Rice College NewsThird Term • 2014-2015 Issue 66 • May

Edmund Rice Schools TrustIontaobhas Scoileanna Éamainn Rís

RICE COLLEGE NEWS

Principal’s MessageAnother successful year has come to a close in Rice College, as many have officially finished and commenced their Summer Holidays. I would like to compliment these students on how well they completed the year and the mannerly, respectful way in which they left for their holidays. For our 175 students sitting examinations we wish them all the best in their preparations.Very positive feedback was received about our Awards Night which saw many of our students receive acknowledgements for the indelible mark they are making on school life. We held an end of year assembly for all year groups and again it was rewarding to see the numerous students nominated for student of the year and the many promising sportsmen in our company. It was great to see the high number of certificates issued to the excellent attenders.Special congratulations to Sean Kitterick(6), Jack Carroll (5), Rory Gannon(4), John Ryan(3), Thomas Tunney(2) and Patrick Conway(1) all achieving “Student of the Year” awards, congrats to our Sports People, Conor Burke(6), Fionn Quigley-McDonagh(5), Oisín McLaughlin(4), Pat Lambert(3), Aaron Doherty(3), Sean O’Hanlon(2) and Luke Dawson(1). Thanks to everyone involved in organising the End of Year school Masses and well done to David Flanagan and Joshua Nueva who did us all proud at the 6th Year Graduation Mass.Thanks to everyone involved in our fundraising efforts for our main pitch development and new Astro-Turf facilities. We were delighted to get the announcement from the Building Unit, Department of Education and Skills of 9 classrooms and toilet extension. Because the sum involved is greater than €500,000.00 the consultancy aspect was e-tendered. I am delighted to announce that this has been awarded locally to AXO Architects.This term also saw Minister Jan O’Sullivan row back on the Junior Cycle reform with State Certification now being restored. A terminal exam is confirmed to take place each June. A new area called “Wellbeing” will incorporate PE, SPHE (RSE) and CSPE. There is now a firm commitment to address the concerns of teachers.I would like to thank you the students, Parent(s)/Guardian(s), the Parents’ Council, the local community and all our staff for your continued support to our school, making it the excellent school that it is.

Michael RabbetteSchool Principal

Mayo Colleges Champions Junior Hurling 2015

Back L-R: Mr. Brian Roache (Joint Manager), Erick Gannon, Kevin Geraghty, Kevin Grogan, Niall Kelly, Gareth Jordan, Alan Mulroy, Matt Horan, Stephen Walsh, Jack Carney, Iarla Keane, Shane McGee, Liam Doheny, James Walsh, Mark O’Grady, Michael Grimes, Pat Lambert, Brian Kelly, Ms. Sandra Hall (Joint Manager).Front L-R: Darragh Grimes, Ethan McEvilly, Dylan Bourke, Conor Calvey, Stephen Loftus, James Gallagher, Darragh Ludden, Alan McHale, Michael Brady (Capt), Kealan Gallagher, Mark Gannon, Caolan O’Brien, Nathan Heanue, Ian Higgins, Sean Grimes, Donal Ó Buachalla, Hugh McEvilly, Conor Gallagher, Yannick Sheerar.

Rice College Westport 2 - 12 C. S. Ballyhaunis 3 - 08

Rice College U16 Soccer Defeated Garbally College 3-2 in Ballinasloe

Rice College carved their own niche in Mayo Colleges sporting history recently when they became the first team from the school to win a Mayo Hurling title. Success came from a gripping contest with Ballyhaunis Community School in the Mayo Post-Primary Schools Hurling Final.It took extra time for this title to be decided by the most slender of margins. Michael Commins, reporting, said that the game was an advertisement for all that is manly and sporting in hurling. This was the game, he said, to decorate the memory, observing the exemplary respect and friendship during and after the game between the managers and players of both teams. Let our joint managers, Sandra Hall and Brian Roache take a bow. You both deserve huge credit on this wonderful achievement.Ballyhaunis had a dream start with a goal in the first minute. Rice College, favoured with a strong wind clawed their way back with 3 points from Jack Carney and one point each from Keelan Gallagher, Stephen Loftus and Kevin Grogan, leaving the half-time score 0-6 to 1-2 in favour of Rice College.Three minutes into the 2nd half, Ballyhaunis found the net. Ballyhaunis were leading by four points with twelve minutes to go. The decisive score of the game came 10 minutes from the end of normal time. James Gallagher and Kevin Grogan were instrumental in providing the pass for Pat Lambert to flash home a magnificent goal. This was followed with a point from Gareth Jordan to level the game and send the game into extra time.At the end of the 1st half of extra time, Rice College led by one point provided by Gareth Jordan. Rice College dug deep in the 2nd half of extra time. A goal from Matt Horan and a point from Jack Carney was just enough to edge Rice College past the post. The final whistle was greeted with shouts of joy from the Rice College contingent.Rice College: A Mulroy; D Ludden, S Walsh, K Geraghty; P Lambert (1-0), M Brady, J Gallagher; A McHale, K Grogan (0-1); J Keane, G Jordan (0-2), J Carney (0-6, 2f); K Gallagher (0-1), M Horan (1-0), S Loftus (0-1). Sub used: D ÓBuachalla (0-1) for S Loftus.

Back Row L-R: Mr. Shay Dunphy, Joint Manager; Cian Dunne, Alan Mulroy, Robert Wallace, Emmet Rowley, Pat Lambert. Front Row L-R: Eoghan McLaughlin, Cian McAllister, John Ryan, John Keane, Darragh Fabby, Luke Tunney.Absent from photo: Mr. Brendan Clarke, Joint Manager.

