GCSE EXAMINATION SUCCESS FOR ST. MARY’S

Posted on 26 Aug 2016 | News

Students at St. Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt have again excelled in GCSE examinations. Following the publication of results, Mrs Gillespie, Principal, described the grades achieved by students as “truly remarkable” and reported that 99% of students achieved A*-C grades in at least 7 subjects, including English and Mathematics. An impressive 65% of all grades were A*- A.

A LEVEL EXAMINATION RESULTS 2016

Posted on 24 Aug 2016 | News

A LEVEL EXCELLENCE AT ST. MARY’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL

RIGHT OF THE WEEK (13th June)

Posted on 13 Jun 2016 | News

Article 20 (Children deprived of family environment): Children who cannot be looked after by their own family have a right to special care and must be looked after properly, by people who respect their ethnic group, religion, culture and language.

SALTERS’ FESTIVAL OF CHEMISTRY

Posted on 06 Jun 2016 | News

Four students from Year 8 took part in The Salters’ Festival of Chemistry at Queen’s University, Belfast on Wednesday 25 May. It was an all-day event, which the pupils thoroughly enjoyed. Congratulations to Aine Young, Eimear Harkin, Holly Dougan and Diarmuid Mulholland who were awarded second place.

RIGHT OF THE WEEK (6th June)

Posted on 06 Jun 2016 | News

Article 19 (Protection from all forms of violence): Children have the right to be protected from being hurt and mistreated, physically or mentally.

Right of the Week (30th May)

Posted on 31 May 2016 | News

Article 18 (Parental responsibilities; state assistance): Both parents share responsibility for bringing up their children, and should always consider what is best for each child

Right of the Week (23rd May)

Posted on 24 May 2016 | News

Article 17 (Access to information; mass media): Children have the right to get information that is important to their health and well-being. Governments should encourage mass media – radio, television, newspapers and Internet content sources – to provide information that children can understand and to not promote materials that could harm children. Mass media should particularly be encouraged to supply information in languages that minority and indigenous children can understand. Children should also have access to children’s books.

NANNERY CUP: ULSTER CHAMPIONS

Posted on 20 May 2016 | News

Our Year 9 Nannery Cup team were crowned Ulster Champions. The boys beat St Patrick’s, Cavan in the semi-final and St Colman’s, Newry in the final.  Mr McElholm explained, “This is the first time that we have won this competition which is for those pupils who didn’t make the Dalton team.” He had warm words for the team mentors John McIvor and Mark McLoughlin, and for the Captains Conaill Scullion and Malachi Johnston.

BRITISH OLYMPIAD PHYSICS COMPETITION 2016

Posted on 19 May 2016 | News

Three Year 12 pupils took part in the British Physics Olympiad Competition in March. This is an annual competition organised by the University of Oxford which aims to encourage the study of Physics and recognise excellence in young physicists. The competition demonstrates the real-world problem-solving potential of Physics and tests young people’s understanding and problem-solving skills. Well done to our three competitors: John Walker, Lorcán Toner and Dermot O’Neill who each achieved a Commendation Award.

Right of the Week

Posted on 16 May 2016 | News

Right to privacy

Children have a right to privacy. The law should protect them from attacks against their way of life, their good name, their families and their homes.

GOING BATTY IN ST MARY’S

Posted on 13 May 2016 | News

St Mary’s, partnered with the Northern Ireland Bat Group and Creggan Country Park, held a special free batty event on Thursday 5 May from 7.30-10pm. Karen Healy from Creggan Country Park and Northern Ireland Bat Group, gave us the chance to not only to see these amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics, but also learn more about them. Coordinated in school by Mrs R McComb, she explained, “The event began with a short talk in St Mary’s before sunset in the Drama Theatre, followed by a demonstration on how to use a bat detector. We then went on a bat safari to Polepatrick Park where we saw and ‘heard’ bats flying around using the bat detectors. We learnt about various species of bats found in Ireland and we also had an opportunity to see a real bat up close. It was a fantastic night!”

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A GIANT LEAP

Posted on 12 May 2016 | News

A number of our pupils qualified for the NEBSSA Athletics Finals held in Antrim Forum – Ciara Malcolm, Eunan McElhennon, Paula-Rose McAuley, Lile Keenan, Lorcan Bradley, Conor Falls, Frank Duffin and Cathaoir Purvis. Although everyone competed extremely well, with a few very unlucky not to be placed, the stand-out competitor of the day wasYear 8 pupil Conor Falls, who came 1st in the U13 Long Jump, with a jump of over 4 metres.  Conor received a gold medal for his efforts – hopefully the first of many throughout his time at St Mary’s.

RIGHT OF THE WEEK BEGINNING 9th MAY

Posted on 09 May 2016 | News

Article 15 (Freedom of association): Children have the right to meet together and to join groups and organisations, as long as it does not stop other people from enjoying their rights. In exercising their rights, children have the responsibility to respect the rights, freedoms and reputations of others.

LENDING OUR SUPPORT IN LENT

Posted on 28 Apr 2016 | News

Year 11 raised £371.31 for their Lenten campaign. They donated the money raised to the Children’s Cancer Unit Charity.  Attached is a photograph of Samantha McCarron from Year 11 handing over the cheque to Jacqueline Wilkinson from the Children’s Cancer Unit Charity.

A WINNING FORMULA

Posted on 25 Apr 2016 | News

Massive congratulations to our F1 in Schools team and Mr B Diamond who attended the National Final held at Silverstone. Mr Diamond explained, “The competition and standard of work from the other schools competing was exceptionally high. I am very pleased to let you know that we arrived back into school with 2 trophies. We received a trophy for best marketing/sponsorship and most importantly we came 3rd overall in the UK in our class! The car was third fastest overall and the team of girls did a great job in their 8 minute verbal presentation and displays. They were a real credit to the school and deserve great praise for their achievements so please congratulate them if you see them(Emma McNally, Emma Dace, Karen Lagan, Katie Scullin and Molly Dixon). It was a great experience for them and great day out was had by all.”

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BRITISH OLYMPIAD CHEMISTRY COMPETITION

Posted on 18 Apr 2016 | News

Congratulations to a group of Year 14 students who were successful in the British Chemistry Olympiad Competition. Conor O’Kane was awarded the Silver Award.  Orla Mallon, Hugh O’Donnell, Eoghan McDonald, Paul McCarron, Marc Friel, Anna Coogan, Kyle Johnston and Aoife McErlane all received the Bronze Award.

