year book 2006

Yearbook

2006

St Paul’s High SchoolBessbrook

stpaulsbessbrook.org.uk

St Paul’s High School108 Camlough Road

BessbrookNewry

BT35 7EE

Telephone: 028 3083 0309Fax: 028 3083 9948

Email: [email protected]: www.stpaulsbessbrook.org.uk

PrincipalMr Oliver A.G. Mooney

M.Sc. (Ed. Management), B.A. (Hons), P.G.C.E.

Chairman of GovernorsVery Reverend Father S. Larkin, P.P.

St Paul’s was established in 1966 with the aim of providing its students with a Christian education within the Catholic ethos.

St Paul’s is a Catholic Maintained School catering for boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 18.

The school is situated on a modern campus in pleasant rural surroundings between Camlough and Newry.

St Paul’s High School has recently undergone a complete refurbishment and site extension, boasting state of the art teaching and learning facilities

which will allow the school to continue to offer first class education to the children of our many different parishes.

stpaulsbessbrook.org.uk Page 1

Farewell

It is with some regret that I write this short goodbye

note to the Year 14s and those Year 12s who will not

return to St Paul’s in September 2006.

It seems only yesterday that I arrived in St Paul’s but in fact

many of you were just starting Year 11 and others were in

Year 9. It has been a great privilege getting to know you over

the past four years and watching you develop into such fine

young people. I have taken great pride in seeing you achieve

so much and also seeing this fine new building grow up

around you. I would like to thank you for coming to St Paul’s

and I would urge you to always hold it dear to your hearts. In

the years to come when you are asked where you went to

school, answer with pride, St Paul’s, Bessbrook.

Our communities and parishes need the skills and personal

qualities that you hold in such abundance. Share your gifts

generously with others and show respect for all the people

you come into contact with. Enjoy your lives, work hard and

take time with your families and always build in time for

yourself, it will help you to recharge and be ready for what

the world may throw at you. Remember also to save time to

say a prayer and you will never be alone.

Every good wish for the future.

Oliver Mooney

Principal


Year Heads

Mrs Bridget McConville Year 14A Farewell MessageHow can I say goodbye to this group, I have worked with many of you from day 1,1st September 1999. The past 2 years have been a pleasure, I have watched youblossom into very mature and well balanced young ladies and gentlemen. Weinherited a few extra for sixth form who have been woven into the fabric of StPaul’s. I hope you will continue to avail of the opportunities that cross your path,have the courage to go when necessary or pull back when you know you should.Remember that life is full of little diversions and sometimes we are simply not meantto go the straight forward route, but we will get there all the same. Enjoy theadventure, keep in touch,

Best wishes,

Mrs Bridget McConville

Mr Jarlath Burns Year 12Goodbye and Good Luck!It is a great pleasure for me to have been given the honour of being Year Head ofwhat was a most unique bunch of students - the class of 2001. Right from the firstmoment I saw you all in the Assembly Hall as fresh young Year Eighters, I knewthat we had a long road together ahead of us and that we should travel that roadas cheerfully as we could. Remember the ‘Pop Idol’ when Jody swept us awaywith ‘I Just Can’t Get You Outa my Mind’, or Eugene Coogan’s ‘If Tomorrow NeverComes’. Well tomorrow is now here and we can look back with great fondness onour time in St Paul’s. Our trips to Scotland when you persuaded me to go on thatcatapult thing just after my dinner. Not a good idea. We also had great days out inW5 and the Pictures and at the Pantomime. This year has gone in a flash and areal high point came when Anthony McParland lifted the Armagh title for the school.It was also tinged with sadness with the car accident in October, but as youngadults you really came into your own and proved how much we all are a part of thisYear Group. Thankfully, all are now doing well. This year has also given me anopportunity to eat my dinner with you all and I have enjoyed this also, even if youhave to prise some of you off your seats at 2pm!

So that’s it - the highs the lows - the coursework, assemblies, parent meetings,masses, classes, sports, trips, good days, bad days, holidays - it’s all coming to anend, though I really hope to see many of you back in September.

Finally, I’d like to thank all our form teachers for their understanding and time, Fr.Dermot, for his spiritual guidance, your class teachers for their patience andexpertise and Mr. Mooney for saying ‘Yes’ to some of our more hair brained ideas.Finally, I’d like to thank Mrs O’Hare and Mrs Morgan for having the energy and theenthusiasm to put this very first Year Book together.

Mr Jarlath Burns

Caolan ConnollyAs a Head Boy in St Paul’s I find my rolevery rewarding, and worthwhile. BeingHead boy has offered me the opportunityto connect with my fellow classmates inmany different ways. Through my role Ihave acted as friend, leader, follower andmore than often as an “agony uncle” tofriends in need of advice.

I also act as a student representative forthe school at various functions, such asmasses and meetings; this can beenjoyable as I get to meet new people anddevelop my interactive skills. One of thekey things that being Head boy, as well asa student of St Paul’s, has taught me, isthat if you work hard and give it your best,you can always achieve your goals.

Blinne MallieBeing Head Girl in St Paul’s has been one of the greatesthonours of my life. Having spent 7 years here I was ecstaticwhen given the opportunity to be a public representative for boththe pupils and the school. As Head Girl my duties have included

helping out at school functions, chairing our Student Council andhelping to organise important events such as our Year 14 formaland our leaving mass. My time at St Paul’s has been fantastic,an experience enhanced by my role as Head Girl. St Paul’s is agreat school and it has made a lasting impact on my life. I amvery proud to be Head Girl and it is a role I will always treasure.


Head Boy & Head Girl

Senior CouncilOur Senior Council in St Paul’s consistsof five members, Declan Byrne, PaulRocks, Orlagh Boyle, Caolan Connollyand Blinne Mallie.

Our role is to act as ambassadors forthe school and to attend functionsinside and outside of school. We alsoact as Head Prefects to a specific yeargroup and are there for any pupil whoneeds help or support.

As members of the Senior Council it is ouraim to set an example and to fulfil themessage of our prayer to St Paul “thereare only three things that last, faith, hopeand love and the greatest of these is love”

In September 2001, thirty newenthusiastic students joined 8/14 tobegin a journey which would take 5

years to complete and would shape theirfuture and the people they would become.It was evident from Year 8 that there weresome budding actors and actresses in ourmidst when a group of students performedin the Irish play “Aisling, Aisling” and wenton to win the All-Ireland in Mullingar.

In Year 9 other talents were unveiled whenseveral students took part in the “Stars inYer Eyes” contest. A trip to W5 wasarranged just before Christmas where thefun side of science was discovered. Formany students the most memorable trip inYear 9 and indeed the most memorable dayat St Paul’s, was undoubtedly the visit toM&Ds Theme Park in Motherwell. The 5amstart was not a problem and the fun and

laughter all the way will be etched in theirmemories forever. So good was this trip thatthey got to do it all over again in Year 10.

The major event in Year 10 was when theclass was selected to take part in theCreative Connections Programme run bythe CCEA. Thankfully we were linked tothe Canal Court Hotel who treated us likeroyalty over the two days. It would bedifficult for the class to forget how Orlamade learning through drama and musicboth fun and enjoyable. Five pupils werechosen to represent the school at thepresentation in Lisburn and the fun andlaughter provided by “Red Hand Luke “willnever be forgotten.

Year 11 got off to a great start with theKS3 Presentations. Claire Gallagher, avictim of the Omagh bombing gave an

inspirational speech and her courageshone through motivating all who werepresent. Special KS3 Awards were madeto Roisin Kelly for Maths, Laura Woods forFrench and Charlotte Rooney forContribution to Sport.

As Year 12 comes to an end the studentsare now focusing on their forthcomingexams. As they look back over the yearsthey can proudly remember their greatfundraising efforts during the Million PennyChallenge, the toiletries appeal for Romaniaand the Christmas Hampers for SVDP.Hopefully the Class of 12/14 will havehappy memories of St Paul’s and many willcontinue their educational journey in SixthForm next year. Caoimhe Sloan andJoseph McElroy it appears have reallyenjoyed their time here as they haven’tmissed a day since they joined St Paul’s!

Page 4 stpaulsbessbrook.org.uk

Class 12/14

Charlotte RooneyI enjoy all sports and play netball,camogie and football. While in year 8 asa member of the school’s football team,we won the Loch an Iúir cup. In year 10 I was selected to play for the under 16team in the Ulster Championships. Wewon the Ulster Cup and it was a mostmemorable occasion and one I willalways cherish.