Michael Brady (Capt) accepts trophy from Jimmy Connor

Congratulations to the Rice College U16 team on an excellent performance against Garbally, Ballinasloe. First half goals from Emmet Rowley, Cian Dunne and Eoghan McLaughlin helped put the lads in a commanding position from which the Galway school never recovered. It was a great team performance but special mention must go to Darragh Fabby & Cian Dunne on their respective performances. The lads can look forward to a Connacht semi-final against St. Enda’s of Galway. Best of luck lads. Thanks to TJ Hughes for the photos from the match.

Congratulations to TY student Harry Gillivan who recently competed in the West of Ireland golf championships. Playing off 2, Harry came through the

qualifying process and got to mix with the best amateur players in the country. Well done Harry.

Rice College U15 GolfersRice College U15 golfers competed in the Connaught Schools c h a m p i o n s h i p s recently in Castlebar Golf Club. The team finished in third position being picked for second on a countback.The team pictured L-R: Charlie Walsh, Jack Braz and Declan Mooney with their Manager, Mr. Joe Cuddy

Went down to St. Enda’s 1- 0 in Westport

Goalie beaten, cross-bar saves St. Enda’s securing for them a Connacht final spot V Presentation College Headford.

After a valiant effort, Rice succumbed to St. Enda’s, Galway. Well done to the lads for their hard work and dedicated attitude. Had it not been for the width of the crossbar, they could have forced extra time but alas, it was not to be. If this team sticks together, they could certainly be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years. Man of the Match: Keith (The Cat) Carolan-Joyce.

Rice College U16 Soccer Connacht Semi-Final V St. Enda’s

Rice College Team: Keith Carolan-Joyce, Darragh Fabby, Robert Wallace, John Ryan, Luke Tunney, Pat Lambert, Eoghan McLaughlin, Cian McAllister, Adam Heffron, Cian Dunne, Declan Shanahan.Subs: Luca Ó Riain (Heffron), John McGlynn (Shanahan)Managers: Mr. Brendan Clarke, Mr. Shay Dunphy

European Union Science Olympiad in Klagenfurt, Austria Damien Doherty takes Bronze

Damien Doherty was part of the Irish team that represented Ireland at the European Union Science Olympiad (EUSO) competition in Klagenfurt, Austria recently. Damien and his team (of Rob Sparkes from Wesley College, Dublin and Mark Fortune from CBS, Thurles) were awarded a bronze medal at this competition.Dr Odilla Finlayson, Ireland Delegation Leader EUSO and Country Co-ordinator, School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, congratulated School Principal, Mr. Michael Rabbette on Damien’s achievement and his teachers Ms Paula Behan and Ms Sharon Costello for the additional help that they gave Damien in his preparation for the competition.

Bronze medalist Damien Doherty is pictured with his teachers, Ms. Sharon Costello (L) and Ms. Paula Behan (R).

LCA Western Care FundraiserThe LCA’s held a penalty shootout and cross bar challenge event in the gym on Monday 23rd of March. Sixty 1st and 2nd year students paid two euro each to take part in the challenge. Eoin Mullarkey (1B), won the award for Best Penalty Taker and Colin Hope (2B) won the Crossbar Challenge. Picture shows the cheque being presented by the LCA’s to Jackie O’ Grady- Dever, Western Care, Distillery Rd. Westport. Also pictured are Mark McDonnagh and Joseph Stack who attend the centre.

Mr. Neil Mooney, Chairperson of the Parents Council Rice College presenting a cheque for €5,000 to Mr Michael Rabbette, School Principal. Also present are associated members of the Board of Management, Parents’ Council and Fundraising Committee.Pictured L-R: Mrs Sharon Brady, Mr Charlie Lambert, Mrs AnnMarie Corcoran, Mrs Isabella McKeown, Mrs Gabrielle O’Hanlon, Mrs Olga Kennedy, Mr Neil Mooney (Chairperson), Mr Michael Rabbette (Principal), Mrs Bernie Walsh, Mrs Stephanie Casaca Braz, Mrs Christina Flynn, Mrs Diane Mullin, Mrs Verona Ralph, Mrs Margaret Cunniffe, Mr Robert Kilkelly.

Parents’ Council - €5,000 contributionto the Astro-Turf facility at Rice College.

Trophy table on awards evening

Portwest present T-shirts to Rice College All-Ireland Cross-country runners

Back L-R: Mr. Fergal Macken, Athletics Co-ordinator; Fiachra Byrne, Alex Ó Riain, Sean Doherty, Ronan O’Donnell, Sean O’Hanlon, Luke Redmond, Mr. Brian McManamon, Athletics Assistant; Mr. Pádraic Hughes, Athletics Assistant.Centre L-R: Mr. James Fahy, Portwest; Robert Harper, Eoghan McLaughlin, John Keane, Aaron Doherty, Shane Ryall, Dylan Stanaway, Cian Kennedy, Patrick Chambers, Ms. Jennifer McNally, Portwest.Front L-R: Mark Gannon, Luke Dawson, Killian Heaney, Donal Ó Buachalla, Cian McAllister, Kian Moore, Tim Campion.