Under 14 Ladies Football

Posted on 18 Apr 2016 | News

The U14 Ladies’ Gaelic team had a comprehensive win over St Genevieve’s in the Ulster Quarter Final. They now progress to the Semi Final playing St Louis Carrickmacross which will take place on Wednesday 27th at 11.30am in Garvaghey.  Miss Carey explained, “The girls have worked extremely hard to get to this stage.”

IT’S GET SET…GO!

Posted on 13 Apr 2016 | News

Head of PE, Mr J McElholm, explains, “Created by the British Olympic Foundation and British Paralympic Association, and made possible due to the Big Lottery Fund, the UK-wide Get Set for Community Action programme aims to help thousands of 14-19 years old to strengthen relationships between young people and their communities. We are currently harnessing the power of sport to engage with youngsters as part of the Get Set for Community Action programme. Pupils at St Mary’s have already been doing their bit by fostering links with primary schools in the area, encouraging both healthy eating and physical exercise.”

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ADDING A LITTLE COLOUR

Posted on 12 Apr 2016 | News

The GCSE, AS and A2 Art and Design Students from St Mary’s Grammar School recently attended the annual ‘True Colours’ Exhibition at the Ulster Museum in Belfast. The pupils found the exhibition to be inspirational and beneficial as the work displayed an exceptional standard of work created at GCSE, AS and A2 level throughout Northern Ireland. Head of department, Mrs N McKernan added, “The exhibition displayed the outstanding GCSE work of St Mary’s Art & Design student, Emily Quinn, of which we are very proud.” Students were also fortunate enough to go on a guided tour of paintings by the artist Rembrandt at the Ulster Museum and all students attended a talk by the Fine Artist, Keith Ayton. Gabriela Kacprzyk said, ‘The True Colours exhibition was spectacular as always.”

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THE SMG SOCCER CUP 2016

Posted on 12 Apr 2016 | News

With over one hundred Year 9 and 10 boys participating, the first SMG Soccer Cup is stacking up to be a fantastic competition. The boys are really buzzing to get their boots on and participate in the beautiful game here at St. Mary’s. The competition was organised by Mr Paul Kalla and Mr Micky McCullough in a bid to build on the good work put in place with the Under 12 and Under 14 teams earlier this year and will be an annual event. Mr Kalla states that he is keen to involve as many boys as possible in the SMG soccer programme and this is only the start, stating “We are keen to provide internal and external soccer competition for the boys at all key stages. The SMG Soccer Cup will last just over a week and kicks off on 12 May with the final on 21 May.” Mr Kalla concluded, “The SMG Cup should provide some great entertainment as the boys will be showcasing their talent in order to be selected for one of our soccer teams that will be entered in NIBSFA Cups in September. Good luck to all the teams participating!”

CÚCHULAINN CUP SUCCESS

Posted on 11 Apr 2016 | News

The annual Ulster GAA Cúchulainn Cup took place at the Meadowbank Sports Arena. It aims to afford young people from different backgrounds the opportunity to engage with one another, and to educate people not traditionally involved with the GAA more about the Association. Taking part were Magherafelt Cúchulainns, Banbridge Cúchulainns and Ballymena Cúchulainns. Teams comprised of several schools from a town coming together to play Gaelic games in a cross-community team.

In preparation for the Cúchulainn Cup Blitz schools were given ‘GAA Taster Sessions’ in which pupils who had never played Gaelic games, or had very little interaction in the games were taught the basic skills of Gaelic Football and Hurling. Taster sessions were provided in eight schools with over 150 pupils getting an opportunity to sample what the GAA has to offer. After a very enjoyable day of Hurling and Gaelic football, a strong Magherafelt Cúchulainns team ran out convincing winners.

RIGHT OF THE WEEK

Posted on 11 Apr 2016 | News

(12) Respect for the views of the child

When adults are making decisions that affect children, children have the right to say what they think should happen and have their opinions taken into account. This does not mean that children can now tell their parents what to do.

BUILDING THE FUTURE

Posted on 11 Apr 2016 | News

Work on a £4.5 million extension and refurbishment programme has commenced.

Due for completion in February 2017, the school extension will feature a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre, including a study area, a social and recreational space and catering facilities. The new building will also include a Music and Creative Arts Space and a number of additional classrooms. Speaking about the project, Mrs Gillespie, Principal, commented: “We are thrilled that the construction of our new building is now underway and we look forward to the improvements this will bring to our school. This extension marks another significant and exciting stage in the development and growth of St Mary’s. Our pupils will benefit hugely from the enhanced facilities and resources provided by the programme.”

THRILLING TALENTS!

Posted on 11 Apr 2016 | News

March 16 March was the day some members of the Junior school participated in the House Talent Show.  The acts were cheered on by all Year 8 pupils and some classes from Year 9 and 10. Tom Crozier from 9A said, “There were many brilliant talents from singers, violinists, guitarists and even Taekwondo performers. They proved they were very talented and I look forward to another similar House event in upcoming years.”

RIGHT OF THE WEEK

Posted on 05 Apr 2016 | News

11) Kidnapping

Governments should take steps to stop children being taken out of their own country illegally. This article is particularly concerned with parental abductions. The Convention’s Optional Protocol on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography has a provision that concerns abduction for financial gain.

NEW YORK TRIP!

Posted on 21 Mar 2016 | News

​Good Luck to Mr Quinn, our members of staff and students who are jetting off to New York tonight for their educational Drama trip!  

Right of the Week 21st March

Posted on 21 Mar 2016 | News

Family Reunification

Families whose members live in different countries should be allowed to move between those countries so that parents and children can stay in contact, or get back together as a family.

BRILLIANT BLITZ!

Posted on 15 Mar 2016 | News

On Wednesday 9 March, we held our annual indoor Gaelic football blitz in Meadowbank arena with ten primary schools from the local area attending. Creggan, New Row, St Columba’s, St Theresa’s, St Patrick’s, Anahorish, Holy Family, Holy Trinity, St Mary’s Draperstown and St Oliver Plunketts all participated playing 4 games each in the group stages. All teams played great football with healthy challenge evident in every match.