Patrick ReaveyI started playing handball four years ago.I got plenty of practice in our handballcourts in St Paul’s. I joined the EugeneQuinn Handball Club in Armagh and afterwinning a few competitions I wasselected to represent my county in theUlster Championships. After winningsecond place I was asked to representthe county yet again in the Irish Finals ofthe “One Wall” Competition in Sligo in2005. I competed in the U16 age groupwhere I was placed second overall.


Form Teacher Mrs Brenda Fegan

Leona BannonSt Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer

Maureen Browne St Lawrence O’Toole PS

Niamh Burns St Peter's PS, Cloughrea

Nicola Byrne St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Rachel Carey St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Anouska Cromie St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Niamh Devine St Peter’s PS, Bessbrook

Jolene FeenanSt Teresa’s PS, Tullyherron

Grace Hollywood St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Shane CourtneyCloughoge PS

Roisin Kelly Cloughoge PS

Paul Malone St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Jemma McAnuff Cloughoge PS

Conor McArdle St Joseph’s PS, Bressbrook

Bridget JenningsJonesboro PS

Daniel McDonald St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Joseph McElroy St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly

Patrick McGrath St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Conor McParland St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Niall McArdle Jonesboro PS

Ryan Meehan St Mary’s PS, Barr

Joseph Murphy St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Shineen O’Hagan St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Patrick Reavey St Teresa’s PS, Tullyherron

Fergal McParlandSt Brigid’s PS Dromintee PS

Lauren Sheridan St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Caoibhe Sloan St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Lorna Trainor St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Laura Woods St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Charlotte Rooney St Malachy’s PS, Crossmaglen


Class 12/59

Ihave been Form Teacher to 12-59for five years. I can remember clearlybringing them to their form room that

morning (Rm19) which was a mobile in theyard beside the tennis courts. I could spotthe rogues straight away! (Only joking)

Patrice Casey joined 8A2, as we wereknown then, early in the first term andsettled in quickly where Catherine Flemingmade her feel so welcome. Thanks for that!

Linsey Anne Baker and Gary Courtney joined

us in Year 9. In Year 10 we welcomedFrancis Purcell from 10A3 and PatrickReavey left us to move to 10A1. JoannahMcGuinness became a new class memberand this left us with the present 12-59except for Sean Quail who also left 10A2 andLorraine Martin who joined us from 10A1.

A lovely bunch of pupils each blessed withtheir own individuality. We all had our upsand downs, our goods days and bad days.We fondly recall the school trips and as forstage performances well we were simply the

best with Jody McGuinness winning theStars in Their Eyes competition in Year 9with her outstanding rendition of KylieMinogue’s ‘Can’t Get You Out of My Head’and the whole class Assembly performanceof The World’s Greatest!

I hope you all strive to be the best you canand look back fondly on your time in StPaul’s as a stepping stone to greaterheights. I hope you keep prayer a significantpart of your life and may God’s willing handbless you always.

Danielle FeehanWhile in Year 8 Danielle was diagnosedwith Diabetes. It was remarkable howbrave Danielle was in facing this newchallenge in her life. Danielle is doinggreat and has used this as an opportunityto help others by organising a CharityNight in aid of diabetes. She raised amassive £2,000 for the Diabetes Fund.

.

Bridgeen O’HanlonRecently Bridgeen was described as “abreath of fresh air”. She is truly that and isan exceptional student in her approach toschool life. Bridgeen is always willing tohelp and no doubt will do well in whateverroad she chooses to travel in life.


Form Teacher Mrs Katrina Trainor

Patrice Casey Scoil Eoin Baiste PS, Dundalk

Danny Cinnamond St Malachy’s PS, Carnagat

Gary Courtney Cloughoge PS

Sarah Fagan St Oliver Plunkett PS

Linsey-Ann BakerCloughoge PS

Matthew Finnegan St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Catherine Fleming St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Declan Hannaway St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Vanessa Hanratty St Clare’s PS, Newry

Danielle Feehan St Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer

Sarah Hughes St Michael’s PS, Newtown

Grainne Lewis St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Shaundelle Marks St Mary’s PS, Mullaghbawn

Lorraine Martin St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Adele Hearty St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly

Lisa McArdle Dromintee PS

Sarah McCullagh St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Joannah McGuinness St Malachy’s PS, Dundalk

Jody McGuinness St Malachy’s PS, Carnagat

Jonathan McArdle Jonesboro PS

Nicola O’Brien St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Bridgeen O’Hanlon St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly

Francis Purcell Jonesboro PS

Conor Quinn St Michael’s, Newtown

Patrick Murphy Jonesboro PS

Conor Smyth St Teresa’s PS, Tullyheron

Karen Toner St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Brian Trainor St Malachy’s PS, Carnagat

Jane Woods Dromintee PS

Aine Smyth Cloughoge PS


Class 12/34

For the past five years I have been Form Teacher to12/34. During this time I have always found them to be anenthusiastic, pleasant and cooperative group of pupils. I

have observed them develop self-awareness, confidence and self-esteem. They have also acquired a wide range of abilities,knowledge and skills.

I hope that during my time as Form Teacher I have helped them tounderstand the world they live in and guided them into makinginformed decisions to prepare them for the future responsibilitiesas contributing members of the community. I wish you all a longand prosperous future and may all your dreams come true.

Philomena MurrayPhilomena has been involved in Athleticsfrom a young age. She has competed forthe school in Track and Field, Cross-Country and won numerous awards. In2003 she came 1st in the N.I. 250mhurdles and 3rd in the N.I. Multi-Event. In2005 she won the Junior All IrelandHeptathlon which is an outstandingachievement. I wish her every success inher sport for the future and know that shewill always be a credit to her school.

Paul O’RourkePaul has been involved in Gaelic Footballsince he was 8 years old. He has wonnumerous league and championshipmedals for the St Michael’s GFC and StPaul’s U16 team. Recently he took upboxing for the Bosco ABC in Newry andwon the Mid-Ulster Championship in2005. I wish him every success in bothsports for the future.


Form Teacher Mrs Bernadette Cunningham

Shauna Campbell St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Martin Connolly St Lawrence O’Toole PS

Stephanie Connolly St Michael's, Newtown

Eugene Coogan Killean PS

Elisha Campbell Cloughoge PS

Nadine Hillen St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Mark McArdle Dromintee PS

Darren McCabe St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Donna McCabe St Joseph’s PS, Newry

Michael Downey St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Niall McVerry St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Damien MorganKillean PS

Philomena MurrayDromintee PS

Sean Murray St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Shane McParland St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Paul O’Rourke St Colman’s PS, Newry

Martin Traynor Cloughoge PS

Raymond O’Hanlon St Joseph’s PS, Meigh


Class 12/73

Ihave been form teacher of 12/73since September 2004. During that timeYear 12 pupils have successfully

completed the following courses:

� OCR Level 1 Certificate 4 for I.T. Users(New CLAIT)

� NIOCN CV Job skills Level 1 and Level 2� Key Skills Level 1� ASDAN Certificate in Life Skills (Level 1)

The pupils have participated in a highlystructured vocational programme. Thisinvolves work experience each Thursday anda LINKS Programme with Newry Instituteeach Friday resulting in CCEA qualifications.

The pupils follow a highly developedprogramme including a variety of

‘off site’ activities.

It has been a pleasure to teach this year 12group and I would hope that they woulduse the skills acquired to follow a highlysuccessful vocational career.

The pupils of 12/73 are engaged in a highlydeveloped vocational programme whichinvolves going on Work Experience one dayper week and being involved in a LINKSProgramme one day per week. The social,educational and recreational curriculum isgeared entirely to the world of work.

Outcomes and AchievementsPupils gain an in depth awareness of whatis required in the world of work .Theydevelop skills required for the world of work.

They learn to follow instructions in a worksetting and develop personal skills indealing with the public. They sample avariety of work placements under guidancefrom Careers Officers and decide on acareer based on Work ExperiencePlacements.

Recently the students from 12/73 haveproudly launched their own mini company,producing unique gifts for the Mother’s Daymarket. The company is called “TheseDays” and the pupils were delighted to offertheir exclusive range of presents and giftsjust in time for Mother’s Day in March.

They also participate in the YoungEnterprise Scheme and the Essential skillsprogramme run by Newry Institute.


Form Teacher Mr Patrick McAvoy

Gary Hanratty St Malachy’s PS, Carnagat

Patrick Haw St Patrick’s PS, Armagh LSC

Shane Johnston St Colman’s, Kilkeel

Kevin McCartney St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Adrian Dowdall Killean PS, Newry

Aoife O’Reilly St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Jamie Murray St Joseph’s LSC, Bessbrook

Aoife O’Reilly“I have really enjoyed my time in St Paul’sand have learnt a lot about work. I wouldlike to follow a career in beauty orhairdressing”.