Cross-country runners put in huge performances in the All-Irelands

Leaving Cert student Sean Kitterick “Student of the Year” 2015Son of Catherine and Eamon, Kilsallagh Upper, Westport

Leaving Cert student Conor Burke “Sportsperson of the Year” 2015Son of Mary and Peter Burke Rossanrubble, Newport

Minor Cross-country - SilverBack L-R: Ronan O’Donnell, Mr. Fergal Macken, Athletics Co-ordinator; Dylan Stanaway, Luke Dawson, Mr. Pádraic Hughes, Athletics Assistant;

Kian Moore, Killian Heaney, Mr. Brian McMmanamon, Athletics Assistant; Sean Doherty.Front L-R: Mr. James Fahy, Portwest; Tim Campion, Donal Ó Buachalla, Mark Gannon, Ms. Jennifer McNally, Portwest.

Intermediate Cross-country - Connacht ShieldBack L-R: Mr. Brian McManamon, Athletics Assistant; Aaron Doherty, Robert Harper, Mr. Fergal Macken, Athletics Co-ordinator; John Keane,

Shane Ryall, Mr. Pádraic Hughes, Athletics Assistant.Front L-R: Mr. James Fahy, Portwest; Eoghan McLaughlin, Fiachra Byrne, Cian McAllister, Alex Ó Riain, Ms. Jennifer McNally, Portwest.

Junior Cross-country - Good performanceBack L-R: Mr. Fergal Macken, Athletics Co-ordinator; Cian Kennedy, Patrick Chambers, Mr. Pádraic Hughes, Athletics Assistant.Front L-R: Mr. James Fahy,

Portwest; Sean O’Hanlon, Luke Redmond, Ms. Jennifer McNally, Portwest; Mr. Brian McManamon, Athletics Assistant.

Leaving Certificate Graduation 2015

On the 22nd May 2015 we said farewell to another group of Leaving Certificate students. Our annual Graduation Mass was beautiful as our students respectfully participated in readings, offertory processions and music. A heartfelt thank you is wished to all who participated in our Graduation ceremony. There are far too many of you to name individually but I would especially like to thank our very talented musicians and singers David Flanagan and Joshua Nueva who made the night extra special- Your talents far out-weigh any compliment I can ever give to you. Also, to Sean Kitterick who delivered a fantastic speech on behalf of the Class of 2015, thank you for your kind and touching words. To the Class of 2015, as you leave this stage of your

lives behind and move on to the next, remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt and the theme of your Mass ‘The Future belongs to those who believe in the Beauty of their Dreams.Wishing you all the very best both now and in the future.

By Miss Susan Mannion RE Co-Ordinator

Sean Kitterick

Joshua Nueva David Flanaganfantastic musicians

TY’s enjoy visit to Munich fitting finale to their Transition Year

City Hall Munich

TY students finding their way around Munich. Very impressed

Enjoying the sights of Munich

RICE COLLEGE NEWS RICE COLLEGE NEWS

2B & 2D History classes recently visited the Arigna mines and Lough Key Forest Park to complement the 2nd Year History curriculum. Students were treated to an underground tour of the old coal mine guided by an experienced former miner. They experienced for themselves the harsh conditions - darkness, cold and dampness – and listened to stories of daily working life and the many dangers that faced the hard-working men of Arigna. Students then enjoyed the Lough Key experience. This included a guided tour of the 19th century servants’ tunnels and the ruins of Rockingham House, which provided a fantastic example of the contrast between the working class and the wealthy following the policy of plantation in Ireland.

Open Day in Rice CollegeRice College was a hive of activity on Jan 27th. when prospective students for September 2015 attended our “Open Day”. The enthusiasm and energy of those young boys, as they spent some time in the various departments of the school, leaves the management and staff in no doubt concerning the continuation of high standards at the college. They were a credit to families and to their teachers in the various primary schools.The new students next September will be fortunate to be availing, along with the existing school students, of our new Astro Turf and new playing pitch facilities. The aim of the school is to provide the best educational/sporting facilities possible for the Westport community and its hinterland.Ms. Sharon Costello introduced the students to the exciting world of Science

Ms. Deirdre Hopkins introduced the students to the creative world of Art

5th Year Ag. Science students visit Agricultural College Mountbellew

Back Row L-R: Brendan McLaughlin, Sean Keane, Paul Moran, Ferghal Sammon, Kevin O’Haire, Sean Cawley, David Hanley, Ryan Moran.Front L-R: Conor Walsh, Cian Nolan, Jack Carroll, Stephen Staunton, Jay Ryder, Alan Flynn, Martin Hopkins, Ms. Sharon Costello, Science Teacher; Pádraig McHale.

2B & 2D visit Arigna and Lough Key with their History teacher Ms. Niamh Hoban

TY Students receive certificates in Finance Management from BOI

Back Row L-R: Mr. Colin McConway, Business teacher; Daniel Flanagan, Daniel Moran, Adam Blaq, Darragh McNulty, Harry Gillivan.Front Row L-R: Paul Lambert, Ian Dennany, Seán McGuire, James Brennan, Cian Dunne

Transition Year students participated and successfully completed a Financial Management course through a partnership programme with Bank of Ireland. Modules addressed included Inflation, Interest Rates, Balance of Payments, Financial Budgeting, Bond Markets, which are all relevant for the next generation of budding entrepreneurs and economists. A special thanks to Ms. Fiona Hamilton from Bank of Ireland for all her assistance.

