Whole School Assembly - December 2024

On the 3rd of December 2024, the students and staff of St David’s came together in the Sports Arena for the fourth whole school assembly of this academic year. Mr. Carey began by welcoming everybody and emphasising the importance of coming together as a whole school community to acknowledge the achievements of fellow students and to remain informed about new and exciting initiatives in the school.  Then, Lisa Phelan, a member of the Ethos team said a heartfelt prayer about community and the role which we have, as part of Le Chéile, in looking after those that are vulnerable especially during this difficult time. Anna Kieran and Ruby Held lit the first candle of advent to symbolise hope. 

The microphone was passed over to Mr. Davies who gently reminded students to adhere to the school rules, especially in regard to the uniform!  Afterwards, Ms. O’ Sullivan said a few words before she began handing out certificates to recognise the outstanding accomplishments of our students. Certificates were given for a huge range of achievements; from politics to photography to powerlifting, our school is bursting with talent!

Subsequently, Alex Williams, a volunteer in the Young St Vincent De Paul Society, informed the students about SVP’s plan to make a difference to those in need during Christmas time. Currently there are Christmas boxes in each base class that need to be filled with non-perishable foods, treats, hygiene products and warm clothing. The goods collected will be organised by SVP into hampers that will be distributed to the vulnerable before Christmas. This is a great opportunity for students to give back to those less fortunate. Additionally, Christmas Cards are on sale in the foyer each day. They cost €10 for five gorgeously designed cards and all profits will be donated to SAAS, a charity that helps African children receive a free second level education.

Then Shriya Mishra spoke a little about Comhairle na nÓg. This organisation is a great way for students to identify issues facing them and come up with practical solutions to fix them. Mr. Carey then called up the F1 team named  “Red-Kite Racing”. Alannah Lynch and Sarah Walker spoke about their goals and plan to reach the National Championship of F1 in schools. 

The Director of Arts, Ms. Cronly took the stage and talked about the upcoming art events. In the next two weeks there will be the ‘Three Schools Concert’, the ‘19/12’ photography exhibition and, of course, the Christmas Concert that will be held on the Friday before the Christmas break. Mr. Brady talked about the success of the sports program this term and thanked all the students and staff who make this program possible. Mr. O’Dowd told all the students about a new reflection sheet that will help them learn from their November exams. 

Following that, Noah Morgan and Lucy Barret informed the students about the Past Pupil Union. This is an excellent way for past students to connect with each other after many years and will make organising events such as reunions so much easier. The website will go live in January 2025. 

And last but certainly not least, the roles for the St. Catherine's Christmas party were announceed. This is a long standing special tradition where students of sixth year host an extravagant party for St. Catherine's Special School students. For many, it is the highlight of their sixth year! Santa Claus will be the one and only Sam Lyons, Ms. Claus will be Stella Henrys and their four fabulous Head Elves will be Grace Doyle, Freya Duffy, Nathan Donlon and Ryan Leahy. 

The next time the whole school will meet again will be for the Christmas Concert. This will be anticipated by all (especially the teachers!).

Photographer: Farrah Gallagher

Reporter: Ella Tidd