Dear Parents/Guardians Season’s greetings to you all. At time of writing the school is buzzing with activity; staff and students are busily engaged in preparations for the end of term exams CBAs and our Christmas carol service. In the true spirit of Christmas, our students have been working with staff to fundraise for those in need. They have contributed to the Christmas Child Appeal by preparing gift boxes for children in the developing countries. Closer to home students are fundraising for our local St Vincent de Paul conference and Pieta House. The hampers were organised by Ms Hetherton, our Chaplain Mr McQuillan and a team of TY students. The level of our students’ awareness of the plight of others, both at home and abroad and their willingness to act and not be bystanders to injustice and poverty is truly commendable. Our 1st and 2nd year students raised €4,586.00 from their sponsored

walk. This was organised by Ms Ni Bhaoill and her TY team. The funds have been donated to the Irish Cancer Society. The term has been a happy and successful one for our students, both in terms of their academic studies and their co and extra-curricular activities. Supervised study got underway in November and will continue next term. Students who find it difficult to establish a study routine at home are strongly encouraged to participate in supervised study. Academic mentoring for our 3rd and 6th year students has provided a very positive focus for our exam students. Thank you for engaging with us in this initiative. Throughout the term, staff and students have been involved in a vast array of activities many of which are highlighted in this newsletter. St Aidan’s is fortunate to have a very dedicated, professional staff who so generously give of their time and expertise, both within the classroom and

in extra- curricular activities which enhance the education of our students. Thank you and well done to all the staff and students who have organised and /or participated in these activities and to you our parents for your continued support. On behalf of the students and staff, we would like to thank Audrey Benson and the Luke Benson Memorial Fund for providing us with replacement batteries and accessories for our defibrillator. Their generosity is very much appreciated. Mr Ross continues to train our students in CPR. We hope to have all classes in the school trained by the year end. On Friday 15th November we had the presentation of our 5th Green Flag for biodiversity by Mr Cathal Boylan to Ms Scanlon and her team of students. That day also saw the presentation of the Health Promoting School Flag to St Aidan’s. Ms Drury and Ms Gallagher and team have worked over the years with Ms Monica McClorey of the

NEWSLETTER CHRISTMAS 2019

HSE on strategies to promote the health and well-being of students and staff. The official opening of our new Hearing Impaired Classroom also took place on Friday 15th. The ribbon was cut by Ms Amanda Duffy, the visiting support teacher for the Hearing Impaired. Ms Lynch. Ms Brady and Ms Sherlock were accompanied by our students who avail of support in the classroom. Louise Moore used her sign-language skills while Ms Lynch welcomed those present to the new classroom. Our local representatives Mr Joe O’Reilly, Mr Brendan Smith, Ms Niamh Smyth, Mr Robbie Gallagher, Ms Carmel Brady attended and the opportunity was used to further our plea for delivery of our long overdue building needs in terms of a gym, social area and updated practical rooms! We hope that the plea fell on listening ears! Our school has been involved in the Well Read Project led by Ms Hetherton. The project has been on-going for the past two years and aims to encourage students to read and read! Following a great deal of work the school was

presented with the ‘Well Read’ Award in Athlone on Thursday 21st November. Our Senior Prefects, Student Council and Prefects took part in training on Wednesday 20th November. This was organised by Ms Scanlon and delivered by Mr Ger Robinson from Supergeneration. Open night took place on Thursday 21st November. Our students and staff worked in subject areas, provided tours, musical entertainment and refreshments for all who attended. We were delighted to welcome so many families to our school. Our assessment day for incoming first years will take place on Saturday 8th February 2020. Over the past few months students have been busy working on our school musical production of ‘High School Musical’. Mr Gavin Quigley and Paige Cunningham choreographed the show while Ms Maguire was the musical director. This was the focal point of the year for the Transition Year so Ms Sweeney and her team co-ordinated the event. We had all our National school feeder schools in for the dress rehearsal

which took place on Monday 11th November. The show took place on Tuesday 12th, Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th November. The whole show from start to finish was a tribute to the on and off stage talent of all our students and staff and provided many lasting happy memories.

The Christmas exams will begin on Monday 16th December and finish Thursday 19th December and reports will not be posted until mid-January. Any student who is absent for any/all of their Christmas exams will have to sit their exams on their return to school in January before they may resume their place in their year group.

Finally we would like to wish our students, you their parents/guardians and your families a Merry Christmas and a happy, peaceful and safe New Year.

Maryann Smith Niall McGee

A day out to Trim

Castle by Katelyn Benson

Hello, today I’m going to

talk to you about the

First-Year trip to Trim

Castle and Bective Abbey.

It was very interesting

when the tour guide

showed us three different

models of Trim castle,

from when it was first

built to now and how

architecture has grown,

and people have come up

with different ways to

defend a castle.

After registration we

hopped on the bus and

headed on our journey

for Trim castle. It was a

fun but long ride, when

we got off the bus, we

were handed a sheet and

clipboard and told not to

lose them. We walked for

about 3 or 4 minutes until

we got to Trim Castle,

when we got there we

went in the gate.

We went over to the

castle and stood there,

while the tour guide told

us a bit about the history

of Trim Castle. As soon as

you saw the castle you

knew it was a magnificent

place. Then we headed

inside.

When we went in we

stood in the first room.

The guide told us a bit

about what

happened

in that

room and

what it was

used for.

Then we

headed to

take a little

look at the

models.

They were very

interesting and beautiful,

and they showed the

different stages in the

castle’s construction.

Then headed up the

steps. They were very

narrow and scary to

climb. When we got up

the first flight, we walked

through the hall and saw

some of the murder

holes. Then we went onto

the roof where we were

allowed to walk around

and take pictures

because it was an

outstanding view.

We went downstairs and

started our sheets that

we were give

We could ask a few

questions if we needed

help, you could tell the

tour guide knew loads

about the castle. We

went outside, and you

could take a little look

around.

We got back on the bus

and headed for Bective

Abbey. On our sheets we

had a section for Bective

Abbey we had to look

around and try find a

cloister and then draw it.

We took a picture of the

cloister to draw later.

Thank you for reading

this article, I hope you

now know a little more

about what we did on the

History trip. It was a very

enjoyable day.

1st Year

A warm welcome to our

98 new 1st year students.

The students have settled

in very well and are

enjoying school life. They

have been formed into

four tutor groups Rang

Daire, Rang Diarmuid,

Rang Dearbhla and Rang

Doireann. They have four

wonderful tutors Ms. Mc

Quaid, Ms Ni Bhaoil, Ms.

Lynch and Mr McQuillan

who have guided and

supported them over the

last 10 weeks.

The students have shown a wonderful sense of

kindness and compassion for those in need. They have been involved in the annual Shoe Box appeal and our sponsored walk. They are currently working on the St Vincent de Paul Hampers for Christmas.

I encourage our students to continue with their involvement in the wide range of sporting and extra- curricular activities on offer in St. Aidan’s.

I wish the first years of 2019/20 every success and happiness in their time in St. Aidan’s. I hope that they grasp all of the opportunities available to them in terms of achieving the very best they can academically, on stage, on the sports field and in all aspects of school life.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind parents and students that here in St. Aidan’s we have a dedicated pastoral care team consisting of tutor, year head, chaplain, guidance counsellor, deputy principal and principal and we endeavour to ensure that all our students are safe and happy in school.

On behalf of your tutors and myself I want to wish all the first years and their families a very

happy and peaceful Christmas.