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Cuchulainn Cup

Posted on 15 Mar 2016 | News

Good luck to Dermot Burns, Rory McMullan, Jamie Cassidy, Cathaoir Purvis, Sean Lagan, Lorcan Darragh, Fillip Czerwien and Karol Olchawski who have been selected for the Cúchulainn cup squad to play in an Ulster tournament on Wednesday 16 March.

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RIGHT OF THE WEEK

Posted on 14 Mar 2016 | News

(9)Separation from Parents

Children have the right to live with their parent(s), unless it is bad for them. Children whose parents do not live together have the right to stay in contact with both parents, unless this might hurt the child.

RRSA RAISING AWARENESS

Posted on 14 Mar 2016 | News

RRSA committee members taking awareness raising assemblies on UNCRC and RRSA. Ella Heron – Deputy Head Girl and RRSA committee member -  attended Year 11 assembly

ST MARY’S AND AWARE

Posted on 14 Mar 2016 | News

Colleen Milligan from the charity AWARE recently came to school to thank the Year 13 pupils for raising £314 for their Mood Matters programme.  Colleen spoke to the pupils about the charity and how mental health is as important as physical health if we are to achieve our best.  This was very informative and very timely as stress during exam season isn’t uncommon.  Colleen clearly outlined to the pupils where they can avail of help and support over the next few weeks.

IN FINE VOICE!

Posted on 14 Mar 2016 | News

The Senior Choir recently competed in their semi final of BBC’s School Choir of the Year. Miss Donnelly, Head of Music, explained: “They sang beautifully but unfortunately did not win a place in the final. I am so proud of them, and the fact that they reached a semi-final in their first year of the competition is an amazing achievement.” We were encouraged to tune into Radio Ulster on Sunday 13 March to hear their heat from 2.00-3.00pm. 

To view a link to the heat click here. 

YEAR 10 NETBALL 2016

Posted on 14 Mar 2016 | News

An energetic and talented team of Year 10 Netballers represented St Mary’s admirably in the NEBSSA netball league this year.  The girls played Ballymena Academy on Monday 29 February and Magherafelt High School on Wednesday 2 March.  They battled valiantly to narrow defeats on both occasions but it was very pleasing to see their skills develop and their teamwork improve. Miss McCloskey stated: “It is great to see the enthusiasm that the students have for netball and the high turnout at training. We look forward to playing the Year 11 netballers soon, to prove which team really is the best in the school!”

Right of the Week

Posted on 07 Mar 2016 | News

(8) Preservation of identity

•  Children have the right to an identity – an official record of who they are. Governments should respect children’s right to a name, a nationality and family ties.

AMAZING ‘ANNIE’

Posted on 02 Mar 2016 | News

On 24 February, Year 9 enjoyed a visit to the theatre to see a fantastic production of Annie. The show has long been a family favourite musical with unforgettable songs such as Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow. Organised by Drama co-ordinator Miss R Allen, she was delighted with their interest and good humour. She added, “You can bet your bottom dollar Year 9 loved it!”

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STAR GAZING GALA

Posted on 01 Mar 2016 | News

Congratulations to Eimear McGuigan and Jackie Donnelly who were each presented with their Ulster Colleges’ Camogie Allstar at a Gala event in The Elk on Friday 26 February. Mr R Kennedy explained, “A good night was had by all. Well done to both girls.”

TOTALLY TUNED IN!

Posted on 29 Feb 2016 | News

Congratulations to the Junior Choir on their success in the Ballymena Festival on Monday 29 February- receiving first place. They were so committed in the preparation stages, attending all rehearsals and being supportive and enthusiastic.  Miss Flanagan further stated, “They were a credit to the school in both their singing and behaviour.”

SPORTSHALL ATHLETICS

Posted on 26 Feb 2016 | News

Congratulations and good luck  to our pupils who have been selected for the Derry Sportshall Athletics Team. Conor Falls, Frank Duffin, Dan Higgins and Ryan Lennox for the under 13 boys and Erin Lynch for the Under 13 girls. Aidan Mc Closkey and Orrin Johnston for the under 15 boys and Catriona Toner, Lile Keenan and Shannon McGuigan for the under 15 Girls.

FASTEST FORMULA!

Posted on 25 Feb 2016 | News

The F1 school team, namely Year 10 pupils Emma McNally, Emma Dace, Molly Dixon, Katie Scullin and Karen Lagan, deserve much praise. They competed in the regional heat of the competition and had the fastest car in their class and also finished overall first in their class. They are through to the National finals at Silverstone racetrack in England on the 20 April. Congratulations also to Technology and Design teacher Mr B Diamond. We wish them continuing success: may the force be with them!

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SHARED EDUCATION PROGRAMME- BLOCK 1

Posted on 23 Feb 2016 | News

From the 18 January until the 12 February, forty Year 9 St Mary’s students were involved in the first block of a Shared Education Signature Project with Year 9 students from our partner schools in the Magherafelt Learning Partnership.  The students participated in a series of four drama lessons centred on respecting diversity and dealing with conflict.  Students greatly enjoyed their experiences of learning in conjunction with one another.  Students also relished the opportunities offered: to play games, devise role plays, improve their communication skills, attend lessons in other schools and, most importantly, make new friends (not to mention getting to miss some of their “normal” lessons!).  These students are now looking forward to their participation in the project next year, while the next set of forty students look forward to starting the project on the 22 February.

BBC RADIO ULSTER, SCHOOL CHOIR OF THE YEAR

Posted on 22 Feb 2016 | News

Before Christmas, the senior choir submitted a CD to a judging panel and were delighted to be told that they had been successful in gaining a place at one of the six regional heats.  After Christmas, the choir spent lunchtimes and even a few weekends, working extremely hard to raise their standard, as they knew they would face experienced choirs in this part of the competition. On the 10 February, twenty seven nervous and excited choir members departed for the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh: when they arrived at the theatre, they were informed that they would be first to perform. They performed two songs, ‘Love Divine’ by Howard Goodall and ‘Choo, Choo, Charlie’, by Doreen Irwin.  They rose to the challenge of the competition and performed with energy and enthusiasm.  Directly after they sang, one of the judges, Richard Yarr (head of classical music at the BBC) commented on their excellent tuning and energy.  Later, Richard Yarr announced that they had won their heat and would progress to the semi-final, to be held on 8 March.  They will joined by the 5 other regional heat winners, to battle it out for a place in the grand final.

