2011 - 2012

Article 7

On February 8th and 9th, second year students headed off to Attymas, Co. Mayo to the Fr. Peyton Memorial Centre. It was an opportunity for time out from their hectic studies to rest, relax, pray and learn.
During the day the students learned about the life of Fr. Peyton. Inspired by his life and message, the retreat gave students the time to explore their own beliefs in the company of their friends.

Following the success of this year’s sale of recycled Christmas cards at the school, we are beginning to collect Christmas cards again in preparation for next winter. Money is being raised for the Aurelia Trust Charity which works with underprivileged children in Romania.

On 14th March the 5th year English classes, along with Ms Roddy and Ms Hennigan will attend the production of Macbeth in the Royal Theatre Castlebar. Performed by the Kings Theatre Portsmouth Co., it is expected to be an enjoyable day out and a learning experience for all.

From the 6th – 9th of February, TY students participated in driving lessons at the school. Run by the Irish School of Excellence each student will get an opportunity to take their first steps in driving experience. The event also involves the students learning the theory of driving and the dangers of drink driving.

6th year students have now successfully completed their CAO and UCAS applications. Throughout the first term, presentations were made to the students from representatives of NUIG, NUIM, DCU, UL, and D.I.T. in the school. In January, post-graduate students from the faculties of engineering, science and business/law in NUIG all gave the students perspective of pursuing studies in these specialisms.
Students who will pursue P.L.C. courses will have the opportunity to hear presentations from the Colleges of further Education starting in February. All guest speakers provide excellent support to students in making their important career decision.

On 28th January students Ciara Hopkins and Muireann ní Bhaoigheall took part in the Ireuso science Olympiad in DCU. We congratulate the girls for getting into the competition.

On the football scene our Senior Girls were defeated in the Connacht Post-Primary Semi-Final against Mount St Michaels, Claremorris. Out Senior Boys defeated Headford in the Connacht Championship, they now play Ballyhaunis in the Quarter-Finals. Our Junior Boys were unfortunately defeated by Headford in their championship game. In athletics, William and Rosie Hynes received top honours in their age groups in the North Connacht Cross-Country. All other students involved qualified for the Connacht Championships.

On the 4th of February, St. Attracta’s C.S. Tubbercurry hosted and competed in the All-Ireland Quarter finals tournament, playing teams from Dublin, Monaghan and Cork. The first match was at 9.30 and St. Attracta’s played Mount Temple Comprehensive, Dublin. This match was won by St. Attracta’s 27 - 24. St. Attracta’s next match was at 1.45 when they played against Beech Hill College, Monaghan. St Attracta’s were a much stronger side and they comfortably won with a score line of 42 - 14. It was then down to the last match of the day. At 4.40, St. Attracta’s played St. Aidans, Cork. This was the deciding match; the winner would qualify for the semi finals. It was a tough match with two evenly matched teams. However, the St. Attracta’s girls proved too strong in the end with outstanding teamwork and determination. The final score was 39 – 34. St. Attracta’s now meets Clonalee V.S. Laois in the semi final at the beginning of March. The venue is to be confirmed.

As mid-term break commences on the 10th February we wish that everyone has an enjoyable restful break.

Article 6

The Young Americans arrived at St. Attractas on Sunday evening, January 22nd. They were being hosted by families and students from the school willing to take them in for the week. Over the course of the week the students participated in performance workshops which were thoroughly enjoyed by all. Two concerts were performed in order to showcase the new and improved talents of St. Attracta’s. The Young Americans experience is one which will not be forgotten and we wish them a safe journey on the rest of their tour. We thank Ms McDonnell for organising this event which was enjoyed by so many of our students.

Study is underway for the mock examinations which will be held from 2nd – 10th February. This is an opportunity for the students of Junior Cert & Leaving Cert to get a chance to experience the testing process which they will face in June. We wish all involved the best of luck.

On Wednesday 18th students from Transition Year participated in a drumming workshop held by Peter Crann. It focuses on samba and reggae drumming which the students tried out and performed for the day. It was an enjoyable day and all who tried it gained new knowledge about drumming and performance.

Since the start of the year, the Transition Year students have been taking part in the Gaisce Programme, the President’s Award the country’s most prestigious and respected individual award programme. Ms Ryan and Ms O’Shea have put a lot of work into the Gaisce programme in the school and it is appreciated by all. Students have been pushing themselves to succeed in the programme by becoming involved in their local community, developing a personal skill and maintaining an exercise programme. We have reached half-way point in the programme and wish all participating the best of luck in continue their fine work in the programme.

A Green Schools Committee has been set up by Ms Ryan in our school. The committee is made up of representatives from each class, teachers and auxiliary staff. Over the last few months, the students have been working hard, carrying out various activities in order to obtain a green flag. With a whole school effort, we hope to achieve the honour of getting a Green Flag in December in 2012.