Jamie Murray“I have had a great time in St Paul’s but Inow want to leave and get a job inhorticulture”.

Ifirst set my eyes on little angels12B2 in September 2001 when they weretotally mesmerised by the size of our

school. All fifteen asked the same question ,“what do we do if we get lost?”. Eventuallythey all found their way around and settled inreally well to their new environment. I willalways remember the good times, the trips toScotland and Michael’s stories of his mum’scooking and the various escapades of Nialland his broken bones. I can honestly say thatI got to know you all well and enjoyed beingyour form teacher for four years. I wish you allthe luck in the world in your chosen careersand hope that you will remember us in StPaul’s with happy memories. God Bless.

Maria Wilson

11B3 were my form class fromSeptember 2001 until June 2005.They were one of the nicest form

classes I have had to administer to duringmy years at St Paul’s. Their behaviour andapplication to work was First Class, andtheir academic achievements andexamination results are to be commended.As a form class, we enjoyed trips toGosford Forest Park, M&D’s in Glasgowand The Opera House in Belfast.

To all, I offer best wishes for the future andgood luck in your chosen career.

Pat. McCann

F riday 31st August 2001 announced thearrival of Year 8 with a welcome form MrDuffy, Fr. Benny and Mr Burns and my

first meeting with 8B1. The class consisted of11 boys and 5 girls and they were Sean,Stefan, Darren, Brian, Kieran, Gavin, Neil,Shane, Barry, Darryl, Christopher, Danielle,Natasha, Jacqueline, Laura, and Niamh.

Our first meeting began with a crisis when Icalled the class register and the first nameDanielle Feehan, two girls answered “present”.Mr Burns was summoned to solve the problem.

In my work as form teacher I was greatlyassisted by Becky and Jenna, two great girlswho took the role of Senior Class prefects.We all bonded well and over the yearstravelled to Newry, Belfast and Scotland tobroaden our horizons. Many changes tookplace over the years; Jacqueline and Brianleft to attend schools in Newry; Christopher,Kieran Darren and Natasha moved to newclasses and Charlene, Eugene and Hollyarrived. There are many memories of theseyears from the Friday Afternoon Club wherewe watched films, played cards and boardgames and tried our hand at generalknowledge. The Thursday morning breakwith tea and biscuits was a great hit.

When I cast my mind back over the last fiveyears I remember with great fondnessSeptember 2002 when Neil won the two All-Ireland Football tickets and the great delight

that one of our class would be at CrokePark to cheer on the county team!

It was with much disappointment that I learnedin September 2005 that I would no longer beform teacher to this group that I had watchedgrow and mature and had developed greataffection for. October 2005 brought with it theheartbreaking news of Sean’s car accident.Thankfully as I write Sean is recovering well.

To all the members of 8B1, those whostarted with me or joined me along the way,a little reflection.

“My will shall shape the future whether I failor succeed shall be my own doing; I canclear any obstacle before me or I can be lostin the maze, my choice, my responsibility,win or lose, only I hold the key to my destiny”

I wish you all health, happiness and success.Don’t forget to say your prayers and say one forme. God Bless and take care

Imelda Smith

I n September 2005 I was made formteacher to a class called 12/83, a mixtureof pupils from three different Year 11

classes. It has been my privilege and joy towork with such wonderful pupils who haveachieved so much this past year. I wish all ofclass 12/83 everything good for the futureand special wishes to Sean Downey who hasbeen in our thoughts and prayers this year.

Mary McManus


Class 12/83

This class is an amalgamation of three form classes whose previousform teachers include Mr P. McCann, Mrs M. Wilson and Mrs I. Smith.


Form Teacher Ms Mary McManus

Holly Cruise Damien Doran St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Fergal Durnin St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Connor Hannaway St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Andrew Black St Oliver Plunkett PS

Stefan Kearney St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Roisine McClorey St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Michaela McElherron St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Stacey McEvoy St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Stephanie Hughes St Michael’s PS

Cathal McKeown Cloughoge PS

Michelle McManus Joneboro PS

Siobhan Shields St Malachy’s PS, Crossmaglen

Sean Quail St Paul’s Primary School PS

Leanne McGrath St Clare’s PS, Newry

Christopher Worsford St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Stephanie Hughes Stephanie was in Mr McCann’s form classfrom September 2001 to June 2005. Shewas part of the year group that visitedM&Ds Theme Park near Glasgow on twooccasions. Her academic achievements areto be commended. Best wishes for thefuture and good luck in your chosen career.

Andrew BlackAndrew was in Mr McCann’s form classfrom September 2001- June 2005,Andrew enjoyed his visit to M&Ds ThemePark. He worked hard and achieved goodresults. I wish Andrew all the best in hischosen career.

Michaela McElherron Michaela has shown great maturitythroughout the year. She was a popularmember of the class and proved to be ofgreat assistance to her teachers. I wish herevery success and happiness in the future.

Damian DoranDamian also showed great maturity thisyear. Top achievements were reached byDamian in his chosen fields of study. Iwish him every success and happiness forthe future.

12/19 is a very special class,having originated for anamalgamation of the original 8A3and 8A4 that entered St Paul’s inSeptember 2001.

The students in 12/19 haveworked together excellently in theirfive years here, and have created a

special dynamic which has continued withthem all through the years.

Looking back on the five years we havespent together, it is easy to smile at themany happy class occasions when wevisited the Grand Opera House in Belfast,M and D’s Park in Motherwell (twice),played football on the Green at Carlingford

and several trips to the Omniplex in Newry.

I am very proud of all the fantasticachievements of every one of the thirtystudents in 12/19 and I wish them the verybest in their future careers. I hope they willlook fondly on their time at St Paul’s andhave enjoyed the most important days oftheir lives.


Class 12/19

Gerard MulhollandGerard Mulholland is an All-IrelandBoxing Champion, having brought greathonour to his family, to his club, StMalachy’s ABC, Camlough and hisschool over recent years. Gerard’sfantastic success in the ring includes:

� Mid-Ulster Champion, 2000, 2001,2002, 2003, 2004, 2006

� Ulster Champion, 2000, 2001, 2002,2003, 2004

� Nine Counties Champion, 2001,2002, 2005

� All-Ireland Semi-Finalist, 2003� All-Ireland Finalist, 2001� Best Club Boxer, 2003, 2004

Marie O’Hare & Jennifer RooneyWe are all very proud of Marie andJennifer’s achievements as members ofSt Brigid’s Accordion Band,Jonesborough, who brought greatacclaim to the local area by winning theAll-Ireland Title for Marching Bands.Jennifer and Marie both give up massiveamounts of their spare time to their localband, and both are accomplishedaccordion players.


Form Teacher Mr Daithi Murray

Caron Courtney St Peter’s PS, Cloughreagh

Aoife Farrell St Teresa’s PS, Tullyherron

Leanne Finnegan St Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer

Frances Gorman St Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer

Riona Connolly Jonesboro PS

Cillian Keating St Oliver Plunkett PS, Forkhill

Sinead King St Peter’s PS, Cloughreagh

Martin Larkin St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Gareth Lennon St Oliver Plunkett PS, Forkhill

Tara-Louise HollywoodCloughoge PS

Jenny Loye St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Sean McCullough St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

James McGuinness St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Miceal McMullan Jonesboro PS

Hannah Loughran St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Anthony McParland St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Shereen McParland St Michael’s PS, N’hamilton

Shineen McParland St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly

Seamus McVerry St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Turlough McNally St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Cheryl Murtagh St Joseph’s PS, Newry

Marie O’Hare Dromintee PS

Shane Pentony St Peter’s PS, Cloughreagh

Carly Reel St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Gerard Mulholland St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly

Sinead Scott St Columba’s PS, Birmingham

Laurence Tiernan Dromintee PS

Natalie Tremer St Malachy’s PS, Carnagat

Sean Turley St Teresa’s PS, Tullyherron

Jennifer Rooney St Malachy’s PS, Carnaget


Class 12/62

L ong long ago, to avoid getting lost ina big underground cave; an ancientGreek had the bright idea of

unravelling the thread in his tunic to makea line that would mark his way throughmany twists and turns of the cave. Byholding on to the thread he wouldn’t getlost and would be safe.

When you came to our school almost fiveyears ago, it was a time of massivechange, not just for you but for us too.There was the new building, a newprincipal, strange surroundings, weird

subjects and wonderful teachers.Everything you have done in school hascombined to make it an unforgettableexperience. It will however, take time andwisdom for you to appreciate this.

