of 1st to TYs students will be gone all day. 13/1/2020 Supervised study Dear Parent/Guardian, We are delighted to be able to offer your daughter the opportunity to participate in after school supervised study. After school supervised study is seen as an excellent aid to students’ preparations for both Leaving and Junior Cert examinations. Supervised study will commence on Monday 2nd September and is available to all students from Monday to Saturday at the following times: Monday: 4.15pm-5.50pm Tuesday: 4.15pm-5.50pm Wednesday: 3.35pm-5.50pm Thursday: 3.35pm-5.50pm Friday: 3.35pm-5.50pm Saturday: 9am-1pm There are two payment options available:
- Students pay per term.
- Students can pay for study for the whole year. See below details of payments
The fee must be paid at the school office by the end of the first week of each term. Any student who wishes to participate in Saturday study only or has completed all their days mid-week, can pay €6 per Saturday.
| Six days | Five days | Four days | Three days | |
| Term 1 (8 weeks) | €105 | €100 | €95 | €85 |
| Term 2 (7 weeks) | €90 | €85 | €80 | €70 |
| Term 3 (6 weeks) | €80 | €75 | €70 | €60 |
| Term 4 (6 weeks) | €80 | €75 | €70 | €60 |
| Term 5 (5 weeks) | €70 | €65 | €60 | €50 |
Attendance and punctuality will be recorded. Students’ journals will be stamped when they are present, therefore parents can keep track of their daughters’ attendance. In order to maintain an atmosphere conducive to worthwhile study, school rules will be strictly enforced and students entering and leaving the study hall should be kept to a minimum. Should your daughter need to leave early, she must produce a written note in her journal to the supervisor at the start of study. There will be no supervised study on the Friday and Saturday at the end of each term, or the last week of the school year in May. If you wish your daughter to participate please fill out the permission slip below and return it to the school. All cheques should be made payable to St. Mary’s Secondary School and all monies should be returned in an envelope with the amount and your daughter’s details clearly marked. A receipt will then be issued. Thanking you. Miss E King ——————————————————————————————————————— I __________________ (parent/guardian’s name) give my daughter permission to participate in after school supervised study. Student’s name _____________________ Year _______ Parent Mobile ___________________ Parents Email _____________________ Signed ________________________________ Date _____________________ I __________________ (student’s name) understand the school’s code of behaviour and will adhere to the school rules while participating in after school supervised study. I understand that if I do not abide by these rules, I may loose my place. St Marys Open Night 
Third Year Young Scientist trip All our third years recently visited the young scientist exhibition in the RDS. The students had a fantastic day any the trip inspired many students to enter next year. We wish them well in their efforts. 
Senior Camogie Munster Final St Marys Nenagh were defeated in the Munster senior camogie final for the second year in row . In the group stages of the competition they had victories over Dromcollogher and Glanmire . The Nenagh Girls beat Colaiste Mhuire Ennis in the Munster quarter final. The match was played in very poor weather conditions in Ennis and it was only at the end that St Marys pulled away winning on a scoreline of 6-6 to 1-8 St Marys had home advantage in the Munster semi final against Laurel Hill from Limerick last Wednesday . This was a fantastic match with two very strong skillful teams giving it their all . St Marys got a great start and lead by five points at half time. However Laurel Hill got back into it in the second half and reduced the lead to a point at one stage . The Nenagh girls came good again and ended up winning by five points 2-9 to 2-4 . St Marys had home venue for the Munster final against the winners of Midleton and Dromcollogher on January 11th Sarah Madden 1-2 , Eileen Gleeson 1-0 , Emily Morrisey 0-5 , Eimer Touhy 0-1 , Niamh Cunneen 0-1 . Team : Rachel Shanahan, Orla Gillespie , Fiona Kirwan , Grace ODwyer , Mikayla Doran , Katie Murphy , Megan Grace , Mary Flaherty , Katie Grace , Niamh Cuneeen , Sarah Madden , Eimer Touhy , Emily Morrisey , Aiveen Delaney , Eileen Gleeson . Aine Touhy , Caoilfhionn Maher Mary OBrien , Maeve Ryan , Ellen Cunneen Katie Egan , Emily ODwyer , Alison Dwan , Anna O Keeffe. We congratulate our Senior Camogie Panel in reaching the Munster Final versus Middleton on Saturday 11/1/2020 Careers 
Congratulations to Cailin Creamer TY who recently won the scor title for her solo song performance. Welcome back to all staff and students after the Christmas break and Happy new year to all. 19/12/19 We wish all students, staff, parents and members of the wider community a happy Christmas, school reopens on Monday 6/1/20. Well done to all the ladies involved in today’s Christmas concert, the talent was amazing 
!! Such a fantastic concert! Well done to Ms Maguire and Mr Dullea for organising and Mr Callinan for music 
head to instagram for the full video TY Enjoy the Gaiety Panto This year’s pantomime at the Gaiety is Aladdin. Children all over the country know the story of Aladdin and the magic lamp but the TY students were most impressed by the flying carpet. It was a mesmerising and magical display of engineering and creativity that the students will never forget. Natalie Creamer from 4A will remember the day fondly too as she was invited on stage to share in the fun. Christmas Elves Help Novas Members of the Youth Pastoral group organised a new toy collection in the school with the toys being donated to Novas, a voluntary body working with homeless and socially disadvantaged families and single adults. This year the Limerick organisation , which provides services in Tipperary also appealed for people to support a toy appeal and become elves to help Santa. The students of St. Mary’s gave generously and the Youth Pastoral group is very grateful for to them and their families for their kindness. The proceeds of a bake sale was also presented to Novas. We wish our fifth and second year students well as they undertake their examinations this week. SCIENCE WEEK Science Week was celebrated from 10th to 17th Nov. Various activities were held involving the students. A Science Fair allowed the first years to display their work. The second years took part in a Science Quiz on Friday afternoon while Leaving Certs travelled to LIT on Thursday night for a quiz involving participants from many schools in the region. 
First Years 
Leaving Certs SHOE BOX APPEAL The annual shoe box appeal is in full swing again and many students got involved . Some students brought filled boxes to school, other came with fillers. Another group baked and sold their products to help while others collected empty boxes which were then filled in school. Well done to all for their generosity. 
11/11/19 YOUTH LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY ACTION COURSE Congratulations to Weronika Urbanik , Leaving Cert student, who graduated from NUIG with a Foundation Certificate in Youth Leadership and Community Action. This course empowers youths and young adults to become leaders of the future and take action for others who need help as well as learning lifelong skills in areas such as communications, confliction resolution and problem solving. Weronika is a member of Foroige and completed two one-week theory Leadership modules in LIT and an action project. For this project she organised a safety workshop for people in the community, this was done in conjunction with the Red Cross and the Gardai in aid of Darius Swierkosz. Darius was Weronika ‘s coach and he had an accident. which left him with serious injury. This inspired Weronika’s action in this area. 
24/10/19 TY Musical Well done to our TY students under the direction of Mr Callinan on their fantastic production. 
(Full report to follow later). School Sport Well done to our School Soccer, Basketball and Camogie teams who are training weekly for a variety of upcoming competitions Mid Term Break School closed on Friday 25/10/19 at 3 20pm and reopens on Monday 4/11/19 at 9 00, we wish all students and staff a pleasant break. University of Limerick open day Sixth years will visit an open day in UL this week to get information regarding possible future third level studies. TY Musical The annual TY Musical will be held this week, we wish our TY’S the best and the schedule of shows is shown below, Date: Thursday, 17 th October 2019 Activity: Matinee for Primary Schools and Night Show Date: Friday, 18 th October 2019 Activity: Matinee for our own school and Night Show Camogie Training continues weekly for Camogie as follows, First Years – Wednesdays at lunch time Junior – Thursdays after school Seniors – Training after school, the day/s to be announced at the start of each week. Well done to both Junior teams who participated in the recent Munster 7aside games with some excellent displays on the day. We were in hard luck that both teams did not proceed to semi finals. Well don to all players involved. Basketball Training has commenced weekly, see school notice board for details Soccer Training has commenced weekly, see school notice board for details Green Schools The new Green-Schools committee will be in place by the end of the week. The names of any students who are interested in being on it can be passed to Mr Collins. Tipperary County Council are running a Soapbox Competition called “Climate change is not my problem”. Application forms are available from Nenagh Library. Closing date is 22nd October 2019. There is a post on the Green-Schools noticeboard with more details. 6/10/19 Junior Certificate Results We wish to congratulate all our Junior Certificate students on their fantastic results and wish them well on the next phase of their educational journey. Visit of Liam McCarthy Cup We were delighted to welcome Liam Sheedy and Seamie Callinan to our school last week with a number of members of the backroom team and panel. Our students were delighted to hear them and got an opportunity to meet management and players after their speeches. 
There was an air of excitement in St. Mary’s on Tue last. Many girls (and some teachers) wore their Tipp jerseys and there was speculation about who would arrive with the McCarthy and James Nowlan cups. Nobody was disappointed when captain Craig Morgan arrived with the U20 trophy. He was accompanied by man -of- the match, Billy Seymour as well as Nenagh Eire Og heroes, Barry Heffernan and Jake Morris who played on u20 and senior team and Robert Byrne. An extra loud cheer rang out for Seamus Callanan, senior captain. There was a great welcome also for mentor, Darragh Egan and Liam Sheedy senior manager and father of Gemma, a third year student. Each player answered questions which had been submitted by students. The management team also spoke and students got plenty of good advice which could be applied to studies as well as sport. The word planning came up again and again as did hard work. Liam Sheedy also advised taking time for self and wellbeing. The visit ended with the students having an opportunity to get autographs or take photos with their favourite visitor/visitors. St. Mary’s community is very grateful that the players and mentors gave so generously of their time and wish them all the best for the future- Up Tipp. Dromineer Nenagh Literary Festival- Poetry Workshops The DNLF took place last week and TY and 3rd year students took part in poetry workshops conducted by poets Siobhan MacMahon and Paul McNamara. As well as writing poetry both Siobhan and Paul perform their work and students were treated to an energetic and imaginative couple of hours. At the end of various exercises the students produced their own poetry. They gained a new understanding of the craft and came away with a more positive mindset on poetry as well as having lots of fun. Well done to Siobhan and Paul and best wishes for their careers. 30/9/19 THIRD YEAR VISIT TO KNOCK Third year students recently travelled to Knock with Sr. Maureen, Mr. McGillycuddy and Ms. Kennedy. They learned the story of the apparitions and of the Basilica and had an opportunity to pray and attend mass. 
23/9/19 Transition Year Musical We wish our Transition year group well as they prepare for their annual school musical to be held in early October. Further details of shows will be announced later. The National Ploughing Championships The National Ploughing Championships- Ballintrane, Co. Carlow. Leaving Cert Agricultural Science students, along with their teacher , Mr.Doherty, attended “the ploughing” on Tuesday last. The trip was very successful as it provided an opportunity on aspects of the project element of the course. Students picked up lots of information on machinery and other issues of relevance to the course. As a bonus they had a day away from the classroom, in the outdoors, and the sun shone. 