Fiona Hamilton, Bank of Ireland, Westport directing Mr. McConway’s TY Business class in Financial Management

By Ms. Sinead Ruddy, Deputy Principal

Positive Living week in Rice College

Positive Living week was run in conjunction with Mental Health Ireland. We invited Niall Dunne from the Castlebar office to work with us in Rice College to help promote healthy living and positive mental health. Niall focused this year on positive communication, indeed on the necessity for us to communicate well in our lives for our own positive well being. The students attended a workshop with him, where debate and discussion occurred on many topical issues for young people today. We also invited Michael O’Sullivan from Humourfit Drama Company who gave an interesting slant on some serious issues for our young people: Bullying, Alcohol and Drug abuse were all staged in a one man drama show capturing the serious nature of these issues while driving home our own personal place and standing on these topics. Teachers delved into various topics in class, and the display created by our first years highlighted that the key elements to positive living are: family, good friendships, communication with those around you, good diet, exercise, positive relationships in your life, laughter, balance of work, success, hard work and confidence.

Although the week and talks clashed with TY events and Leaving Cert Orals we do hope to build on the foundation throughout the year and welcome other speakers in the future.

Visit to Arigna mine and Lough Key Forest Park with Ms. Niamh Hoban & Ms. Riona Prendergast

Rice College Memorial Mass 2015

A wreath was laid at the Memorial plinth by Chairperson of BOM, Mr. John G. Davin to the memory of deceased students and teachers of the school. The Celebrant was Fr. Charlie McDonnell. Ms. Mary Mulchrone and her group of musicians and singers provided appropriate support music for the Mass

TY Nominees for Student of the Year 2015

TY Graduation 2015

Back L-R: George Buchs, Harry Gillivan, Andrew Ferson, Mark Allen, Patrick O’Toole, Christopher Nevin, Sam Carroll, Andrew Moran, Patrick Brophy, Robert Wallace, Rory Gannon, Aodh McGinley.Front L-R: Damien Doherty, Paul Coffey, Eoin Conway, Mr. Martin Gill, TY Co-ordinator; Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal; Sean McGuire, Patrick O’Malley, Sean Shackleton, Sean Tierney.

The Soundest Man in TY Patrick O’Malley

Sports person of the Year Oisín McLaughlin

TY Student of the Year 2015TY Student of the Year 2015 Rory Gannon, pictured with Mr. Michael Rabbette, School Principal (L) and Mr. Martin Gill, TY Co-ordinator (R).

French Club celebrates first birthday!

It’s important for students to realise that the Rice College community is an ever-changing entity. Therefore every year we remember in a special way deceased students and teachers who were part of the school community in their time and are now gone to their eternal reward. We remember also at this time the students, whose thoughtfulness provides us with such a fitting memorial focal point, the Memorial Garden. Thanks to you all.

1B CSPE class collected €500 for the Irish Heart Foundation

Well done to Ms. Roberts’s 1B CSPE class who fundraised in Westport for The Irish Heart Foundation’s “Happy Hearts” Collection on Friday 8th May. The boys were extremely successful in their efforts, raising almost €500 for this very worthy cause, in turn helping the Irish Heart Foundation provide care and support to those people and their families affected by heart disease and strokes in Ireland. A massive Thank you to everyone who supported; your generosity can make the difference and keep more hearts beating. Because every heart counts!

MINDSET MATTERS By Ms. Anne Donald-Joyce (Guidance Counsellor)

Our French club has been running each lunch-time, this academic year and students from 1st and 2nd year attended. It was a great success all year with great attendance. To celebrate our first year, a rounders match in French was organised for all club members and afterwards, we had a snack to recharge the batteries before class. The students thoroughly enjoyed the game and especially enjoyed playing on the new astro-turf pitch. The main purpose for setting up French club was to develop students’ speaking skills in French and to encourage life-long learning of French. Each week, students had a different topic to speak about and varied group activities were organised to facilitate a fun, educational and structured learning environment. The goal of each activity was primarily to develop communicative competence in addition to nurturing self-confidence and inter-personal skills. This gave students the opportunity to practice spoken French more freely, engage with others, and build upon prior knowledge acquired in class. I greatly enjoyed running French club because I could see first-hand the benefits that students were receiving and most importantly that I and the students engaged through French outside of the classroom. Bonnes vacances!

By Miss Géraldine Walsh professeur de français

The French Tricolor is hoisted on the new Astro turf pitch to celebrate the 1st anniversary of Rice College French Club

On Tuesday 21st of April the 5th year agricultural science class attended a field trip to Mountbellew Agricultural College, Co. Galway with their teacher Ms. Costello. This day out was organised to help students gain farm information for their 25% project work. Our day started bright and early as we set off for Mountbellew at 9 am, thankfully the rain stayed away and the sun was shining. When we arrived we met out tour guide John Kelly, a lecturer in the college. We were then taken on a tour of the farm which started with the importance of biosecurity by dipping our feet in the foot bath. During the tour we focused on the following areas in Mountbellew, machinery, suckler cows, beef, sheep and dairy productions. The boys gained valuable information from our excellent guide.We all thoroughly enjoyed our day at Mountbellew Agricultural College and the 5th year class gained many useful pieces of information about the workings in Mountbellew Agricultural College. By Ms. Sharon Costello Science Teacher

TY students painted a mural at the rear of the school gym, which is appealing to the walkers, cyclists and joggers using the Greenway. The mural depicts the steam powered Achill train crossing the viaduct in Newport. Mr. Martin Gill, TY Co-ordinator and his TY charges, proudly present this idylic scene. The Achill line ran alongside the location of this very fine student creation. It’s a stark reminder of the age of steam and steel.

The students are very grateful to the Parents’ Council, Bernie Walsh, Willie M c D o n a g h , Eithne Doherty, Paula Halpin, teachers, Ms. Hoban and Ms. Behan for their support of the project.