HEART HEALTH – AVIVA SCHOOL MILE CHALLENGE

Posted on 22 Feb 2016 | News

Just before half term, pupils in St Mary’s themed their ‘Health Education’ with ‘Heart health’ and took part in the ‘AVIVA School Mile Challenge’. All pupils in Key Stage 3 participated in the ‘Mile Challenge’ in February which raised pupils’ awareness of the benefits of exercise to their heart health and indeed overall lifestyle. Miss Donnelly (Health Co-ordinator) remarked that ‘she was absolutely overwhelmed by the participation and true spirit in which pupils engaged in the event’. The costumes in which the Key Stage 3 pupils dressed up in for the fun run were extremely colourful and imaginative and everyone took part running at their full potential’. She congratulated the 69 boys and girls who ran under the 7 min/ mile pace and 8min/ mile pace respectively.

‘GO THE DISTANCE’

Posted on 22 Feb 2016 | News

The Senior Choir, directed by Miss U Donnelly and accompanied by Miss Flanagan, were honoured to be invited to take part in a fund-raising concert for the Mary Peters Trust on 13 February in the Island Centre, Lisburn. It included soloists and choirs from across Northern Ireland.  Prior to the concert, Dame Mary Peters and concert director, Mr Ashley Fulton, visited the school to meet some of the students.  Dame Mary spent some time chatting to the students about the importance of the trust, which raises money for talented young athletes across Northern Ireland.  She brought along her gold medal which she won at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich.  She remarked that music and sport require the same dedication from young students if they wish to be successful in either.  The choir sang two songs; ‘Danny Boy’, which is used as the official anthem for Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Games and ‘Ain’t no mountain high enough’. 

POETRY IN MOTION

Posted on 22 Feb 2016 | News

Year 9 English pupils have enjoyed two Poetry Workshops this month, hosted by Bernie Mullan from The Verbal Arts Centre as part of the Mid-Ulster Council Seamus Heaney Project. We look forward to reading their poems and watching their video clips.

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CHARITABLE SPIRIT!

Posted on 12 Feb 2016 | News

Year 14 student, Roisin McErlain has been named as a 2016 Pramerica Spirit of Community finalist. Roisin was presented with the award by Shane Granaghan from the organisation. Roisin receives this award for her volunteer and charity work in her local community, and in Romania and Tanzania. Roisin will attend the final award ceremony in Lough Eske Castle on March 10th. She is pictured here with Shane, her form tutor, Mrs McGuckin, Head of Year, Mrs McGee and Key Stage 5 Progress and Learning Manager, Mrs McCann. We wish Roisin luck in the final!

YEAR 8 PARENTAL DIGITAL SUPPORT WORKSHOP

Posted on 08 Feb 2016 | News

As part of Safer Internet Day on Tuesday 9 February, we are holding a Year 8 Parental Digital Support Workshop.  On the evening, Year 8 Parents will receive practical support from our Digital Leaders on how to navigate the learning apps that that their children are using in classroom and independent learning.  Parents will also receive E-Safety information on ways that they can support their child in using their iPad positively and responsibly.

TEAM TALKING

Posted on 02 Feb 2016 | News

On Saturday 30 January, Ethlinn Walls, Sarah Gallen and James McTeague attended the regional final of the BPW Speaking Competition in New Forge Country Club, Belfast, after successfully winning the Ballymena heat at the Michelin Athletic Centre in November. All three pupils performed extremely well and worked very hard in preparation for the event, aided by their teacher, Ms Hatchell. Unfortunately, the pupils did not make it to the national final, but Sarah Gallen received the trophy for Best Chairperson of the competition. All at St Mary’s are very proud of their wonderful achievement!

Safer Internet Day

Posted on 02 Feb 2016 | News

Below are links for 2 short videos focusing on Safer Internet Day which is on Feb 9th. Look out for the #SID on Twitter over the next few weeks and adverts promoting Safer Internet Day.

Clip1: http://childnetsic.s3.amazonaws.com/ufiles/SID2016/SID2016%20Play%20Your%20Part%20for%20a%20Better%20Internet.avi

Clip 2:

‘GO THE DISTANCE’ – MARY PETERS TRUST

Posted on 26 Jan 2016 | News

The senior choir has been asked to perform at a concert on Saturday 13 February in the Island Centre, Lisburn.  This is a fundraising concert in aid of the Mary Peters Trust.  They will join other singers and musicians from across Northern Ireland in a concert of music inspired by sport.  Tickets are available from the Island Centre – more details to follow.

JUMPING FOR SUCCESS

Posted on 26 Jan 2016 | News

The league is complete. We qualified for the All Ireland interschools’ in Kildare in April and finished overall second in the league in the open class. This was against all the secondary schools in Northern Ireland and over 59 competitors! We led the league for the full 5 weeks and on the last show had the fastest time but hit the last jump missing out on first place. In the premier class, we finished fourth out of 36 competitors.

PACE SETTING

Posted on 26 Jan 2016 | News

On Thursday 21 January, pupils from Years 8-11 made the trip to Ulster University, Coleraine to participate in the District C Cross Country Races. There was a brilliant effort exerted by all who attended, especially considering the weather conditions on the day. Most notably was our Year 8 pupil Conor Falls who won the Mini Boys’ section within the whole district which is an incredible achievement. The Year 8 boys will also have the opportunity of taking part in the Ulster competition as a result of the whole team’s performance. Cahair Purvis in Year 11 finished in 8th place out of 100 runners in the Intermediate Boys’ section which also was a great achievement. Overall, it was great to see all of our pupils doing so well and putting in such a great effort in each of their races.

GALLANT GAEL LINN EFFORT

Posted on 26 Jan 2016 | News

On Friday 22 January, the Gael Linn Ulster Final of the annual Tráth na gCeist was held in the Ashburn Hotel, Lurgan. Four Year 10 pupils, Blaithin Rafferty, Katie Cushey, Kate Lavery and Maeve Shields represented St Mary’s in the Quiz which they qualified for in October 2015. They faced fierce competition from 80 other pupils, including Irish Medium schools. This was a great honour and achievement for the girls to reach the final stage of the competition. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be our day but the girls can be very proud of themselves: they never gave up and showed great determination throughout the day.