Higher Options Higher Options- the RDS. Leaving Cert students attended the annual Higher Options event in Ballsbridge. Third Level Colleges from all over Ireland and some from abroad presented information on various courses which are available to those hoping to go on to this stage in 2020. Students found the event helpful as they engage in the process of deciding what will be next after St. Mary’s. 16/9/19 Upcoming Events A new Green-Schools committee will be formed by the end of September. The current plan is to allow any student from any year group join the committee. September 18th – Higher Options in the RDS, Dublin with Ms. Gibbs. September 17th – Ag Science students will attend National Ploughing Championships with Mr. Doherty. September 16th – 3rd Year students Retreat to Knock with Mr. McGillycuddy & Sr. Maureen. September 11th – 5th & 6th Year Art Students are attending the Hunt Museum with Ms. Johnston & Mr. Collins. September 12th – The Annual School Mass will be held at 12pm in St Mary’s of the Rosary Church Nenagh, all are welcome. The results of the 2019 Junior Cycle examinations will be in schools and published online on Friday 4th October 2019. The change to the issue date for the results this year has presented the SEC with the opportunity to respond to requests from stakeholders to release the Junior Cycle results on a Friday instead of the traditional Wednesday issue day. Trinity Book of Kells Creative Competition The Trinity Book of Kells Creative Competition is a nationwide competition open to all people of all ages. This year, participants are asked to write a poem, short story or create a painting or drawing based on Irish Culture and the Book of Kells. Pupils can enter the art or writing competition – or both if they wish. The closing date for entries is Wednesday, October 30th 2019 and you can enter on www.bookofkells.ie/competition. THE LATE MRS. O’HALLORAN The school community would like to sympathise with the family of the late Mrs. O’Halloran, former teacher and friend to staff and students alike. The very large attendance at the removal and funeral mass is a testament to the regard felt for this special lady. May her gentle soul rest in peace. 1/9/19 We welcome back all our students and staff and wish them well at the start of the new school year. 13/8/19 We congratulate all our Leaving Certificate students on their fantastic results and wish them every succession the future. Back to school dates are published at the end of each Booklist. We look forward to welcoming back all staff and students in the coming days. 27/5/19 We wish all our Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate students well in their upcoming examinations and hope all our students and staff have a restful Summer. Details of next year Calendar and Book Lists will follow shortly. A Star is Born On Wed evening the final of the First Year Debating competition was held in front of a very supportive audience of parents. It was followed by a concert in which First Year students demonstrated a depth of musical and dancing ability. The result of a poetry competition on the theme “A Star is Born” was also announced. The debating competition involved teams representing 1C: Christine Perry, Lucy Aherne and Orna Daly who proposed the motion- Young people are not doing enough to save the environment. The opposition was 1A: Ruth Kennedy, Claire Gavin and Aishling Kennedy. Holly Whelan, 1B, chaired the debate which was judged by representatives of the Parents’ Association and Ms. O’Keeffe. The topic was hotly argued by the students who had researched widely and who spoke confidently. The Brian McDermott Shield was awarded to the winners-1C. A varied approach was taken to the poetry competition with poems on stars in the firmament and human stars, often dealing with life’s difficulties. Elle Mulqueen and Aoife Carroll, 5th. Year LCA were the judges and the worthy winner was Katie Brett,1B. 20/5/19 Student Awards Ceremony 2019
- Academic Awards
| Junior Cert | Abbie Bourke | Laura O’Flaherty |
| Leaving Cert | Bríd McCormack | |
| LCA | Brittany Shoer |
- Full Attendance
From 1st Year:
| Christine Percy | Emma Williams | Caroline Ayoub |
| Ruta Vitkaitylte | Aoibheann Moore | Rebecca Gaines |
From 3rd Year:
| Mary Darcy |
From 5th Year:
| Caitlin Heffernan |
From Sixth Year:
| Alannah Deering |
- Cara Leaders
| Erika Coonan | Emma Fitzsimons | Ríona Gillespie | Ciara Grace |
| Rebecca Harty | Tara Lillis | Emily McNamara | Jenny Myers |
| Linda Nolan | Marie O’Connell | Katie O’Keefe | Roisín Radler Shinnors |
| Megan Ryan |
- Music Award
| Junior | Anna Grace | |
| Senior | Eva Mc Keogh | Caroline Browne |
- John Paull II, Papal Cross, CEIST Award
John Paul II
| Eileen Gleeson | Katie Grace | Emer Tuohy | Rachel Shanahan |
| Annie Ryan | Orla Maher | Sarah Madden | Grace Kennedy |
| Nela Par | Claire Ryan | Grace Shesgreen | Julia Rojczyk |
| Grace O’Dwyer | Caoimhe Ryan Moran | Katie Murphy |
Papal Cross
| Megan Ryan | Marie O’Connell | Jenny Myers | Sinead Long | Bríd McKenna |
CEIST Award
| Bríd McKenna | Megan Ryan | Sinead Long | Jenny Myers |
- Brian McDermott Award
| Aine Brassil |
- School President
| Erika Coonan |
- Enterprise Award
| 1st Year – Naturally Wood | Aoibheann Moore |
| Kayla O’Gorman | |
| Kerrie Howard | |
| Lucy Jones | |
| Orna Daly |
| TY – Smart Charge | Aishling O’Farrell |
| Phoebe Kelly | |
| Bríd Hayes | |
| Seana Grace |
| TY – Tipperary Travel | Sophie Hogan |
| Tourist Guide for children | Orla Sheridan |
- Sports awards
1.Presentation for Swimming
| Christine Ryan |
2.Presentation for Handball players
| 1st Year Team | Christine Percy | Emma Williams |
3.Presentation of Tennis medals 2019 Munster Final medals
| Anna Mulcahy | Katie O’Keefe | Lauren Spain | Avril Dooley |
- Presentation to Badminton Players –
| U14 | Aoibhinn Moore | Nikki Heveli | Snighda Sibi | Kerrie Howard |
| Aisling Kennedy | Laura Kennedy | |||
| U16 | Sophie Hudson | Gene Daly | Lynn Farrell | Anna O’Keefe |
| Katie O’Keefe | ||||
| U19 | Emily Griffin | Katie O’Meara | Grace Fleming | Fiona Kirwan |
- Presentation to Athletics
| Ailbhe O’Neill |
| Jodie McGrath |
| Caitriona Finn | Ava Coady | |
| Ellen O’Dwyer | Grace Brennan | |
| Niamh Pateman | Emily Tierney |
- Presentation of Camogie medals
1st Year County A Championship medals
| Caitriona Finn – Captain |
Junior 7 aside medals
| Anna O’Keefe – Captain |
Senior County A Championship medals
| Rebecca Forde – Captain |
- Presentation of Soccer medals
Junior Team – Munster A medals
| Fiona Kirwan – Captain |
6.Sports person of the Year (2) Junior Sports Star
| Aine Tuohy |
Senior Sports Star
| Fiona Kirwan |
- Team of the Year
Sports team of the Year – Joint Winners Junior Soccer Team – Certificate
| Fiona Kirwan (Captain) |
Senior Cam
| Rebecca Forde (Captain) |
8.Recognition of commitment to school sport for 6th years
| Rachel O’Connor | Rebecca Forde | Caroline Browne | Clodagh Dwan | Kaitlin O’Halloran |
| Lucy Spain | Hannah Slattery | Niamh Sheridan | Emily Tierney |
- Special Merit Award
| Award | Students | |
| Amy Lombard | ||
| Aoife Carroll | Elle Mulqueen | |
| Laura Terenti |
- Environmental Award
| Emily O’Reilly | Amy Lombard | Shannon Collins |
| Magdalena Moron | Claudia Grosu | Anna Mai Clancy |
- Student of the Year
| Year Group | Nominee | Nominee | Nominee | Nominee | Winner |
| 1st Year | Ruth Kennedy | Nicole Murphy | Louise Griffin | Ruth Kennedy | |
| 1st Year | Kaci O’Rourke | Kaci O’Rourke | |||
| 2nd Year | Emma Mulcahy | Cadhla Shanahan | Grainne O’Meara | Cadhla Shanahan | |
| 3rd Year | Áine Tuohy | Sarah Murphy | Rachel Moroney | Aine Tuohy | |
| TY | Seana Grace | Anna Powell | Sally Ryan | Anna Powell | |
| 5th Year | Grace Shesgreen | Weronika Urbanik | Eileen Gleeson | Weronika Bladzinska | Weronica Bladzinska |
| 6th Year | Katie O’Keefe | Linda Nolan | Olwyn Dunne | Olwyn Dunne | |
| 5th Year | Elle Mulqueen | Aoife Carroll | Elle Mulqueen & Aoife Carroll |
13/5/19 Upcoming Events Tuesday, 14th May 2019 2nd Year students will visit Crag Cave and Ballybunion as part of their Geography Fieldtrip Thursday, 16th May 2019 5th years will attend the UCC Spring Open Day TY’s doing a Charity 5km. Monday, 20th May 2019 TY’s holding a Camogie Blitz for Primary schools Thursday, 23rd May 2019 1st and 2nd Year Sports Day Outdoor Pursuits Kilfinane Outdoor Centre-TY students participated in a variety of outdoor pursuits in Kilfinane, Co. Limerick last week. They experienced a range of activities including kayaking, mountain biking, hill walking, archery, rocking climbing and orienteering in most pleasant surroundings . The staff in the centre were helpful and encouraging and the comfortable accommodation all added to a challenging but enjoyable trip which was one of the highlights of the year, reports Phoebe Kelly. Visit to Nenagh Castle- First Year students were out of the classroom last week too- they were learning about history in one of Nenagh’s best know landmarks-the castle. Kevin Whelan guided them around the building and told them of its history and about life in the town when the castle was occupied. The students learned lots and enjoyed the magnificent view from the top. 
6/5/19 Upcoming Events Tuesday, 7th to Friday 10th May 2019 Transition Year students in Kilfinane OEC Wednesday, 10th May 2019 1st years will contest the Munster A Camogie championship. Thursday, 9th May 2019 6th year drawing exam in St. Josephs from 9.00am to 10.45am Thursday, 9th May 2019 1st years will visit Nenagh Castle 1C – 9.00am to 10.20am – Ms. Shanahan 1A&1B – 11.55am to 1.15pm – Ms. Ryan and Ms. Dwyer Friday, 10th May 2019 3rd year drawing exam in St. Josephs from 9.00am to 12.40pm Commissioning Of Eucharist Ministers Following an instruction course conducted by Sr. Maureen Frawley 20 students, from TY and 5th Year LCA, were commissioned as Ministers of the Eucharist, by Fr. Michael Geraghty . The ceremony took place at 10 o’clock mass on Thu 2nd May . Apart from students from Nenagh parish many other local parishes were also represented. Congratulations to all involved and as Fr. Michael said we look forward to the new ministers of the Eucharist serving in their respective parishes. Empowering Women and Men Conference in UL On May 1st.TY students attended the conference organised by Dr. Mary Ryan. A range of speakers addressed the audience which included students from many schools in the region. Eight TY students spoke on the topic and Anna Powell , representing St. Mary’s came third. The event was informative and interesting and it was wonderful to see our own student perform so well. Gaisce Outdoor Challenge TY students who are working towards the Bronze Gaisce Award travelled to the Burren with their teachers and completed a 30km walk. The walk in these surrounding brought the group into contact with the beautiful flora and fauna for which the area is renowned. The girls also enjoyed a glorious view of the Atlantic Ocean and returned home looking forward to receiving the President’s Award in a few weeks. Road Safety Event A number of TY students travelled to LIT Thurles this week to an RSA event devoted to raising awareness of road safety. They heard talks from Gardai, paramedics and crash survivors. An engineer demonstrated the effect of an airbag on impact and there was an opportunity to experience the effect of being in a car which turns over in a 360 degree rotating car. 29/4/19 We welcome all staff and students back after the Easter break and wish all our Examination students the best in their preparations over the coming weeks. 8/4/19 School will be closed for the Easter holidays from the 15/4/19 and reopens on Monday 29/4/19. We wish all students, staff, parents and members of the community a happy Easter. Upcoming Events
- Tuesday, 9th April 2019 – LCA students will host a Treasure Hunt for 1st Years from 2.40pm to 4.00pm to raise funds for Pieta House.
- Tuesday, 9th April 2019 – Film club talk with Ailish Bracken and David Jones – 9.40am to 11.00am.
- Friday, 12th April 2019 – 1st and 2nd Year Cinema Trip to see “Sing Street”.
- Week commencing 29th April 2019 – Heart Screening will take place in the school for predominantly 1st & 2nd years and anybody else who wishes to take part.
- Wednesday, 1st May 2019 – Dr. Maureen Griffin, expert in internet safety, will be visiting St. Mary’s to speak to ALL year groups during the course of the day.
- Thursday, 9th May 2019 – 1st years will visit Nenagh Castle; 1C @ 9.00am to 10.20am with Ms. Shanahan and 1A & 1B @ 11.55am to 1.15pm with Ms. Ryan and Ms. Dwyer.
- Tuesday, 14th May 2019 – All 2nd year students will visit Crag Cave and Ballybunion as part of their Geography Fieldtrip.
TY Work Experience Monday, 8th – 12th April 2019: All Transition Years on Work Experience Young Environmentalist Awards A group of TY students made a presentation on climate change awareness which they entitled “The Blind Eye” at the semi-finals of the Young Environmentalist Awards. The event took place in Europe House, Dublin and the girls were very happy with the positive feedback they received from the judges. The names of the groups which made it to the national final on May 23rd will be announced in the coming weeks. Thanks to Mr. Collins for his hard work and support for the project. The students are Emily O’Reilly, Shannon Collins, Magdalena Moron , Anna Mai Clancy, Claudia Grosu and Amy Lombard. 