On the 15th of February the post Primary All-Stars banquet was held in the Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar. Five of our students received nominations for the fantastic award. This is fantastic reflection on the calibre of players in the school. Four of our students received All-Stars at the banquet; they were Caoimhe Gallagher, Orla Coleman, Laura Gillespie and Katie Walsh. These four students then took part in the Post Primary inter provincial tournament in Kinnegad. Connacht lost their first match against Munster but went on the win their next two matches against Leinster and Ulster and qualified for the final. Once again they were defeated by Munster in the final but received their runner-up medals with pride.

Our senior girls have qualified for the Connacht semi- finals; they play Mount St Michaels, Claremorris, the game will be played in Claremorris on the 25th of January.

Our juvenile boys lost out to Foxford in a tight encounter in horrific conditions on Thursday the 19th of January.

After their excellent Junior Cert. Results, three of our TY students, Ciara Hopkins, Eilish Sweeney and Evan O’Donnell have been awarded with the NUIG Junior Certificate Business award. This award acknowledges their prowess in the Junior Cert Business exam. Well done to them.

Article 5

After an enjoyable Christmas holiday, the school reopened this week for the New Year. The Staff and Students hope that 2012 will be a successful and productive year for all at St. Attracta's.

Shortly before the Christmas break, the Transition Year classes organised a bake sale in order to raise funds for a polytunnel for the newly cultivated school garden. €327 was raised and we thank all students who baked, sold or bought the tasty treats on offer.

The Staff and Students would also like to wish a warm welcome to a new Home Economics Teacher, Ms. Hurley, who will be covering for Ms. Hayes while she is on maternity leave.

As the mock examinations approach yet again, students in Junior and Leaving Certificate classes prepare and study for the occasion. The exams commence on 2nd February and we wish all involved the best of luck.

Our Senior basketball team have qualified for the All-Ireland quarter-finals. Our school will compete against three other schools, one from Cork, Dublin and Monaghan. The school will be hosting the tournament on the 4th of February. We wish the girls the best in the games ahead.

Meanwhile, on the football scene, all of our teams are training hard for their championship games.

Four of our students, Ailish Gordon, Orla Coleman, Keelan Gannon and Oisin Kennedy, have been selected to perform in the forthcoming production of Sligo Musical Society’s Wizard of Oz. The show will be staged in the Hawkswell Theatre from 18th – 25th February. Also starring is Pippin, Ms. McConnell’s dog, who will be playing the star role of Toto. We wish them all the best of luck.

TY students have rotated their module groups this week. The Transition Year has been split into four groups who will take part in weekly workshops covering GAA Coaching, Gardening, Fashion Design and “Boxercise”. All students have now experienced half of the workshops on offer and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience so far.

Following the success of our TY musical, Back To The 80s, the release of the DVD has been highly anticipated. Orders are now being taken in the school for students who wish to purchase the DVD. The two part DVD includes a recording of the performance and a bonus disc containing footage of rehearsals and backstage action.

On the 23rd Of January our school will play host to the award-winning performance group, The Young Americans. Their five day stay has been hugely anticipated and will comprise of daily performance workshops and two concerts performed by the group and the students to showcase the work done.

On a sad note, the Board of Management, Staff and Students of St. Attracta’s wish to extend their deepest sympathies to Ms. Anne Brady, our Deputy Principal, on the sudden passing of her father on St. Stephen’s Day. Our thoughts and prayers are with her at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.

Article 4

In November, the school collected and sent away the Team Hope shoeboxes, which were brought in by students. These shoeboxes will be distributed to children in developing countries with the aim of the supplying children in need with a present at Christmas.

The Transition Years have been producing recycled Christmas cards within the school the past week. The money being raised is being donated to the Aurelia Trust, which is a charity that works with an orphanage in Romania. The money from the cards will specifically be used for the orphans to go on a highly anticipated trip to the seaside. Ms Roddy has worked with the charity for many years and we can see from the pre-orders that there is a great demand for the cards this year and we thank all who are supporting the cause.

On the week of the 5^th of December, TY’s were sent on their first week of work experience placements. The week was very beneficial and enjoyable for everyone involved. We would like to thank all businesses and individuals who accommodated the students for the week. The next week of placements will be during March and all the Transition Years students are looking forward to it.

The 25^th Irish Maths Olympiad took place late in November. Students used logic and their knowledge of maths to overcome and solve a series of maths problems. Students were graded from one point to ten points, and the winners were Ava Lang and Charlie Bastin. Following a refresher course in Galway, they will progress to the regional finals later in the New Year.

Our Junior boys had an unfortunate loss in a closely-fought game to St. Gerard’s of Castlebar. The U14 girls’ game was post-poned due to an unplayable pitch and horrific conditions. Our Senior boys have qualified for the Connacht B league final. Our Senior girls have qualified for the Connacht final also, and their game will be played in the New Year. On the Basketball scene our Senior girls won the regional finals on a final score of 50-35. The school would like to wish the two teams in the finals the best of luck, as also all the teams competing in championships later on in the New Year.