ALL TO PLAY FOR

Posted on 26 Jan 2016 | News

Mr Brady explains, “The MacRory Cup team has their play-off game on Friday 29 January. They play the current holders of the competition, St. Patrick’s Cavan, in Killygarry Co. Cavan at 3.00pm. Training and matches have been ongoing since September: our latest outing was a challenge game at the school against Derry minors. Preparations continue this week with training after school on Tuesday and Thursday. Hopefully we do ourselves justice on Friday as they have been a most dedicated squad.”

BBC RADIO ULSTER SCHOOL CHOIR OF THE YEAR

Posted on 26 Jan 2016 | News

Head of Music, Miss U Donnelly, explained: “We submitted a CD for BBC Radio Ulster School choir of the year.  I am delighted to tell you that the choir has been selected for one of the regional heats and this will take place on Wednesday 10 February.”  We wish all involved much success.

PAST PUPIL CALLUM O’HARA SCOOPS HOLLYWOOD LA-CINEFEST AWARD

Posted on 20 Jan 2016 | News

Congratulations to SMG past pupil Callum O’Hara whose Moving Image Arts A2 Level film, Rough Relations, has scooped the Audience Award at Hollywood’s prestigious LACinefest Film Festival. Callum commented on it being a fantastic Christmas present for him and his family, “The LACinefest organisers are flying me off to Los Angeles very soon to pick up my award: I’m living the dream!”

“My film is also being shown this month at the Film Devour Film Festival in Belfast, at the Black Box, in the Cathedral Quarter of City. And, to top it all off, my film will be shown at the Wiper Film Festival in New York, also this month. Again, I want to give a big thank you to Mr Kalla in the Moving Image Arts department at St Mary’s for a wonderful two years, he was inspirational and made me believe in myself. I will never forget my time at St Mary’s Grammar School.”

LADIES ALL STARS AWARDS

Posted on 19 Jan 2016 | News

On Friday 15 January, the annual Ulster Ladies’ GAA School All-Star Awards were held in Kellys Inn. Two of our girls received an All Star, Caiomhe Meeke and Orlaith Prenter. This is a great achievement for the girls. They will represent Ulster in an Inter Provincial tournament in Kinnegad, Westmeath on 23 January. Congratulations to both girls!

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LADIES SCHOOLS ULSTER FINAL

Posted on 19 Jan 2016 | News

Our under 20 girls competed in the Ulster final on Thursday 14 January in a cold and windy Garvaghy. The girls were up against it from the start as there was vast support for the other finalists. It took our girls a while to settle into the game buta great save from Caoimhe Meeke lifted the spirits of the girls. Annie Crozier then pushed forward to score a great goal. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be our day and Our lady’s took the title back to Monaghan. The girls can be very proud of themselves: they never gave in and were tenacious showing great determination until the final whistle.

FOCUSED ON OUR FAITH

Posted on 12 Jan 2016 | News

St Mary’s welcomed the Adoration Sisters of Belfast to our school on Monday 11 January.  Sisters Moira and Martina gave very powerful, inspirational testimonies about their journey of faith, encouraging our students to deepen their own faith by spending time with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Both Sisters focused on the consecrated life and the upcoming year of Mercy and it was a spirit filled encounter.  We hope to follow up the talk by making Eucharistic Adoration a focus of our faith programme in 2016.

ST MARY’S SUPPORT MARIE CURIE

Posted on 12 Jan 2016 | News

Congratulations to our Year 13 pupils who participated in the ‘Fundraising My Way’ campaign. They raised money through selling produce during the school musical and selling school merchandise to the school community. £350 was raised for their much needed resources.

Drive for Results

Posted on 12 Jan 2016 | News

To complement the mentoring that took place on Mentoring Day (26 November 2015) students also took part in an Amazing Brains workshop called Drive for Results. The idea was to launch the revision process in preparation for the Year 11 mock examinations in January. Students were given a learning guide which focused on revision strategies and time management. The workshop lasted all morning and students were given the afternoon to use some of the strategies to start their revision. The workshop also placed strong emphasis on motivation by illustrating to students the importance of what they are preparing for.

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THE ‘NEXT LEVEL’ WORKSHOP

Posted on 12 Jan 2016 | News

To further help Year 13 pupils prepare for their Mock exams they attended the ‘NEXT LEVEL’ workshop on the 6 January 2016. The Next Level was a 3 hour, activity based, highly motivational programme that aimed to deal with the step up to Sixth Form and the additional input required by our pupils. It placed a strong emphasis on the students learning to think, act and study independently. 

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YEAR 13 ‘NEXT LEVEL’ PROGRAMME

Posted on 12 Jan 2016 | News

As part of the Pastoral programme and to help pupils focus on their mock exams, the Year 13 pupils attended a seminar on ‘Mood Matters’. The Mood Matters programme is an educational programme, developed and delivered by two staff members from the charitable organisation ‘AWARE’. This was an excellent information session that incorporated basic cognitive behavioural therapy concepts. Pupils were reminded that our thinking and behaviour can affect how we feel physically and emotionally.

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House Assembly Gift of Hope

Posted on 18 Dec 2015 | News

During the week 14-18 December our Pastoral House leaders led assembly for all pupils. The focus was Advent with particular focus on ‘Gifts of Hope’. During this Advent, world leaders met in Paris to discuss how the world will tackle climate change. In Laudato Si’ Pope Francis calls us to a conversion, a change of heart, so as to see Christ present in the world around us. The Holy Father says “this conversion calls for a number of attitudes which together foster a spirit of generous care, full of tenderness. First, it entails gratitude and gratuitousness, recognition that the world is God’s loving gift, and that we are called quietly to imitate his generosity in self-sacrifice and good works.”