1/4/19 This has been a busy week for our Junior and Leaving Certificate examination students with practical and oral examinations taking place all week. School trip to Krakow On Friday afternoon of the 22nd of March, our group of TY and 5th year students embarked on the journey to Poland. We arrived in Shannon Airport and had no trouble with our flight over. Upon arrival into John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport, we got two buses back to Hotel Apis, where we got some food. On Saturday the 23rd our day began at 8 am for breakfast. At nine we left for the old town. We split into three groups and my group was lucky enough to get a very informative and sweet guide. She brought us to see the old town of Krakow which was such a beautiful area filled with outstanding buildings and history. We visited the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, which was unlike anywhere I’ve ever been before. We made our way to The Wawel Cathedral which was breathtakingly beautiful. We learned about the history of the Polish kings and saw many of their resting places. We then moved onto The Church of St. Mary, which was also outstanding with magnificent art works. We then got around two hours to ourselves and then made our way to the Wieliczka Salt Mines. When we got there we were greeted by a friendly guide who gave us a small radio with an ear piece. We walked down stairs 50ft underground. We were told we were only covering 1% of the mines on our tour which shocked us all. The mines itself isn’t used anymore but is only there for tourists. All the walls and floors were made entirely from salt which many of us had to lick just to make sure she was telling the truth- she was. We saw many beautiful features created from salt and all of our breaths were taken away when we made it into the Salt Cathedral. Massive chandeliers made from salt hung over our heads with sculptures of Christ and paintings, all made from salt were along the walls around us. We continued our journey until we were 139ft under the surface. Then finally we made our way back up in a lift. We arrived back at the hotel for a quick dinner and then we were off again to the Aqua Park. Everyone, including the teachers, all had a blast on the slides and in the lazy river! Sunday was a much earlier start as we were out of the hotel at 8:45am. Our bus to Auchswitz and Birkenau Concentration camp took around an hour. On approach of the camp I could already feel the eeriness of the place begin to set in. We were spilt into groups again and given a radio and headpiece too. We had to go through a security section and then our tour of Auchswitz began. We entered many buildings that were once barracks where many people slept their last sleep. We saw things like shoes, glasses and suitcases that once belonged to the former inhabitants. We saw more graphic objects such as the hair of the deceased that was shaven off hours before their death. We saw the gas chambers and crematoriums and cells where Jews were held. The whole experience was quite hard and dark to go through. We then got on our bus and set out to Auchswitz number two-Birkenau. I was taken aback at the sheer size of the camp. It was so eerie and quiet, it didn’t help that it was a quite overcast day making it more emotional. The train tracks ran through the camp and even the thought that this is where millions of people disembarked from a train not knowing they were going to die, made me feel cold inside. We then went back to the hotel for some food and then went bowling for the evening. On Sunday we spilt into 5th years and TYs, with the 5th years heading to Schindler’s Factory Museum at 9:15am and then the TYs at 10:15am. In the museum we saw where they filmed the movie, Schindler’s original office and many other exhibitions on the history of the Jewish community during the war. After that we got around 5 hours to shop at GaleriaKrakowska Shopping Mall, which was absolutely huge. It had many shops and food places and everyone had a lot of fun there. At around 6pm we headed for the airport and arrived back to Nenagh around 1am. EASTER CHICKEN ‘N EGG SALE 5TH year students sold knitted chickens which contained an Easter egg to students and staff in aid of Milford Hospice. Well done to those who knit and those who sold and thank you to all who supported this worthy cause. 
25/3/19 CEIST STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE St. Mary’s was ably represented at the CEIST Student Leadership Conference on Wed. 20th. by TY students Chloe Creagh, Katie Grace and Emily O’Reilly. The event was attended by students from CEIST schools nationwide and opened by Archbishop Diarmuid Martin. Workshops on student leadership in school and wellbeing provided plenty of food for thought. The final speaker in St. Patrick’s Campus DCU was Minister of State for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor. Minister Mitchell O’Connor paid tribute to the role of religious orders in helping Ireland to have an education system of which we can be proud. She also complimented the students on their contribution to making life better in their schools. Last August’s Papal visit was recalled and students volunteers from many schools, including our own, were commended for their generosity in participating and helping out at Pope Francis’s mass in the Phoenix Park. 
ORALS AND PRACTICALS This week begins a busy period for exam students and we’d like to wish Leaving Cert and Junior Cert students good luck. 18/3/19 Important Dates School will be closed on the following dates, Monday 18th March – BankHoliday. Tuesday 19th March Staff Development. Thursday 21st March Staff Development. HISTORY QUIZ: A large number of third students took part in the annual History quiz in Limerick on March 11th. It is a great opportunity for revision as well as an opportunity to socialise with their peers.Well done to all who performed so well and particularly to Magdalena Piaseca, Jessica Ryan , Julia Stasica and Sinead McEteer whose team came third. They have qualified for the National Finals in UCD on April 6th. A big thank you is also due to history teachers, Ms. Dwyer,Ms. Shanahan and Ms. Cleary. 
CLIMATE CHANGE: There has been quite an amount of publicity on the role being taken by young people on the issue of climate change in recent months. The Student Council members of St. Mary’s and the CBS joined forces on Fri last to highlight their concern at the Town Hall. 11/3/19 Information nights for the Krakow trip, Transition Year and Fifth Year subject choice takes place on Tuesday 19th March, times to be confirmed by text. The Transition year parent teacher meeting will be held this Tuesday 12th from 4 15 to 6 45pm. WORLD BOOK DAY Friday last was the feast of St. John of God, patron saint of booksellers. What a suitable day to visit The Bookshop and to be greeted by proprietor, John Ryan. 1A celebrated World Book Day, albeit a little late. The girls enjoyed looking around, choosing books and collecting their free World Book Day books. They will be back when The Bookshop is in its new premises in Pearse St. 
ASH WEDNESDAY The beginning of Lent was marked by the distribution of blessed ashes by Fr. Michael, Ms. Maher, Mr. McGillicuddy and Ms. Hogan. ZUMBA Last week was a great start to after- school Zumba with over 80 students attending. Thanks to the Parents’ Association and chairperson, Aine Connolly, for sponsoring and organising it. 
SHOW YOUR STRIPES A number of PE classes took up the 20×20 challenge on International Women’s Day .20×20 is an initiative to increase participation, coverage and attendance in women’s sports by 20% in 2020. The students took part in various sporting activities in support of this target. 
Upcoming Events
- Friday, 22nd March 2019 – Talk with Elma Walsh – 6th years at 9.40am and 5th years at 10.20am
- Wednesday, 27th March 2019 – 1st year vaccinations
- Wednesday, 1st May 2019 – Dr. Maureen Griffin, expert in internet safety, will be visiting St. Mary’s to speak to ALL year groups during the course of the day.
4/3/19 Visit from local Community Garda- All first year attended a talk by local Community Garda, Garda Maureen Finnerty. They were especially interested in the information and advice on social media and the importance of using phones wisely .Garda Finnerty’s expertise was most welcome on this topic. Parents’ Council Bake Sale- The array of tasty treats which was available for sale in the Social Area was snapped up and enjoyed by all. Thanks to the many parents who generously contributed and to the members of the Parents’ Council for their consistent help and support of the school. Sport- Sport was center stage in St. Mary’s during the past week. The soccer team were narrowly beaten in their All Ireland semi-final against Presentation Kilkenny while the camogie team were also narrowly beayen an All Ireland final and again the opponents were from Kilkenny, Castlecomer Community School, to be exact. Thanks mainly to LCA students, Aoife and Elle, the school show its support with bunting, flags and posters. Sadly neither team won but congratulations is due to both panels and mentors who put in huge efforts to get so far this year. The school community is very proud of you all. IFI Career in Film Day
22/2/19 Staff Inservice School will be closed on Tuesday 19th and Thursday 20th March to facilitate staff continuous development. Sporting Success Congratulations to the Junior Soccer Team who won the Munster Junior A Final in Limerick on Friday. They defeated Newcastlewest on a scoreline of 3-1. Well done to the full panel and coaches Mr. Mullarkey and Mr. Doherty. Congratulations to the Senior Camogie Team who won the All-Ireland Senior B Colleges Semi-Final on Saturday. They defeated Dominican, Griffith Avenue on a scoreline of 1-08 to 1-06 in a thrilling game played in Na Fianna grounds in Dublin. Well done to the full panel and coaches, Mr. Dullea and Ms. King. St.Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh-Trip to Google 5th year LCE Business , LCVP and LCA students enjoyed an interesting and informative trip to Google in Dublin last week. They learned about aspects of working in a busy environment and saw some of the facilities enjoyed by the large staff. The company’s philosophy involves care of employees as the girls observed having seen the swimming pool and dined in the canteen. Perhaps the highlight of the day was meeting one of the on-site pets-just what the stressed workers (and the visiting students) need. Thanks to Ms. Kelly and Ms. McAllister for organising the visit and also to Ms. Burke for accompanying the group. Upcoming Events
- Tuesday, 26th February 2019 – Garda Maureen Finnerty, local Community Garda will speak to each 1st year class.
11.15am – 1A – GP Room 11.55am – 1B – GP Room 12.35pm – 1C – GP Room
- Wednesday, 27th February 2019 – Bake Sale in aid of St. Mary’s Parents’ Association at breaktime and lunchtime.
- Thursday, 28th February 2019 – 5th year students will attend an IFI Career in Film Day in Dublin accompanied by Mr Meally and Miss Powell.
- Saturday, 2nd March 2019 – All Ireland Schools Senior Camogie Final – St. Mary’s – V – Castlecomer. Time and venue tbc
- Friday, 22nd March 2019 – Talk with Elma Walsh – 6th years at 9.40am and 5th years at 10.20am
- Wednesday, 27th March 2019 – 1st year vaccinations
4/2/19 Pre Leaving Certificate 2019 – Week 1
| Mon 4th Feb | Tue 5th Feb | Wed 6th Feb | Thurs 7th Feb | Fri 8th Feb | |
| AM 9.00 – 12.35 | English I 9.45 – 12.35 | Technology 10.05 – 12.35 Music[listening] 11:05 – 12.35 History 9.45 – 12.35 | Irish II HL: 9.30 – 12.35 OL: 10.15 – 12.35 | Biology 9.35 – 12.35 | French 10.05 – 12.35 Orals: Ger AMR, EBU |
| 12.35 – 1.20 | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch |
| PM 1.20 – 4.00 (3.20) | H. Economics 1.30 – 4.00 | Maths 1 1.30 – 4.00 | Art Life Drawing 2.20 – 3.20 | Art Project Orals: Fre FMA | Music[composing] 1:50 – 3.20 Orals: Ger AMR, EBU |
Pre Leaving Certificate 2019 – Week 2
| Mon11th Feb | Tue12th Feb | Wed 13th Feb | Thurs 14th Feb | Fri 15th Feb | |
| AM 9.00 – 12.35 | Art History 10.05 – 12.35 Ag. Science 10.05 – 12.35 Physics 9.35 – 12.35 | Chemistry 9.35 – 12.35 DCG 9.35 – 12.35 Business HL: 9.35 – 12.35 OL: 10.05 – 12.35 | English II 9.15 – 12.35 | Geography 9.45 – 12.35 | LCVP 10.05 – 12.35 |
| 12.35 – 1.20 | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch |
| PM 1.20 – 4.00 (3.20) | Maths II 1.30 – 4.00 | German 1.30 – 4.00 Orals: Fre -FMA | Irish I HL: 1.50 – 3.20 OL: 2.20 – 3.20 | Art Project Orals: Ger – AMR, EBU | Art Project Orals: Fre – FMA Ger – AMR, EBU |
Pre Junior Certificate 2019 – Week 1
| Mon 4th Feb | Tue 5th Feb | Wed 6th Feb | Thurs 7th Feb | Fri 8th feb | |
| AM 9.00 – 12.35 | History HL: 10.05 – 12.35 OL: 11.05 – 12.35 | Maths HL: 10.05 – 12.35 OL: 10.35 – 12.35 | H. Economics HL: 10.05 – 12.35 OL: 10.35 – 12.35 | ||
| 12.35 – 1.20 | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch |
| PM 1.20 – 4.00 (3.20) | Irish II 1.50 – 3.20 | Science 1.20 – 3.20 | English 1.20 – 3.20 | ||
Pre Junior Certificate 2019 – Week 2
| Mon 11th Feb | Tue 12th Feb | Wed 13th Feb | Thurs 14th Feb | Fri 15th Feb | |
| AM 9.00 – 12.35 | Geography 9.00 – 11:00 | German 10.05 – 12.35 | T. Graphics HL: 9.35 – 12.35 OL: 10.05 – 12.32 Art 10.05 – 12.32 | Maths II HL: 10.05 – 12.35 OL: 10.35 – 12.35 | French 10.05 – 12.35 |
| 12.35 – 1.20 | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch |
| PM 1.20 – 4.00 (3.20) | Religion 2.00 – 4.00 | Business 2.00 – 4.00 | Irish I 1.40 – 3.20 | Technology 1.20 – 3.20 Music 1.20 – 3.20 | CSPE 1.50 – 3.20 |
Catholic Schools Week in St. Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh The annual Catholic Schools Week was celebrated from January 27th to February 3rd. During the week students and teachers focused on the contribution of schools, like St. Mary’s, to the common good of our society. A number of students read reflections over the intercom each morning on the themes of the week. All first year students attended mass in St. Mary of the Rosary church on grandparents’ day. The girls also wrote cards for their grandparents. LCA students helped Sr. Maureen and Ms. Maher to decorate the religion notice board beautifully to remind the school community of the message of the week. 