Niall Dunne - Mental Health Ireland Mayo Mental Health Association In Year 1 both an environmental and an awareness

survey was carried out by our greenschools committee. Our TYs were very busy building bird boxes and bird tables in their woodwork class. Also our first years set to work planting an array of spring bulbs.In year 2 the greenschools committee worked extremely hard constructing a mini beast motel, a leaf pile, a herb garden, adding pollinators to our school garden and erecting our colourful bird tables and bird boxes. Year 2 culminated with “biodiversity week” which included a very successful poetry and art competition for first years. On Friday 1st May a very informative talk on the swift bird was given by Lynda HuxleyRice College is now the recipient of five green flags for: litter and waste, energy, water, travel and biodiversity.We hope our Rice College community is now more aware of biodiversity and is enjoying the additions to our greenschools garden. Thanks to all who helped out in any way in making our biodiversity flag a reality.

Rice College awarded it’s 5th Green Flag! this one is for Biodiversity

By Ms. Paula BehanScience Teacher

“Change for Charity”

Our TY students have worked with great enthusiasm to help out “Change for Charity” campaign, which is based on the Central Bank’s rounding initiative to reduce the number of coins in circulation.The students began by registering with “change for charity”. We received 100 collection boxes that had to be assembled and distributed. We also received a large free standing collection box which was emptied from time to time by the organisers. We worked on the project over the year and have collected approximately €500 in 1 and 2 cent coins. We are very grateful to all the local businesses and Primary schools that helped us with our collection. We are now finished our collection, but if anyone still has a money box with coins in it, they can return it to either AIB or BOI Westport free standing collection boxes.

By Ms. Aisling Grimes, Maths Teacher

On Thursday May 14th the current crop of TY students said goodbye to Rice College for the summer holidays. It was a very fast year and an extremely fast last half term. Students were engaged in a lifesaving course. Some went camping to Clare Island and had fantastic time and the weather was amazing. Students went to NUIG for an Arts degree taster day and got a real feel for what college in Galway would be like. Allergan pharmaceuticals allowed us to visit their plant and the students got to see how a major company is run and organised. We had students participate in the Young Environmental Awards in the Mansion house in Dublin and were highly commended in their efforts. The students also completed their end of year interviews and the feedback from the interviewer was very good. Finally we headed for Munich and we sampled the sights Munich and Bavaria had to offer. I would like to thank the school management for allowing all the different activities to take place. I would like to thank all the parents/guardians for their support during the year and finally I would like to thank the students who put in a massive effort over the course of the year. I hope you got some positives experiences from the year. I hope you all enjoy the summer holidays.

T.Y. 2014 - 2015By Mr. Martin Gill, TY Co-ordinator

This term, our Second Year students from group 2B and 2D visited the Mosque in Ballyhaunis, as part of their learning for the Religious Education coursework and journal project. The students were given a guided tour with local Muslim resident, Manor Cherbati. The boys were given the opportunity to witness the sacred place of another religious group, exploring the features of the Mosque and how these aid members of the Ballyhaunis Muslim community to worship. Ms. Cherbati allowed the boys to gain insight into and respect for, the lifestyle, tradition and customs of those practising the Islamic faith.

Second Year Mosque Visit

Students in 1A raised €1522.50 as part of the schools fundraising for the pitch development. The boys raised the most money in the school and were treated to a day out, attending Mayo Movie World and going bowling afterwards. Well done to all the boys for their great fundraising efforts.

1A raised substantial funds!By Ms. Deirdre Ryan

By Ms. Ríona Prendergast

Mindset is a fixed mental attitude or disposition that predetermines a person’s response to and interpretations of situations. So the person who rigidly believes he/she cannot do something, even though there is no physical barrier to doing the task, will very possibly ultimately underachieve? This has consequences when learning is involved, or when we respond without thinking, in fraught situations. We can progress to a more open and flexible approach to what we experience, while staying real and being true to our principles according to eminent thinkers such as the psychologist Ulric Neisser (1928-2012), who looked at how people perceive, think and remember in the discipline of cognitive psychology. His interest was located in real world research and the study of people in real world situations. We can grow our sense of awareness and empower ourselves by recognising our unique skill set, acknowledging our weaknesses and acquiring other skills over our lifespan, we can realise our full potential. Our young people have the power to direct how they benefit from education and strive for success. Could we all turn the idea of learning around from the notion of ‘needing to learn into that of wanting to learn’? The attitude towards what is necessary when studying could be about a sense of valuing the power in independent learning. We are now frequently reminded that our brain has a type of elasticity to it. Sometimes the brain is compared to a muscle which can be stretched to a point of mental capability, which if worked on can surprise us. In the past we have heard our elders say things like, ‘if you don’t try you won’t know what you can really do’. Another common adage used in Irish says ‘Tús maith, leath na hoibre’. Somewhere in these words is an absolute truth. These well-intentioned pieces of advice were to motivate us into taking a positive action towards our future success, and for those who listened well, it worked! Occasionally a young person feels pressurised into not being true to themselves, or they may feel unable to reflect the strong moral values instilled into them from home. This type of peer pressure is very real and just how well a teenage student copes, can lie in how they have developed a positive mental attitude. In the case of bullying or discriminatory behaviour, these ways of automatic thinking or responses to people and situations are perhaps another indication of thoughtless actions, each having far-reaching consequences for others. Mind-set, our way of thinking about things, is very powerful indeed when it comes to an issue of respect for others. If we empathise with the feelings of others then we will not disrespect difference in all its forms.