Breege Doherty Year Head

Second Year I would like to wish each and every one of you success in the upcoming Christmas exams. Remember that success will only be achieved through diligence and hard work. Achieving your full potential starts with small achievements such as doing your homework well, studying each night, completing CBAs to a high standard and achieving good results in class tests. A special welcome to the new students who have joined the year group, Nedas Karciauskas, Ines Saz Grana and Zoe Molitor. Congratulations to the following students who were elected prefects and deputy prefects for the academic year 2019-2020. – Rang Iarla.– Hugh Smith and Hannah Morris, Rang Ina– Ben Brennan and Mireta Valentaviciute Rang Ide. Hannah Carelton and Shane Shalvey. Our student representatives are Lila Mc Caul and Emily Reynolds. We wish them a successful year as they carry out their duties. Second year students enjoyed a 6 week module on resilience run by Pieta

House and an Amazing Brains workshop to help with study techniques and revision. We hope these workshops will help in the preparation for exams. Again I would like to thank second years for their generosity towards the Irish Cancer Society and the Operation Christmas Child - shoe box appeal. Your kindness and support were greatly appreciated. Well done to the talented students who took part in High School Musical. You showed huge commitment to rehearsals and you did yourselves, your families and the school proud. Well done to the many students who take part in the sporting activities that are offered. We wish you continued success for 2020. I would like to encourage second years to use the support services that are available to you in the school, to discuss any worries or concerns you may have. However small the problem may seem our door is always open. Wishing you and your families a joyful Christmas season and see you all in the new year

Ms. Maguire Year Head

Friday 15/11/19

Official opening of HIC

(hearing impaired

classroom) in St. Aidan’s

Comprehensive School,

Cootehill the awarding of

the Green Flag for

Biodiversity and the

Health Promoting School

Flag.

Pictured are students

and staff involved in

the work of the HIU

and Green School

Committee as well as

local politicians and

representatives of

Health Promoting

Schools and Cavan

County Council.

Photo

Front l-r

Sarah Lee, Emily Reynolds, Sean Nevin, Ben McElroy, Shakira Stewart, Dearbhla

McCormick, Alysia Carolan, Megan Moynagh, Sophie Murphy

Middle l-r Bronagh Rudden, Louise Moore, Genevieve Gallagher, Joe O’Reilly,

Mary Lennon, Shirley Hall, Robbie Gallagher, Marianne Smith, Carmel Reilly,

Anita Lynch

Back l-r Martin McBreen, Brendan Smith, Niamh Smyth, Mary Scanlon, Tanya

Brady, Debbie Sherlock, Cathal Boylan, Monica McCrory, Amanda Duffy

The annual shoebox appeal for Team Hope was very successful this year. Students and staff

carefully wrapped shoeboxes, filled them with essential and fun items for this appeal. 205

shoeboxes were collected from the school on Thursday 21st November. These shoeboxes will now

be distributed to children in some of the world’s poorest countries in time for Christmas. A huge

thank you to all who contributed to this appeal and demonstrated great kindness. Well done to all!

TEAM HOPE SHOE BOX APPEAL

OPENING OF HEARING IMPAIRED CLASSROOM

Cups Against Cancer-On

Thursday, 10th October, a

bake sale and coffee

morning was organised

in St. Aidan’s to raise

money for the Irish

Cancer Society and their

“Cups Against Breast

Cancer” fundraiser.

Teachers and students

worked together to bake

many delicious treats

such as apple tarts, cup

cakes & biscuit cake.

These were then sold to

the staff and students.

€266.50 was raised

during the bake sale

Ms. Ní Bhaoill along with

her TY students, Chloe

Sherlock, Laura Bannon,

Emma Greenan and

Lauren Whyte would like

to thank everyone in St.

Aidan’s who bought a

Pink Ribbon Pin in

supporting Breast Cancer

Awareness Month.

On Wednesday 20th

November, all the 1st

years and a group of TY

students participated in a

10K sponsored walk,

organised by Ms. Ní

Bhaoill, to raise money

for The Irish Cancer

Society. The Irish cancer

Society is a charity that

works to raise awareness

and money for cancer

research and help people

whose lives have been

affected by cancer.

The 1st year students

began gaining

sponsorship for the walk

in October, which was

Breast Cancer

Awareness Month.

The school also sold

Pink Ribbon pins and

had a bake sale.

€4,586.00 was raised

by St. Aidan’s for The

Irish Cancer Society.

3rd Year Report

As the term draws to a

close, I would like to

thank all 3rd year students

for their ongoing hard

work and cooperation.

The Christmas exams are

fast approaching and 3rd

years are also busy

working on a number of

classroom based

assessments (CBAs).

I would like to take this

opportunity to wish all 3rd

Years the best of luck in

the work that lies ahead.

It is a busy time for all

between now and the

Christmas holidays!

Congratulations to the

students in 3rd Year who

were involved in our

highly successful musical

– High School Musical.

Well done to Ms Maguire

and the students

involved.

Well done to all 3rd Years

who contributed to the

Christmas Shoebox

Appeal under the

direction of Ms Vogan. A

big thank you for your

generosity!

A special word of thanks

to your tutors – Ms

Brady, Ms Kiernan & Mr

Mayne, for their help and

continuous support

throughout this term.

Finally, I would like to

wish all 3rd Year students

& their families a very

happy and safe

Christmas. Also, I wish

you health & happiness in

2020.

I look forward to seeing

you all in the New Year.

D. Coss. Year Head.

POETRY CORNER

The Place I Left My

Memories

by Aoife Doyle

We were sitting on the roof

Of her little plastic playhouse

Watching the cars go by

At the end of her party, each year.

We never did much, talked,

laughed,

The way childhood friends do.

Sitting at ease, so calm with

another,

Acting like fools, alone, yet

together.

I still miss her, since I’ve moved

away.

I wish we’d never fallen apart,

Wish we met up some time,

Wishing we’d never fought.

I’d like to go back, but

Not like this, not right now.

I’d like to go back in time,

And finish growing up with her.

But I don’t think I can bring myself

to go back

To The Place I Left My Memories

LGBYI+ WEEK

As part of the LGBTI+ week in St

Aidan’s students signed to

demonstrate their support of out

LGBTI+ students. Being an 'Ally'

makes all students feel included

and safe in St Aidans. We got over

300 signatures of support on the

day, well done St Aidan's.

Shared Education

Partnership and

Funding 2019-2020

We are happy to

announce that we have

been able to secure

funding this year for a

Shared Education

numeracy project with St.

Kevin’s College, Lisnaskea

under the PEACE IV

Collaboration and Sharing

in Education Project. This

is our second year

involved with the

programme.

By working in partnership

with schools of a

different type to ours,

students will have the

chance to meet and learn

with young people from a

wide range of different

backgrounds. Our

teaching staff will also

have this opportunity and

through this new-shared

education partnership,

we will not only be

promoting good relations

but also working together

to improve educational

outcomes for all the

children in our

community.

We intend to meet with

our partner school for

different curricular-based

activities and shared

classes throughout the

year and we will keep you

informed of the dates

and content of all of

these sessions. You

should also keep an eye

on the school website for

photos and videos.

The students have had

their first outing

‘Icebreaker activity’

which occurred on

Thursday the 24th of

November with students

from both schools

participating in loads of

fun sports activities in the

peace links facilities in

Clones. Both schools got

to know each other and

are looking forward to

their next workshop

which St Aidan’s will host,

centred on Physical

activity and Numeracy.

Thanks to Mr Lennon and

Ms English, both teachers

involved in co-ordinating

the programme.

Christmas Trivia

The Blackberry Bush by Dearbhla McCormick

I remember going up on my mother’s

shoulders;

Legs dangling, eyes squinting in the

autumn sun

Walking on my own now that I’m

older

Feeling the squelch and the slap as

my boots hit the mud

Every autumn walking to the old

blackberry bush

Collecting the little black bunches of

raindrops

Eating as we go

The tart sweetness exploding across

our tongues

Dying both our lips and tongues a

garish purple

Every berry making a small tap as it

hits the bowl

We take them inside

To our prepared crumble

And watch as the berries burst and

bubble in the oven

As if dancing

And no matter how old I grow

I will always remember

Each September

Arms swinging

Eyes sparkling

Walking towards the blackberry bush

SOME MORE POETRY

Christmas Stocking- This

tradition was started

by three girls who could not

afford a dowry to get married.