Like the ancient Greek, the school hashelped you grasp a thread which hasguided you for the nine hundred and fiftydays of your school life.

In that short time, you will have learnedtimeless lessons of truth, faith, justice,human dignity and personal integrity.

All of you in 12 62 have been a genuinepleasure to know, and being your formteacher has been a positive experience forme. Thank you.

Whether you return next year or goelsewhere - may you have health, holinessand happiness and remember - hold on tothat thread at home and in yourcommunity, because the cave of life cansometimes be dark and dangerous.

Liam O’Keeffe


Form Teacher Mr Liam O’Keeffe

Gerard CampbellCarrickrovaddy PS

James Convery St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Anthony Cooke St Michael’s PS, Newtown

Rosemarie Doran St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly

Tony BradleyCarrickrovaddy PS

Garreth Fitzpatrick St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Kevin Gallagher Jonesboro PS

Hugh Hanna St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Martin Hollywood St Michael’s PS, Newtown

Sean-Og Duffy St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Angeline McCann St Teresa’s PS, Tullyheron

Aoibheann McCrink St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Sean McElvanna St Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer

Stephen McGuigan St Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer

Leanne Lennon St Peter’s PS, Bessbrook

Catherine Mooney Cloughoge PS

Dean Russell St Teresa’s PS, Tullyheron

Emma-Louise Toman St Peter’s PS, Bessbrook

Mairtin McTaggart St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea


Class 12/60

Protocol Skills The Protocol team’s aim is to guide andadvise the student in whatever career paththey wish to make. The students will advisethe team what area or areas they areinterested in and the Protocol team will offerpractical advice on how to achieve this.

This vocational training means that thestudents are getting real experience andtraining and will gain a nationallyrecognised qualification at their graduationceremony.

The STEPS ProgrammeThis programme in School TrainingEducation Partnership takes place atSouthern Group Enterprises Ltd.

It is based on Vocational and Occupationaltraining delivered in both formal and

practical ways. It is a five day weekprogramme where pupils remain on ourschool register and follow the rules laiddown by Training for Business and StPaul’s High School.

Courses on offer are: Communications,Application of Number, InformationTechnology, Tiling, Motor Vehicle Repair,Bricklaying, Joinery, Personal DevelopmentProgramme. All the above courses have anationally accredited award on completion.Work Placement provides a sampling ofvarious occupations.

ASDAN Programme (Certificatein Life Skills)ASDANs Certificate in Life Skills is an EntryLevel Qualification and provides aconsistent and coherent framework for thedevelopment and assessment of skills

essential for adult life and the continuanceof lifelong learning. The four units taken areCitizenship, Community, Personal Careand Preparation for Working Life.

The Alternative SchoolsProgramme Year 12 GirlsThis programme is delivered two days aweek by the Training for Business team atSouthern Group Enterprises ltd and offersa way of obtaining vocational qualificationsthrough schemes sponsored by theTraining and Employment Agency.

LINKS ProgrammeThis course takes place on a Friday in boththe Newry Institute of Further and HigherEducation and the Greenbank IndustrialEstate.Year 12 pupils choose two coursesthat interest them and fit it in with theirwork experience.

Gavin Black

Alternative Vocational Programmes for Year 12


Form Teacher Ms Mary McManus

Gerard Magee

Kenneth McAteer

Ryan Morrison

Mark Maguire

Shane Finnegan


Class 12/80

I first met with 11A3 in September of 2004 and they have beenmy first form class in St Paul’s and I have been very fortunate asthey have been a very affable and amicable bunch of young

people. There is no doubt that the members of the class will go on

to achieve many notable successes across a variety of disciplines inlife both academic and vocational. It is great to have such a goodform class but the only downside is that future form classes maystruggle to be as honest, friendly and decent as this years 12 80.

Melissa BeattieMelissa is an energetic and motivatedpupil who has been in charge of the classregister over the last year. She hasrepresented St Paul’s in netball andfootball and was a member of the danceteam who won awards at the NorthernIreland Dance Championships. She playsLadies Gaelic football for Forkhill. Herambition is to become a teacher or workwith children in a nursery.

Nadine BrittonNadine has also been responsible for theclass register as Class Prefect and is ahelpful and enthusiastic pupil. Herfavourite subjects are Science and ICTand she hopes to become a paramedicafter studying at University. She playscamogie for Killeavy Seniors and is amember of the Newry Youth Company,Dance and Aerobic Team.


Form Teacher Mr John Rafferty

Lauren Boyle St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Nadine Britton Cloughoge PS

Darragh Byrne Cloghoge PS

Miceal Doran Cloughoge PS

Melissa Beattie St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Louise Keatings St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Neil-Paul Lennon St Malachy’s PS, Camlough

Declan Little Dromitee PS

Donna Marie McAleenan St Peter’s PS, Cloughrea

Anna-Marie Fitzpatick St Oliver Plunkett PS, Belfast

Kieran McDonald Cloughoge PS

Cathal McGuinness Killean PS

Catriona O’Shea St Ambrose Sec. School

Donna PreeceSt Malachy's, Carnagat

Sean McCourt St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook

Meabh Mulgrew St Joseph’s PS, Meigh

Carla Smyth St Teresa’s PS, Tullyheron

Ciaran Rocks St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook


Careers

T he Careers Programme in Year 12focused on preparing all students tofinish secondary education with a

positive view of their potential and aware ofthe many and varied options open to them.

The careers lesson was structured to alloweach pupil to concentrate on recording theirachievements, writing personal statements,curriculum vitas and career plans. This wasa process that ensured the pupil developedon a personal level.

Information regarding options was availablefrom websites and prospectuses. Meetingpersonnel from the Careers Service ofNorthern Ireland and the variousrepresentatives from training agencies suchas Clanrye, Links and Training for Businesswas a useful aspect of career guidance.Newry Institute also gave a presentation to

Year 12 pupils. They offer a wide range ofchoices that will suit all types of abilities andinterests. The most exciting option was theopportunity to return to St Paul’s. In thelight of the new building and the wide rangeof subjects offered to post sixteen studentsthis will have to be a strong considerationfor all Year 12 pupils.

A busy year involving a full spectrum ofactivities and events could not have beenas organised or successful without the helpof Mrs Shauna Magennis. A sincere thanksmust go to her for all her hard work withYear 12 and Year 14 pupils.

This group of students were highlymotivated and will ensure the highreputation that St Paul’s has developed overthe years will not only be maintained butenhanced!

AmigosAmigos which is the Spanish word for friendsis a group of Year 12 students who areengaged in peer mentoring, having beentrained in counselling skills. The team of 10students, who work in pairs, are assigned toa Year 8 form class, and give up their freetime to attend to the many duties whichinclude visiting their assigned classes on aweekly basis, and acting as a ‘buddy’ to help

younger students with whatever difficulties orproblems they may be experiencing. Thesestudents play a vital role in ensuring that ourYear 8 pupils integrate easily into secondaryschool life and enthusiastically dedicatethemselves to their role.

Year 12 pupils involved in “Amigos”Charlotte Rooney, Roisin Kelly. CaoibheSloan, Bridgeen O’Hanlon, Conor Smith,Sarah McCullough, Hannah Loughran,Jenny Loye, Cheryl Murtagh, Sinéad King.

Interview SkillsDay for Year 14

A most important part of Year 14’sCareer Programme is the Interview Skillsday. Organised to prepare the studentsfor university interviews, this is a greatopportunity to perform in a virtual yetencouraging and safe environment. Thestudents never fail to impress thefacilitators that are invited from thevarious training agencies, companies andorganisations in the local area. Theydress to impress, communicate well andare great ambassadors for our school.Use this experience well and never letmodesty get in the way of performingwell in any interview situation.


Music Mr Colm Murphy

T he School Choir are the currentSELB UTV Choir of the Year. Theyhave provided music for many

liturgies in and out of school, the mostdistinguished being at the Year 10 Retreatin St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh. The choir is a keen participant in the localfeiseanna. This year they were awarded‘The HairFlair Cup’ for second level schoolsand ‘The James Murphy Memorial Cup’ forSacred Music.

This is the second year of the orchestra’sexistence. Approximately 150 studentsreceive instrumental tuition each week andare encouraged to become involved in theSchool Orchestra and various otherensembles. The orchestra has providedmusic at the Christmas Carol Service and at the Spring Concert in April. Nextyear we will be looking forward towelcoming some Brass and Percussionplayers into the orchestra.