Leaving Cert Applied By Ms. Julie Kennedy - LCA Co-ordinator

It has been a busy session with Task examinations and interviews, involving lots of preparation and hard work. Work experience was successfully undertaken. This is a very popular and worthwhile area of study which is instrumental in student development and most helpful in their career choice process. Many thanks to the committed employers who assist us so willingly in providing this very valuable aspect of school life. Visitors to the classroom are also an integral part of the Leaving Cert Applied programme and to whom we are much indebted. Those speakers have engaged and encouraged stewardship amongst the students, enabling them to become involved in fundraising within the school and wider community. Congratulations to the students who successfully completed the “ Safe Pass” course and collected other awards throughout the year. I wish you and your families a relaxing and healthy summer.

Rice College AWARDS - May 2015RICE COLLEGE AWARDS

Back L-R: Keith Joyce, Eoghan McLaughlin, Manus Smyth, Michael Brady, Robbie Harper, Declan Shanahan, Andrew Currid.Centre L-R: Paul Lambert, Emmet Rowley, Fintan McManamon, Alan McHale, John Ryan, Louis Hoban, Luca Ó Riain, Pat Lambert, Andrew Ferson, Shane Conway (Coach).Front L-R: Eoin Rowley, Michael Gallagher, Stephen O’Malley, Alan Kennedy, Colm Moran (Capt), Aaron O’Flaherty, Padraig O’Haire, Mikey O’Brien.

Back L-R: Ethan McEvilly, Conor Calvey, Conor Gallagher, Darragh Grimes, James Gallagher, Caolan O’Brien, Mark Gannon, Brian Kelly, Donal Ó Buachalla, Niall Kelly.Centre L-R: Ms. Sandra Hall (Joint Manager), Jack Carney, Kealan Gallagher, Iarla Keane, James Walsh, Mark O’Grady, Gareth Jordan, Alan Mulroy, Shane McGee, Mr. Brian Roache (Joint Manager).Front L-R: Nathan Heanue, Liam Doheny, Dylan Bourke, Michael Brady (Capt), Pat Lambert, Alan McHale, Stephen Walsh.

Back : L- R: Mr. Fergal Macken, Manager; Luke Tunney, Cian Gearghty, Pat Lambert, Jordan Donnellan, Ryan Heraty, Adam Letourney, Sean Moore, Rory Brickenden, Mark Moran, Gareth Jordan, Oisin Moran, Iarla Keane, Eoin O Neill ,Front L-R: Sean O Hanlan, Daniel Mc Govern, Stephen Loftus, John Keane, Emmett Rowley, Jack Carney, Sean Grime and Kevin Mc Guire.Absent from photo: Matt Horan, Manus Symth , John Mc Glynn , Patrick Chambers, Caolan O Brien, Fiachra Byrne and Liam Hanly.

Junior “A” Gaelic Team Junior “A” Connacht Champions Junior “A” Connacht League Winners Junior “A” Mayo Championship Winners

Mayo PP Hurling Junior Champions 2015

Juvenile Panel - Connacht “A” League Winners

Back L-R: Ms. Niamh Hoban (Teacher), Joseph Hastings, Niall McGovern, Dylan O’Neill, Ms. Mary McFadden (Teacher). Front L-R: Eoin Long, Robert Lee, John Hewer Absent from photo: Con Doherty, Sam Gillivan, Achlinn O’Reilly

Awarded 500 points or more in Leaving Cert 2014

All-Ireland Silver medalists & Connacht Champions in Cross-Country

Back L-R: Mr. Brian McManamon, Athletics Assistant; Mark Gannon, Sean Doherty, Mr. Pádraic Hughes, Athletics Assistant; Kian Moore, Cillian Heaney, Mr. Fergal Macken Athletics Co-ordinator; Ronan O’Donnell. Front L-R: Luke Dawson, Timothy Campion, Donbal Ó Buachalla. Absent from photo: Dylan Stanaway.

Connacht Junior Cross Country Silver medalists

John Keane, Mr. Pádraic Hughes, Athletics Assistant; Robbie Harper, Mr. Fergal Macken, Athletics Co-ordinator; Aaron Doherty, Mr. Brian McManamon, Athletics Assistant; Alex Ó Riain and Eoin Mc Laughlin.

Student Council 2014 - 2015

Back L-R: Ms. Sandra Hall, Teacher; Michael Brady, Sean Kitterick, Andrew Ferson, Eoin Conway, Alex Ó Riain, Ms. Ríona Prendergast, Teacher. Front L-R: Isaac Brickenden, Conor O’Hanlon, Peter Spellman. Absent from photo: Ian Higgins, Darragh Ludden, Joshua Nueva

Pope John Paul 11 Awards co-ordinated by teachers Ms. Niamh Hoban & Ms. Ríona Prendergast

Back L-R: Ms. Lorraine Ryan-Jennings, Teacher; James O’Malley, Jonathan Hannon, Ian Ryan, Jonathan Carney, Kevin O’Haire.Front L-R: Jack Carroll, Chris O’Donnell, Niall McManamon, Tony Geraghty.Absent from photo: Declan Harrisson, Josh Moran, Keith Hastings, Sam Pyle, James Masterson, Jack Halpin, Cathal Chambers, Ciaran Cooney, Conor Cunniffe, Joseph Smyth, Ciaran McGovern, Darragh Geraghty, Martin Hopkins. Excellence in Junior Cert Business- recognised by NUIG