So, they were doomed to live

life as penniless maids. One

night, they hung their stockings

by the fire to dry. In the

morning, they woke to find

each stocking had gold coins

in them, and they now had a

dowry to marry. A kindly man

called St. Nicholas of Myra

used to go around and help

the poor and underprivileged.

He heard about the girls and

the dilemma they were in. So

one night, he went past and

dropped the coins down

the chimney and they fell into

the stockings – a tradition was

started.

Read more

Transition Year News

Transition Year has had a

very successful start this

year with a very

impressive 78 students

participating in the

programme. TY1 is under

the guidance of Mr.

Greenan, TY2, Mr. Sharpe

and TY3, Ms. Marren. A

very special word of

welcome to our new

international students,

and to our other new

students who have joined

us from other schools:

Cian Daly, Conor Leddy

and Jane Mc Kay, we wish

you all every success on

your time in St. Aidan’s.

A huge congratulations is

extended to the following

TY students who have

been elected as prefects

and deputy prefects for

this academic year:

Christian Hennessy &

Adrian Mc Donald (TY1),

Joseph Byrne and Niamh

Rice (TY2), and Hannah

Moynagh & Dominic

Connell (TY3). Well done

and the very best of luck

to you as you carry out

your duties this year.

September saw the TY’s

enjoying a journey of self-

discovery and goal setting

during their initial

induction, which included

a full day of team building

activities in school with

the Limerick based

Develop Me TY team

building and Leadership

Programme and then led

onto the annual trip to

the National Ploughing

Championships in Carlow.

As the sun shone the TY

students literally got

‘stuck in’ and had a great

day together. The

participative nature of

the TY programme is

further reflected in the

many projects and

competitions running this

year, for example the

“Cook-It!”, St. Vincent de

Paul Youth for Justice

project, Disability

Awareness Programme,

Cavan Sports Partnership

training programmes,

along with First Aid

training, Drive for Life,

and Enterprise all of

which are just the tip of

the iceberg when it

comes to what’s going on

in the TY programme this

year.

As usual, the TY students

are busy creating their

own mini enterprises in

the fields of Art and

Woodwork. Several

company ideas and

incentives are being

launched, and we

certainly wish all the TY

students every success

with the running of their

businesses and hope the

whole school community

will support them in their

work. This year the TYs

are also participating in a

number of brand new

programmes, including

the Future Leaders

Programme which is a

Sports based qualification

run by the GAA, a

debating programme, a

Lego Brix workshop, a

visit to the annual

Comhairle na nÓg youth

conference in Castle

Saunderson, a Road

Safety Seminar run by an

Garda Siochanna and a

Youth for Justice

workshop in

Carrickmacross.

I would like to wish the

TY group every success

with the programme as it

unfolds this year. It is

certainly an action

packed year with lots of

adventure and learning

already experienced and

yet to come, so well done

on being part of the TY

team and every good

wish for the remaining

term and the months to

come. As always we are

indebted to the goodwill

and support of teachers,

parents and the broader

community in the

provision of Transition

Year and sincerely

appreciate the

contribution of all.

Jackie Sweeney TY Co-ordinator & Year head. Transition Year Induction in St. Aidan’s 2019 Transition Year has made a very successful start in St. Aidan’s. At the beginning of the term 80 students participated in an Induction programme which included a team building day in school with the ‘Develop Me’ project, delivered by Gerard O Shea, David O Shea and Owen O Brien of ‘Develop Me’. As per

the Transition Year guidelines for schools, Transition Year “provides a bridge to help students make the transition from a highly-structured environment to one where they will take greater responsibility for their own learning and decision making”. During this project the TY students participated in learning strategies which were active and

experiential, and which helped them to develop a range of transferable critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills which they will carry forward into the senior cycle. Throughout the

day the TY students participated in two main workshops, THE SEARCH FOR THE LOST DUTCHMAN’S GOLD MINE, which was a quest designed to develop an understanding of the key components of project management and personal performance, and secondly SOLVING THE PROBLEM OF TOM’S CANYON FORD, a challenge designed to develop a deep understanding of the key behaviours of successful teams and the principle dysfunctions that inhibit team performance. As can be seen from the accompanying images this certainly was a fun-filled, active and highly

informative day for all the TY’s in St. Aidan’s. TY trip to the national ploughing championships.

On the 18th of September transition year students attended their annual trip to the second day of the national ploughing championships in Fenagh, County Carlow. Students had an early start, leaving the school at 7:30am. The tiresome bus journey took about three and a half hours but the singing from the back raised everyone's spirits. The

traffic jams alerted us to our proximity to the event. Luckily, we weren’t stuck in traffic for too long, and we finally made a timely arrival at 11:00am ready to explore the massive site. The huge size of the event could be seen as we arrived, like a city had appeared in the middle of nowhere. After posing for a group photo everyone got onto a tractor trailer and headed in the direction of the entrance. Everyone was happy to bask in the glorious sunshine. The skies were clear, and the ground was dry. Once inside everyone split into groups and began heading off through the crowds in different directions exploring all of the stands and stalls. There was a great atmosphere inside and everyone was having a good time.

There was lots of new machinery, cars, livestock, new inventions, show animals, sheep shearing, food stalls, and a funfair. Some went to see the main event which was of course the ploughing. Tractors of all sizes flawlessly ploughed the fields. The sheep shearing also attracted many people. There was

music from Richie Kavanaugh and Derek Ryan, this meant that there was something for everyone. At 4:00pm we got back onto the bus and headed back to Cootehill. At 8:00pm we arrived wearily back at St. Aidan’s. Everyone had a good time and enjoyed the trip, and the great weather was an added bonus.

by Chloe Sherlock

Local History Project-Last

year transition year

students undertook a

local history project in

conjunction with Creative

Ireland and the Johnston

Cavan Library to record

old photos, memories,

recordings and local

folklore to preserve local

history.

The findings of the

project were then

uploaded

and

converted

into a

Sway

website

that can

be

updated in

the future

forming an online book

on history of the local

area. The website was

officially launched by

Cathaoirleach Shane P.

O’Reilly on Tuesday 5th of

November 2019 in Cavan

Library and was attended

by a number of students,

their teacher Miss Brady

as well as Seán Ó Cualáin

and Seosamh Ó

Suilleabháin who have

pioneered this work in

their local area in

Connemara, Co. Galway.

Well done to all those

involved.

https://sway.office.com/

VqKpR9XJcgGilkIj?ref=em

ail

Fifth Year Report As Christmas draws near, I would like to congratulate the fifth year students on their co-operation and hard work during this term. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the Fifth Year students the very best as they

focus on their studies and prepare for their Christmas exams. I

encourage each one of you to try your very best and success will be yours!