In closing, we would like to thank all those who have made this school year such a memorable one; All the Transition Year Co-ordinators, Mr. McGovern, Ms. McConnell, Ms. Hennigan and Ms. Roddy; The Principal Mr McEvoy and the Deputy Principal, Ms. Brady; All the Teachers, Staff and Students of St. Attracta’s C.S.; As well as all the Parents and Relatives who supported the school and it’s students throughout the year. To all these people wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Article 3

On Friday 25th of November, our school put on its production of the musical 'Back To The 80's' in St.Brigid’s Hall Tubbercurry. Preparation for the musical began at the start of the school year and cast and crew worked tirelessly to make sure our show was a success under the production team of Ms.McConnell (Director), Ms.McDonnell (Musical Director) and Ms.Kelly (Choreographer).

The verdict was unanimous – everyone loved the show, especially those who grew up to the soundtrack of the 80s and appreciated references to the cult classics of Star Wars, The Kararte Kid and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off!

The show, greatly enhanced by a live five piece band, was performed four times over the weekend to sell-out crowds and we received rapturous applause from audiences who thoroughly enjoyed the show.

Mr. McEvoy, the Principal, thanked the cast and crew, comprised of Transition Year and Fifth Year students, and all who made the musical possible, especially the staff and students of St Attracta’s C.S. who provided much appreciated support (and even a few extended deadlines for homework!).

Also thanked were our sponsors, the committee of St.Brigid’s Hall and last but most certainly not least our fantastic audiences. Mr. McEvoy said that he was immensely proud of the students who took part and that it is an event they will never forget.

The show was a resounding success has become a highlight of the school year so far. It is safe to say that the bar has been raised once again and we look forward to many more school musicals to come.

Continuing on a musical theme, we look forward to the much anticipated return of The Young Americans to the school. The Young Americans are an Oscar award-winning group of forty-five young performers who will be giving an intensive three-day workshop in all aspects of performance including acting, singing and dancing.

This hard work will culminate in a two hour concert which will be performed twice, due to popular demand, on the 25th and 26th of January in the new year. The experience has been received extremely well before and we have no doubt that their next visit will be just as enjoyable and beneficial. Further details on the group can be obtained from www.youngamericans.org.

Moving on to sports, in basketball, our Cadettes unfortunately lost their last league game to the Mercy College Team, which means that they are now out of the competition.

Our Seniors however topped their group and then went on to beat Coola to win the Sligo/Leitrim/Roscommon section, they now play Glenties of Donegal in the Regional Semi-Finals on the 6th of December.

The FAI ford cup visited a number of schools over the course of last week. Among these schools was St. Attracta’s C.S. The Sligo Rovers visited on Tuesday the 22nd of November and brought with them both the cup and ecstatic atmosphere to the school.

In other news, the AIB Build-A-Bank team has been selected in our school. The members of the team look forward to the challenge to come.

Article 2

The 6th annual Maths Week Ireland took place from the 15th to the 22nd of October. With over 122,000 pupils participating, it promotes awareness, appreciation, and understanding of maths through a huge variety of events and activities all over the island. In celebration of Maths Week 2011, Transition Years took part in a maths-based puzzle-solving quiz. The winner will be awarded a prize at the end of the year at the Transition Year Presentation Night. In addition, Junior Cycle students and Transition Years made posters and displayed them in the school corridors.

On the 19th of October, 7 students from St. Attractas C.S. travelled to the Clarion Hotel in Sligo to represent the school at the 9th Annual General Meeting of Sligo Comhairle Na nÓg. From this group April McDermott was elected to a seat on the Sligo Comhairle Na nÓg. Shóna O’Dowd, Rachel Flannery and Eileen Casey were also elected as representatives of the Tubbercurry electoral area.

Amidst all the election hype, even those not eligible to vote were in on the action as 1st, 2nd and 3rd Years took part in a mock presidential election. Sean Gallagher was a narrow winner over Michael D. Higgins by two votes, however it seems the rest of the country seemed to differ in opinion.

Our school has also set up a Green schools committee. It is mostly run by TY but each year is represented by one correspondent from each year.

This year we are once again proud to take part in the shoebox appeal organised by Team Hope, in an effort to give less fortunate children around the world a thoughtful present this Christmas.

On Thursday 3rd November, a DJ, Guitar and Music Sampling workshop took place for all students interested. In conjunction with Sligo Leadership, it gives people the opportunity to learn more about music sampling, mixing and guitar playing for themselves.

Rehearsals for the musical 'Back to the 80's' are running smoothly with all parts now cast. Hard work and commitment is being put in by all involved in acting, dancing and singing rehearsals. The musical itself will be on during the last weekend of November. 

On the GAA scene our Junior boys overcame Roscommon CBS in an action packed game. They won 4:6 to 16 points. Our Senior boys had an emphatic win over Mountbellew. They won 4:18 to 6 points. The Juvenile boys lost to Summerhill in a highly skilful game. Our Junior girls lost to Westport in a tight encounter that could have gone either way.

Our Cadettes basketball team had resounding wins over Easkey, the Grammar and Manorhamilton. Meanwhile, our Seniors beat Easkey and Manorhamilton. They have one more match to play against Mercy College. If they win they go top of their pool and qualify for the next stage of the league.