Overall Christmas House Tree Competition Winner

Posted on 18 Dec 2015 | News

Overall House Winner Willow

Sophie Shields 8A  

Christmas House Tree Competition

Posted on 18 Dec 2015 | News

​Cedar House Winner

Ellie Mc Erlean 8A 

Christmas House Tree Competition

Posted on 18 Dec 2015 | News

​Elm House Winner

Holly Dougan 8E

Christmas House Tree Competition

Posted on 18 Dec 2015 | News

​Willow House Winner

Kara Clerkin 8C

Christmas House Tree Competition

Posted on 18 Dec 2015 | News

Hawthorn House Winner

Eimear Mc Guigan 8A

RECOGNITION FOR ST MARY’S YOUNG FILM MAKER CALLUM O’HARA

Posted on 10 Dec 2015 | News

It’s a big well done to St Mary’s past pupil Callum O’Hara whose work is being showcased in a number of film festivals both here and in the USA. Callum, whose A2 Level Moving Image Arts Film ‘Rough Relations’ is starting to make a big impact on the movers and shakers in the film world, states: “My short film, Rough Relations, is part of four film festivals in all. It’s a very exciting time for me and young filmmakers in general here in Northern Ireland. My short film has already been shown at the Junior Galway Film Fleadh in November and will shortly be shown at the Los Angeles Cinefest on 11 December; it will be aired in January at the Film Devour Film Festival at Belfast’s Black Box, located in the trendy Cathedral Quarter of City and at the Wiper Film Festival in New York. The journey so far has been incredible.

SPARKLING SPARRING- TAEKWONDO

Posted on 08 Dec 2015 | News

In late November, three Year 9 pupils from St Mary’s Grammar School competed in the Taekyon Open in Holland which is a Taekwondo competition. The 3 competitors were successful in their respective competition with Anna Quinn placed 3rd in sparring under 50kgs, Conal Heaney placed 2nd in sparring under 55kgs and Caitlin Devlin placed 1st in sparring under 40kgs.

ST MARY’S YOUNG LEADER OF THE FUTURE!

Posted on 08 Dec 2015 | News

Congratulations to Year 13 pupil, Lauren McStocker, who won the Area Final of the Rotary ‘Young Leaders Of The Future Competition’ held in The Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown in November, 2015. Lauren is one of only 24 pupils from across Ireland, selected at the Area Final, to participate in a week-long Leadership Development Programme in the European Parliament in Strasbourg in January 2016. She is pictured with Head of English, Mrs O Reid, who prepared Lauren for the competition. Mrs Reid said of Lauren: “She is a lovely, unassuming and modest pupil – a true ambassador and a commanding leader!”

ENTERPRISING PARADE

Posted on 08 Dec 2015 | News

The Young Enterprise group joined others to parade up the town on Saturday 5 December. All proceeds raised will go to the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.

RACE AND PACE

Posted on 08 Dec 2015 | News

Pupils from Years 8, 9, 10 and 11 in St Mary’s Grammar School attended the NEEBSA Cross Country district championships on Tuesday 24 November held at the University of Coleraine. The pupils enjoyed the event and came away with a number of successes. The Year 8 Girls’ team won the team event: Maria O’Neill was 4th; Mary Mc Kee was 7th; Anna Kilpatrick was 13th; Niamh Boyle was 17th; and, Rachel Quinn was 32nd.  The Year 8 Boys’ race was won by Jake Donnelly; the Boys’ team was placed second overall. The Year 10 Boys’ team was placed 4th. Cahair Purvis, Year 11, won the Senior Boys’ race comfortably, finishing well ahead of the opposition.

IN FINE VOICE

Posted on 08 Dec 2015 | News

In true Christmas spirit this December, St Mary’s Junior Choir took part in an evening concert of festive music, raising money for Action Cancer in St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast. This was a lovely event, featuring choirs, orchestras and instrumentalists from schools across Northern Ireland. In order to take part in the event, the choir had to raise £500 for Action Cancer. In order to do so, they took part in a sponsored ‘Singathon.’ Throughout both Junior and Senior lunch periods on Friday 20 November, the Junior choir sang a variety of popular songs in the assembly hall for other pupils and members of staff to come and watch. The event was extremely successful and raised a total of £1630 for Action Cancer.

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IN GIVING WE RECEIVE…

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

Mr G Maynes, who leads the Christmas Hamper appeal for St Vincent de Paul in school, recently sent form classes the message: “It’s that time of year again. SVP always appreciates our contribution in making Christmas a little brighter for those who are disadvantaged in the community. Could each class provide a Christmas Hamper?  One item of seasonal food per pupil should suffice.” His message was then reinforced when Year 10 pupils Philip Baine and Declan Murray spoke at assemblies urging us to support the appeal. Despite the many demands on the school community, we are always grateful for the selflessness of all who respond with generosity of spirit and support.

BUSINESS-LIKE AND VERY PROFESSIONAL!

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

Congratulations to Ethlinn Walls, Sarah Gallen and James McTeague who participated in the Ballymena heat of the Business and Professional Women’s Public Speaking competition. Staged to represent a public meeting in miniature, the students acted as Guest Speaker, Chairperson or Expresser of Thanks. Miss Hatchell prepared the team and explains, “On the night, the team faced some very stiff competition, including last year’s finalists, and were successful in securing a place in the next round of the competition in Belfast in January. The team worked very hard, whilst also competing in Soroptimist and Rotary, so it is even more of a credit to them that they have won through to the N Ireland final.”

ST MARY’S CELEBRATES SUCCESS!

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | NewsAwards

St Mary’s is the first school in the NEELB to be accredited with the Investors in Pupils Award. The Investors in Pupils programme is an established national quality mark to recognise develop and extend pupil/student voice and participation strategies in schools and educational settings thus building young people’s life skills, character and resilience. Supporting personalised learning, the programme fosters healthy relations, pupil to pupil and pupil to adults, leading to greater pupil responsibility over their own learning and behaviour and providing a powerful tool for developing a positive whole-school team ethos.

Miss McAllister led the whole school initiative for Investors in Pupils during the academic year 2014-15. It was fully supported by Mrs Gillespie, who stated, “It ties in with our drive to maintain and improve standards.”

STAR STRUCK

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | NewsAwards

Massive congratulations to Year 12 students Caoimhe Meeke and Orlaith Prenter who recently achieved Ulster Colleges’ All-star awards for Ladies’ Football. They will represent Ulster in the All-Ireland Interprovincial competition on Saturday 30 January. And their awards presentation night will be on Friday 15 January.

COUCH TO 3K

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

This term, almost thirty Year 8 girls have been taking part in Couch to 3K offered by Acorns AC in conjunction with the Magherafelt Learning Partnership. It is a wonderful opportunity to increase fitness levels, encourage pupils who maybe don’t participate in other sports to get involved in exercise, meet up with old friends and make some new ones! The girls train very hard twice a week at Meadowbank and this great activity wouldn’t be possible without their teachers, Mr Tracey and Miss Hatchell giving up their time to escort them to Meadowbank and supervise the girls there - Mr Tracey and Miss Hatchell’s fitness levels are also improving!