I would like to congratulate the appointments of the fifth year Class prefects. Class prefects and deputies have been elected and they have an important role to play in assisting the tutor amongst other duties. These students are Colin McCauley and Hannah McCann (B1), Jake Whyte Duffy and Megan Donegan (B2), Jenny Garland and Sean McMahon (B3) and Caoimhe Rudden and Gavin Fitzpatrick (B4). The sports arena is well represented by fifth year students–particularly in soccer, Gaelic football, camogie and in basketball. Well done! The generosity of our fifth year students must be commended. In particular, I would like to congratulate and thank all the fifth year students who took part in the Christmas shoe box appeal under the guidance and direction of Ms. Vogan. A special word of thanks must go to our talented fifth year students who performed in our recent musical – High School Musical. Your hard work, dedication, enthusiasm and talent provided a show stopping

performance. Well done to all involved. I would like to extend a massive thank you to your tutors Mr. Farrell, Mr. McKenna, Mr. Ross and Ms. Vogan for all their help and support throughout this term. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very happy and peaceful Christmas. I look forward to seeing you all in the New Year. Best wishes

Ms. Hanna (Year Head)

LCA NEWS

All LCA students are busy preparing for task deadlines, interviews and work experience. The students of A5 have four tasks to complete this year. The students will each complete a portfolio and will be interviewed early next year by a visiting examiner. Halloween examinations have taken place and students are commended for their hard work and dedication to date. Work experience is an integral part of the LCA curriculum and the A5 students will be participating in work experience on the 18th November for a two-week block. We wish them every success in their placements. This is a

great opportunity for all students to explore an area of work which interests them and perhaps gain experience for their future careers. We would sincerely like to thank all local employers who continue to support our school and students. A special word of thanks must go to the talented A5 students who performed in our recent musical – High School Musical. You were fantastic!! A big thank you must go to the makeup artists extraordinaire and the car park team. Your hard work and enthusiasm was greatly appreciated. Well done to all involved. Finally, on behalf of your teachers and tutor Mr. Fitzsimons, I wish you all a very relaxing and peaceful Christmas. Ms. Hanna (LCA Coordinator)

St. Aidan’s visit to Cavan County Museum The Hotel Tourism & Catering class accompanied Ms. Hetherton and Mr Mc

Quillan visited the Cavan County Museum. The County Museum is situated in Ballyjamesduff in Cavan. The Museum is part of the Irelands Ancient East tourist experience. It was opened in 1996 and is a magnificent 19th century building. The building was a former Convent. The Museum houses the material culture of County Cavan and the surrounding districts. Exhibition galleries feature unique Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron age and medieval artefacts. A tour of the Museum provided us with an insight into the heritage of Cavan from antiquity to recent times. The main items of interest was the three-faced pre- Christian Corleck Head, the original of which is in the National Museum in Dublin and was found in the parish of Knockbride in Co. Cavan. The story of the GAA in Cavan was of great interest and we were all amazed by the display of a piece of 2000 year old “bog Butter”. After exploring in inside of the Museum we then went outside to visit the World War 1 Trench Experience. We got a little insight into what life was like for the soldiers in the trenches during the war. There was a

fabulous re- construction of the front of the G.P.O. which looked exactly like the GPO in Dublin. We Finished our Tour in the Peace Garden , where we sat for a while in the winter sunshine after a very enjoyable experience at the Museum. We would highly recommend a visit to the Museum .

SIXTH YEARS

I would like to extend a special welcome to Amanda Cogtiali, Martina Pitzalis, Cecilia Ghitti, Lucia Beckova, Matilde Scianne and Lauren Healy on joining the year group. Congratulations to the following students who have been elected as class and deputy prefects for this academic school year, Sophie Hill and Alyssa O Reilly for A1, Aysia Carolan and Megan Moynagh for A2, Valentinas Ciapas and Hannah Mc Phillips for A3 and Louise Moore and Bernadette Moore in A5. I would like to congratulate all sixth years who have been involved in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities within the school this term. This has been a busy time for the year group with a trip to the RDS in Dublin for a careers exhibition

followed by an information evening here in school on applying to college through the various systems.

As we approach Christmas, I would like to compliment all of you for your continuous hard work and co-operation during this term. As your end of term exams are fast approaching, I encourage each one of you to continue to work at every subject, follow the guidance of your subject teachers, focus on on-going revision and engage positively in study in preparation for these Christmas assessments and remember the more effort you put in the better your results will be. Both the tutors and I wish each one of you every success in your Christmas examinations.

Huge thanks to your tutors Ms. Mc Donald, Mr. Watters, Mr. Lennon and Mr Fitzsimmons for their tremendous help and continuous support throughout this term. Remember the support services in school are available to help you all get the best from your years in St. Aidan’s.

Finally, as Christmas

draws near I want to take

this opportunity to wish

you all and your families

a very happy and safe

Christmas and good

health and happiness in

2020 and look forward to

seeing you all in the New

Year. G Meehan Year Head.

Wild Words Festival and book launch, June 2019 by Caoimhe Rudden

"Wild Words" is an annual writing festival based in Carrick on Shannon. It gives teenagers with an interest in creative writing the opportunity to meet other like-minded people. Over the course of two days, they take part in workshops with Irish writers, poets and playwrights. Every year at the festival, a book filled with short stories and poems written by these teenagers is published, but in order to have yours included you must enter your work before the deadline and even then, only a few are chosen This year I was lucky enough to have my work chosen for publication in Wild Words Volume 7. When I submitted my short story A Queen’s Curse in March, I was hopeful but still didn't expect much. So when I received a letter

confirming that my work had been chosen I was over the moon! June 28th eventually arrived and my family and I headed off to Carrick on Shannon. We arrived at The Docks building at 10am, and I received a badge with my name on it and a little green star. My star colour was to be my group for the next two days. The green group were sent to the auditorium, where there were a few tables and chairs set up with a flipchart board. We took our seats and glanced around at each other, everyone too shy to say anything. We waited a few moments in silence before a woman entered and greeted us, introducing herself as Sarah Maria Griffin, an author from Dublin. She was softly spoken but clearly passionate about her craft, telling us all about her novel, Other Words for Smoke. The first task she assigned us was to think of words to describe the moon. “Circle', was one suggestion. “Luminescent' was another, and so on. She wrote them up on her flipchart with a marker. The she asked us to write

about the moon without using any of the words written down. We stared at her as if she had three heads and she laughed, but encouraged us nonetheless, assuring us that she wouldn't make us read out what we had written. Surprisingly it was easy enough and Sarah said the point of it was to get us away from the 'easy words'. The rest of the session included us writing about a city and what it had seen and things larger than us. Time flew and suddenly it was lunchtime. Our next workshop was with playwright Tom Swift, who paired us up and asked us to learn all we could about our partners. Then we had to introduce them to the rest of the group. It was a fun icebreaker and we were all more relaxed now that we were familiar with each other. He showed us some of his work and a video of a short film he directed. He then began to talk about fairy tales and showed us some notes on a PowerPoint that explained there are only seven plots that a story could follow.

Tom then put us in groups and handed us a sheet and a marker and told us to talk about our favourite fairy tale and summarise the plot. Once we had done that he asked us to rewrite the fairy tales and when we were finished we read them to the group. Some of the things that people had written were hilarious and by the time 4pm rolled around, we were the best of friends.

At 4:30pm there was a panel with all of the professional writers and Helen Carr, the senior editor of this year’s anthology. She asked them all questions about their writing and their inspirations and asked them to share any tips they had for us young writers The next day we were back in our groups and we met with Anna Carey, an author who writes mostly YA fiction. She read out the first line of a famous novel and asked us to write a short story with it. After twenty minutes she went around the table and we all had to read what we had written. Once again we had a good laugh at some of the short stories, especially when it was revealed that someone had written about an

alternate universe where Michael D Higgins was a dictator! We did the same again but with the last line of a novel and afterwards we began talking about clichés and which ones we hated the most. Anna then told us to use the anger we felt towards clichés to fuel us to write the most clichéd short story we could think of! It wasn't hard, especially since there are so many overused clichés in writing. At the end of the session we spoke with her about what being an author was like and she explained how she got herself published, encouraging us to never give up when it came to finding a publisher, especially if writing is something we want to pursue. After an hour long lunch break we were back for our final workshop with poet Colm Keegan. Going in to the workshop I had assumed that we would just be writing poetry, but for the next hour and a half we spoke with Colm about how most poetry doesn't get into the "deep end" of emotions. Then he asked us to anonymously write down our deepest secrets and he would read them out. Some of the things people wrote were heart-

breaking and inspirational at the same time and once we were all overflowing with raw emotion, Colm asked us to write something. It didn't have to be poetry but that's what the majority of us chose. We read out what we had come up with and he made sure that we stood tall and read with confidence. At the end, we all left with mixed emotions, but it quickly gave way to excitement as the group of us headed down to the nearby hotel for the book launch. We received our copies and after a quick speech from the coordinator we signed our names in each other's books. I was eager to read the stories that all of my new friends had written and they certainly didn't disappoint!