Our school would also like to congratulate Sean Henry on his recent achievement on making the Munster First team for the upcoming Heineken cup tournament. Sean was a past pupil of St Attracta’s. He plays as a hooker and made his debut in September 2010 against Glasgow.

In addition, the school would also wish to thank all the employers who graciously took on LCVP students for Work Experience Placements. Their generosity is much appreciated.

Finally we would like to say goodbye to Ryan and Aoife Mullen, and Austin and Darren O’Hara who have completed their last term at St. Attracta’s. They will be missed by students and staff but we which them all the best for the future.

By Eoin McDonagh, Ciara Hopkins, Eadaoin McCarrick and Jack Casey.

Article 1

On the 12th Oct, the T.Y’s and the 5th year music class, accompanied by teachers went to Mamma Mia the musical in The Grand Canal Theatre. The musical was very enjoyable and the theatre was extremely modern and impressive.

Peter Neill, a music photographer who has experience in photographing bands such as U2 and The Black Eyed Peas, gave the T.Ys a workshop on photography earlier last week.

On October 18th the school choir took part in the All-Island Schools Choir Competition. The choir was one of 20 choirs to be picked and qualified for the regional after 46 choirs entered. The songs the choir preformed 'The Blessing', by Brendan Graham and 'Chattanooga Choo Choo', made famous by The Glen Miller Big Band. Unfortunately the choir didn’t progress onto the next stages but wish the best to the winners, St. Joseph’s from Navan. The programme can be seen on RTE 1 on Sunday, Oct 30th at 5.10pm.

Later this year our T.Ys and 5th years will be performing the musical, Back To The 80s. After various acting and singing auditions the roles have been cast and rehearsals have begun.

In the weeks leading up to the 23rd of September, the Transition Years studying French and German took part in a project to support and celebrate The European Day of Languages. Their work is on display in the school.

On the 20th of September, the Transition Year students went on a trip to Lough Key Forest Park and took part in the activities “Zip-It!” and “Boda Borg”. It was a very memorable trip and everyone had a fantastic time.

On the 29th of September, Transition Years took part in a CSI workshop with James Finger, a forensic scientist from Australia. The students used real forensic technology and science to determine who was guilty of the fictional crime.

Some students competed against each other this year for a place on the school show-jumping team. We now have two teams and they will compete in the Hoofprints Competition in Claremorris on Sunday November 6th. We wish good luck to all.

Our school hosted a first year rugby blitz between ourselves, Summerhill College and St Marys Ballisodare. The team would like to thank their trainer David Kilcoyne for all his efforts before he moved to Australia and also Ross Manion IRFU Youth Development Officer and Gavin Foley from Connaught IRFU who organised the event.

Meanwhile in GAA, our first year girls took part in a development blitz in Tubbercurry against the Ursuline College. The school would like to thank Ms Johnston, Louise Brett, the T.Y's who helped out and Noelle Gormely, for organising the event.

The junior boys lost to Summerhill in a tense encounter and junior girls lost to Ballinamore but went on to beat Ballaghaderreen. Our senior girls lost to Mountbellew in their league game, but had a resounding victory against Roscommon last week. Training for the hurlers has yet to commence.

This year, our Transition Years are getting the opportunity to experience different skills in the form of modules. The four modules this year are GAA coaching, Boxercise, gardening and fashion design. All of the students will get to get a taste for all the available modules which are being taught by experienced facilitators.

Another exciting prospect for the Transition Years is getting involved in the Gasice Awards programme. This programme is for 16-25 year olds and asks each participant develop new skills e.g. helping within a community. We hope to have great success in the programme.

This week we bid a fond farewell to Ms.Walsh who is retiring after many years of dedicated work in the school. We would also like to give a warm welcome to Mr. Beglane who has joined our staff this year.

As one door closes, another opens and we also give a warm welcome to the new French and German language assistants who will undoubtedly be a great help to us all this year.
 

2010 - 2011

Seachtain na Gaeilge

I measc na himeachtaí i rith seachtain na Gaeilge sa scoil ghac daltaí ón gcéad bhlian páirt í dtóraíocht taisce. Bhí tráth na gceist boírd do na daltaí sa dara bhlíain. Chuidigh lucht na hidirbliana le heagrú na himeachtaí seo. Freisin bhí ceolchoirm traidisiúnta ag am lóin. Ghlac ceolfhoireann na scoíle páirt sa taispeántas seo. Ghabhaimid buíochas leis na múinteóirí Gaeilge agus an múinteóir ceoil sa scoil as ucht seachtain na gaeilge a chur chun cinn.

Cross Country

Congratulations to all who competed in the All-Ireland Cross Country Final recently held in Dublin. Special mention to William Hynes who came second in the Minor Boys and his sister Rosie, who came sixth in the Intermediate girls Final. Rosie has also been placed on the panel for selection for Irish schools team. Thanks to Ms. Ryan for organising the trip and for her support.

Transition Year Students

TY’s recently enjoyed some light hearted moments when they experienced a comedy phenomenon from the Comedy Industry in the Southern Hotel in Sligo.