L-R: Mr. Colin McConway, Teacher; Damien Doherty, Brian O’Malley, Adam Blaq, Cian Geraghty, Mr. Joe Cuddy, Teacher

Irish Science & Maths Olympiad

Pictured L-R:Ms. Paula Behan Science TeacherCian GeraghtyDamien DohertyAdam BlaqMr. Kenneth Moran, Maths Teacher

U15 Golf Team - 3rd. in Colleges U15

Pictured L-R:Jack BrazCharlie WalshDeclan MooneyMr. Joe Cuddy, Team Manager

GMIT Senior Science Quiz (Bronze medalists)

Pictured L-R:Aaron NolanMs. Sharon Costello (Sc. Teacher)James Moran, Ms. Paula Behan (Sc. Teacher)Sean Kitterick

All-Ireland Squash (Bronze medalists) Pictured L-R:Travis HarrisonOisín MallonDylan GalvinStephen WalshColin Harrison, Coach

Chemistry Olympiad DCU Bronze MedalAaron Nolan, Ms. Sharon Costello Teacher

Kennedy Cup U14 SoccerOnly student from West MayoLuke Dawson, Mr. Brendan Clarke Teacher

Environmental Award - Bronze medalists

L-R: Mr. Martin Gill, TY Co-ordinator; Daniel L. Moran, Daniel Flanagan, Kevin Lavelle, Ms. Pamela Flanagan, (Westport Tidy Towns) Absent from photo: Niall Brady, Alex Kielty, Luke Griffiths, Patrick O’Toole,

Doodle 4 Google Bronze medalists

L-R: Ms. Deirdre Hopkins (Art Teacher), Stephen Keating, Marley Hoban, Dylan Galvin, Dylan Burke, Ms. Julie Kennedy (Art Teacher) Absent from photo: James McStravick, Steven Keating, Colin Hope

French Week & European language day

Pictured L-R:Ms. Deirdre Hoban, Art TeacherDarragh GrimesPatrick ConwayMs. Julie Kennedy, Art TeacherAbsent:Thomas MoranColin HopeMark Walsh

Biodiversity Art Project - Runner Up

Pictured L-R:Ms. Deirdre Hopkins, Art TeacherJason GibbonsStephen KeatingMs. Julie Kennedy, Art Teacher

Cross Country & Athletics (Silver medalists) Pictured L-R:Luke DawsonPádraic Hughes, Athletics CoachCillian Heaney

RICE COLLEGE AWARDS RICE COLLEGE AWARDS

5th. Year Awards 2015

Jack Carroll 5th Year “Student of the Year” 2015

Fionn Quigley-McDonagh 5th Year“Sportsperson of the Year”2015

Nominees for 5th Year “Student of the Year 2015Back L-R: Shane Mannion, Darragh Geraghty, Adrian Wierzchuwski, Barry McGreal, Niall McManamon, Colin Sheridan, Paul Moran, Colin Guilfoyle, Dillon Rosenkranz, Sean Keane, Jack Halpin.Front L-R: Michael Rabbette, Principal; Jack Carroll, Ian Ryan, Gavin Walmsley, Cathal Chambers, Chris O’Donnell, Joshua Moran, Aaron McDermott, Joe Cuddy, Yr Head.

5th. Year Excellent Attendance 2014-2015

Leaving Cert Awards 2015Nominees for “Student of the Year” 2015

Back L-R: Conor McHale, Sean Ryder, Sean Brogan, Joshua Nueva, Sean Kitterick, Diarmaid McGreal, Conor Conway, Adam McNally, Mark McDonagh, Conor Burke, Mr. Shane Conway, Yr. Head.Front L-R: Mr. John G. Davin, Chairperson BOM; Finian Bradwell, James Moran, Rory McFadden, Matthew O’Donnell, Brian Spring, Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal.

Excellent Attendance Leaving Certs 2014-2015

Back L-R:Conor Burke, Ronan Higgins, Sean Ryder, Sean Kitterick, Mr. Shane Conway, Yr. Head.Front L-R: Mr. John G. Davin, Chairperson BOM; Finian Bradwell, Sean McKenna, Colm O’Donnell, Aaron Dunne, Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal.

Junior Cert Awards 2015

Back L-R: Martin Hopkins, Colin Sheridan, Chris O”Donnell, Isaac Brickenden, Colin Guilfoyle, Paul Duffy, Aaron Grimes.Front L-R: Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal; Jonathan Hannon, Jack Carroll, Keith Hastings, Mr. Joe Cuddy, Yr. Head.

Thomas Tunney, 2nd. Year “Student of the Year” for 2015

Seán O’Hanlon, 2nd. Year “Sportsperson of the Year” for 2015

Nominees for 2nd. Year “Student of the Year” 2015

2nd. Year Excellent Attendance 2015

Back L-R: Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal; Alan Mazurek, Sean O’Hanlon, Kevin McGuire, Jack Carney, Rory Brickenden, Kevin Heraty, James Moran, Stephen Loftus, Thomas Tunney, Michael Ryan, Aaron Fair, Jack Braz, Ryan Heraty, Ciaran Duffy, Sean Murray, Kevin Mortimer, John Gallagher, Yr. Head. Front L-R: Patrick Ryder, Sebastian Wierzchowski, Darragh Ludden, Sean Shackleton, Killian Chambers, Colm Staunton, Jonathan Monroe, Keelan Joyce, Michael Knox, James Moran, James Hopkins, David Moran.