It was an amazing weekend and I enjoyed meeting others who have such an incredible passion for writing. I can do nothing but hope that in a few years’ time I might be buying novels written by some familiar names!

Memories

by Aoife Doyle

We were sitting on the roof

Of her little plastic playhouse

Watching the cars go by

At the end of her party, each year.

For a Christmas to be

officially classified as “white”

a single snow flake needs to

be observed falling in the 24

hours of 25th December on

the rooftop of the Met Office

HQ in London.

Causey Farm- Habitat

Study 24/09/2019

The Grassland ecosystem

was thoroughly

investigated by 6th years

from St. Aidan’s

Comprehensive school

recently on their Ecology

field trip. Habitats within

the ecosystem, trees

present in the ecosystem,

organisms, flora and

fauna were all identified

and analysed.

Populations studies were

carried out as well as

light intensity and wind

speed measurements.

Predators, the food chain

and food web featured

also.

All in all, it was a fun and

highly informative and

useful trip.

Student Training

The facilitator Ger Robinson from

"The Super Generation Inspiring

Futures Company" came to St.

Aidan’s on 20/11/19 to train

Senior Prefects, Bus Prefects and

Student Council. This was a most

useful and informative day.

Amazing Brains Courtesy of Bernard Thompson from the company Amazing Brains, students from 2nd- 6th year in St. Aidan’s Comprehensive recently attended informative workshops to assist them to develop the study techniques and strategies

essential for success. Through practical, meaningful and relevant activities, students discovered the merits of active learning, the importance of perseverance and the role of a 'can do' attitude.

Students are expected to think and act more independently, be more self-disciplined, mature and responsible. At this stage students ultimately really begin to take responsibility for and control of their own learning.

BENSON FAMILY PRESENTATION

Audrey Benson replaced pads and battery in our defibrillator in October 2019. This was funded by the Mike Benson

Memorial Fund.

Computer Science

The initial cohort of

students studying

Computer Science in St.

Aidan’s Comprehensive

School, Cootehill were

among the other

students in Ireland who

undertook the Computer

Science Trial of

Examination

arrangements on

Wednesday 23rd October

under the guidance of

their teacher Ms Noone.

This will be the first

Leaving Certificate

subject to be assessed

with an online

examination held in May

2020 worth 70% and a

project worth 30% which

will be issued in January.

There is a strong

emphasis on group work

and project management

with 4 group projects,

Applied Learning Tasks

(ALTs) completed over

the two years. The

second phase of this pilot

subject has commenced

with 5th year students

studying Computer

Science.

Computer Science Trip to

Bletchley Park March

2020

The Computer Science

students are eagerly

looking forward to their

visit to Bletchley Park in

March to visit the

locations were the WW2

Code-Breaking team

successfully broke the

German code using a

Turing Machine

developed by Alan Turing

along with a visit to The

National Museum of

Computing.

Coding-The current 3rd

year coding class will be

the first group of

students to complete a

Coding short course in St.

Aidan’s Comprehensive

School. There is no

examination at Junior

Cycle for a short course

instead they are assessed

through their Classroom

Based Assessments. The

current first year coding

class are also studying

Digital Media Literacy,

they will be the first class

in St. Aidan’s to complete

two short courses in their

Junior Cycle studies. A

clear pathway from

Junior Cycle to Leaving

Certificate for all students

interested in a career in

computing now exists in

St. Aidan’s

Comprehensive School.

Bebras-Coding and

Computer Science

students in all year

groups participated in the

national annual Bebras

Computational Thinking

Challenge during the first

week in November. The

students who perform

the best in the country

get invited to National

Finals which are usually

held in NUIM. All

students who

participated will receive a

certificate.

The Bebras Computing

Challenge introduces

computational thinking to

students, by allowing

them to solve interactive

tasks online. It is run in

over 40 countries and

takes place every

November. The tasks can

be answered without

prior knowledge about

computational thinking or

information and

communication

technology. The aim of

Bebras is to get students

all over the world excited

about computing.

Keith Quille Workshop

with 6th year Computer

Science Students

Keith Quille from TUD

travelled to Cootehill to

work with the 6th year

Computer Science

students. The students

enjoyed an introduction

to JavaScript. Keith was

very impressed with the

work undertaken by

Matthew Foster and

Oistin Rutledge where

the used their

programming skills to

develop a website to

convert CAO points into

UCAS points. Both

Matthew & Oistin got

inspired while completing

their UCAS applications.

ST. AIDAN’S COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL, COOTEHILL NATIONAL WELLREAD AWARD .

St. Aidan’s

Comprehensive received

the “National Wellread

Award” on Thursday 21st

November 2019 at a

ceremony in the Hodson

Bay Hotel, Athlone. The

Wellread Initiative is

designed and organised

by the Professional

Development Service for

Teachers (P.D.S.T. ) . It is

a whole School initiative

involving students,

parents, staff and the

wider community taking

part in a range of reading

and associated activities.

This Wellread Award

awarded in recognition of

our efforts in creating a

reading culture in our

school which we believe

will bring about an

overall improvement in

students’ literacy skills in

a fun and engaging

way. Our journey is just

beginning. We hope to

maintain this award over

the coming years by

continuing to nurture a

reading culture in our

school by encouraging

students and staff to

borrow some of the many

books we provide in the

Ó Mórdha Library and by

having various reading

initiative throughout our

school Community.

A sincere word of thanks

to everyone in our school

and the wider community

for embracing this

initiative and a huge

thank you to Ms. Aoife

McQuaid and Ms

Hetherton for their work.

We are very proud of this

award which belongs to

everyone at St. Aidan’s.

Lauryna Simanskyte and

Domnic Connell (Library

committee members)

along with Ms Hetherton

accepted the Award on

behalf of the School .

Wellread Awards

2019 : (L-R)Ms.

Hetherton (teacher at St

Aidan’s Comprehensive )

Patricia Forde (Author),

Domnic Connell and

Lauryna Simanskyte (Ó

Mórdha Library

committee) and Mona

Metcalfe (P.D.S.T)

HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS

There are many different

coding initiatives and

competitions which are

open to all students to

enter. Students

interested in entering any

of the competitions listed

should speak with Ms

Noone.

1. Hour of Code –

December

9th – 15th

The Hour of Code takes

place each year

during Computer Science

Education Week

December 9th –

December 15th.

Computer Science

Education Week is held

annually in recognition of

the birthday of

computing

pioneer Admiral Grace

Murray

Hopper (December 9,

1906). All students who

complete their Hour of

Code will receive a

certificate.

2. Do Your Bit

Microbit

Challenge –

Closing Date 28th

February 2020

A new BBC

micro:bit

challenge for

children and teens to

combine creativity and

technology in solutions

for the Global Goals. This

challenge will focus on

Global Goals 14 and 15.

We want you to come up

with innovative ways to

use your micro:bit to help

protect life on land and

below water. 6 winners,

teams or individuals,

from regions across the

world will win a trip to

London, UK, to take part

in an exciting do your :bit

event and receive a

selection of micro:bit

goodies.

