School News

Stay up to date with the latest official announcements, weekly updates, and stories from the Davitt College community.

Academic & Curriculum, Charity, Core News & Information, Music, Practical & Creative Arts, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

Davitt College Pupils Sing to Make a Difference for Childline

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💙 Community & Charity • Student Leadership Davitt College Pupils Sing to Make a Difference for Childline 31 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College, Castlebar, extends its warmest congratulations to talented student musicians Ethan Carey and Cathal Noonan, who represented the school spectacularly as Connacht/Ulster-West finalists in the popular “Our Schools Got Talent” competition. The high-stakes regional final took place before an enthusiastic crowd at the TF Royal Theatre on Sunday, 27th January 2013, where both performers did their school immensely proud with a magnificent live musical showcase. 🎤 Charity In Action Student-Led Campus Concerts Inspired by the cause, Ethan and Cathal organized a series of lunchtime live gigs with fellow Davitt College contestants, rallying the entire school community behind the ISPCC and Childline. Funds Raised €500+ For ISPCC Childline 🎭 TF Royal Theatre Finalists Competing at provincial level, the duo demonstrated exceptional musicianship, stage presence, and confidence on one of Castlebar’s premier stages. 🤝 National Impact Directly supporting the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) and their critical, 24-hour national childline support lines. Well done to Ethan, Cathal, and all the pupils and staff who lent their talents and generosity to such a vital cause! 📸 Presentation Showcase (Pictured L–R): Ms. Bernie Rowland (Principal), Ethan Carey (Finalist), Cathal Noonan (Student), Ms. Fiona Jennings (Regional Volunteer Organiser, ISPCC), and Mr. Ger King (Deputy Principal).

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, Gaeilge, Humanities & Language, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, Senior Cycle

Renowned Irish Poet Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill Hosts Special Reading at Davitt College

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☘️ Irish Literature • Senior Cycle Enrichment Renowned Irish Poet Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill Hosts Special Reading at Davitt College 11 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College was privileged to welcome Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill, one of the most prominent and celebrated figures in contemporary Irish literature, for an exclusive guest lecture and poetry reading. On November 23rd, our Fifth and Sixth Year Gaeilge students gathered on campus for a unique opportunity to experience a personal reading of Nuala’s celebrated work, ‘Mo Ghrá-Sa (Idir Lúibíní)’. 📚 Syllabus Enrichment As a core prescribed poem on the Leaving Certificate Irish syllabus, having the author herself deliver the text provided an unparalleled learning experience for our Senior Cycle students. 🖋️ Author Insights Nuala shared profound insights into the poem’s satirical layers, its modern commentary on traditional love poetry, and the creative processes that shape her writing in the Irish language. “Hearing the rhythm and nuance of the text read directly by the poet helped demystify the work for our Senior Cycle students. This firsthand encounter will undoubtedly benefit them immensely as they prepare for their upcoming Leaving Certificate examinations.” 📸 Guest Lecturer Showcase: Celebrated Irish poet Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill during her inspiring guest lecture for Fifth and Sixth Year Gaeilge students at Davitt College.

Academic & Curriculum, Awards, Core News & Information, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, STEM

Record-Breaking Success and Silicon Valley Win at the 2013 BT Young Scientist Exhibition