Pre Leaving and Junior Cert The Pre exams begin this week and continue until February 15th. While most students find them stressful they are an excellent preparation for the state exams in June. We would like to wish everybody the best of luck. 28/1/19 First Year Handball Congratulations to Christine Percy and Emma Williams who were crowned Munster Colleges first year doubles Handball champions on Sunday last. First Aid Skills Do you know how contact the emergency services, apply a bandage properly, take a pulse, move a person into the recovery position, deal with strains, sprains, fractures and dislocations? The Transition Year students learned many of these skills in the last few weeks, writes Ciara McCabe. We had the privilege of being taught Basic First Aid Skills by members of The Order of Malta Ambulance Corps. Local members John, Shane and David conducted the courses and we acquired many valuable skills which may someday help save someone’s life. We really benefited from the experience and I now feel confident about being able to help someone who needs medical attention. It also opened my eyes to the work of paramedics. Who knows in future I may become a paramedic as I found every minute of the course interesting and useful. On behalf of TY students I would like to express deep gratitude to the Order of Malta for this opportunity. Badminton On Thursday last St. Mary’s badminton’s teams attended the county finals for Badminton Ireland in the Presentation school, Thurles. St. Mary’s entered four teams altogether, writes Anna O’Keeffe. Our under 14 team qualified for the Munster final in division 1.Two under 16 teams were entered in division 2 with the first team coming out on top and again qualifying for the Munster finals. St. Mary’s under 19s also qualified. Well done to all the girls and the coaches involved. The Munster finals will be held on Thursday 24th January in UL Sports Arena. 
First Dail. St. Mary’s Student , Anna Powell represents Young People of Ireland at Centenary of First Dail Anna Powell , a TY student , was one of two members who were chosen by Comhairle na n Og to represent the young people of Ireland at the centenary meeting of the Dail, which was held in the Mansion House on Monday 21st. January. Comhairle na nOg is an initiative set up by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs to allow young people to have a voice in local affairs and to be able to link with the National Executive to voice their opinions on national issues. Anna is the Tipperary representative on the National Executive . 
21/1/19 The fifth year parent teacher meeting will be held this Wednesday 23/1/19 from 4 15 pm, finishing at 6 45 pm. Please arrive as early as possible to give the teachers the opportunity to meet all parents. First Aid Skills Do you know how contact the emergency services, apply a bandage properly, take a pulse, move a person into the recovery position, deal with strains, sprains, fractures and dislocations? The Transition Year students learned many of these skills in the last few weeks, writes Ciara McCabe. We had the privilege of being taught Basic First Aid Skills by members of The Order of Malta Ambulance Corps. Local members John, Shane and David conducted the courses and we acquired many valuable skills which may someday help save someone’s life. We really benefited from the experience and I now feel confident about being able to help someone who needs medical attention. It also opened my eyes to the work of paramedics. Who knows in future I may become a paramedic as I found every minute of the course interesting and useful. On behalf of TY students I would like to express deep gratitude to the Order of Malta for this opportunity. Badminton Success On Thursday last St. Mary’s badminton’s teams attended the county finals for Badminton Ireland in the Presentation school, Thurles. St. Mary’s entered four teams altogether, writes Anna O’Keeffe. Our under 14 team qualified for the Munster final in division 1.Two under 16 teams were entered in division 2 with the first team coming out on top and again qualifying for the Munster finals. St. Mary’s under 19s also qualified. Well done to all the girls and the coaches involved. The Munster finals will be held on Thursday 24th January in UL Sports Arena. CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP: ST. MARY’S YOUNG WRITERS EXCEL A unique writing opportunity presented itself to St. Mary’s Secondary School students last week. Invited by English teacher, Michael Meally, award winning poet Martin Dyar visited the school on Tuesday January 15th. Martin worked with small groups of 20 throughout the day to provide a stimulus for creative writing. Working with the senior group in the morning and 20 juniors in the afternoon, Martin also found time to discuss his poem “Death and the Post Office “ with a fifth year class, who are studying it for their Leaving Cert. Using poetry as a starting point he was tasked with getting the girls to begin shaping effective short stories. Martin talked through the creative process for the girls and helped them to flex their collective creative muscles throughout the two sessions. Using the story of Anglo-Saxon poet, Caedmon, to think about how key moments can help characters transform themselves, introducing the idea of uncritical writing, crafting intriguing titles and creating elevator pitches for their own stories, Martin left St. Mary’s satisfied that he had helped create the seeds of good stories that may germinate into something more substantial. The upcoming school creative writing competition, which Martin has kindly agreed to judge will see which ideas may grow and which may wither this time around. The feedback from the students was uniformly positive and many were struck by Martin’s passion, open-mindedness and encouragement of their ideas. Martin was himself struck by our girls’ energetic productivity and their imaginative ideas. All in all it was a most productive opportunity for everyone involved. 
14/1/19 St Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh News Open Night St. Mary’s looks forward to welcoming primary school students and parents and guardians to the Open Night on Thu 17th. The evening begins at 6:30 pm and will allow visitors to tour the facilities, meet students and staff, ask questions and get a sense of our wonderful school. Junior Camogie We wish our Junior Camogie Panel every good luck on Wednesday next as they compete in the Munster Semi Final in Bansha at 1 00Pm. BT Young Scientist Exhibition 8 o’clock on a Thursday morning, the sun hadn’t even risen yet and we were already off on our way to Dublin, writes Magdalena Piasecka. First stop was Dundrum shopping centre, which was teeming with blue jumpers and uniforms of other schools. It seemed as though the whole country was out in Dublin that day. After two hours of shopping we headed to the much anticipated Young Scientist Exhibition at the RDS. It was something that neither words nor pictures could fully describe. The entrance was swarming with students, the inside just as busy, with over 2,000 projects on various aspects of science. Climate change, renewable energy, health, social media, sport and study were popular topics and it was surprising to see other projects on very random topics: how to recognise a flat tyre, life jackets, types of mushrooms etc. There were many shows going on, such as “ Scientific Sue ” , which I was lucky enough to see. We were almost falling off our seats, volunteering to take part in experiments. Sadly none of us was chosen but we still enjoyed it. The atmosphere was joyful and often lighthearted, helped by comical remarks over the intercom. After getting a taste of the Young Scientist Exhibition, I’m sure that many of us will be willing to enter a project in the future-I most certainly will. 
Upcoming Events
- Tuesdsay, 15th January 2019 – Poet Martin Dyar will hold a creative writing workshop in the GP Room
The programme will be as follows:
- 9 00am to 12.35pm: Senior student creative writing workshop (TYs, 5th & 6th years)
- 35pm to 1.15pm: Discussion of Martin’s poem, “Death and the Post Office” with 5th years.
- 9 00pm to 4.00pm: Junior student creative writing workshop (1st, 2nd & 3rd years)
- Thursday, 17th January 2019 – Tipperary School Badminton Championship 2019
- Thursday, 17th January 2019 – Open Night
- Wednesday, 23rd January 2019 – TY Market Day (Competition & External Judges) – GP Room
- Monday, 28th January 2019 – Leaving Certificate Ag Science students will visit Coorevin Farm as part of their Ag Science coursework. Students will depart at 9.30am and are expected to return at 1.30pm. Students will be accompanied by Miss Conneely and Miss Powell.
- Wednesday, 27th March 2018 – 1st Year Vaccinations
Munster Final Commiserations to our senior Camogie team who were narrowly beaten by St. Flannan’s of Ennis in a tight and tense match in Clarecastle. We are very proud of our students who fought hard to the very end and we wish them success in the All Ireland series. Let’s Learn about Drugs and Alcohol Together Programme The “Let’s Learn about Drugs & Alcohol Together” after school’s programme will take place in St. Mary’s Secondary School on Tuesday, 22nd January 2019: 7.30pm – 9.00pm (parent only) and on Tuesday, 29th January 2019: 7.30pm – 9.30pm (parent & child). This is a parent and pupil alcohol awareness and drug education programme delivered in partnership with the schools SPHE programme. The programme consists of two workshops and is delivered afterschool by HSE Education Office. 7/1/19 We welcome back all staff and students and wish them a happy new year. Open Night We extend a warm welcome to fifth and sixth class students as well as their parents to our open night which will commence on Thursday 17/1/19 at 6 30 Pm. St. Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh, in Munster Final St. Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh, will play St. Flannan’s College, Ennis, in the Munster Senior ‘B’ Camogie Final on Saturday in Clarecastle, Ennis, at 12.30pm. This promises to be a very close contest with two very strong teams going head to head. In the group stages, St. Mary’s had a good win over Scariff, but were narrowly beaten by Clonakilty. The semi-final against John the Baptist, Hospital, was a very exciting match in which St. Mary’s led for almost the entire match, only for Hospital to snatch a draw at the end. However, in the replay in Dolla the Nenagh girls gave a great display and won well, 3-07 to 0-03. The last time these schools met was in the Munster Senior ‘A’ Final in 2012. The match was a draw in Ennis with St. Mary’s emerging victorious in the replay in Nenagh. A very exciting contest is anticipated again on Saturday. Panel: Hannah Slattery, Clodagh Dwan, Rebecca Forde, Rachel Shanahan, Katie Murphy, Sarah Madden, Émer Touhy, Aoibhín Delaney, Orla Maher (Silvermines); Kaitlin O’Halloran, Caoilfhionn Maher, Katie Grace, Fiona Kirwan, Emily Morrissey, Orla Gillespie, Grace O’Dwyer (Burgess-Duharra); Caroline Browne, Lucy Spain, Rachel O’Connor, Niamh Sheridan, Ciara Sherlock, Megan Grace (Nenagh); Eileen Gleeson, Mikayla Doran, Jill-Anne Quirke, Mary O’Brien, Mary Flaherty (Toomevara); Maeve Ryan (Kildangan) 17/12/18 We wish all Parents, Students, Staff and members of the wider Community a happy and peaceful Christmas. In the final week before our Christmas holidays our students have been busy preparing for the Christmas Carol Service which will be held on Tuesday, as usual all year groups will be involved in the preparation of the service. Students are also preparing for the annual Christmas Concert on Thursday which promises a feast of entertainment from our students. Well done to all our first years on their participation in the recent mini company activities. 
Soccer Munster Final Qualification Presentation Thurles 1 – 1 St Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh 1 (St Mary’s won 4 -2 penalties) St Mary’s Nenagh have qualified for a first ever Munster Junior Cup final thanks to a hard fought win over Presentation Thurles. It was a performance of outstanding determination and a refusal to surrender to the highly regarded Thurles’ school . The game was dead locked scoreless after full time as St Mary’s defended with gusto and always carried a threat on the break. In extra time Pres grabbed the lead and looked to be heading for victory until the dying seconds when Emma Keating somehow found space in the box and produced a fine low curling shot to the bottom right corner. This rocked Pres but to their credit they pushed for a winner only to meet with a stubborn Nenagh defence . St Mary’s keper Medbh Ryan carried her rich vein of form into the penalty shoot out saving twice , whereas the St Mary’s girls made no mistake – Fiona Pateman, Emma Keating, Niamh and Ellen Cuneen all converting to spark the celebrations. St Mary’s had stars all through, Rachel Shanaghan, Aoibhinn Dealaney, Brona Kenneally and Captain Fiona Kirwan performed stoically at the back. In midfield the Cuneen twins Ellen and Niamh always threatened , Orlaith Clarke was dominant, whilst Fiona Pateman continually probed. Up front Aine Tuohy worked tirelessly for the team and Emma Keating was a constant threat to a physical Pres defence. 
10/12/18 FESTIVE FRIDAY FUNDRAISIER On Fri last students and staff donned Christmas jumpers and hats to welcome in the festive season. It was great fun but work continued, classes were held, tests were done and homework was given. With smiles on their faces people went about their business and generously contributed a donation which will be given to the local St. Vincent De Paul along with the proceeds of a cake sale which was held on the same day. 
THE SNOW QUEEN IN THE GAIETY On Thu.6th Transition Year students took a trip to our nation’s capital to see the Gaiety Theatre’s Panto; The Snow Queen. It was an early start for all: 6-45 to be exact, to avoid being stuck in traffic but this gave us an hour before the show to busy ourselves in the many shops in Grafton Street and the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre. Christmas cheer was in the air and excitement bubbled in each of us as we neared show time. The Snow Queen was very enjoyable and created an excellent atmosphere for the audience of school students, staff and families. There was excellent interaction with the crowd and the characters received great acclaim from young and older. 3/12/18 School News-St. Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh. Shoe Boxes-Last week Marie O’Brien, representing Nenagh’s Team Hope group, collected the beautifully covered boxes donated by students from all years. She was greeted by Ms. Ryan and her CSPE class who had all been involved. Erica Coonan, School President, also presented a cheque for Team Hope, the proceeds of a cake sale which was held by the 5th year music class. 