3. Google Doodle –

Opens on 6th

January 2020

Entries for the

annual Google

Doodle

competition open

on 6th January

2020. The prizes

in recent years for

winners included

a Google

Chromebook and

€5,000 college

scholarship for

the winner along

with a €10,000

Technology Grant

for the school.

The details of

themes and prizes

for 2020 will be

released shortly.

4. Scratch – Closing

date 10th

February

2020

The next

National Scratch

Competition is

open for entries

and deadline for

project

submissions

is 10th February

2020. All

students who take

part and enter a

project will

receive a

certificate. Project

entries can be

from an individual

or from a team of

not more than 3

students per

team. The Scratch

National Final will

take place during

Tech Week 2020

(28 March-3

April).

5th Green Flag Success

for St. Aidan’s under

the theme of

Biodiversity

St. Aidan’s has achieved

the success of five Green

Flags since 2006 under

the themes of Litter &

Waste (2006), Energy

(2010), Water (2012),

Travel (2015) and

Biodiversity (2019). The

success criteria behind

the Green Flags began by

instilling an awareness in

the student body on the

importance of

environmental issues and

to think of protecting our

environment for future

generations to come. In

2016 St. Aidan’s

celebrated 50 years of

education in the Cootehill

area. To link in our

Green-Schools theme

under Biodiversity a

beautiful garden was

designed by Barry

Kavanagh as a living

memory dedicated to

past and present staff

and students. The garden

includes a wetland area,

a woodland area, native

hedge rows, a wildflower

area, a range of

shrubbery, a living wall,

bat boxes, bird feeders

and an outdoor

classroom with a range of

benches dedicated to

past, present and future

staff and students

designed by Mr.

Fitzsimons (Woodwork

Teacher) A time capsule

is placed in the centre of

the design. A huge thank

you must go to our

horticulture teacher Ms.

Joanne Corbett who

worked on the planning

of our Biodiversity

garden. Our Green Flag

success has made both

staff and students more

aware of their

contribution to

conserving our

environment and

reducing our carbon

footprint in the years and

decades ahead. A huge

thank you to everybody

who helped in any way in

achieving our Green Flag

success. Go raibh míle

maith agaibh!

Dearbhla McCormick / Sophie Murphy (3rd Year students) / Cathal Boylan (Waste Management Section Cavan County Council) Ms. Scanlon( ( (Green Schools Co-ordinator)

Cycling by Caolan Roberts

The trees’ green coats had been

Strewn on the ground.

Light crept through their bare branches

and scattered,

On the small country road.

Cavities were dotted across it

and train tracks of grass

Grew down it.

Upon it – I was a clockwork toy

Fully wound up,

My legs like spinning turbines.

Behind me – My parents

Their feet skimming the ground,

Ripples of dust from each step.

Their smiles stark on their faces.

I charged on

Between the guard of honour

Over the incline

and into the horizon.

5th Year Physics Wind Farm Trip

Our 5th year students enjoyed a

presentation and site visit on the

nearby Mountain Lodge farm site.

Two ESB employees came into the

school and gave the students an

overview on the operation and

construction of the site and the

power output capabilities.

We were then taken onsite and given

a tour of the sub-station and control

rooms before being brought up to

one of the turbines and given access

to the inside of the turbine to see

first-hand how it all comes together.

It was a very interesting and

informative visit and all the students

really enjoyed it and were taken back

at the sheer scale and size of these

machines and their capabilities.

Lidl Competition Winners 2019 St Aidan’s

Comprehensive were

very fortunate to win this

year’s Lidl Serious

support competition for

secondary schools.

Selected schools take

part in a brand new

#SeriousSupport

programme delivered by

LGFA county level players

which aims to show girls

the benefits of playing

sport both on and off the

pitch. We have already

had visits from Donegal

Senior Ladies Footballer

and AFL player Katy

Herron. We also collected

a brand new set of

jerseys, footballs, cones,

bibs and water bottles.

Shoppers were invited to

nominate their local LGFA

post-primary school by

logging on to

www.lidl.ie/jerseys and

entering the 10 digit

unique code found at the

end of all till receipts. So

we thank everyone that

helped us to

Since 2016, over €3.5

million has already been

invested in The Ladies

Gaelic Football

Association by Lidl Ireland

through programmes

which include Lidl’s

Future Stars, Post

Primary Schools and Club

competitions which

continue to drive

awareness of the sport

across the country

Pictured at the Lidl store in Cavan at the prize hand-over for the Lidl LGFA post-primary schools store competition are students and representatives from St.

Aidan's Comprehensive school LGFA team with their Teacher Ms. English and Lidl Cavan Store Manager.

As part of the competition, Lidl donated jerseys and equipment,

worth €250,000 to 145 post-primary school teams across Ireland, reinforcing its commitment to serious support for ladies' GAA at all levels.

New Season Kicks Off

in St. Aidan’s

The U19 team began their campaign against a well-organised Bawnboy team who worked exceptionally hard throughout. Eventually the team managed to overcome their opponents on a 3-0 score line. In their second game, they faced up to an excellent Collegiate side who had some superb footballers within their ranks. The team worked well and played some lovely football, but twice had to come from behind. They did have chances to win the game, but overall both teams deserved a draw on their efforts. They now await their next game. The U17 side began their campaign away to Belturbet. They were the superior team on the day and hard as Belturbet tried they had no answer to the tempo of the Aidan’s boys. They await their next fixture against

the Royal in the near future.

The U15 team also began with a win defeating a hardworking Collegiate side 4-0 on the day. They have two further games to play against Inver and Colaiste Oiriall.

SENIOR GIRLS vs AQUINAS

Our Senior Girls Gaelic

team bowed out of the

Ulster competition at the

quarter final stage on

Friday the 22nd of

November. The girls met

a strong team from

Aquinas Belfast who

stormed to a 5 goal lead

in the first half with St

Aidan’s only putting 1.05

on the scoreboard.

However, our girls went

out all guns blazing in the

second half winning the

throw up and grabbing a

goal to start the second

half off. The next two

scores were also goals

for St Aidan’s and the

comeback was on.

Unfortunately, the

mountain was too tall to

climb and Aquinas

finished the half with a

penalty goal slotted into

the corner calmly. The

game finished St Aidan’s

5.08 to Aquinas 8.08.

Well done to all the girls

for their commitment all

year and special word of

thanks goes to our

Leaving certs for their

commitment over the

past 6 years.

U20 ULSTER LADIES

GAELIC BLITZ, CLOGHAN,

MONDAY 7TH OCTOBER

2019

St Aidan’s senior girls

Gaelic team participated

in the Ulster U20 blitz in

Cloghan on Monday the

7th of October. The girls

played very well in all

games. In game one St

Aidan’s beat Breifne

College on a score line of

3.05 to 0.01 with Sarah

Clarke and Aoibhe Morris

in flying form. St Aidan’s

went on to play Inver

College in game two, this

was a tougher test but St

Aidan’s played some

great football. Solid

performances came from

Amy Hall and Catherine

Ahearne and St Aidan’s

won by 2.03 in the end.

St Aidan’s topped their

group and met

ST AIDAN’S SPORT

St Joseph’s from

Crossmaglen in the semi-

final. This game saw

plenty of goals with Leah

Cosgrove in form in the

forward line and Siobhan

McCabe covering every

blade of grass on the

pitch. Megan Moynagh

and Ellen Clegg starred in

the back line. St Aidan’s

won on a score line of

2.05 to 6.03 setting them

up for a final spot against

St Pat’s Keady, last year’s

Ulster Finalists. This was

the toughest game of the

day especially as legs had

started to tire. St Aidan’s

went in at half time 1.04

to 0.00 at half time and

left themselves with too

much to do. In fairness to

the girls they battled hard

and only conceded one

point in the second half.