GET SET FOR COMMUNITY ACTION

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

Get Set for Community Action is a brand new programme, which aims to strengthen relationships between young people and their local communities through the Olympic Values (friendship, excellence and respect) and the Paralympic Values (courage, determination, equality and inspiration). Thousands of 14-19 year olds – ‘Action Leads’ – will work in teams across the UK, building relationships with local community groups to plan and deliver at least two projects each, in the run-up to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.  We are delighted that St Mary’s has been designated a champion school, one of only four in N Ireland. In preparation for this exciting project, Mr McElholm and two Action Leads (namely Meaghan Lagan and Erin McKenna) attended the National Training Day on Wednesday 25 November 2015 in Birmingham.

RCUK-QUB-MLP “CROSSING BOUNDARIES IN 21ST CENTURY”

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

On Friday 20 November, St Mary’s hosted sixty Year 9 students from across the Magherafelt Learning Partnership for a series of workshops facilitated by Queen’s University, Belfast. Students considered the Emigration and Immigration Patterns of Ireland and the UK, and participated in thought-provoking workshops on Human Rights and the value they place on them. In the afternoon, students attended a prize giving ceremony for their posters in response to “What does it mean to be a migrant in 2015?” and “What does it mean to be a European? Sian Devlin (9C) was placed first in the Year 9 Migrant category and Jarlath Young (9E) was placed third in the Year 9 European category. Thomas Doherty (10B) achieved first place in the Year 10 European category and Eve Donnelly (10E) was placed second in the Year 10 Migrant category.

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SET ON SAPHARA

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

Congratulations to the next Saphara group. Mr Tracey explained,  “This year we are delighted to have eight pupils on our Saphara team: Damien McCoy, Ruairi O’Kane, Alicia McAuley, Meabh McGirr, Shauna Lennon, Aoife Bradley, Faoiltiarna Burke and Eoin McAuley. They will travel to India in July 2016 along with pupils from Sullivan Upper School and Ampleforth College.”

ST MARY’S YOUNG LEADERS OF THE FUTURE!

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

Mrs Reid prepared students for the Rotary competition. She explained, “Following on the outstanding success of Siobhan Comer in last year’s Rotary Competition, Lauren McStocker is one of just 20 winners from across the North and South of Ireland who will participate in a week long leadership trip to Strasbourg in February, where she will have the opportunity to further develop her leadership potential. She is a lovely, unassuming and modest pupil – a true ambassador and a commanding leader!”

YEAR 9 PUPILS GET TO GRIPS WITH IZAK9

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

The Maths department has been using Izak9, which is an active learning device specifically designed to create a totally immersive and engaged shared learning environment. It provides exceptional opportunities for the teaching and learning of mathematics. All areas of the maths curriculum at Key Stage 3 are addressed in an environment rich in problem solving, oracy, fluency, variation and depth. Izak9 support the needs of pupils of all abilities and preferred learning styles. Children work together in small groups using real cubes to not only solve the number, algebra, data and shape / space problems posed, but also to develop ideas and create tasks and questions of their own.

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | NewsAwards

Huge congratulations to our Year 14 students who were very successful in the recent Senior Challenge achieving 12 Silver and 36 Bronze Awards. The UKMT Individual Maths Challenges are lively, intriguing multiple choice question papers, which are designed to stimulate interest in maths. Well done to Anna Coogan, Paul McCarron, Orla Mallon, Marc Friel, Gerard O‘Brien, Megan Monaghan, Emma Quinn, David McGuigan, Siobhan Comer, Una McCoy and Emma Robinson who each received the Silver Award; and to the recipients of the Bronze award-  Bronagh McFarlane, Dermot Donnelly, James Tennyson, Hannah McGurk, David McErlain, Connor Devlin, Cormac Mackle, Bernadette Henry, Sheila Campbell, Conor McCann, Niamh Hughes, Kyle Johnston, Jack McLean, Hugh-Roe O’Donnell, Hannah Doherty, Niamh Kelly, Jamie Duffin, Shannon McGillian, Conor Burns, Eamon Conway, Ciara McAuley, Mark Rushe, Tonicha Donnelly, Ellen Groom, Conor Shaw, Megan Kearns, Cathal Craig, Bronagh Harkin, Michael McElhone, Gabriela Kacprzyk, Alana Quinn, John Joe O’Hagan, Eamonn Devlin, Claire O’Neill, Maria McVey and Cathal Mullan.

FREE FRUIT FRIDAY!

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

The free fruit that the SNAG committee gave out at break-time on 20 November was an immense success! It was in response to recent findings that 96% of children in Northern Ireland do not eat their five a day and neither do 82% of adults. A report says sugar intake should be drastically reduced. The SNAG group agree with the sentiments of the report and so took this step: “We want to encourage children to reduce their intake of sugar through sweets/ biscuits/ cakes which contain lots of saturated fat etc. And at the same time encourage children to take more natural sugar through their fruits and veg which contain more fibre and are ultimately much better for them.”  The lesson was most fruitful!

TOP CANDIDATES IN CCEA SUMMER 2015 GCSE AND GCE ADVANCED LEVEL EXAMINATIONS

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

Congratulations to the following students who achieved first, second and third highest marks in the CCEA 2015 GCSE and GCE Summer Examinations:
Claire Cosgrove -First in Spanish and First equal in French

Emma McKay- First equal in Art

Keeva Madden- Second equal in ICT

Cliodhna S Ni Mhianain (Year 8) - First equal in Irish

Lauren McStocker - Third equal in Science DA Modular

STARS IN OUR SCHOOL

Posted on 01 Dec 2015 | News

‘It takes a whole team to make a school a safe and happy place for children to learn. But many are tucked away behind the scenes – the unsung heroes of our children’s education.’ UNISON

St Mary’s joined schools across the UK to say ‘thank you for all you do’ to our teaching support staff. Led by Assistant Principal, Mrs I Hynds, she explained, “Each pastoral team opted to do something for Teaching Support staff to show their appreciation, such as cleaning the canteen for them on a given day or assisting with litter duties outside. Year 8 pupils (and their families) have already established that they are exceptionally skilled at baking: they baked much appreciated treats for all support staff. And each member of staff was paired up with a Teaching Support member to do at least one nice thing for them that week.” The result was that our ‘tucked away behind the scenes’ stars were allowed to shine for all to see and thank!