Back L-R: Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal; Ryan Kilgallon-O’Hora, Jack Carney, Rory Brickenden, James Walsh, Kevin McKenna, Jack McGovern, Mark Moran, Sean Murray, Shane McGuire, Aaron Shorthall, Mr. John Gallagher, Yr. Head.Front L-R: Dylan Galvin, Pradeep Chhetri, Culann McNally, Darragh McGreal, Gerard Gibbons, Jonathan Monroe, Killian McNeela, Michael Knox, Mark O’Grady, Brian Kelly.

2nd. Year Awards 2015

John Ryan, 3rd Year “Student of the Year” 2015

Pat Lambert & Aaron Doherty“Sportspersons of the Year” 2015

3rd Year Nominees for “Student of the Year” 2015

3rd. Year Excellent Attendance 2014-2015

Back L-R: Thomas Cannon, Oisín O’Rourke, Ben Walsh, Travis Harrison, Alex Ó Riain, Brian Joyce, Stephen Walsh, Thomas Chambers, Ciarán Calvey, Nabil El Masry, Michael Brady, Shane McGee.Front L-R: James Treacy, Cian Moran, Cian McAllister, Kevin Ryder, Mr. Martin Connolly, Yr. Head; John Ryan, Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal; Daniel Moran, Fiachra Nolan, Ronán Walsh.

Back L-R: Mr. Martin Connolly, Yr. Head; Alex Ó Riain, Aaron Doherty, Patrick O’Connell, Brian Joyce, Oisín Mallon, Stephen Walsh, Ciarán Calvey, Fiachra Byrne, Mr. Michael Rabbette, Principal.Front L-R: James Treacy, Shane Ryall, Cian Moran, Cian McAllister, Fintan McManamon, John Keane, Eoin O’Neill, Bailey Nevin, Dylan Ralph, Kevin Ryder.

1st. Year Awards 2015

Patrick Conroy, 1st. Year “Student of the Year” for 2015

Luke Dawson, 1st. Year “Sportsperson of the Year” for 2015

1st. Year Nominees for “Student of the Year” 2015

Back L-R: Liam Horgan, Keith Joyce, Darragh Grimes, Pawel Wojcichowicz, Ethan McEvilly, James Pelham-Burn, Brian Mortimer, Dylan Stanaway, Erick Gannon, Stephen Keating, Ms. Sinéad Ruddy, Deputy Principal.Front L-R: Ms. Mary McFadden, Yr. Head; Patrick Conway, Alan Richardson, Jamie Hoban, Ronan O’Donnell, Matthew Dillane, Jason Gibbons, Oscar Jezierski.

1st. Year Excellent Attendance 2014-2015

Back L-R: Ms. Mary McFadden, Yr. Head; Declan Mooney, Joseph Corcoran, Ethan McEvilly, Cillian Healey, David Loftus, Daniel Heraty, Dylan Stanaway, Luke Dawson, Darragh Grimes, Keith Joyce, Donal O Buachalla, Ms. Sinéad Ruddy, Deputy Principal.Front L-R: Liam Horgan, Patrick Conway, Mark Gannon, Jamie Hoban, Tim Campion, Ben Golden, Sean Doherty, Oscar Jezierski.

Biodiversity Poem Winner & Runner-Up Pictured L-R:Ms. Aoife Caffrey (Teacher)Sean DohertyJonathan MulchroneKian MooreMs. Leah Duffy (Teacher)

Music Contribution Bronze medals

Pictured L-R:Matthew Dillane, Ms. Geraldine Walsh (Teacher), Donal Ó Buachalla

Academic ExcellenceHistory Project (Silver Medals)

Pictured L-R:Cillian McNeela, Ms. Niamh Hoban (Teacher), Thomas Tunney. Absent: James Moran

Best Junior Cert Art Project Pictured L-R:Ms. Deirdre Hopkins, TeacherMichael WallCian MoranBrian JoyceAlex Ó RiainMs. Julie Kennedy, Teacher Absent from photo:Theodor Serafimov

Pictured L-R:Mr. Brian Roache, TeacherNiall McManamonSean BroganMs. Sandra Hall, Teacher

All-Ireland Hurling Medals with Mayo

Pictured L-R:Ms. Anne Twohig, TeacherTomás MoranJames MoranMs. Aisling Grimes, Teacher

Mathematics Khan Academy - Silver medalists

Review-Writing competition (Mayo News)

L-R: Ms. Aoife Cafferkey, Teacher; Cian Dunne, Ms. Geraldine Walsh, Teacher

Fundraising (Gold medalist)

L-R: Ms. Máire Mulroy, Teacher;Jack Braz, Ms. Deirdre Ryan, Teacher

TY (I.T. Skills) - sillver medals

Harry Gillivan, Ms. Shauna Roberts, TeacherAbsent from photo:Darragh McNulty & Daniel Flanagan

Best Journal

Andrew Ferson, Mr. Martin Gill, Teacher.

E.U. Science OlympiadBronze Medal winner

L-R: Ms. Sharon Costello, Sc. Teacher, Damien Doherty (1 of 6) represented Ireland in Austria, competing against 25 other countries. The team came 3rd. in the world.Ms. Paula Behan, Science Teacheer.

West of Ireland Senior Golf ChampionshipHarry Gillivan - participant, with Mr. Joe Cuddy

Continuous Attendance at Homework Club

L-R: Ms. Shauna Roberts (Teacher), Danny Heraty, Darragh Grimes, Tim Campion, Gareth Jordan, Ms. Aoife Caffrey (Teacher).