Festival Christmas Tree- Over the past few months students have been knitting green squares to contribute to the Festival Christmas Tree which is part of the Festival in St. Mary’s Church of Ireland which will be held from Dec. 12th-16th. Some mothers and grannies helped too and we look forward to seeing the finished product. Thanks is due to Sinead at Black Sheep Wool for her help with this and other projects in school over the past few years. We would like to wish her luck for the future. 26/11/18 Science Week: Science Week was marked by senior and junior students with events outside and inside the school. On Thursday 15th. three teams of Leaving Certs and a number of supporters travelled to L.I.T. to take part in a science quiz. Teams from Limerick, Clare and Tipperary enjoyed an evening answering questions on Biology, Physics and Chemistry. It was a great way to do some revision and meet other 6th. years students. The following afternoon first year and second year students took part in a table quiz, organised by the Science department. Teams comprised of a mixture of students from each year and was enjoyed by all. 19/11/18 SCHOOL PRESIDENT 2018/19 The School President was elected on Fri 26th. Oct. All students were addressed by the five candidates, after a week of canvassing. Each presidential hopeful outlined her hopes for the coming year and the electorate was left with a difficult choice having heard many worthy plans. The result of the voting revealed that Erica Coonan is the leader of the student body for this school year. We wish her well. John Paul 2 Awards On Thursday evening last 8th of November 20 students from St.Marys Nenagh travelled to Ennis to receive their Pope John Paul 2 Award. The girls put in a lot hard work throughout the year volunteering in the local community, fundraising and helping in their local parishes . The girls took part in numerous social involvment activities such as the shoebox appeal ,St.Vincent De Paul Christmas food appeal,bake sales for the Fr.Peter McVerry trust ,fundraising concerts for living links and 4 in 1,volunteering in local charity shops ,visiting nursing homes and hospitals, just to mention a few ! For the parish involvement the girls helped out in the church by reading at mass, singing in the choir and leading pray and play. They also undertook a Minister of the Eucharist course led by Sister Maureen. The girls completed 20 weeks of social awareness and 20 weeks of parish involvement as well as a written reflection. 5th year students Sarah Madden, Katie Grace, Claire Ryan, Caoimhe Ryan Moran, Grace Shesgreen, Grace Kennedy,Julia Rojczyk ,Nela Par,Rachel Shanahan, Katie Murphy, Annie Ryan, Orla Maher, Émer Tuohy, Grace O’Dwyer, Eileen Gleeson, received gold medals and 6th year students Marie O’Connell, Brid McKenna,Jenny Myers,Megan Ryan and Sinead Long received the papal cross award. The girls would like to say a special word of thanks to Sister Maureen for all her help throughout the year 12/11/18 Well done to our students this week on their many sporting achievements. First Years won the “A” Camogie County Final defeating Ursuline Thurles in the final. The Senior Camogie team won their first round match. The junior Soccer tea also had a great win. 5/11/18 Third Year Parent Teacher Meeting This meeting will be held on Tuesday 6th November from 4 15 to 6 45. School will finish at 3 45 to facilitate this meeting. Soccer News
Culture and Fun in Cool and Fabulous France By Mary Darcy and Niamh Bourke On the 12th of October a large number of excited 2nd and 3rd year students left Aldi carpark to go on a trip that they would never forget. The first activity on arrival was a bus trip all around Paris where the group saw so many well-known buildings and statues including L’arc de Triomphe. Next was the fantastic Notre Dame Cathedral. Dinner that evening was in a restaurant called Hunch before the students and equally tired teachers finally got to the hotel and badly needed sleep. Next morning the bus took them to Disneyland, an experience that no words can adequately describe. From arrival to departure there was something to do-roller coasters, shops and meeting the Disney characters. Roller coasters, especially “House of Terror” and “Space Mountain” were the favourite activities of the group. Everyone gathered at Planet Hollywood in Disney Village for dinner and the visit ended with an incredible firework display. Next morning it was off to Stade de France and a tour of the famous stadium. History lovers really appreciated the trip to the beautiful Palace of Versailles. The last day began with a shopping trip which provided an opportunity to buy souvenirs and gifts. The students really enjoyed having a few hours to do what they wanted before having a boat trip on the Seine. After that it was time to head to Beauvais airport for the flight home. The girls were sad to leave after such an amazing time and are very grateful to the teachers who accompanied them and their families for the opportunity to go. 22/10/18 Munster 7 aside Munster Camogie. Well done to St. Mary’s Nenagh under 15 camogie team who competed in the Munster 7s B competition which was held in Mallow GAA centre of excellence on Wednesday the 3rd of October. The girls were in a group with St Joseph’s Secondary School Tulla, Laurel Hill Secondary school and Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal Blarney. The girls topped their group moving forward to the Munster semi final against St Joseph’s Tulla’s second team. St Marys beat Tulla finding themselves in the Munster 7s B finals againstChrist the King Girls Secondary School Douglas. Half time came and Christ the Kings were winning by four points. In the second half St Marys came out fighting and took the lead with Ellen and Niamh Cuneen scoring points from midfield and Kate Ryan getting a last minute goal winning the match. There were excellent performances from Aine Tuohy in goals who made some super saves and delivered puck outs with pin point accuracy. Ciara Kenneally, Anna Mulcahy, Natalie Creamer and Katie O’keefe were outstanding in the backs and worked hard all day especially in the final where pressure was constant and fierce. Anna O’Keefe, Ellen and Niamh Cunneen were super at mid field and their work rate was incredible hooking and blocking and between them scoring some fantastic points and goals. Aine Spain, Kate Ryan and Lucy Hogan played with intent in the forward line and causes great difficulty for the backs on all the opposing team. This was St Marys second year in a row winning the Munster 7s B championship. St Marys now go on to play in the All Ireland in Ashbourne on Wednesday 17th October next. 
Well done to our U16 Munster champions who contested the all-Ireland in Ashbourne and despite scoring 7 . 4 were beaten by Cross and Passion School Ballycastle. Well done to all the girls on their spirited display. Panel Aine Tuohy, Anna Mulcahy, Ciara Kenneally, Niamh Cunneen, Ellen Cunneen, Aine Spain, Kate Ryan, Anna O’Keefe (Captain), Lucy Hogan, Natalie Creamer, Lynn Farrell, Lauren Ryan TY Musical The Transition Year of St Mary’s Nenagh Secondary School are delighted to be doing our annual TY musical. After weeks of hard work with costumes, set design and hours of rehearsals,we are pleased to announce that all our hard work has paid off as this year we had a record amount of people in our audience and got standing ovations at the end of our shows. Doing the musical is always a highlight for transition year students and it is no different this year as this experience has been extremely challenging but amazingly fun and worthwhile. I would like to give a big thanks to Mr Calinan, our music teacher and Mrs Shelly,our head of costumes and everyone who helped us to make this musical real and memorable. 15/10/18 Soccer News – St Marys Sec. Nenagh Munster Junior Cup St Marys’s Junior Soccer team had a convincing 8-0 victory over Villiers Limerick in the first round of The Munster A Junior Cup at Brickfields. Fielding an experimental line up the home side set the tone early with two early strikes from Fiona Patemen and Emma Keating. With the Villiers challenge failing to materialise St Mary’s pushed on in the second half and were duly rewarded with two good finishes from substitute Aisling O Meara ensuring safe passage to the quarter final stage. FAI Futsal St Mary’s first years ran out victors in the North Tipperary section of the FAI Futsal held at Nenagh College. St Mary’s entered two teams with twenty three girls seeing plenty of action in this fast and furious indoor format of the game. They now progress to the County Final stage. First Yr Squad -Ruth Kennedy, Claire Gavin, Catriona Finn, Caoimhe O Brien ,Laura Kennedy, Ksenija Nita , Marie Ryan, Molly Dower , Summer McCormack, Iris Grace, Lauren Quinn, Bronagh Kenneally, Abbie O Dwyer, Melania Lyszczarz , Maeve Steed , Eimear Kirwan , Polly Sharkey , Ciara Ryan , Emma Williams , Julia Leszczynsk, Orna Daly, Kerrie Howard. 8/10/18 St .Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh –School News 
Dromineer Literary Festival Writer in Residence For the first time since it began this year’s Dromineer Literary Festival had a writer- in –residence. St Mary’s was one of the places in town lucky enough to be visited by that writer –Paul McNamara, a performance poet who hails from Doon. What a treat for the staff at breaktime on Monday to hear Paul perform “Quarter-life Crisis “ and another few of his compositions. Next he addressed the 3rd years who enjoyed the poems and were impressed by Paul’s good advice about finding their strengths. The poetry addresses subjects which are part of 21st century life and many students felt a connection with it. Poetry Workshop for TY students On Fri 5th October the TY students went to the Dromineer and ,in the bright environs of the Yacht Club,were privileged to take part in a poetry workshop. The group was divided in two and one group was led by Eileen Sheehan while the other was facilitated by John W. Sexton. The writers were very generous in sharing their experiences and inspirations. The students explored their own imaginations and even managed to get some of their ideas onto paper. Humour, on the poets’ parts, made for an enjoyable as well as an educational experience. The students also got a clear sense of the life of a poet. The girls are very grateful to the Dromineer Literary Festival committee and to their English teachers for providing this experience. (Reporter :Sarah O’Brien, TY) 1/10/18 Munster 7 aside Munster Camogie. Well done to our U16 Munster champions who will now contest the all-Ireland in Ashbourne Co Meath on Wednesday 17th October. Panel of Players
| Name | |
| 1.Aine Tuohy | 13. Lauren Ryan |
| 2.Ciara Kenneally | 14.Caoimhe Doughan |
| 3.Anna Mulcahy | 15.Aisling Nevin |
| 4.Niamh Cunneen | 16.Avril Dooley |
| 5.Ellen Cunneen | 17.Lauren Spain |
| 6.Kate Ryan | 18.Molly Kennedy |
| 7.Lucy Hogan | 19.Emma Mulcahy |
| 8.Anna O’Keefe | 20. Grainne O’Meara |
| 9.Aine Spain | 21.Amy McCarthy |
| 10.Natalie Creamer | 22.Emma Cooney |
| 11.Lynn Farrell | 23.Katie O’Keefe |
| 12. Niamh O’Brien |
27/Sept Our senior team played Cashel in a challenge match in Nenagh today. This was great preparation for our upcoming opening championship match against Clonakilty. The girls played fantastic and were winners at the final whistle with a score line of 6-07 to 3-03. Well done girls. School Activities Games Club begins onMonday 24th September and will runs every day at lunchtime in the Library – Every Tuesday (lunchtime) – Camogie training and Juniors and Seniors will train after school on days to be announced. Every Friday lunchtime (1.30 to 2.00pm) Senior Film Club – Mr Meally Friday, 12th October to Monday, 15th October 2018 – Trip to Paris for 2nd & 3rd Year French students. Irish Times School Guide 17/9/18 National Suicide Prevention Week National Suicide Prevention Week was marked by a fundraising initiative organized by fifth year students, Aoife Carroll , Agnese Locmele and Elle Mulqueen. The girls sold ribbons in the Social Area and the proceeds are being donated to Pieta House. Thursday last was Hospice Day and coffee mornings were held in various places to raise funds for this cause which is close to the hearts of many. Two groups of students went to the Suaimhneas Drop in Centre, Clonaslee, Gortlandroe and were warmly welcomed by the volunteers. A tour of the facilities and a short talk on the services provided to cancer sufferers and their families was followed by the opportunity to sample tasty home-baking. The girls returned to school glad to have been given the opportunity to support a worthy cause and impressed by the voluntary assistance which is available on our doorstep. Trip to London for Senior Students On Thursday 6th September St.Mary’s Secondary School 6th year art and music students went on a three-day trip to London. As one of the twenty-nine students who took part in this school tour, I can safely say that it was one of the most enjoyable and unforgettable experiences of my time in St.Mary’s. Errol, our coach driver drove us from Stansted to the British Museum which is one of the world’s greatest containing over 8 million pieces of work. In the afternoon we saw a performance of “Mamma Mia” in West End. It was a captivating show which had us dancing and singing along and everyone with a smile on their faces as they left. After dinner and a sighting of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle we went to the Proms in the Royal Albert Hall for a performance of Compline by the Tallis Scholars, with only a few hours of rest most of us were falling asleep to the velvety music, however, it was still a stunning performance which won’t be easily forgotten. The next day, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, we visited the Globe where all of Shakespeare’s plays were performed at least once. Here we also had an opportunity to try out our acting skills in a workshop on “Macbeth”. We also went to Tate Modern and the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, where we were lucky enough to meet a floating Yoda. To finish off the day we went on a cruise on the River Thames to see some of the city’s most important landmarks. With our tour guide cracking jokes the whole time it was a most pleasant experience. To kick off our final day we went to the Victoria and Albert Museum, the greatest museum of art and design. After that we went to Harrods where the cheapest thing you could find was a tin of biscuits on offer for £10. After one final stop at Westfield Shopping Centre Errol drove us to our final destination – Stansted Airport. We arrived in Shannon later that night. All the students really appreciate the experience and we will always remember our tour to London and all the beautiful memories we made together. Roisin Radler-Shinnors 
10/9/18 Well done to all our Junior Certificate students on their fantastic results. The school Mass is to be held on Friday and we extend a warm welcome to all parents to celebrate with us. The senior students who participated in the recent Art/ Music tour have returned after a fantastic trip (report to follow later). Extra Curricular activities have resumed in St Marys with Handball, Soccer and Camogie started. We welcome the participation of all our students, more activities will be added in the coming weeks. TY students are preparing for their three day visit to the ploughing event in Tullamore on work experience, this is open to all TY students and is always one of the highlights of the year. 2/9/18 Music and Art Trip A group of 6th Year Music and Art students are heading to London on Thursday, 6th September and returning Saturday, 8th September. A full report will follow later. Papal Visit 
Four students from St. Mary’s joined more than thousand pupils from CEIST schools around the country to assist at the papal Mass in the Phoenix Park for the final mass. Jenny Myers, Brid McKenna, Sinead Long and Megan Ryan assisted with the distribution of Holy Communion. All four girls are part of the team involved in the Sunday evening Mass in St. Mary’s of the Rosary, Nenagh.