Leaving Cert Oral Exams

We wish “bonne chance”, “ádh mór” and “vièl glück” to all our leaving certs as they prepare for their rapidly approaching oral exams, French and German followed by Gaeilge.

Girls Football

All at St Attracta’s wish the best of luck to the Senior Girls Team who will play in the All-Ireland Semi-Final in Nenagh on Saturday March 26th. They are playing Colaiste na Sceilge from Cahirciveen, Co. Kerry, and we are all looking forward to a good match. Thanks to Tubbercurry Credit Union and Aniar IT Services for sponsoring their warm-up tops.

Girls Football

On Wednesday 2nd march the senior girl’s football team beat Claremorris in the Connacht ‘A’ Final. The match was played in Kilcoyne Park in Tubbercurry and the final score was 1-11 to 2-05. The school are very proud of their achievement. Thanks to Noelle Gormley and Ms McHugh for their hard work in training the girls and also thanks to Ms Brady for all her time with the girls.

Seachtain Na Gaeilge

Tá Seachtain na Gaeilge ar súil ón 5-17 Márta an bhlian seo. Tá na múinteoirí agus daltaí ag déanamh iarracht chun níos mó Gaeilge a labhairt an tseachtain seo. Rinne na ranganna póstaeir agus d’imir siad cluichí as Gaeilge.

Fairtrade Fortnight

Fairtrade fortnight ran from the 28th of February to the 13th of March. The week was organised to raise awareness of products made in developing countries and encourage people to buy them. There was a raffle in the school on Friday 11th and the prize was a Fairtrade hamper.

First Year Open Day

On Monday the 7th of March, the 6th class pupils who will be coming in to first year in September had their open day in the school. The pupils were showed round the school by the TY students. They were shown to all the classrooms and got to sample some subjects, like Woodwork, German and Art. We hoped they enjoyed their day and we look forward to seeing them again in September.

Physco Spaghetti

On Tuesday 8th March the transition years went to Physco Spaghetti a comedy act for teenagers in the Sligo Southern hotel. Physco Spaghetti is one-man comedy written and performed by Ger Carey and is aimed at teenagers between 15 and 18 years of age.

LCVP interviews

The LCVP interviews are being held next week. Best of luck to all candidates.

Subject Choices

There was a senior information night last Thursday for third years and transition year students regarding subject choices for fifth year.

No Name Club

No Name Club National Youth Awards regional finals were held in Claremorris on Saturday February 5th to participate in the Region 1 final of the No Name Club National Youth Awards. Two young people represented clubs from various clubs in Donegal, Sligo and Mayo. Tubbercurry NNC Finalists were Niamh Brennan and Ross Mc Carrick. Andrea Keeney of Donegal No Name Club and Ross Mc Carrick of Tubbercurry No Name Club were selected to represent the region in the next stage of the competition, the semi-finals. Please contact Joe Griffin for further information on Tubbercurry NNC on 0873289231.

T.Y Driving Lessons

Last week Transition Years availed of driving lessons from Gills Driving School, Ballina. This is an annual T.Y event, and is a great experience for new drivers.

T.Y. Gaeltacht Experience

20 Transition Year students are currently in Eachléim Gaeltacht for a week’s cúrsa sa scannánaíocht trí Ghaeilge. With an increased percentage of marks now going to oral Irish at Leaving Certificate level we are sure that this course will be of great benefit to them.

Boda Borg

The Boda Borg experience in Lough Key Forest Park it was enjoyed by all Transition Years on Monday February 14^th.

Teaching a Foreign Language

Miss Halloran’s T.Y French class recently engaged in teaching French to 1^st Years. They used Power-point presentation to successfully teach certain topics to eager 1^st years.

Lead Singer

Colm Óg O’Donnell, T.Y is now the lead singer with the school band. The school band and orchestra are busy preparing for the annual lunchtime concert which takes place as part of our Seactaine na Gaeilge series of events. The school choir will also perform at the concert as well as a number of soloists with a particular emphasis on traditional music.

St. Brigíd’s Day

In order to celebrate the Feast of St. Brigíd on February the 1^st. T.Y’s made traditional crosses from rushes.

Technology News

Currently in technology class T.Y’s are making mp3 amplifiers which are compatible with iPods and other gizmos. This an enjoyable and useful learning experience.

German News

T.Y German pupils are currently focusing on their oral skills. Soon they will be doing their project on European countries which will focus on capital cities, and which will be done through German.

Junior Boys Football

Junior Boys achieved a great victory against Ballina with a thrilling last minute penalty by Cathal Henry. Final score: 1.11 to 1.10. Well done lads!

Host and Hostess

Well done to Ross McCarrick, who was the winner of ‘The Host and Hostess’ competition. He had to complete the various task, such as,

A private Interview – 40 minute

Public Interview – 5 minutes

Party Piece– Piano.

He also won a pancake competition that week.