The School Traditional Group is a verypopular extra-curricular activity here in StPaul’s. The group plays a repertoire of Irishtraditional and Irish contemporary dancetunes and slow airs. They have providedmusical entertainment for the annual prize-giving ceremony, open nights and at the

Spring Concert in April. The traditionalgroup is an annual competitor at the localfeiseanna and have been awarded ‘TheCorn na Feise Cup’ for the past three years.

The Chamber Choir involves seniorstudents only. They rehearse at lunch timesand have a wide repertoire, ranging fromSacred Music to music recorded byWestlife. The have provided music for the

annual prize-giving ceremonies and formany liturgies throughout the year.

It is with great regret that we will be sayinggood bye to our some of our Year 12 andour Year 14 students who have added somuch to each activity within our MusicDepartment over the past number of years.We wish them every success with the futurestudies and in their lives ahead.

S t Paul’s High School success in theprestigious Northern Ireland Danceand Aerobic Championships in 2006

was outstanding achieving two first placesand a second.

The competition held in the Lagan ValleyCentre, Lisburn attracted schools from all

over Northern Ireland and a total of 91 itemswere entered in the different categories. Apanel of six adjudicators had the oneroustask of judging from a high standard ofperformance. St Paul’s with two firstsdominated both dance sections in junior andsenior and were just pipped at the post andtook second place in the senior aerobics.

I am delighted with the recognition given tothe standard of dance in St Paul’s and feelthat everyone should be very proud of theirachievements. St Paul’s has excelled bytaking titles in dance and aerobics for thelast six years (not only in N. Ireland but alsoAll Ireland level)- an outstandingaccomplishment. The senior school danceteam were runners up in the All IrelandTyrone Crystal competition in 2005

The senior dance pupils leaving StPaul’s this year who have beeninvolved in dance are:Catherine Mallon (14 76), Kelly-Ann Hughes(14 71), Louise McNulty (14 71), SarahFagan (12 59) and Shaundelle Marks (1259). I wish them success and happiness inthe future.


Dance Miss Catherine Murphy

Senior Dance Pupils leaveSt Paul’s on a high!

Kelly-Ann Hughes Year 14Kelly has demonstrated an outstandingcommitment to dance. She has been amember of all school dance teams sinceshe came to the school in Year 8. Shehas an excellent knowledge of all dancedisciplines and is an asset to her teamand her school.


Girls’ Football Mrs Anne Hollywood

T his St Paul’s team played in the UlsterGirls Gaelic Final on 17th February2004 against St Aidens, Derrylin, Co.

Fermanagh in a highly contested match. Itwas the first time any Armagh team, at anylevel, school, college or county had won aGirls Ulster Title. This team has made it’sown piece of football history in winning thisprestigious title. Louise McNulty was ourCaptain on this occasion and ShaunaMcCann was Vice Captain.

The first 15 players were: Orla McKenna(Goals), Fionnuala Reel, Shauna McCann,Ciara McEneaney, Kelly-Ann Hughes,Louise McNulty, Nadine Lynch, Amy Flynn,Emma McCartney, Briege Rice, SineadFinnegan, Vanessa McParland, GemmaCourtney, Geraldine King, CharlotteRooney, Caoimhe Murray.

Football began with this group of girlsseven years ago. The Ulster Council gaveus permission to have an Armagh Year 8competition. Mr Burns kindly funded abeautiful trophy called the “Corn Loch anIúir”. We won the competition for 4 years

until St Joseph’s, Crossmaglen claimed itfrom us. We have since won it back again.When this group of girls were just in Year 9they won the Newry and Mourne Leagueand Championship and the ArmaghChampionship! In Year 10 they retained allthe above titles and went forward torepresent Armagh at Ulster level. Wereached the Ulster Final that year but werenarrowly defeated by Dean Maguire,Carrickmore by 2 points.

In Year 11 this team again won the Newryand Mourne League and Championshipand reached the semi-final of the UlsterChampionship where we were beaten bythe Monaghan Champions.

In Year 12 they again won the Newry andMourne League and Championship and thecoveted Ulster Title. Many of the team wereselected to play at County level (U.16)

They entered the U.18 CountyChampionships when in Year 13 and againwon the county title. They reached theUlster semi-final stage of the competition.

In Year 14 a number of pupils from thisprize-winning team have been invited on tothe successful Senior Armagh Ladies teamand hopefully will help them win another All-Ireland Title!


St Vincent De Paul Fr Dermot Maloney

A s part of St Paul’s commitment toour local community, the St VincentDe Paul Society, which was

established in 2003 in school, regularlyvisits local nursing homes. This gives ourSenior students an opportunity to spendtime with the residents and to entertainthem with songs, music and games. Theactivities of the Society are coordinated byan elected committee of Year 13 and 14students who work closely with Fr Dermoton various events.

Year 14 pupils members of St Vincent DePaul are Catherine Mallon, Briege Rice,Laura Magennis, Ruth McParland, CiaraMcEneany, Caolan Connolly, Blinne Mallie,Sinead Savage, Dervala Tumilty, KellyMcGuirk, Orlagh Boyle, Declan Byrne.

LourdesStudents are encouraged to participate inthe annual pilgrimage to Lourdes and theYear 14 pupils who went on the 2005pilgrimage are pictured here. They are JohnSavage, Briege Rice, Colleen Woods,Declan Byrne.

“It was a memorableexperience that I willtreasure and I thank StPaul’s for giving me thiswonderful opportunity” John Savage

“For me the pilgrimage wasa combination of spiritualcontemplation as well as anopportunity to bond with mypeers and experience theFrench culture” Declan Byrne

“For me Lourdes was afantastic opportunity tomeet new people,strengthen old bonds andappreciate one's health” Dervala Tumilty


Class 14/71 Form Teacher Mrs Anne Black

O pportunities, challenges andsuccesses are waiting for you.Embrace them with courage and a

confidence that has no boundaries.

This last two years in school have been asound training ground and it has been a

pleasure and an honour to work alongside youas you have developed and broadened. As aform group you were open, responsive andfriendly. As individuals you were talented,impressive, resourceful, entertaining...I couldgo on and on in my bid to include the diverserange of intelligences evident in the form class.

I wish each and every one of you goodluck, health and happiness in your chosencareer path. Keep an open mind and giveserious thought to all your future decisions.

You were great to know.Anne Black


Class 14/71

Orlagh Boyle St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI enjoy swimming, socialising, jujitsu and walking. My most memorable moment in St Paul’s was our schoolformal. I would like to do engineering at university and my wish for the future is that I pass my exams, find adream job and that all my friends are happy.

Bernadette Brannigan St Malachy’s PS, CamloughI like box-aerobics and socialising. My most memorable moment in St Paul’s is always having a laugh with thegirls. I would like to do engineering at university and my wish for the future is to remain friends with all thegirls, get rich quick and be happy!

Declan Byrne St Joseph’s PS, MeighAt St Paul’s I am a member of St Vincent de Paul, a senior prefect and part of the paired reading project. I talk incessantly and love to do numerous impressions. My most memorable moment here is our trip toLondiani in Kenya, a fantastic life experience. I would like to become a Religion teacher after university. Mywish for the future is that everyone gets the best out of life and that all my friends keep safe and have goodluck in their lives.

Joanne Byrne St Joseph’s PS, MeighI enjoy socialising, circuit training, spinning and Art!. My most memorable moment was having my art workdisplayed at the “True Colours” Exhibition in the Waterfront Hall in Belfast. I would like to teach Art & Design.My wish for the future is to be happy, to travel and to achieve a successful career.

Caolan Connolly Jonesboro PSI am Head Boy at St Paul’s and a member of both the St Vincent de Paul and the Taize Group. My mostmemorable moment were getting chosen as Head Boy and going on holiday to Ibiza!. I would like to studyPsychiatry at university. My wish for the future is to become an eminent psychiatrist but most of all to behappy in life!

Briege Duffy St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI enjoy going out with my friends and listening to music. My most memorable moments at St Paul’s includeour school formal and the last day of Year 12 as they were both great craic. I would like to follow a career innursing some day. My wish for the future is for everyone to be happy, rich and get great jobs!


Form Teacher Mrs Anne Black

Cathal Fegan Abbey Grammar SchoolI play football and enjoy dancing. I love to boogie especially on a Saturday night!. I would like to have a careerin Property Investment. I have had some of the best times of my life here in St Paul’s over the last two years..so thanks to all of you.