Dates for your Diary 2018/2019 RETURN TO SCHOOL DATES: Monday, 27th August 2018: 1st Years Induction – 10.00am to 12.30pm Meetings in the afternoon Tuesday, 28th August 2018: 5th Years, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.00pm Meetings in the afternoon Wednesday, 29th August 2018: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.00pm Meetings in the afternoon Thursday, 30th August 2018: Second Day for 1st Years Transition Years return and all other classes as normal Full Day DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: The full School Calendar 2018/2019 will be available on our school website, www.stmarysnenagh.ie Please note school will be closed for Tuesday, 27th November 2018 students on the following dates: Tuesday, 19th March 2019 Good luck to all of Junior and senior students who are completing their summer tests. We wish all our Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate students the very best as they prepare for their upcoming Examinations. First Years Another busy week in St .Mary’s began with First Years to the fore. On Mon 21st. and evening of words and music featured the talents of our First Year students. There was a hum of activity in the hall as parents and family members arrived and the pupils got ready entertain. After a musical introduction the final of the First Year Debate began. For a number of weeks the culmination of the year’s work showed fruits as debating teams were chosen and a semi final between 1A and 1C resulted in Mollie Kennedy, Lillian Gill-Butler, Tara O’Donoghue, Sanija Orlovska and subs Emma Mulcahy and Johanna Finn defeated Grace Brennan Nikolett Heveli, Hayley Clancy, Katie O’Keefe with subs Natalia Leszczynska and Grainne O’Meara. The topic for the final was Second Level Education No Longer Fulfils the Needs of Young People.The speakers belied their age in the strength of their arguments and the range of debating skills they employed. The judges had a difficult task as their spokesperson, Ms. Noreen Kelly, explained before announcing that 1B had emerged as winners of the Brian MacDermott Award. Sincere thanks is due to Ms. Foley and Mr. Mullarkey, teachers of First Year English for all their hard work. 
The rest of the night was filled with music, song and dance under the direction of Mr.Callinan, who was the brains behind the whole idea. Ms. Quinn ,First Year Head,thanked everyone and highlighted the wonderful talent and great spirit among the pupils. Credit too to the TY girls who helped out . LCA visit to Nenagh Credit Union- The students of Leaving Cert Applied spent a most informative and pleasant hour with Ms. Margaret Grace , Manager of the Credit Union. The LCA course provides many lessons for life and work on managing their money is part of this . The students are very grateful to Ms. Grace for her time. Student Awards Ceremony 2018 Our annual student awards were held on Friday last 18th may. Well done to all concerned. 
Full Attendance From 1st Year: Rebeca Parcelea Kate Minogue Sophie Rea Emma Mulcahy Shauna Mannin From 2nd Year: Anna-Maria Betivu Melissa Radu Madalina Radu From Fifth Year: Lisa Bergin From Sixth Year: Elke Bergin 
Cara Leaders Síle Spain Aoibheann Ryan Caoimhe Costello Rita Bourke Lily Purcell Jackie O’ Meara Eimear Ryan Eva Ryan Eimear Meagher Fiona Hennessy Lara Smyth Portia McMahon Sinead Kelly Rebecca Ryan Lauren Crowe Lauren Hourigan 
Music Award Emma O’ Donovan John Paull II, Papal Cross, CEIST Award John Paul II Ella Kennedy Eva Mc Keogh Rena Gillespie Jenny Myers Brid Mc Kenna Maria O’ Connell Sinead Long Emma Conroy Erika Coonan Megan Ryan Niamh Barry Papal Cross Elke Bergin Micha Ryan Ciara Whelan Chloe Moran Hannah Bergin CEIST Award Eva Ryan 
Brian McDermott Award Sinead Kelly School Presiden Mary Reidy Enterprise Award Picture This Emma Cooney Jodie McGrath Katie O’Keeffe Niamh Pateman 
Hooked On Hurling Emer Tuohy Grace O’Dwyer Orla Maher Sarah Madden Eileen Gleeson 
VZ Sports Mary O’Brien Katie Grace Orla Gillespie Megan Maher Ciara Sherlock 
Sports awards Winners of All-Ireland 7s Camogie medals Katie Murphy Sarah Seymour Danni Boland Mary Flaherty Emily O’Dwyer Aoibheann Delaney Seana Grace Aisling O’ Farrell Sarah Hallinan Ciara Kenneally Jill Quirke Emma Gavin Aine Touhy Anna Mulcahy Aine Spain Natilie Creamer Ellen Cunneen Niamh Cunneen Lucy Hogan 
Winners of Badminton medals Junior Team Jean Daly Emily Griffin Katie O’ Meara Anna O’ Keeffe Fiona Pateman Minor Team Lynn Farrell Snigda Sibi Sophie Hudson Nikolett Heveli Jodie McGrath Katie O’ Keeffe Winners of County Junior Handball Final Anna Mulcahy Aine Spain 
Presentation to Athletics members All-Ireland cross-country silver medals Ellen Cunneen Niamh Cunneen Sarah Murphy Ailbhe O’ Neil Emma Mulcahy Hannah Flemming Munster cross-country Bronze medals Aoibheann Slattery Nicola Lehane 
Recognition of commitment to school sport for 6th years 6th Years Emer Ryan Rebecca Ryan Katie O’ Flaherty Danielle Nealon Ciara Dwan Dearbhla Slattery Jane Seymour Rachel Shanaghan Kristen Howard Jane Minehan Aoibheann Ryan Maria Moloney Lucy Monaghan Becky Ryan Caoimhe Costello Sorcha McInerney 
Team of the Year – Sports Teams of the Year – joint winners Junior camogie 7 aside -> Munster and all Ireland 7s winning team Katie Murphy Sarah Seymour Danni Boland Mary Flaherty Emily O’Dwyer Aoibheann Delaney Seana Grace Aisling O’ Farrell Sarah Hallinan Ciara Kenneally Jill Quirke Emma Gavin Aine Touhy Anna Mulcahy Aine Spain Natilie Creamer Ellen Cunneen Niamh Cunneen Lucy Hogan Unnder 14 Badminton -> Tipperary, Munster and All Ireland Champions Minor Team Lynn Farrell Snigda Sibi Sophie Hudson Nikolett Heveli Jodie McGrath Katie O’ Keeffe 
Sports Person of the Year (Junior and Senior) Junior: Aoibhin Delaney Senior: Katie Murphy
- Academic AwardsLeaving Cert: Eva Moynan
- Junior Cert: Sarah Madden
- Special Merit Award
- Cara O’ Brian Amy Lombard Anna Powell
- Student of the Year Awards
1st Year: Gemma Sheedy, Ciara Brislane, Aisling Nevin. Winner- Gemma Sheedy 2nd Year: Mary Darcy, Alana Correia, Laura Terenti. Winner- Mary Darcy 3rd Year: Michelle Fitzsimons, Lucy Armstrong, Katie Grave, Aisling O’Farrell. Winner-Aisling O’Farrell. St Benedict’s: Rebecca Conway Transition Year: Farinaz Arefin, Aoife Carroll, Elle Mulqueen, Molly Kennedy. Winner- Aoife Carroll. Leaving Certificate Applied: Hazel Finn 5th Year: Viktoria Buydenco, Erica Coonan, Olwyn Dunne. Winner- Olwyn Dunne. 6th Year: Brid McCormack, Ellen Maher, Katy Coffey, Jackie O’Meara, Eimear Meagher. Winner- Brid McCormack. 
30/4/18
Tennis Success
Well done to Anna Mulcahy, Katie O’Meara, Sarah Seymour & Ellie Spain. The girls had a great victory over Carrigtwohill today in the Munster schools tennis quarter final.
BOOKS, POEMS AND COOKIES
All things English language and literature were to the fore in St. Mary’s during the last week. On Thu 26th. Poetry Ireland Day was celebrated with lessons devoted to reading poems, analysing poems and writing poems. TY students made a display of new and older, well-loved poems for the social area. The school is working towards the achievement of The Well Read Award under the direction of Ms. Foley and with the enthusiastic co-operation of a group of TY students. A scheme called “ A Bookie for a Cookie” saw first years donating books to the school library. The reward for each book was a cookie, baked by the TY girls. Due to popular demand the project is now being extended to other years. Get baking, girls! 
17/4/18
Tennis Win
Well done to Ellie Spain, Anna Mulcahy, Katie O’Meara and Sarah Seymour on their most recent win in the Munster series versus Cashel with a scoreline of 4 1. China Trip Four transition year students ,Sarah Madden, Melanie Dumitru, Sophie Morgan and Katie Grace from St.Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh travelled to Shanghai accompanied by their teacher, Mr. McLoughlin.The girls participated in an Easter Camp organised by UCC Confucius Institute.The students reported on their fantastic experiences:
MEDIA MATTERS FOR TY IN ST.MARY’S SECONDARY SCHOOL NENAGH Branding ,blogging and modern media were among the topics covered by Aimee O’Connell, a former student of St. Mary’s when she spoke to TY students recently. Aimee explained her interest in studying and working in media began in school. She did Leaving Cert Applied, followed by a media related PLC. This led to her realization that the area of advertising and specifically branding was where she saw her future. She will complete her business and marketing degree exams in the next few weeks. Aimee gave the students tips on writing news articles and advice on keeping a blog. She referred to work experience at “ The Nenagh Guardian “ as being particularly useful. Finally she told the girls if they want to write they must write, write and write. 
19/3/18
Badminton Success
Ty Student Eileen Gleeson met with Irish International Rugby Player Leah Lyons at the recent Munster Rugby Emerging Schools Blitz held in UL recently. Our Ty Students have been preparing each Tuesday and did themselves proud in the school’s first ever competitive contact rugby competition. 
Griffith College Business Competition On the 15th of March Katie Grace, Ciara Sherlock, Mary O’Brien, Megan Maher and Órla Gillespie from St. Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh participated in the Griffith College Business Enterprise Competition in Dublin. Mini companies from all over the country entered the competition. 12 were shortlisted from Ireland to attend this event. Their company VZ sports was among them. Their company product is a high visibility half-zip which promotes road safety. The company set up a stand in an auditorium in Griffith College which was viewed by judges as well as members of the public. Part of the competition involved making a presentation in front of everyone present. The girls said it was a great day and they gained a lot of experience. It was great to be in the top 12 in the country and the product was in great demand at the event. 
Nenagh Parish Mission
Two members of the Ceili team visited every class in St. Mary’s between Mon 26th. And Wed. 28th. Feb. Veronica and Peter impressed the students with their honesty and their commitment to their faith. On Sun.11th. a number of students were involved a mission mass dedicated to a youth celebration.A group of junior students, under the direction of Mr. Callinan, provided music and sang at the 10a.m. mass on Thu.15th.
5/3/18
Parents Council Minutes of the January meeting are available under the Parents Council tab. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 6th March at 7 Pm.
28/2/18
Weather Alert
School will close on Thursday 1st March and Friday 2nd March as per a directive by the Department of Education and Science.
26/2/18
School Closures
In order to facilitate the continued implementation of the new Junior Cycle curriculum, the Department of Education and Skills has instructed schools to close for two days during the 2017/2018 school year. The purpose of these school closures is to allow all teachers to attend in-service training, both as a whole-school and in their specific subject departments. As a result, the Department of Education and Skills has informed us that our school will be closed to pupils on Friday 2nd and Thursday 8th March 2018.
The new “Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post-Primary Schools 2017” were published in December 2017 and all schools are now in the process of updating their Child Protection procedures according to Circular 0081/2017 which is available through the link below – http://www.education.ie/en/Circulars-and-Forms/Active-Circulars/c10081_2017.pdf The circular states that schools should close for two half days to facilitate training for all school staff – both teaching staff and all ancillary staff. Our school will close at 12.35pm on Thursday 1st March and Thursday 26th April 2018. The above school closures are necessary to ensure all of the staff are fully trained in relation to both the new Junior Cycle curriculum and the changes in Child Protection procedures. We regret any inconvenience caused to families but as these school closures are mandated by the Department of Education and Science, the Board of Management must comply. Parents should make alternative arrangements for the collection of students. St. Joseph’s CBS will be closing on the same dates as St. Mary’s Secondary School. Hooked On Hurling: A book of interviews with inter-county players and managers and tips on how to be the best hurler/camogie player you can be. The authors are Sarah Madden, Émer Tuohy, Orla Maher, Grace O’Dwyer, Eileen Gleeson, TY Students from St.Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh. There will be a book launch in Eason Nenagh, March 5th @6.30pm with special guest Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh and players who contributed to the book. All welcome! The TY Mini Company ‘Hooked On Hurling’ who are through to the Student Enterprise County Finals would like to invite the public to the launch of their book ‘Hooked On Hurling’. ‘Hooked On Hurling’ is a book of interviews with inter-county hurling and camogie players such as Brendan Maher, Joe Canning, Anna Geary and Austin Gleeson and managers Liam Sheedy and Derek McGrath. It also includes tips on how to play to the best of your ability in your position, nutritional information and an article on injury prevention. . The authors are Sarah Madden, Émer Tuohy, Orla Maher, Grace O’Dwyer, Eileen Gleeson, TY Students. There will be a book launch in Eason Nenagh, March 5th @6.30pm with special guest Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh and players who contributed to the book. All welcome! St. Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh- Trip to Dail and Courts A visit to the source of our laws is part of the Law module for Transition Year students and a group spent time in the Dail and the Criminal Courts last week. As luck would have it the T.D.s were discussing children’s rights and Minister Zappone acknowledged the presence of our students in the visitors’ gallery during her contribution to the debate. A tour of Leinster House followed and the girls were particularly impressed by the portraits of former Taoisigh.They were also welcomed by Jackie Cahill, one of Tipperary’s TDs. Next up were the Criminal Courts and again the girls were given a guided tour, this time by a barrister. They were free to sit on a number of court cases after that before having the opportunity to hold a mock trial in one of the courtrooms. All returned to school feeling better informed about how our legal system works and who knows what seeds for future careers were sown. 