1^st & 2^nd Year Basketball

1^st year girls lots matches against Ballyshannon and Mohill recently while 2^nd years won against Ballyshannon. Better luck next time to the 1^st year team. Well done to the 2^nd years

History Tour

Miss Gillespie’s history class recently visited Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin. They were taken on a guided walking tour of 1916 Civil War Dublin. They also experienced a guided tour of Glasnevin Cemetery with Seán Mac Thomáis. A memorable day was had by all.

Athletics

Rosie Hynes, 3^rd year, won the Connacht Cross Country U16, while her brother William came 2^nd in the U14 in Galway on Tuesday 8^th February. Congratulations!

U14 Girls Football

Good Luck to the girls U14 football team who are through to the semi-final.

Senior Girls Football

Best of luck to the senior girls football team. They are playing in the Connacht final against Claremorris, Wednesday 2^nd March at 11:30 in Kilcoyne Park. Your support will be greatly appreciated. The girls played extremely well in the semi-final against Tuam, resulting in their win. Thanks to Noelle Gormanly for all her hard work in training the girls and also thanks to Mrs Brady for all her time with the girls.

2^nd Year Boys Hurling Blitz

2^nd Year boys hurling blitz did not lead to victory for St. Attractas this time round. Better luck next time boys.

Mocks

Good Luck to all 3^rd years and Leaving Certs who will soon begin their mock exams. We hope that this will be a useful and worthwhile experience for them, and that they achieve the fruits of their labours.

We wish you a Happy Valentines Day, From All at St. Attractas.

Football

St. Attracta’s junior boy’s team played Summerhill on the 24th January in a challenge match. Due to the fact that the team were missing many players they were unsuccessful.

Sligo Rovers

Representatives of the Sligo Rovers Football Team came to the school on Friday 14 January. After winning the FAI cup they came in glory with their trophy. This caused much excitement in the school and students were given the opportunity to meet the players and get their photos taken.

Law Workshop

On the 18th-19th January there was a Law Workshop organised for the Transition Year students. Two barristers came to the school and gave an interesting presentation on the legal system in Ireland. The second half of the workshop consisted of a “mock court” where the students were given the opportunity to act out real court proceedings. The day was of great benefit to those who participated.

History Trip

Ms. Gillespie brought her senior history class and three transition year students to Dublin on the 24th of January. Over the course of the day the class visited many different historical sites, which included a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol, Glasnevein Cemetery and a walking tour of 1916 Civil War Dublin. This experience was highly beneficial to the class.

Public Speaking Competition

The schools public speaking team took part in a competition on the 21st January in the Sligo Park Hotel. Three schools competed: The Mercy, Summerhill and St Attracta’s. It was a close competition however in the end it was Summerhill who proceeded to the next round in Dublin. We wish them the best of luck in the coming rounds.

1st Year Enrolment and Open Day

The first year open day will be held on the 7th of March. This is an opportunity for future students to come and see the school and the classes it offers. Also, enrolment for first years will take place on Saturday 12th of March. It will be held from 1-5pm.

Basketball

The first and second year girls had their first basketball match against Ballyfarnan. They are in the B league and played exceptionally however in the end they were unsuccessful. We wish them all the best in their future matches.

Adult Education Evening Courses

Enrolment will take place on Thursday 3rd of February 2011 from 7:30pm-9:00pm in the school. See school website www.stattractas.ie for further details.

Mock Examinations

To make up for days lost in December, the mock exams have been re-scheduled to commence on Thursday 17th of February and run through the mid-term break, concluding on Friday the 25th of February at lunch time.

Recent Bereavement

John Leamy, father of Maria - Transition Year and Patrick – Leaving Cert passed away recently. Our sympathies go out to the family. May he Rest in Peace.

Senior Girls Football

On Wednesday the 26th of January the senior girl’s team won the semi-final of the Connacht championship against last years champions Tuam. The final score was 5-15 to 5-5. We wish them the best of luck in the final which will be in the coming weeks.

Transition Year French Project

Ms Halloran’s Transition Year French class have commenced a project whereby they will teach French to the first year classes. The Transition Years have been preparing for the lessons throughout November and December. Each group picked a different topic to teach and with the aid of books and the internet put together a slideshow presentation to assist the first year class. The Transition Years will deliver their lesson entirely in French; this will help them prepare for their Leaving Cert Oral French exam as well as encourage the First Years to use the language. Both the Transition and First Year students are looking forward to this new experience.

Bróga Beoga

On the 19^th of December Ms Kelly’s dance group, Bróga Beoga won the final of Jig Gig – an Irish dance competition on TG4. The group made it through the initial auditions and four gruelling rounds impressing the judges at each stage. Their final performance was a highly original Christmas themed dance which resulted in them winning the competition.

Public Speaking Competition

On the 20^th of January Ms Mc Gowan’s Transition Year public speaking team will take part in the preliminary round of the Public Speaking competition in the Clarion Hotel in Sligo. The three speakers will each deliver a five minute speech based on ‘Freedom, Choice and a Positive Attitude - the things that make a difference.’ The speakers are Eilis Neary, Niamh Ross and Emmet Gilmartin. The teams researchers are Roisin Scully, Jennifer Gallagher, Laura Cawley, Sean O’ Donnell and Danny O’Hara. We wish them the best of luck!