Sinead Finnegan St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI enjoy playing Gaelic football and texting flat out! My most memorable moments at St Paul’s include winningthe U16 Ulster Championship and being chosen as Prom Queen by my fellow students at the formal. I don’tknow what career I will end up doing but preferably one with good holidays and good money!

Kelly-Ann Hughes St Michael’s PS, NewtownI enjoy dancing, shopping and socialising. My most memorable moments at St Paul’s include winning the U16Ulster title and the NI Dance Championships. I also had a great time at the school formal. I would like to studyPharmacy at university. My wish for the future is to have success, love and happiness!

Seamus Hughes St Colman’s CollegeI play soccer and Gaelic football but would really like to be a cheerleader for Miss Murphy’s dance team. My most memorable moment was dancing at the school formal. I would either like to be a Primary SchoolTeacher or a choreographer.

John Magill St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI play Gaelic football and like to eat a lot but it doesn’t show. My most memorable moment at St Paul’s wasthe formal- best night ever! I have met many great friends during my time at St Paul's and my wish for thefuture is to be the best teacher I can and to become a brunette!

Blinne Mallie Dromintee PSAt St Paul’s I am Head Girl, Chairperson of the Student Council and a member of the St Vincent De PaulSociety. I also like organising social events. My most memorable moments include summers at the Gaeltacht,working in San Francisco, passing my driving test and the school formal. I would like to become a lawyer or aTV Presenter. My wish for the future is to have the best life possible, be happy and see the world!


Class 14/71

Shauna McCann St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI enjoy swimming, golf, Gaelic football, netball and listening to music. My most memorable moments includewinning the U16 Ulster football title, being selected for the U17 SELB netball squad and of course winningMrs Morgan’s Library Art Competition in Year 8! I would like to become a Special Needs teacher and also setup a club where special needs children can learn different sports. My wish for the future is to be happy,successful, travel the world and for everyone to keep in touch.

Emma McCartney St Malachy’s PS, CamloughI enjoy Gaelic football, socialising and disco dancing. My most memorable moment at St Paul’s was winningthe U16 Ulster football title. I would like to become a Biomedical engineer. My wish for the future is to behappy and rich!

James McCoy Newry College F & H Education Jonesboro PSI enjoy music and play the accordion. I also like taking part in music competitions. My most memorablemoment at St Paul’s was the cloth going on fire during an experiment in Chemistry! I also completed an Artproject in one day! I would like a career in Engineering or Building Construction. My wish for the future is tokeep in touch with all my mates and get a good job!

Eimear McElroy St Brigid’s PS, DrumillyI enjoy socialising, meeting up with friends and the odd bit of exercising. My most memorable moment at StPaul’s was pretending to be held at ransom on April Fools Day in Mr Burn’s store. I would like to become anestate agent. My wish for the future is to earn more money than Stephen McCann so I can soak him when Idrive by in my BMW!

Jemma McGourty St Michael’s PS, NewtownI enjoy playing the piano and partying at the weekend. My most memorable moment at St Paul’s was ourschool formal- it rocked! I would like a career in Social Work when I leave university. My wish for the future isworld peace.

Jason McKeown St Mary’s PS, MullaghbawnI seem to only go to school, work and sleep these days!. My most memorable day at St Paul’s was the day Irealised I had to come back to school for another year. I also am a mean guitarist. My wish for the future is tochange the way we think.


Form Teacher Mrs Anne Black

Louise McNulty St Malachy’s PS, CamloughI play Gaelic football for school and county. I am a member of the school dance team and the Newry YouthCompany. My most memorable moments include captaining the school team to win the U16 Ulster title, winning theNI Dance Championships, coming 3rd at the All- Ireland Dance Awards and our school formal. I would like tobecome a P.E. teacher after university. My wish for the future is to travel to see my family in Australia, to besuccessful in my career and have a happy life with no regrets. I wish all my friends at St Paul’s a long and happy life!

Katrina Murphy St Michael’s PS, NewtownI enjoy football, swimming and horse riding. My most memorable moments include both formals, passing mydriving test and my 19th birthday weekend. I would like to follow a career in Architecture. My wish for thefuture is for my best friends to go and be happy in whatever they choose to do and keep in touch!

Rachel O’Hare St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI enjoy singing and am a member of the school choir. My most memorable moment was performing as one of the Spice Girls in the School Variety Show in 1999. How embarrassing.! I would like to become aPrimary School teacher. My wish for the future is to get my degree, become successful in my career andtravel the world.

Jason Pepper St Joseph’s High School, NewryI enjoy golf, swimming, horse riding, soccer and Gaelic football. My most memorable moment of my twoyears at St Paul’s was our trip to Londiani in Kenya - they were the greatest two weeks of my life!

I would like to have a career in either computers or teaching. My wish for the future would be to return toAfrica and to be happy with my life. I wish for health, family and friends around me because when you havethat you have everything.

Feilin Quinn St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI play Gaelic football for Lissummon Ladies and I like watching tv and listening to music. My most memorablemoment was Armagh winning the All Ireland in 2002 and Armagh Ladies winning the All-Ireland in 2005. Iwould like to become an Art teacher or something to do with art in general. My wish for the future is worldpeace, lovely house, a few children, enough money and a fast car!. I would also love to see my paintingsdisplayed in a gallery.

Briege Rice Jonesboro PSI play Gaelic football for St Paul’s and I am a member of the Taize Group and the SVP. I sing with the schoolchoir and play the accordion in the Traditional Group. I am also a member of St Brigids Accordion Band,Jonesborough. My most memorable moments include winning the U16 Ulster title, Kenya, Lourdes (twice!),Gaeltacht, and lovely Lough Derg. I won the Young Ambassador Award for NI in 2005. I would like to becomea History & Politics teacher. My wish for the future is “Dream of the future, remember the past, live every daylike it was your last! I would like to return to Kenya, be happy and successful in life and always play music!


Class 14/71 Form Teacher Mrs Anne Black

Eoin Rocks St Joseph’s PS, MeighI play Gaelic football and soccer for St Paul’s and Dromintee. My most memorable moment was winning theU16 Ulster title with St Paul’s in Year 12. We also reached the All Ireland Final that same year. I would like tobe an engineer or a surveyor after university. My wish for the future is to become an entrepreneur in my midtwenties and I would also like to win an All-Ireland title with Armagh or Dromintee.

Sinead Savage St Malachy’s PS, BallymoyerI dance with the Rooney/O’Malley Irish Dancing School and I am part of the Fainne Cairde Fiddle Group andthe Belleeks Scor Group. At St Paul’s I am a member of the SVP and I play fiddle in the Traditional Group. Mymost memorable moment was our trip to Kenya and I am very grateful to have been given that wonderfulopportunity. I think I would like to go into teaching but who knows. My wish for the future would be to returnto Kenya and to be happy, healthy and to remain friends with the great mates I have made in school.

Joanne Smyth St Mary’s HS, NewryI enjoy socialising, shopping, swimming and reading. My most memorable moment was the school formal andseeing everyone look their best. I would like to become a Housing Developer or an Estate Agent. I would liketo thank everyone for making me feel so welcome when I joined two years ago. My wish for the future is thateveryone achieves their goals and don’t just live for the future…live for you!

Sharon Toal St Joseph’s PS, MeighI enjoy shopping, socialising and eating out! My most memorable moment at St Paul’s was the school formal.I would like to pursue a career in Marketing. My wish for the future is to get a good job, a nice house and tobe happy and healthy. I would like to keep in touch with all my friends from the past seven years in St Paul’sand good luck to everyone for the future!

Colm White Jonesboro PSI play Gaelic football for my School and Dromintee Club. My most memorable moment was winning the U16Ulster Final with St Paul’s in Year 12. I would like to become a building surveyor. My wish for the future is togo to America and come back to Ireland and build a big house. I would like to be successful in all I do andhave no regrets about the decisions I make in life.


Class 14/76 Form Teacher Mrs Pauline McGuinness

I t has been a pleasure working closelywith you over the past two years. Therehave been a number of memorable

occasions, two of the most obvious: ourtime at Lough Derg and then by completecontrast our very successful Formal.

Now today as young men and women,ready to take your place in society as youngadults I wish you well. You are among thefinest young people who have come throughSt Paul’s and I hope you will realise howmuch you have to contribute. It is true thatthere will be many decisions to be made andyou will not have the instant support of yourfamily and teachers to guide you but beguided by your conscience. Nothing in lifethat is worthy is ever going to be easy. Youwill have to work hard but have the courage

to believe in yourselves. As a littleinspirational verse I once read says:

“Faith is a mover of mountains,

And there is nothing that you cannot do.