ANTI-BULLYING WEEK

Posted on 20 Nov 2015 | News

During Anti-Bullying Week the St Mary’s pupil support team of Anna Coogan, Caroline Collins, Eva Kelly, Grace McKenna, Maria Doyle, Paul McCarron, Luke Doyle and Dillon Chapman visited all year group assemblies delivering a very important message about bullying and the impact it can have on students.  They offer weekly support every Wednesday at break time in D4.

TAE KWON DO

Posted on 13 Nov 2015 | News

Year 8 and 9 pupils Caitlin Devlin, Anna Quinn, Rachel Quinn, Declan Mc Ferran, Conal Heaney and Daniel Quinn recently enjoyed success in a Tae Kwan Do competition in Edinburgh, Scotland. They are members of the Leo Maguire club where they were all successful in taking home medals. Conal Heaney explained: “I was in Edinburgh over the weekend of 30 October. While I was there, I was competing for my Northern Ireland Junior Squad for Tae Kwan Do. When I was competing I won gold in my Sparring (fighting) and also my special technique (Flying High Kick). I also received an overall trophy which I wasn’t expecting!” Caitlin Devlin added, “Out of my three categories (patterns, sparring and special technique) I got a bronze and a gold; I was delighted!”

DIA DAOIBH

Posted on 13 Nov 2015 | NewsAwardsGeneral

The Irish department is delighted to have recently received a BASLA award (British Academy School’s Language Award) to fund a yearlong project. 150 schools entered the competition and we were the lucky winners in the NI region. The project will involve AS/A2 students and our Irish medium students and will see us continue our collaboration with Gaelscoil an tSeanchaí.

You can read all about it here:

http://www.irishnews.com/news/educationnews/2015/11/11/news/school-rewarded-for-encouraging-irish-study-beyond-16-320536/

http://www.britac.ac.uk/news/news.cfm/newsid/1334

ST MARY’S YOUNG LEADERS OF THE FUTURE!

Posted on 11 Nov 2015 | News

Following on the outstanding success of Siobhan Comer in last year’s Rotary Competition, the following Year 13 pupils seized the opportunity to participate in the 2015 Rotary Youth Leadership Competition in October: Lauren McStocker, Sarah Gallen, Hannah Neely, Emma Boyle, Jake Kuczogi, Daniel Bradley, James McTeague and Kevin Small.

Each student had been nominated because of the leadership they had demonstrated throughout their years in St Mary’s. The interviewers from our local Cookstown Rotary Club were highly impressed with all eight candidates and commended each one for their excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Lauren McStocker was selected as the winner of Round 1 and we wish her every success as she competes in Round 2 of the competition on 11 November.

THE PATRICK KAVANAGH POETRY AWARDS 2015

Posted on 11 Nov 2015 | News

Congratulations to Year 10 pupils, Declan Murray, Eva Hirst and Olivia Harney who recently attended an Awards Ceremony in The Patrick Kavanagh Centre, Co Monaghan , where they were highly commended, in the Senior Section, for their poems on the theme of Childhood. Declan Murray - Fortress of the Country; Eva Hirst - As fast As You Can; and, Olivia Harney - Winter Wonderland. Their teacher, Mrs O Reid, said their poems were, “Exceptional: their command of language and imagery were all the more impressive given that they had been written when the pupils were only in Year 9.”

A STRIKING ART

Posted on 11 Nov 2015 | News

Congratulations to Hannah Maguire in Year 11 and her brother Conor Maguire in Year 9 who competed in the Northern Ireland Karate Board Open Championships in Banbridge. Hannah won gold and bronze. Conor won gold for the third consecutive year. They are the Northern Ireland Champions in their respective categories. Hannah and Conor train at the NIKW Antrim Club.

OISIN MCGRATH CUP

Posted on 10 Nov 2015 | News

The Year 8 boys played St. Patrick’s Academy Dungannon in the quarter-final stages of the Oisin McGrath Cup at MUSA and came away victorious on a score line of 3-10 to 2-7. In the first half the boys played into a strong breeze and scores were hard to come by. We trailed at half time by four points on a score line of 1-5 to 0-4. Playing with the breeze in the second half, the boys produced a great performance which eventually saw them win by eight points. We now play Abbey CBS in the semi-final in Belfast this Friday.

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FREEDOM OF SPEECH

Posted on 10 Nov 2015 | News

Congratulations to Year 13 pupils Sarah Gallen (who was awarded Third place), Ethlinn Walls and Leanne Graham who participated in the regional heat of the Soroptimist International Ladies Public Speaking Competition in Ballymoney on 5th November. Mrs O Reid explained, “All three girls were wonderful ambassadors for St Mary’s.”

RIGHTS RESPECTING SCHOOLS AWARD

Posted on 10 Nov 2015 | News

In September 2015, Miss McAllister (Head of Year 10 and Citizenship Coordinator) raised the idea of St Mary’s applying for the Rights Respecting Schools Award. Mrs Gillespie and the Senior Leadership Team were extremely supportive of this proposal and since then Miss McAllister has attended training on RRSA led by David McGimpsey the UNICEF representative in Northern Ireland. Miss McAllister also sought and received the support of the Board of Governors and has set up an RRSA steering committee to oversee and direct the application for the award. The committee consists of students from all Key Stages, teachers, parents, a Board of Governors representative, support staff and a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The steering committee will post updates on their progress on the school website and via our Facebook page.

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BRITISH SCIENCE ASSOCIATION

Posted on 09 Nov 2015 | News

Congratulations to Mr Martin McVeigh, Technology and Design teacher in St Mary’s Grammar School, who has been awarded one of the very limited number of 2015 British Science Association CREST Teacher recognition awards for his outstanding contribution to enriching students’ experiences of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).  “I am over the moon with this award and would like to thank all the pupils involved for their continued contribution, hard work and dedication towards STEM related activities”.

SI PARLA ITALIANO A MAGHERAFELT!

Posted on 09 Nov 2015 | News

Our Senior students have started a crash course on Italian! Every fortnight, a group of twenty four students (Year 12 to 14) dedicate their lunch time to learn about Italian language and culture with Miss Commault! Several topics are being taught from greetings, to numbers, colours and ordering food…all in a relaxed atmosphere!