Unfortunately they just

came up short losing out

narrowly by 1.05 to 0.04.

This places St Aidan’s into

the quarter finals of the

cup competition. Best of

luck to the girls in the

next match.

Senior Hurling

Our U19 senior boys began the year with a preliminary group stage

containing Monaghan/Cavan schools and faced schools from

Monaghan Town and Carrickmacross. Despite few training sessions the

lads glued together and performed very well. Some excellent

performances included those from Sean McMahon, Oliver Leddy, and

Gavin Fitzpatrick. St. Aidans topped this group and secured themselves

in an Ulster quarter final.

In the Ulster quarter Final, St. Aidans faced a gallant Co. Tyrone team,

St. Joesphs of Donaghmore. The boys had put in the effort at training

and although considering the students of St. Joesphs had recent

success with local clubs at minor level, the boys were unfazed.

Unbelievable performances from each player on the day seen St.

Aidans secure a 22 point victory over the opponents. The boys showed

extreme character and skill with outstanding performances from Phillip

McCabe, Rian Delaney, Cian Smith and Brandon McGerty.

In the Ulster Semi Final, St. Aidans faced a very strong St. Columb’s

College from the Hurling Strong hold of Derry. The game was held in

Tyrone GAA centre of excellence, Garvaghy. With extreme weather

conditions on the day St. Aidans played into a powerful wind during the

first half and were trailing at the interval. With the wind on their back

during the second half, leading figures such as James Tully, Conor

Bannon and brothers, Cillian & Darragh Boyle brought along the lads

with a much better 2nd half performance. Unfortunately the gap was

too large and it wasn’t to be St. Aidan’s day.

Well done to all the lads involved on reaching an Ulster Semi Final !

Team: Rian Delaney, Daire Dillion, Jack Morris, Cian Smith, Kian Donohoe,

Sean McMahon, Darragh Boyle, Conor Bannon, Phillip McCabe, Morgan Hall,

Gavin Fitzpatrick, Oliver Leddy, Cillian Boyle, James Tully, Dylan Adams,

Aaron Crowe, Conn Dillion, Cian Farrelly, Oisin Lynch, Christopher Dunn,

Kain O’Connor, Adam Clarke, Joe McQuillian, Oisin Harkin, Colin McCauley,

Jack Rutledge, Andrew Raz

1st Year Hurling

Our 1st years competed in a

Monaghan/Cavan schools, Hurling

competition in the Monaghan

GAA centre of excellence back in

October. The boys played 4 games

on the day winning all games. The

boys had a very enjoyable day and

showed they are some great

future stars for St. Aidans

On Thursday the 3rd of

October we travelled to

Breffnie College to

kickstart our campaign.

We got off to a very good

start and were winning

well at the end of the

first quarter. Breffni

really got into the game

in the second quarter

and it was nip and tuck

for both the second and

third quarter. We put up

a good fight but

unfortunately, we missed

too many chances. In the

end the home side were

the better team on the

day.

St. Aidan’s U16 girls’

basketball team travelled

to Kingscourt to play

Colaiste Dun An Ri on the

8th of October. We got off

to a good start with Ines

Martinez scoring three

brilliant baskets in the

opening quarter. It was

another tight battle and

in the second quarter the

home side edged ahead,

and we couldn’t catch up.

Colaiste Dun An Ri ran

out the

winners with

the score line

of 28-14. It

was an

intense game,

but luck

wasn’t on our

side. We had

too many

missed

opportunities

with our

shooting. Our next game

will be on the 23rd of

October.

U16 Girls Gaelic .V. Ballybay CS Thursday 26th September 2019

St Aidan’s: 2.10 Ballybay C.S: 3.07

The U16 Girls Gaelic team started their 2019 campaign off on Thursday 26th September 2019 with a

home game against Ballybay CS. The game started off slow with Ballybay getting onto the scoreboard

first. Captain Amy Hall, Catherine Ahearne and Molly Smith battled hard in the first half to keep the

scores close. Eva O’Grady palmed a lovely ball to the net for St Aidan’s also. St Aidan’s went in at half

time 1.01 down with it all to do in the second half. Lavina McGill slotted over a number of points early

in the second half and Jorja O’Reilly kept the Ballybay attack quiet at the back. St Aidan’s had all the

possession but accumulated too many wides. It finished up St Aidan’s 2.10 to Ballybay C.S 3.07 and a

draw was a very fair result after a tough contest between too very strong teams. St Aidan’s play Largy

C.S next.

U16 Girls’ Basketball 2019 Campaign

Senior Camogie

On 14th October St

Aidan’s Senior Camogie

team took to the field to

play their first match of

the year. St Aidan’s

started strong and were

victorious over Lurgan.

Next up were old rivals

Castleblaney and again St

Aidan’s went out strong

and played another great

game to beat Blaney.

This set us up for our last

game against a strong, fit

and unbeaten Dean

Maguire team from

Carrickmore. It was point

for point and very little

separated the teams but

in the end we were

defeated narrowly by just

2 points. We

were

Disappointed to

lose this game

but we were

setup for a

playoff with

neighbouring

rivals Breifne

College. Breifne

are no strangers to

ourselves having played

many competitive

matches over the years

so this was never going to

be an easy challenge.

St Aidan’s met Breifne in

Breifne Park Cavan and

the competitive game

began. Again, there was

little between the sides

throughout the game and

at half-time. In the

second half St Aidan’s

pushed on knowing that

victory would ensure an

Ulster semi-final place.

This was enough to

encourage and motivate

our players to get over

the line and ensured

victory once again.

Well done girls on a great

first term and best of luck

as you face Gleann na Ró

Limavady in the semi-

final on Wednesday 27th.

Ádh mór!!

ST AIDAN’S SENIOR FOOTBALL TEAM

Well done to our senior boys team who have qualified for the Ulster quarter final last week. In our qualification

group we beat Sacred Heart Omagh and Lismore Craigavon both comprehensively to get to the next stage. The

boys are training 2/3 per week as they get ready for their up coming games. They don’t know our next

opponents in the Ulster quarter final yet. We also play Baileborough next week in the Cavan semi final next

week so we wish them all the best in their up coming games.

St Aidan’s Students Shine in School Musical!

by TY Students Aislingh Brady, Caolan Fitzsimons, and Hannah Moynagh

From the 12th to the 14th of November, St. Aidans’ students performed their take on Disney’s “High School Musical”. The show was directed by Born 2 Perform’s Gavin Quigley, choreographed by the incredible Paige Cunningham, and had Siobhan Maguire’s passionate and irreplaceable musical direction. We also had assistance from many of the most hard working teachers in the school, who took the time out of their evenings and weekends to make sure everything ran smoothly.

The process for this show began all the way back in June 2019, when the first auditions were held. Over that summer, roles were cast, and the rehearsal process began in August. The leads were casted by Siobhan Maguire and Gavin Quigley. The whole cast agrees that Gabriella Montez could not have been played better than by Oniosa Fitzsimons, and

Hannah McPhillips was a flawless Sharpay Evans. The male lead, Troy Bolton was played naturally by St. Aidan’s resident “Male Lead” Oisin Lynch, and newcomer to musical theatre, Caolan Fitzsimons portrayed Ryan Evans particularly well.

Since the first day we received the script, it was abundantly clear that this show was going to take a lot of effort and help from all sides. We began to learn our lines, memorize our dances, plan a set, and form friendships with our cast. This show formed so many new bonds between members of cast and crew, and it was an incredible experience, even from the initial rehearsals.

In the months leading up to the show, work was tireless. Near-daily singing practices, weekly dance rehearsals, and not to mention all the backstage work being done. All of the students building sets, writing programs, designing and searching out costumes, building and seeking out props, and assisting teachers when things got too hectic were the backbone of this

show. All of the background work that usually goes unnoticed was done so thoughtfully and professionally, and this show wouldn’t have looked so good if it wasn’t for them.