So start out today with faith in your heart

And climb till you dream comes true”

I wish you all health and happiness. GodBless you and guide you to make a greatsuccess of everything you do.

Pauline McGuinness


Class 14/76

Anna Chan St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI enjoy going out with my friends, shopping and listening to music. My most memorable moment in St Paul’swas 16th September - our school formal. It was such an amazing night and everyone looked so well. At themoment I don’t know what career path I will follow. My wish for the future is for my friends and family to behealthy and happy. I would also like a successful career and to be happy!

Christopher Cranney St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI enjoy skateboarding occasionally. My most memorable moment was my first day at St Paul’s and the firstperson I met that day was Caolan Connolly. I don’t know what career I will follow as yet. My wish for thefuture is to become a crazy millionaire.

Laura Jane Crozier St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI enjoy karate, socialising and I am a member of St Vincent de Paul. My most memorable moment in St Paul’swas being held hostage in Mr Burn’s store on April Fool’s Day. I would like to have a career in Social Work.My wish for the future is to live life to the full and be successful, rich and happy!

Patrice Fearon St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI enjoy socialising, listening to music and boxaerobics. There are so many memorable moments at St Paul’sbut the best times have been laughing with my best friends and Bernie falling of that chair of course! I wouldlike to be a Marketing Manager at a large, successful company. My wish for the future is to be happy andsuccessful. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”.

Jennifer Hughes St Michael’s PS, NewtownI enjoy horse riding and shopping! My most memorable moment at St Paul’s was the wonderful school formal.I don’t know yet what career path I might follow. My wish for the future is that I pass my A’ Levels and then Ihope the next 60 years are as good as the last 7 I have spent here in St Paul’s.

Cara Lynch St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI enjoy Art and can always be found in the Art department of St Paul’s. My most memorable moment was thefirst day at this school. I would like a career in Art or television and would like to be my own boss or a filmdirector! My wish for the future would be to seize all opportunities and keep those who are good to me closeto me. I also hope I will never take life for granted!


Form Teacher Mrs Pauline McGuinness

Laura Magennis Dromintee PSI enjoy socialising, watching tv and going to school! My most memorable moment was holding ourselveshostage in Mr Burn’s store on April Fools Day. I also have fond memories of Lough Derg.

I would like to have a career in Youth Work so no doubt I will be seeing your children in a few years!

My wish for the future is to remain friends with the people I’ve met throughout my seven years at St Paul’sand that they find a cure for the common cold.

Catherine Mallon St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI am a member of the SVP Society and the Taize Prayer Group. I sing in the school choir and play violin in theschool orchestra and traditional group. I am a also part of the Senior Dance Team.My most memorable moments at St Paul’s include the Gaeltacht, Lourdes and our trip to Kenya as well aspassing my driving test, Lough Derg, and the formal. I also enjoyed our dance routine “Thriller” and a leadingrole in Grease. I would like to get a Law Degree and then who knows! My wish for the future is that goodfortune rests on each on my fellow students and that success lies behind every door we open.

Stephen McCann St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI enjoy going to the cinema, partying and going on holiday. My most memorable moment was Briege’s partyafter our GCSEs. I also had a great time at the formal -thank you Seamus and Grace for the hugeembarrassment! I hope to study engineering at University of Ulster, Jordanstown. My wish for the future is tobe a successful engineering contractor with a company of my own. I want a family with a dog, a big housewith a white picket fence included and a Lexus in the drive way!

Thomas McConville St Joseph’s High School, CrossmaglenI study music here at St Paul’s and hope to follow a career in music when I leave. I have enjoyed my twoyears at St Paul’s.

Michelle McElroy Dromintee PSI enjoy socialising with my friends. Most memorable moments at St Paul’s were witnessing Caolan faintingand getting my examination results. I hope to follow a career in engineering. My wish for the future is to reachfor the moon because even if I miss, I will land among the stars.

Ciara McEneany St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI am a member of the ladies football team that won the Ulster final. It was an honour to play for my school.The school formal was an amazing experience, one I will always remember. I hope to study pharmacy atQueens University. I hope to be successful in everything in life.


Class 14/76

Kelly McGuirk St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI like swimming, cycling diving socialising, singing, and Art. I want to follow a career studying Biology. My wishfor the future is to live each day to the full and have lots of friends.

Marieanne McKevitt Killean PSI want to follow a career in Chemical Engineering. I would like to keep my friends forever. I want the nextseventy years to be as happy as the last seven.

Ruth McParland St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI am a member of the school’s SVDP group. I like to dance and party. My most memorable times were in theGaeltacht and Lourdes. I would like to follow a career in Computers. I would like to live forever, keep my goodlooks and my fantastic sense of humour.

Jennifer Millar St Joseph’s PS, BessbrookI am a member of the school choir and absolutely love singing. I am also very creative. I would like to follow acareer in Art and Design.

My wishes for the future include leading a happy and healthy life, living to an old age whilst preserving myfabulous looks charm and personality.

Paddy Murphy Abbey Grammar SchoolI am a popular pupil at St Paul’s and have lots of wonderful friends. I have thoroughly enjoyed my two yearsat St Paul’s and wish I could do it all again.

Being so talented, I am still unsure of which career path to follow. I hope to keep all of the friends I havemade at school as well as pick up some more on my path through life.

Anna-Marie O’Hanlon St Joseph’s C.PS, NewryI have enjoyed my years at St Paul’s and made many good friends. I hope to follow a career in the field ofBusiness Studies. I want the simple but essential things in life, good friends, good health and happiness.


Form Teacher Mrs Pauline McGuinness

Margaret O’Hanlon St Brigid’s PS, DrumillyMy claim to fame in St Paul’s was winning the dance championship in years eight and nine. My mostmemorable occasion was the school formal. I would like to travel the world. I hope to get a good job, to livelong and be happy.

Cassandra O’Hare Sacred Heart Grammar SchoolI love sport especially football, camogie and coaching gymnastics. My most memorable moment was my firstday at St Paul’s as a new student in year thirteen. I have enjoyed my time at St Paul’s and will alwaysremember my teachers especially Mrs Kimbley my biology teacher who was very kind and helpful. I hope todo Clinical Physiology with Cardiology at Jordanstown. I wish for health and happiness in my life.

Catherine O’Hare Dromintee PSI enjoy socialising and I play the accordion in St Brigids Accordion Band in Jonesborough. My mostmemorable moment was the school formal. I would like to have a career in nursing. My wish for the future isto have a big house with a small rates bill. I hope the salary for nurses increases and I would like a nicer carthan I am driving now. I hope that everyone gets on well in life!

Grace O’Reilly St Joseph’s PS, MeighI am a member of the school choir and the chamber choir at St Paul’s. My most memorable moment waspresenting the Awards Ceremony at the formal with Seamus. It was priceless. I would like to follow a career ininterior design. My wish for the future is to achieve all my goals in life and to remain friends with all the peopleI met in St Paul’s. I wouldn’t mind decorating Michael Jackson’s “Never Land”. I would like to have as happya time as I have spent in St Paul’s for the last seven years!

Lauren O’Neill St Peter’s PS, CloughreaI would like to have a career in Public Relations. My wish for the future is to go travelling, get a good job andearn lots of money. I would also like to be happy and successful.

Emma Reavey St Brigid’s PS, DrumillyI was a member of the School Dance team and my most memorable moment was winning the dancecompetition in Year 9. I would like to follow a career in Interior Design and live a long and happy life!


Class 14/76 Form Teacher Mrs Pauline McGuinness

Elaine Rooney Our Lady’s Grammar SchoolI play Gaelic football for Down Minors and Seniors and Club football for Shamrock Ladies. I also likesocialising with my mates. My most memorable moment was playing in Croke Park in the Down Ladies Finalagainst Monaghan. I also really enjoyed our school formal. I would like to be a professional SportsPsychologist. My wish for the future is to be successful in my career in sports psychology and stay in touchwith all my friends and always have fun.

John Savage Abbey Grammar SchoolI enjoy going out with my mates. My most memorable moment was leaving the Abbey and joining St Paul’s. Ihave had two great years and met some quare people! You have all made me feel very welcome. I would liketo be an Art teacher or something to do with Art in general. My wish for the future is to earn a few pound, geta nice wife and a few more “Savages” running around the place.

Sean Trainor Cloughoge PSI do Jujitsu in Newry Sports Centre and I enjoy socialising and meeting girls!. My most memorable momentwas travelling to Lourdes in 2004 with several classmates. I would like to pursue a career in Product Designand Development. My wish for the future is to have a class reunion in 10 years so I can show off mysupermodel wife and boast about my success to those who will be asking me for a loan!