State Examinations

Information about the upcoming State Exams can be found on the website – www.examinations.ie

Congratulations

Congratulations to past pupil Ashley Hill on receiving the PWC prize in BA Finance and Accounting for first place in Accounting in NUI Maynooth. Ashley also received a tuition bursary for postgraduate studies in Economic, Finance & Accounting – well done!

Congratulations also to Ms Barry and Mr Duffy on the recent birth of their baby boy.

Football

Best of luck to the senior girls football team who will play against Tuam in the Connacht semi finals in the coming weeks.

TY and LCVP Work Experience

The students in transition year and LCVP went to local shops and businesses for a week of work experience. This was a great opportunity for the students as they got to see exactly what is involved in the careers they wish to pursue after school. We would like to thank all the businesses for their huge co-operation and support. We would also like to thank Ms. Howley for helping to secure the work experience placements. There will be two more weeks of work experience in the New Year.

The Late Late Toy Show

Ms Kelly’s group of junior dancers preformed on The Late Late Toy Show this year. There were five dancers aged between nine and ten. Their talent was immense and we would like to congratulate Ms. Kelly on the success of the performance.

New School Website

The school website – www.stattractas.ie is updated regularly by the Principal and can be used to find out what’s going on in the school. It gives information about the different years and tells the history of the school. Also, in bad weather it is updated each morning to inform students of whether or not the school will open.

Athletic Achievements

Rosie Hynes (3^rd year) and her brother William (1^st year) achieved outstandingly in the All- Ireland Cross Country in Derry. In the under 14’s race William received a bronze medal and in the under 16’s race Rosie came 6^th. They both trained hard for these races as part of the Swinford Athletics Club and we are very proud of their achievements.

Science Fair Prize Winner

Congratulations to Chloe Maguire (1^st yr) who won a prize in the Science and Technology Puzzle at the Science Fair in IT Sligo.

Christmas Crib

Our thanks to Mr. Christie, and his team of helpers, for putting together the Christmas Crib, we all agree that it sets a lovely scene in the reception area.  Thanks also to John T & Brendan for the Christmas tree and the transition year students who put together Christmas decorations in art class and have displayed them throughout the school.

Christmas Concert

The Christmas Concert organised by Ms McDonnell will take place on the afternoon of Wednesday 22^nd of December for students. It will consist of a variety of different short acts performed by the students. Due to the unpredictable weather at this time of year it has been decided to postpone the evening performance of this concert.  The school Talent Show will now take place on an evening in the New Year, date to be confirmed.

Christmas Cards

Ms Roddy along with a group of Transition Year students have been selling their hand-made Christmas Cards in the school. They cost €3 for a pack of six cards. The money raised from the sale of these cards will go to a Romanian Orphanage. The support from students and teachers is greatly appreciated.

Retirements

The end of the school year 2009/2010 saw the departure from St. Attractas of some familiar faces. We said good-buy to Mr. Ruane and Mr.Loftus. Two other members of staff, Sr. Brigid Mary McGuinness and Sr. Margaret Mulligan, who had been on leave also officially retired. To mark the retirements a function was held at Markree Castle Sligo on November 12^th. It was a wonderful occasion allowing St. Attractas to pay tribute to the retirees and to their enormous contribution to education. Memories were revealed and shared with joy and laughter as present staff and other retirees came together to honour these teachers. All at St. Attractas send their best to Mr. Ruane and Mr. Loftus for a happy retirement and to Sr. Brigid Mary and to Sr. Margaret Mulligan as they continue their work with the Marist Sisters.

Christmas Holidays

The Christmas Holidays will commence on Thursday the 23^rd of December. On that day there will be class for exam students only (3^rd and 6^th years). We wish everyone a very Happy Christmas!

Darren Gaughan Memorial Cup

On the 27th of November at 7pm a charity football match will be played in memory of the late Darren Gaughan. The match is to promote awareness of diabetes and raise funds for the Diabetes Foundation of Ireland. The St. Attractas All-Ireland winners of 2006 will take on the St. Attractas All-Ireland runners up of 2010. Darren was a member of the 2010 team. Donations of your choice will be collected on the gate upon entry. Your donations and support would be greatly appreciated. The Darren Gaughan Memorial Cup has been sponsored by St Attracta’s Community School.

Science Week

Science week took place from the 7th of November to the 14th of November 2010. First year classes 1C and 1E participated in a science quiz and also in many different experiments. The first years also designed and created posters to decorate the school and raise awareness of science week.

Fundraising for the Irish Wheelchair Association

From the 10th – 12th of November the transition Year class B were selling Angel badges in order to raise funds for the Irish wheelchair association. The badges cost €2 each and they were sold around Tubbercurry as well as in school. The final amount raised for selling the badges was €1,411.96. Thank you to everyone who supported this.

German Breakfast

Mrs Roddy held a German breakfast last Friday morning with the 5th year and TY classes. Students sampled German foods while enjoying the breakfast they spoke to each other in German.