Yes, the work grew exhausting, but it was definitely worth it when we got to the actual show. We would like to thank everyone who came to see it, as the show was so fun to perform. All of our hard work really came to fruition on the show dates. Singing those songs and saying those lines truly felt different when we had such a great audience. Once we got our costumes on for the first time, everything felt so different. The show now may be over, but the friendships made over this show will last a lifetime- and we will never get those songs out of our heads.

St. Aidan’s Comprehensive recent production of “High School Musical” was the result of a great deal of hard work on the part of all involved. The cast was drawn from all year groups within the school and each member was very focused in preparing for their various roles.

The musical offered us a chance to harness the great musical talent we have in the school and to nurture new talents. Huge work has gone on behind the scenes over the last number of months and credit must be given to all staff members who rowed in right from day one to make this production the huge success it was. Such productions are only possible with the generosity of a staff that gives freely of their time and expertise in many different roles and areas.

The financial support for this production from our local community has been incredible. Without the generous advertisers, sponsors and donors, a show like this would not be possible.

The final word must go to the students – the budding stars of the show who really demonstrated maturity and commitment to the show. It was a joy to see many students, who barely mustered the courage to put themselves forward and audition, transform into confident young actors, singers and

dancers! Those onstage were ably supported by their invisible peers who made it all work and flow seamlessly. It was a superb team effort – well done to all involved!

Oisín Lynch Troy

Oníosa Fitzsimons Gabriella

Caolán Fitzsimons Ryan

Hannah Mc Phillips Sharpay

Christian Hennessy Chad

Hannah Mc Cann Taylor

David Calvert Zeke

Ciara Mc Donagh Martha

Laura BannonMs Darbus

Adrian Mc DonaldCoach Bolton

Aislingh BradyJackie Scott

Kayla FarrellKelsi

Joseph Byrne Mr Tenney

Brainiacs

Tríona Morris, Lauren Whyte, Aoife Brazil, Liam Smith, Lauryna Simanskyte, Annita Chuenglin, Mai Murdock, Aoife Mc Cullagh,

Claudia Armengol, Emma Greenan, Ashling McCracken Roche, Carlota Jimenez, Sheila Viera Gonzalez, Claudia Toledo, Ellen Mc Caul.

Thespians

Lee Pepper, Eoghan Mc Caul, Darragh Hall, Ava

Tate, Rebecca Vogan,

Naomi Gibson, Brona Joyce, Tara Mc Glynn, Katie Ward, Emma Mc Mullen, Dearbhla Mc Cormick, Liana Liene Meldere, Kaitlyn Mooney, Iwo Chmura, Micaela Prior, Niamh Rice, Amy Farrelly, Chloe McCabe, Dominic Connell, Zilvinas Jonaitis

Jocks:

Dean Carroll, Callum O’Reilly, Cillian Boyle, Owen Comiskey, Ryan Conroy, Jamie Shanley, Cian Daly, Gabriel Pugnaire.

Cheerleaders:

Ines Saz Grana, Lila Mc Caul, Kaitlin Hughes, Katie Kelly, Ellen Gallagher, Kate Mc Caul, Cody Mc Dermott, Ellen Maguire, Megan Lynch, Katie Foster, Caitlin Rice, Bernadette Moore, Sofia Giacalone.

Side Choir:

Lauren Moynagh, Lily Moynagh, Leah Woods, Laura Mc Caul, Rebeka Brady, Cecilia Ghitti, Martina Pitzalis, Shainel Davies, Paula Luedecke, Franziska Bender, Megan Mills, Teresa Patella, Anita West, Mailysse Galy, Corinne Mc Dermott, Jane Mc Kay,Laura Pujol.

Stress Management Course All leaving certificate students participated in stress management through the use of essential oils and Indian head massage. The workshops was given by Ms. Ciara Kirk a Therapist in the Sulius Centre in Carrickmacross.

Maynooth University Ms. Kay Mitchel gave a presentation to all leaving certificate students about the options available to them in NUI Maynooth.

Top tips for Mental Health and Wellbeing for Christmas

1. Take care of

yourself. Eat right, get enough sleep and exercise. Control your alcohol consumption and limit your indulgence in high fat or sugary foods which leads to low mood and anxiety.

2. Recognize signs of stress and use relaxation techniques

when you begin to get irritated or upset such taking a few deep breaths, going for a walk or taking a break.

3. Have realistic expectations of family and friends. Just because it is Christmas,

does not mean the attitudes or behaviours of relatives and friends will change. Accept this and plan how you will respond to help keep the Christmas spirit.

4. Make time for yourself.

This time does not need to cost anything and can include going for a walk or reading a book. Schedule time for yourself during the busy Christmas period.

5. Study or not to study??? We all need a break so plan now the days you are taking off the usual Christmas eve, Christmas day, St Stephens day the day after (as you will probably be going out) New year’s Eve and New Year’s day. Study then on the days you have not booked off, but work at you best time. If you need to sleep till 12 then do and

study after that. But do a few hours every day. This will help to reduce stress and anxiety when you have a plan. Dedicate a subject /topic you wish to do on that day. You’ll feel great once you have it done.

6. If you experience

persistent low mood or anxiety, consider professional help. There is a wealth of experience and expertise available to deal with mental health difficulties.

Drugs and Alcohol Helpline 1800459 459

AWARE (depression) helpline 1890 303 302

Samaritans (all issues) 1850 60 90 90

SENIOR PREFECTS

Back (Left to Right): Alysia Carolan, Megan Moynagh, Rebecca Greenan, Dara Moffett, Chloe Connolly, Hannah McPhillips

Front (Left to Right): Tara Tiernan, Amy Garland, Lauren Clerkin, Claire McCaul, Leah Cosgrove

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL

Week No Date No of

days Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Week 17 D

ece

mb

er

2nd-6th 5

3rd & 5th Year PTM

Week 18 9th-13th 5

Week 19 16th-20th 5

Mentoring/Christmas Exams

TY Work exp x 1 week Staff Day

Week 20 23rd-27th 0 Christmas

Week 21

Jan

uar

y

30th-3rd 0 Christmas

Week 22 6th-10th 5

Week 23 13th-17th 5 Planning

JCT Cluster Day No School

Week 24 20th-24th 5

Week 25

Feb

ruar

y

27th-31st 5

TY & 1st Year PTM

Week 26 3rd-7th 5 Mock Exams

Incoming 1st Year Assess

8th

Week 27 10th-14th 5

Mock Exams/LCVP Work exp TY Trip

Week 28 17th-22nd 0 Mid Term

Week 29 24th-28th 5

Planning /Geog Field Trip LC

Week 30

Week 31

Mar

ch

2nd-6th 5 LCA Work exp 1 wk

ACCS Convention

ACCS Convention

ACCS Convention

Week 32 9th-13th 5

Catholic School Week TY Mass Planning 1st Year Retreat

Week 33 16th-20th 4 Spanish Group

St Patrick's Day

Week 34 23rd-27th 5

Week 35

Ap

ril

30th-3rd 5 Planning

Week 36 6th-10th 0 Easter

Week 37 13th-17th 0 Easter

Week 38 20th-24th 5

Week 39

May

27th-1st 5

Week 40 4th-8th 4 Bank Holiday

ACCS Ed Conf

Week 41 11th-15th 5 TY Grad/NS Blitz

18th-22nd 5 TY Work exp x1 wk 6th Year Grad

In House Prize

Week 42

Jun

e

25th-29th 5 TY Work exp x1 wk

In house Exams Staff Day

Week 43

Week 44 1st-6th 0 LC Begins