19/2/18
School reopens on Monday morning 19/2/18 after the mid-term break.
Letter to parents regarding School Closures
9th February 2018 Dear Parents/Guardians, In order to facilitate the continued implementation of the new Junior Cycle curriculum, the Department of Education and Skills has instructed schools to close for two days during the 2017/2018 school year. The purpose of these school closures is to allow all teachers to attend in-service training, both as a whole-school and in their specific subject departments. As a result, the Department of Education and Skills has informed us that our school will be closed to pupils on Friday 2nd and Thursday 8th March 2018. The new “Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post-Primary Schools 2017” were published in December 2017 and all schools are now in the process of updating their Child Protection procedures according to Circular 0081/2017 which is available through the link below – http://www.education.ie/en/Circulars-and-Forms/Active-Circulars/c10081_2017.pdf The circular states that schools should close for two half days to facilitate training for all school staff – both teaching staff and all ancillary staff. Our school will close at 12.35pm on Thursday 1st March and Thursday 26th April 2018. The above school closures are necessary to ensure all of the staff are fully trained in relation to both the new Junior Cycle curriculum and the changes in Child Protection procedures. We regret any inconvenience caused to families but as these school closures are mandated by the Department of Education and Science, the Board of Management must comply. Parents should make alternative arrangements for the collection of students. St. Joseph’s CBS will be closing on the same dates as St. Mary’s Secondary School. Should you have any queries, please feel free to contact the school office. Yours sincerely ______________ Michael Dineen Principal
Principals Notice.
Please see the School News section for correspondence regarding the school Uniform.
29/1/18
Minor Soccer Victory
Well done to our Minor soccer team that had a comprehensive 6-1 win over St Augustines Waterford in the Munster Cup quarter final
EXAM TIME Junior and Leaving Cert students spent the last week sitting their Pre or Mock exams . It is hard work but the best way to prepare for the actual State Examinations in June. They have another week of the same but then there is mid-term and an opportunity to recharge and get ready for a last big effort. Good luck to all concerned. Junior Cup Soccer Colaiste Ennis 3 St Marys 1 (AET) Our junior Cup Soccer team were knocked out of the Munster A Cup at the semi final stage on Friday 26th in Ennis. It ended a remarkable run in what was our first team ever to enter into the prestigious Munster Cup competition. The girls can take huge encouragement from their performances to date and it certainly bodes well for soccer in St Marys. Despite dominating possession in the early stages we could not find the goal that we so desperately needed. Medhb Ryan was asserting control in midfield with Niamh Cuneen and Emma Keating lively in attack. Colaiste Ennis began to settle and their defence in particular was strong as well as their threatening counter attack. After a first half of real intensity the scores were still dead locked at the interval. In the early stages of the second Colaiste Ennis floated in a dangerous free kick which broke kindly and they finished well past the excellent Aine Tuohy. St Marys continued to press and when Emma Keating was bundled over we were rightly awarded a penalty. Ominously though the keeper guessed the right way to deny Niamh Cuneen. Our spirits weren’t broken and finally we equalised through a sublime Medbh Ryan free kick that curled beautifully into the top right hand corner. Extra time was needed and again it was our side that continued to dominate possession but in another cruel turn of events an Ennis free kick cannoned off a St Marys defender and into our own net. In the final minutes we threw caution to the wind and were punished as Colaiste Ennis exploited the space well and grabbed a third after another set piece. The final whistle saw tears aplenty but the girls can hold their heads high. Colaiste Ennis proved an experienced and shrewd outfit that will be hard stopped in this competition and we wish them well. We can now focus on the upcoming Minor Semi final and will be back to this competition next year. Junior Cup Squad – Aine Tuohy ,Emer Tuohy ,Caoimhe Clancy ,Sarah Madden ,Niamh Cuneen ,Ellen Cuneen ,Caoimhe Kennedy ,Medhbh Ryan ,Emma Keating ,Fiona Pateman ,Fiona Kirwan, Aoibhinn Delaney ,Grace Kennedy ,Megan Grace , Melanie Dumitriu ,Orla Clarke ,Mikayla Doran ,Rachel Shanaghan ,Eileen Gleeson ,Siobhan Collins ,Rebecca Murphy, Caitlin Ducie Hogan, Emma O Hara, Mary O Brien, Katie Grace ,Annie Ryan, Ciara Sherlock 
22/1/18
Forensic Science On 15th. January a speaker enthralled T.Y. students with an informative talk on forensic science. Alison,an Australian forensic scientist, conducted the session and she began by giving the students a question sheet based on a crime scene. They were then asked to solve the crime but only when Alison gave them directions and explained the procedures involved. Next the girls were split into groups and they worked with props. Finally Alison told them what had actually happened. The session concluded with a body and suits worn by forensic experts being shown to the students who had an opportunity to try them out. It was a most interesting and educational experience. Enterprise Day One of the highlights of Transition Year is setting up companies and running an enterprise. After months of hard work students got an opportunity to present their companies in front of judges , Sue Anne O’Donnell and John Lillis. From culinary delights to informative books a wide range of products had been produced and were on sale. Coming out on top was “ Hooked on Hurling” which goes forward the County Enterprise Final. This product is a book giving an insight into the lives of hurlers . Two other companies, “VZ Sports” and “Not Your Ordinary School Book” qualified for a competition in Griffith College in March. All students learned a lot and the day was truly enjoyable. Wee done to all our TY students on their success in the TY School Enterprise Final on Tuesday 23rd January 2018. Judge:- Ms. Sue Anne O’Donnell LEO School Co-ordinator.
Well done to our Munster U14 and U16 Finalists who were victorious on Thursday 25th January 2018 in UL.
We welcome the Primary School Students from our feeder schools who attended the school musical on Wednesday 24th January 2018 at 10.30am.
15/1/18
ST. MARY’S SECONDARY SCHOOL NENAGH OPEN EVENING
Prospective Students and their Parents are invited to an Open
Evening at 7.30pm on Monday, 15th January 2018
St. Mary’s is a Catholic Voluntary Secondary School for Girls
Enrolment will be possible on the evening of January 15th
All enrolment forms must be returned to the school by Monday 29th January 2018
For further information please contact:
The Principal
St. Mary’s Secondary School
Nenagh
Co. Tipperary
Tel: 067 31450
Email: admin@stmarysnenagh.ie 8/1/18. Soccer SuccessSt. Mary’s 6 Nenagh College 3 St Mary’s had a good win over near neighbours Nenagh College in the Junior Shannonside league on Thursday 10th Jan in Brickfields. We fell behind to an early Nenagh College goal but from then on we started to assert ourselves with Leah McLoughney and Aoibhinn Slattery doing well in defence supported by Lynn Farrell making her debut! Before long we hit the equaliser. After a sustained spell of pressure the ball fell kindly to winger Amy O Mahoney and her low shot found the far corner. In midfield Niamh O Brien and Knigh’s Emma Gavin were gaining plenty of possession and it was Gavin’s shot that put St. Mary’s into the lead. After half time a tame shot from Gavin evaded the Nenagh College goalie to increase the lead before impressive substitute Jodie McGrath scored her first in St Mary’s colours. Julianna Gaska took over from Aine Tuohy in goals and showed great composure in what was her first time in goals. Niamh O Brien completed a barnstorming run with a good finish to add a fifth before another substitute, Nichola Lehane prodded home after a goal mouth scramble to bring the tally to six. To their credit Nenagh College never gave up and two second half goals put a fairer reflection on proceedings. In all 20 girls got to play and each ever one deserve credit for their commitment to the cause on a wet and cold January day. St Marys – Natalie Creamer ,Anna Mulcahy, Lynn Farrell, Julia Madden ,Cindy Diplacido ,Lera Anton Julianna Gaska ,Sarah Murphy ,Niamh O Brien ,Aoibhinn Slattery,Aine Tuohy ,Leah McLoughney Emma Gavin ,Ashling O Meara,Shauna Manning ,Jodie McGrath ,Amy McCarthy ,Niamh Pateman ,Mollie Kennedy ,Katie O Keefe ,Amy O Mahoney Andrea Brennan,Hannah Fleming ,Ellie Loughnane ,Avril Dooley ,Lauren Spain ,Snigdha Sibi , Nichola Lehane St. Mary’s Secondary School Christmas Market Day As you are now reading this account of the final week in our school, Santa will have come down the chimney & magically found his way, laden with gifts to your Christmas Tree. No-one more deserving to be on the ‘nice list’ this festive time than the girls of St. Mary’s. If Santa’s little helpers were needed to assist the elves (except for the one on the shelf !), then an advanced detour to St. Mary’s in Nenagh would have revealed the world of true imagination. Reliable sources have now confirmed the presence of very hard working ‘Fountain Fairies’, Elves’ donning the blue and gold and many more seasonal helpers in homes over the last number of days. And so it was, Christmas Market Day had arrived for the first year girls. Parents who transported equipment, products and other essential bits and pieces now departed the venue. The young festive entrepreneurs had a serious task on hand, namely to prepare the most inviting and attractive trade stands. Everything had to look its best. After all, judges would be on site shortly. Customers were plentiful, spoiled for choice. Appetites were well taken care of. Cupcakes and brownies delightfully decorated were very popular as were an assortment of sweets, candy canes and truffles. Santa’s Little Helpers had arrived. Also on site were the Fountain Fairies whose magic worked a treat. Freshly made crepes made, there and then in front of the customer, had wide appeal such that a dash for more ingredients all worked fine. Arts and Crafts activities also featured with ‘Lets get Muggin’ (all in the name and more!), handcrafted candles and ‘Spa Humbug’ who brought the joys of pampering products to the festive season. ‘Snap-mas’, the mini-company run by Emma Cooney, Jodie McGrath, Katie O’Keefe and Niamh Pateman were the overall winners. Their company seeks to create a unique photographic experience for the customer tailored to the individual’s requirements. Welcome We welcome back all students and staff at the start of another year. We wish all students, staff, parents and members of the local Community a happy new year.
Tipperary Comhairle na nOg – by Amy Lombard
I have been a member of Tipperary Comhairle na nOg since October 2016. Comhairle na nÓg are youth councils which give young people a voice and allow them to be involved in the development of services in their local communities. I have a 2 year term in Comhairle and I’m really enjoying it so far. When people’s terms are up they are replaced by new people so after the AGM in October every year there are new members. In Tipperary Comhairle there are 4 sub groups which are based on geographical area. I am in the Nenagh/Roscrea group. Each group work on a topic over the course of the year. Our group are working on Mental Health and we are now planning our strategy for the events and activities we will get involved in. I am really looking forward to the year ahead.
St Mary’s School musical a resounding success. On the 29th of November the 2017 St Marys Secondary School transition year class put on their musical production in the school. Preparation for the musical began a little over 3 weeks ago, with a two day retreat in the middle of it. With the time constraint came a bit of pressure, but the things we accomplished in just 13 school days was quite amazing. Our year really came together to put on the best show possible. Each student had a job of their own, each as important as the next. The delegating of these jobs really helped in the completion of as much work as possible as quickly as possible. Every dance was choreographed by the very talented girls in our year. A lot of work was put into getting everyone their chance to shine on stage, and for each girl an opportunity to show off their different talents. Our music teacher, Mr Callinan was the musical director, along with three TY students who also directed. He has been musical director for many TY musicals in the last few years and lent his experience to perfect the scenes. With some of the amazing leads it really excelled the musical to new heights. Even though it has been quite stressful to put on this performance, it was very enjoyable at the same time. There is an amazing sense of accomplishment that comes with being part of a show like this, and I’m sure it will be one of the highlights of the year.