Christmas Cards

Mrs Roddy will again be making and selling Christmas Cards in aid of the Romanian Charity ‘The Aurelia Trust’. The Aurelia Trust provides assistance and care to many abandoned/orphaned young Romanians. Mrs Roddy travels to Romania each year each summer to work as a volunteer with the Trust. There is a box at the office in school to collect old Christmas Cards which Mrs Roddy will then use to make the new cards. Your support is appreciated.

'Hairspray'

On Wednesday the 17th of November the TYs and the 5th year music class travelled to Dublin to see the musical Hairspray in The Grand Canal theatre. They left the school at 9 in the morning and stopped in Liffey Valley shopping centre for some pre-show shopping before the main event. The show was outstanding and everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. Everyone who attended the trip had a brilliant day out and would like to thank the teachers Ms McDonnell, Ms Kelly, Ms Hennigan and Ms McConnell for taking a day out of their busy schedule to supervise the day.

Work Experience

From November 8th to 12th, three TY students from St Attracta’s were given the opportunity to gain work experience in Sligo General Hospital. Eoin Kilroy-Talbot, Jennifer Gallagher and Kate Mulholland were shown the different areas in the hospital, including the theatre, the wards and specialist units. They thoroughly enjoyed their week and would like to thank Sligo General Hospital for their helpfulness and encouragement.

Memorial Services

During the past week students from the school have been attending the school memorial services. While attending these services the students were given the chance to remember their deceased friends and family. We would like to thank Ms O’Brien for organising these peaceful and respectful services.

Christmas Concert

Preparations are well underway for the forthcoming Christmas Concert.  The school band, orchestra and choir are working very hard to perfect their performances for the much anticipated show night.  In addition to this, 10 acts will be competing for our school’s most talented act.  The concert will take place on the 22nd of December.

Bishop Kelly’s Visit

On Monday, 4th of October, Bishop Brendan Kelly of Achonry paid the school a visit. On his arrival, Bishop Kelly participated in a prayer service organised by the school chaplain, Ms. O’Brien. Afterwards there was a questin-answer session. Transition Year students posed questions ranging from the Bishop’s hobbies to how the Church could involve young people to a further extent. After the Bishop had spent the morning with Transition Year students, he met with all five of the First Year classes. They were welcomed into the school community and wished well for their first year of second level education.

TY Hospital Placement Programme

Interviews were held to select three students for the TY work placement programme in Sligo General Hospital. Selection was a difficult process as the applicants were of such a high calibre. The three students selected were Eoin Kilroy Talbot, Jennifer Gallagher and Kate Mulholland.

TY Activities

Transition Year students are currently enjoying a range of activities varying from Delphi adventure centre and a ‘First Impressions’ workshop to Debating, Public Speaking Competitions and Crime Scene Investigations. 60 students are participating in Gaisce for a Bronze award.

L.C.V.P.

We wish the best of luck to L.C.V.P. students whose work experience takes place between the 27th October and the 2nd November. We thank their employers for their co-operation.

Music

Miss McDonnell’s Leaving Certificate music class travelled to the National Concert Hall in Dublin on Monday October 11th. 2nd and 3rd music classes experienced ‘Fame- the Musical’ in the T.F., Castlebar on September 16th.

Maths Week 2010 – October 9th to October 16th

Maths Week Ireland is a partnership of universities, Institutes of Technology and groups working together to promote the awareness, appreciation and understanding of maths. Here in St Attracta’s, the Maths Department planned a number of events to raise more awareness of maths. Pictures of famous mathematicians were posted on the walls of the corridors. A maths table quiz for 1st years was organised by the Transition Year students and a trip to Sligo I.T. to see a lecture on maths and magic.

Junior Science Olympiad

Having received excellent Science results in her Junior Certificate, Muireann Ní Bhaoighill will travel to DCU on October 30th to compete with other students from all over Ireland for a chance to travel to Nigeria. To achieve this she has to study Biology, Chemistry and Physics at a senior level. We wish her the best of luck.

Football

St. Attracta’s Senior Girls football team beat St. Joseph’s, Castlebar on Tuesday 5th in a wet and blustery McHale Park. A close and evenly contested first led to a second half dominated by St. Attracta’s. Best for Tubbercurry was Róisín Colleary. Mr. Hoey’s second year boys’ football team played well but unfortunately lost the match against St Nathy’s. First year boys are wished luck in their game in Carrick on Thursday the 7th of October. The senior boys will play against Roscommon CBS in Hyde Park on Wednesday the 6th October. Thanks to Mr Lynott and Pat Kilcoyne.

European Studies

Ms Roddy our German teacher will once again take part in the European Studies Programme. This will involve doing a small project on a European theme by Junior Certificate and TY classes. Our school will be linked with a school in Lillehammer, Norway and two Northern Irish schools. Mrs Howley and Ms Roddy visited Lillehammer in June 2010 and the Norwegian teachers will hopefully visit us in spring 2011.

The North Wing

The West Wing