Dervala Tumilty Cloughoge PSI am a member of the SVP and I also do speech and drama. My most memorable moment was my twoweeks in Africa. It was the best and happiest time of my life and one that is impossible to forget. I would liketo do Law and then perhaps become a Human Rights Lawyer or a Solicitor. My wish for the future is to behappy and successful in life and to stay close friends with the people I have met at St Paul’s.

Colleen Woods Dromintee PSI enjoy playing and listening to music and going out with friends. My most memorable moment was in Year 8finding out that there was only three girls in our class! I would like to be happy and pursue my career inDrama. My wish for the future is happiness and lots of friends!


Awards Mrs Bridget McConville

N ewry Rotary Club invites candidates to compete in a YouthForum, designed for those interested in European Politicsand able to talk the talk. Three candidates were interested

and were interviewed by members of the club; Blinne Mallie, CaolanConnolly and Stephen McCann. Blinne was chosen to represent StPaul’s and had to endure a long morning in the Canal Court with therepresentatives from neighbouring schools and even had to stay overlunch. Unfortunately she did not win the trip to Brussels but sheenjoyed the free lunch.

Diana, Princess of Wales, Memorial Award for Young People

Newry Lion’s Young Ambassador Nominations

T his award has been set up to recognise the work young peopledo both inside and outside their school. Last year, 2005, 10students from Year 13 were awarded a Diana pin for their work

with others in school: Declan Byrne, Caolan Connolly, Seamus Hughes,

Cara Lynch, Blinne Mallie, Lisa McGinn, Briege Rice, SineadSavage, Dervala Tumilty and Colleen Woods. This year awards willbe presented to Laura Magennis and Catherine Mallon. Well doneall, a well deserved tribute.

E ach year Newry Lions hold interviews for the youngpeople in our community to are involved in helpingothers. Nominations are invited from every school in

the Newry & Mourne area. We nominated 10 students, allvery involved in working both inside and outside school ona voluntary basis, helping others. St Paul’s carried off thetitle for the third year in a row, the recipient Briege Rice.

Briege went on to win the Northern Ireland title but waspipped at the post for the All Ireland title, by the onlyboy in the contest. A wonderful achievement for Briegewho now travels to Europe to represent Ireland in aEuropean Youth Conference, compliments of NewryLions. We all knew Briege could talk.

Caolan Connolly Seamus Hughes Cara Lynch Blinne MallieDeclan Byrne

Sinead Savage Dervala Tumilty Laura Magennis Catherine MallonBriege Rice

Caolan Connolly Blinne Mallie Stephen McCann

Newry Rotary Club


From Bessbrook to Kenya

I n October 2005 Fr Dermot Maloney (School Chaplain) and Miss Karina Traynor(Science Dept) along with pupils Catherine Mallon, Briege Rice, Sinead Savage, DervalaTumilty, Jason Pepper, Declan Byrne travelled to visit the Londiani community in Kenya.

The purpose of the visit was to deliver their donation of £40,000 to the Kiltegan Fathers foruse in school and community projects. The experience allowed the pupils to becometotally immersed in African culture for two weeks. They visited schools, hospitals andfactories under the direction of their host Father Martin Barry.

The visit traditionally takes place during the last two weeks of October during the student’sfinal year, and applications are invited before the end of Year 13.

Paired Reading Programme

I will always have a special place in myheart for the current Year 14 (Class of2006!) as they arrived at St Paul’s in

1999 just as I did. I’m glad this Year 14group were the first pupils I met and I have

watched them grow and mature over theyears but significantly without me ageing aday! The Library has been a focal pointduring their stay and they have seen thelibrary change from a small classroom

environment to a wonderful purpose builtLibrary. They witnessed the naming of theLibrary as the “Michael Warde Library” in2005 and have taken part in competitions,Book Aid, Readathons and storytellingevents throughout their school life. Thisyear I have had the pleasure of supervisingthem in the Library and have got to knowa little bit more about each one of them.

I wish both Year 12 and Year 14 pupils allthe very best for their future careers,whatever path they chose in life. Goodluck in your exams, be happy and don’tforget to always bring your library booksback on time!

Just remember “many people will walk inand out of your life but only true friends willleave footprints on your heart. You haveyour circle of friends and like that circlethere is no beginning or end……yesterdayis history, tomorrow is a mystery but todayis a gift…that’s why they call it the present!

Mrs Michelle MorganSchool Librarian

T he Paired Reading Programmehelps first year pupils to improvetheir reading skills by pairing them

with a senior school volunteer (Year 13 +14) for a 20 minute reading session.

The programme runs for 8 weeks for eachchild and the first year pupils make significant

and lasting progress with their reading skills.

Outcomes and AchievementsThe senior students are trained in specifictechniques and are then given theresponsibility of working regularly with theirfirst year partner to improve and assessthe younger pupil’s reading skills.

The target audience are those childrenwho have been identified as children whowould benefit from some extra help toimprove their reading skills or to widentheir experience of reading.

Names of Pupils involved with theprogramme are:Jason Pepper, Feilin Quinn, Declan Byrne,Cathal Fegan, Emma McCartney andRachel O’Hare

Miss Veronica Doherty Reading Partnership Coordinator


The Michael Warde Library

Fergal McParland 12/14Fergal is the mostconsistent andfervent reader I haveever come acrossduring my sevenyears at St Paul’s. Hehas read more booksthan I can count! Heis a great inspirationto younger pupilsand somehowalways manages toreturn his numerousbooks on time!


Drama and Theatre Studies Miss Sinead O’Neill

L ast year was a special year for thosestudents interested in drama, as theywere given the opportunity to take on

Drama and Theatre Studies as an A-Level.

This marked the beginning of an excitingtime where in one year 11 studentsprogressed successfully through an ASstudy of the subject, the highlight of whichwas their practical ensemble of JohnGodber’s play “Teechers.”

They have progressed now into their final

year of A2 and are presently rehearsing fora new play titled The Dumb Waiter byHarold Pinter.

Colleen Woods a year 14 student summedup her two year study of the course bysaying, “I have enjoyed immensely thisopportunity to study a subject like Drama,its very new and has been very exciting.Overall I have risen to the challenge oflearning about playwrights, practitionersand studying many new plays.” CathalFegan said his “favourite component of the

course has been the practical, having an opportunity to act and read new plays by many different playwrights hasbeen rewarding”.

The drama department hopes this is justthe beginning, and many more studentswill grasp the opportunity to study Dramaand Theatre Studies at A-Level.

Pupils leaving this year from Year 14 are Colleen Woods, Cathal Fegan andPaddy Murphy.

F riday 16th September 2006 is a datethat should remain in their memoriesforever.

The Formal Committee of Blinne, Caolan,

Emma, Margaret, Grace, Rosalind, Seamusand Seamus worked for almost 10 monthsorganising and extracting money. A wonderfulevening was had by all and everyone was fastasleep in their beds by 2am as promised!

St Paul’s Annual Formal


Boys’ Gaelic Football

In 2004, St Paul’s High School won theU16 Ulster Championship , the “ArthursCup” beating St Mark’s Warrenpoint by 6points. This was the second time St Paul’shad won an Ulster title, the last time was in1980! This team then went on later thatyear to lose the All Ireland Final by onepoint in the dying minutes of injury time.Athone CC scored a last gasp goal to denythe brave St Paul’s team their first All Irelandtitle and a second title for the school. Thiswas a brilliant performance from the playersand their mentors, Mr Bill Geoghehan andMr Brendan McArdle.

This U16 team beat some great teams ontheir way to the Ulster Final including StJoseph’s, Crossmaglen and St Brigid’s,Armagh. They also beat the Donegal,Fermanagh and Down Champions and

finally the Cork and Munster Champions inthe All Ireland Semi-Final. The second halfof the semi-final would later be describedas the best performance ever seen inschool football.

Due to the success achieved by this teamsome pupils such as Paul McKeown andMartin Ferris have gone on to the ArmaghDevelopment squad and County minorPanel. Martin Ferris also was chosen for theIreland International Squad that participatedin the Australian Rules Competition lastyear. I would like to wish Colm and Paul allthe best for their future career and amproud to have had them as members of ateam who made such an historic impact onGaelic football at St Paul’s

Coach: Bill Geoghehan.

U16 Ulster Champions 2004


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St Paul’s High School108 Camlough Road, Bessbrook,

Newry, BT35 7EE

Telephone: 028 3083 0309 Fax: 028 3083 9948Website: www.stpaulsbessbrook.org.uk

year book 2006

Documents