The Full Cast
Mr and Mrs Bumble
The Police
Fagan and the artful dodger
Shoebox Appeal One hundred boxes and five bags of fillers went to the Shoe Box Appeal from the school today. Well done to all who filled a box, contributed to the fillers or donated money. Over 100 children overseas will have a brighter Christmas because of this-well done 
Christmas Shoebox Appeal Last week all the shoeboxes for Team Hope were collected by Marie O’Brien ,who had previously spoken to classes to encourage students to take part in this worthy venture. With the support of Ms. Maher and Ms. Coffey a 100 brightly decorated and filled boxes are on their way to less fortunate young people for Christmas. 20/11/17 Christmas Shoebox appeal 
Well done to 2A who recently got into the Christmas spirit preparing for the annual Christmas shoebox appeal. 13/11/17 Junior Cup Soccer Win Our Junior Cup team defeated Colaiste Choilm of Ballincollig on a final scoreline of 6-2 in the first round of the Munster Junior Cup. The team got an excellent start and penned the home side deep in their own half and were duly rewarded with goals from Aoibhinn Delaney and Fiona Kirwan. We conceded from a penalty before half time but bounced back with an Emma Keating strike to leave the scores 4-2 to St. Mary’s at half time. Second half strikes from Keating and substitute Niamh Cuneen completed the scoring and put a fairer reflection on events. It was a real team performance from start to finish. Medhbh Ryan was her consistent best in goal with Emer Tuohy, Ellen Cunneen, Caoimhe Clancy and joint captain Fiona Kirwan forming a formidable defence. In midfield Aoibhinn Delaney, Orlaith Clarke and Caoimhe Kennedy were magnificent in the engine room. In attack Emma Keating was a constant threat on the wing, No. 10 Fiona Pateman always linked well with midfield whilst Sarah Madden was full of running and unlucky with several super efforts. Niamh Cunneen, Mary O Brien, Aine Tuohy and Grace Kennedy were all introduced and made their presence felt too. 
First Year Ceili First Years recently enjoyed our annual school Ceili, well done to all who took part. TY Retreat by Hannah Hogan and Claire Ryan. On Thursday the 16th and Friday 17th of November, all Transition Year students in St. Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh were given the opportunity to take part in a unique and special retreat hosted by Gerry Keegan. Gerry has been hosting retreats in schools for the past thirty years and has attended St. Mary’s many times to carry out retreats with many fortunate students. The retreat was based on music and listening to the lyrics in the songs played by Gerry on his guitar. He spoke a lot about “awareness” and living in the present (rather than in the past and future in our minds). He told us lots of funny stories with very serious lessons. He told these stories to us to give us a clearer understanding of why we should just focus on the present and not worry about things that may not even happen. The retreat was an incredible experience for us, the students. The music and the lyrics of the songs created a calm atmosphere, so powerful that the whole room was in silence several times during the two days. The retreat also consisted of fun activities like sing songs and quizzes. These also added to the amazing atmosphere in the room. The whole experience was very uplifting with Gerry reminding us several times that we are unique, special and loved. It was obvious that all of the Transition Year students enjoyed the experience and would love to do something similar again sometime in the near future. This retreat was really a unique experience. We now know when someone asks us ‘who are we?’ We know not to tell them our name, age. Where we’re from, what we do. We know now to tell them we are an aware consciousness that’s full of love. Each and everyone of us is special and unique and thanks to Gerry every TY in our school now knows that . Science Week by Ana Maria Betivu and Crian O’Donnell. On 15th November second years in St. Mary’s participated in a science quiz. There were eight rounds with seven questions in each round. The questions ranged from ones dealing with topics we had dealt with in class to those on general knowledge of science related issues. It was fun and interactive while quite competitive towards the end as each team got closer to winning a selection box. The members of the winning team were Sarah Murphy, Nicola Tucker, Caoimhe Connolly and Ciara Coffey. We all enjoyed celebrating Science Week with our friends while testing our scientific knowledge. We would like to thank Ms. Hogan for the time and effort she put into organising the event. 
6/11/17 – Camogie All Ireland Well done to our Junior seven aside Camogie team who won the all Ireland final on Wednesday. A fantastic performance by all the panel. Well done on a fantastic achievement. Having become 7 aside Munster Champions before midterm St. Mary’s Junior camogie team travelled to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to take part in the All Ireland 7 aside blitz. They won all 3 of their matches to claim the title and Eileen Gleeson reported on the day. “St. Mary’s first game was against Our Lady’s Knock, from Belfast. At half time the score was 3-0 to 1-2, in our favour. The goal scorers were Niamh Cunneen with 2 and a goal by Emily O’Dwyer. The girls showed great teamwork in the second half as Mary Flaherty scored 2 goals, both set up by Niamh Cunneen. We finished the match with 6-3 to 2-4. Jillanne Quirk got 1-1 while Niamh Cunneen registered another point. The second match was against St. Cuan’s from Galway, the team we also played in the final. St. Cuan’s were ahead at half time 1-2 to a goal which had been scored by the other Cunneen, Ellen. However our team came fighting back in the second half with two goals from Danielle Boland, another from Ellen Cunneen, a point from her sister, Niamh and another point by Mary Flaherty.The full time score was 4-2 to 1-4. The game wouldn’t have been won without Natalie Creamer who was tremendous in the full back line, catching balls out of the sky. Everyone was raring to go in the final and Jillanne Quirk set the pace when she got a pointl in the first minute of the game. It was a very tense match with balls rebounding off of the crossbar, the side netting and the posts. Mary Flaherty scored two points and Emily O’Dwyer got a goal to put St. Mary’s ahead 1-3 to 1-0 at half time. We were kept on our toes in the second half and Sarah Seymour, our goalie, pulled off two great saves. Jillanne Quirke scored another point as did Emily O’Dwyer while Niamh Cunneen added to her tally with three more. Aoibheann Delaney made sure the backline stayed firm and captain Katie Murphy topped it off with an outstanding display. The final score was 1-8 to 1-3 , a well- deserved All Ireland for St. Mary’s.” Panel
| Third Years/TY | Second Years |
| Katie Murphy | Ciara Kenneally |
| Sarah Seymour | Jill Quirke |
| Danni Boland | Emma Gavin |
| Mary Flaherty | Aine Tuohy |
| Emily O’Dwyer | Anna Mulcahy |
| Aoibheann Delaney | Aine Spain |
| Seana Grace | Natalie Creamer |
| Aisling O’Farrell | Ellen Cunneen |
| Sarah Hallinan | Niamh Cunneen |
| Lucy Hogan |
Ian Callanan (Seinn), Sr Maureen Frawley (Chaplin of St Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh), Michael Dineen (Principal, St Mary’s Secondary School, Nenagh) and Bishop Fintan Monahan at the Seinn Concert in St Mary’s Secondary School. 16/10/17 – Sporting Success Well done to our Junior seven aside Camogie team who recently won their Munster title and now go on to play in the all Ireland final on Wednesday 8/11/17. 
Congratulations to Anna Mulcahy and Aine Spain who recently won the County Tipperary Handball title beating Presentation Thurles. They were narrowly beaten by Clare in the Munster final. well done to both girls. 
9/10/17 – TY Zeminar Visit “Some of our transition year students enjoying the Zeminar in the RDS on Tuesday discovering different ways to look after your mental health.” 
2/10/17 – TY visit to Dromineer Literary Festival On Friday last, 6th Oct. a group of 50 plus TY students were lucky enough to attend poetry workshops in the picturesque setting of Dromineer Yacht Club. This was part of this year’s Literary Festival. The workshops were facilitated by Kerry- based poets ,Eileen Sheehan, and John W. Sexton. Both writers read from their own works, including a poem by Ms. Sheehan’s which features on the Leaving Cert. syllabus for 2019. Students were given an opportunity to write too and a few brave souls read out their work. Tips on composition and advice on the importance of developing one’s vocabulary made for a very useful afternoon. The sessions concluded with the students being given an opportunity to ask questions. We left with a more positive attitude to poetry after an enjoyable couple of hours. 
25/9/17 – Third Year visit to Knock On the 14th of September the Third Year religion students travelled to Knock Co. Mayo on a religious retreat. While in Knock the students visited all four churches. Many of the girls also did the Stations of the Cross and went to confession in the underground chapel. Students really found the day very rewarding, one girl commented, ”The silence was strange but wonderful, as you never find silence in the world of today.” Another said, “It was a great place to relax, have a moment with God.” The third years attended a mass in the Basilica where the music students enhanced the occasion by playing music and singing hymns. Many were especially impressed by the mosaic of the appearance of Our Lady. The students prayed for family, friends and the Junior Cert. They brought holy water and medals home. Everyone would like to thank Sr. Maureen for organising the retreat and Ms. Kennedy and Ms. Hogan for accompanying us. A great day was had by all. 18/9/17 – Sixth Year Higher Options Decision-making can be quite daunting, especially with CAO application day slowly approaching us. However, 6th year students from St. Mary’s secondary school were given a taster of the real world this week as we paid a visit to the “Higher Options” summit in the RDS in Dublin. Here we were greeted by over 160 universities, institutes of technology and colleges all under the one roof! Talks and lectures were scheduled throughout the day to cater for all of our needs and guest speakers and representatives were patiently waiting at each stall to answer our questions and tell us what their courses had to offer. From primary teaching in Limerick to astrophysics in Budapest “Higher Options” was really an eye opener and certainly taught us that the world has endless opportunities and career paths! Students travelling abroad to study were given an in-depth lecture from UniCast representatives, our school debs committee spoke with DebsIreland about their plans for the coming year and the Institute of Education even distributed samples of their leaving certificate notes. We left the RDS with much more reassurance, answered questions and a bulging bag of prospectuses to read through! “Higher Options” was certainly a beneficial, fun-filled event with a positive and friendly approach to each person’s specific needs. This experience has certainly eliminated half the stress of making important future decisions! 
18/9/17 – TY Ceili On Monday the 11th of September the Transition year students of ST. Mary’s secondary school took part in a ceili .there was a lot of excitement to show off their Irish culture. An instructor came to the school to teach the students various dances, for example the Siege of Ennis. There was lots of fun and laughter as they figured out the new steps. The students showed a great deal of enthusiasm and were very proud of their dancing. They were delighted to learn new steps, more dances and to having fun with their peers. The girls were exhausted after an hour of practise and precision but overall felt that the day was a memorable experience. 25/9/17 – Third Year visit to Knock On the 14th of September the Third Year religion students travelled to Knock Co. Mayo on a religious retreat. While in Knock the students visited all four churches. Many of the girls also did the Stations of the Cross and went to confession in the underground chapel. Students really found the day very rewarding, one girl commented, ”The silence was strange but wonderful, as you never find silence in the world of today.” Another said, “It was a great place to relax, have a moment with God.” The third years attended a mass in the Basilica where the music students enhanced the occasion by playing music and singing hymns. Many were especially impressed by the mosaic of the appearance of Our Lady. The students prayed for family, friends and the Junior Cert. They brought holy water and medals home. Everyone would like to thank Sr. Maureen for organising the retreat and Ms. Kennedy and Ms. Hogan for accompanying us. A great day was had by all. 11/9/17 – Sixth Year Retreat This week us sixth years from St. Mary’s Secondary School paid a visit to Mountshannon in the east of Clare for our retreat! We put on our life jackets and exercise gear and set off bright early on our journey along the River Shannon to the beloved Inis Cealta (also known as Holy Island) where we learned about the mesmerising ruins of those who came before us. Parish priest of Ogonelloe Fr. Donagh O’Meara and caretaker of the Island Gerard Madden guided us through the area, teaching us about the remains of the monastic churches and roundtowers that were once occupied by the residents of Inis Cealta and historical battles along the River Shannon. At each station we received an in-depth lesson about the beliefs and stories of the island and its astonishing surroundings, ending it with an enlightening prayer as we stood at the graves of the 126 monks that once resided there. This allowed us to show gratitude for the little things in life. I was in awe of the beautiful scenery and welcoming atmosphere that Holy Island had to offer. Inis Cealta was an absolute pleasure to visit and allowed us all to relax and reflect on the necessities in life before the realities of exams creep up on us! On the way home we stopped in Tuamgraney for a well deserved bite to eat. Here we also attended mass in Dun Carraig church with Fr. Donagh O’Meara where he created a link between the importance of the Gospel and the Buddhist mantras in our everyday lives. Overall it was certainly an excellent experience and we all left with smiles on our faces and fond memories of our day on Inis Cealta! 
We welcome all our first year students who have completed their first day on Friday last. A great start by all our students . We look forward to our other year groups returning this week. Back to school dates 2017/2018 Friday, 25th August 2017: 1st Years Induction – 9.30am to 12.30pm Meetings in the afternoon Monday, 28th August 2017: 5th Years, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.00pm Meetings in the afternoon Tuesday, 29th August 2017: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th Years & LCA – 9.00am to 1.00pm Meetings in the afternoon Wednesday, 30th August 2017: Second Day for 1st Years, Transition Years return and all other classes as normal Full Day Changes to School Day 2017/2018
| Mon | Tues | Wed | Thurs | Fri | |
| Start time | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 |
| Finish time | 16:00 | 16:00 | 15:20 | 15:20 | 15:20 |
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