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🏆 STEM • Silicon Valley Prize Winners Record-Breaking Success and Silicon Valley Win at the 2013 BT Young Scientist Exhibition 20 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College achieved a landmark result at the 2013 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, qualifying a record four projects for the national finals at the RDS in Dublin. This historic achievement mirrors the findings of a recent Department of Education and Skills Inspectorate report, which commended Davitt College as “a very progressive school and a true learning community where the widespread use of Information Communications Technology has revolutionised teaching and learning.” 🤖 Silicon Valley Winner ‘The World at Your Fingertips’ Jack McEllin, Conor Reilly & Sean Murphy (Mentor: Mr. Aaron Tonry) The TY team engineered a bespoke Robotic Glove acting as a high-precision computer mouse, designed for future commercial applications across the music and physiotherapy sectors. 🏆 Major Accolades Won: • Analog Devices Travel Award 2013: All-expenses-paid trip to present to researchers in Silicon Valley, California. • 3rd Prize: Technology Intermediate Group. • €2,500 School Grant for science equipment & Perpetual Trophy. 🧩 Social Science ‘How Board Games Can Help Autism’ Andrey Connolly (First Year) First Year student Andrey Connolly earned high praise for his thorough, compassionate research. Andrey designed, developed, and rigorously tested a bespoke board game specifically tailored to support children on the autism spectrum. 🌟 Ministerial Commendation: Warmly commended by An Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny T.D., who took a keen personal interest in the real-world accessibility and developmental impact of Andrey’s game design. 🇮🇪 High-Profile RDS Demonstrations During the exhibition, the Davitt College students demonstrated their working prototype directly to An Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny T.D., and shared a lively demonstration with RTÉ broadcaster Ryan Tubridy. RDS Dublin 2013 📸 RDS Award Presentation Showcase: Pictured with their winning project ‘The World at Your Fingertips’ are Davitt College students Sean Murphy, Jack McEllin, and Conor Reilly, alongside Mr. Colm O’Neill (CEO, BT Ireland) and An Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny T.D. at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2013. Photo: Chris Bellew / Copyright © 2013 Fennell Photography

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, STEM

Science Magic at Davitt College Inspires Primary School Visitors

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🔬 STEM Outreach • National Science Week Science Magic at Davitt College Inspires Primary School Visitors 5 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College proudly threw open the doors of its state-of-the-art laboratory and ICT facilities to host a spectacular three-day science immersion event for 6th Class primary pupils across Castlebar and the surrounding districts. Coinciding with National Science Week, the interactive initiative was designed to ignite curiosity, foster a lifelong passion for STEM subjects, and give prospective students a thrilling, practical taste of post-primary science. ⚡ Static Electricity & Physics High-energy demonstrations intriguing pupils from Scoil Raifteirí. 🔬 Microscopy & Cell Biology St. Patrick’s pupils investigating plant cell structures under high magnification. 💥 Reactions & Coding Volatile metal reactions alongside hands-on introductory ICT programming. The initiative was an overwhelming success thanks to the fantastic engagement of all visiting primary school students and the tireless dedication of the Davitt College Science Department and our enthusiastic student lab assistants who helped facilitate every workshop. Interactive Physics: Students from Scoil Raifteirí, Castlebar, explore the “magic” of static electricity in our science laboratories. Hands-On STEM: Visiting 6th class pupils participating in live chemistry experiments and lab investigations on campus.

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, English, Humanities & Language, Practical & Creative Arts, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

Renowned Author Gabriel Rosenstock Inspires Students at Davitt College

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🎨 Creative Arts • Cross-Curricular Literature Renowned Author Gabriel Rosenstock Inspires Students at Davitt College 5 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College, Castlebar, was incredibly fortunate to welcome the celebrated Irish translator, playwright, poet, and children’s author, Gabriel Rosenstock, for a special guest visit and creative workshop. Organized in conjunction with the Indian Cultural Festival at the Linenhall Arts Centre, the visit provided an inspiring intersection of literature, visual art, and world heritage for our Junior Cycle students. ✍️ Creative Collaboration Exploring Aphorisms & Visual Art In preparation for the visit, Second Year students from Ms. Morrissey’s Gaeilge class and Ms. Silke’s Art class collaborated on an innovative project studying Mr. Rosenstock’s collection of aphorisms—crafting their own written insights and vibrant visual artwork in response. Gaeilge & Poetry Visual Arts 🌏 Global Culture & Creative Inspiration During his session with the students, Gabriel Rosenstock reflected on his prolific literary career and the profound creative inspiration he has gathered from his extensive travels across India. The interactive discussion offered students a rich understanding of international traditions while seamlessly bridging language study with artistic expression. 📸 Guest Author Showcase: Celebrated writer and poet Gabriel Rosenstock pictured with Davitt College Second Year students following their cross-curricular art and Gaeilge creative workshop.

Awards, Core News & Information, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

National Business Success: Davitt College Entrepreneurs Reach Junior Dragon’s Den Final

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💼 Student Enterprise • National Finalists National Business Success: Davitt College Entrepreneurs Reach Junior Dragon’s Den Final 5 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College, Castlebar, extends its warmest congratulations to student entrepreneurs Ornaith Hopkins, Shannon Mangan, and Claire McDonagh, who reached the absolute pinnacle of student enterprise at the weekend. The talented trio represented the school spectacularly under their student enterprise company name, Fíor Dhathanna, competing in the prestigious National Finals of the Junior Dragon’s Den in Dublin. 🐉 National Pitch Stage Company: Fíor Dhathanna Reaching the live national final required extensive market research, financial planning, product development, and exceptional communication skills to face a panel of seasoned corporate dragons in Dublin. 🌟 Key Enterprise Competencies: Rigorous commercial & market feasibility High-stakes public speaking & pitching Creative design & branding strategy Well done to Ornaith, Shannon, and Claire on this landmark achievement – the future of Irish business is bright! 📸 National Enterprise Showcase: Davitt College student entrepreneurs Ornaith Hopkins, Shannon Mangan, and Claire McDonagh representing Fíor Dhathanna at the National Finals of the Junior Dragon’s Den in Dublin.

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, Music, Practical & Creative Arts, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

Davitt College Choir Performs at Holy Rosary Christmas Carol Service

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🎶 Performing Arts • Community Choral Service Davitt College Choir Performs at Holy Rosary Christmas Carol Service 5 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar The talented members of the Davitt College School Choir brought wonderful festive cheer to the local community as they took center stage at the annual Christmas Carol Service in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar. The special service was a magnificent celebration of music, prayer, song, and dance, offering our students a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with musicians and performers across the parish and celebrate the true spirit of the season through choral excellence. 🎼 Community Showcase Parish Musical Celebration The Davitt College choir shared the altar with an inspiring cross-section of Castlebar’s vibrant musical groups, creating an uplifting and harmonious community event: ✨ Church of the Holy Rosary Daily Choir ✨ Parish Folk Group ✨ Castlebar Gospel Choir ✨ Local National School Choirs Comhghairdeas to all the choir members and music faculty for representing Davitt College so beautifully! 📸 Choral Performance Showcase: The Davitt College School Choir performing at the Church of the Holy Rosary Christmas Carol Service in Castlebar.

Charity, Core News & Information, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

Davitt College Generosity: €820 Raised for ISPCC and Childline

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💙 Charitable Giving • Student Leadership Davitt College Generosity: €820 Raised for ISPCC and Childline 5 January 2013 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College, Castlebar, was proud to hand over a substantial donation to the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC), demonstrating the incredible community spirit and generosity of our student body. The school community organized a highly successful on-campus fundraising drive, successfully raising €820 to support the vital national child protection and listening services provided 24/7 by Childline. Campaign Initiatives Shield Badges & Concert Ticket Raffle Students spearheaded the campaign by selling the iconic blue ISPCC shield badges across all year groups. Adding to the buzz, a special raffle was held for two premium tickets to the Cheerios Childline Concert in Dublin, generously sponsored by Teresa McHale. Total Raised €820 Direct to ISPCC Services The entire school community extends its sincere gratitude to Teresa McHale for her generous sponsorship, and a massive well done to all students and staff who coordinated the drive, bought badges, and entered the raffle in aid of this essential national charity. 📸 Charity Presentation: Davitt College student and faculty representatives presenting the official €820 donation cheque to Ms. Fiona Jennings, Regional Volunteer Organiser for the ISPCC.

Awards, Core News & Information, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

Presidential Recognition: Eighteen Davitt College Students Honoured at An Gaisce Ceremony

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🎖️ Civic Leadership • The President’s Award Presidential Recognition: Eighteen Davitt College Students Honoured at An Gaisce Ceremony 18 December 2012 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College, Castlebar, proudly celebrated the outstanding civic, personal, and physical achievements of eighteen dedicated students at a prestigious regional An Gaisce (The President’s Award) ceremony held at GMIT Castlebar. Guided and supported by their President’s Award Leader (PAL), Ms. Emer Whyte, the students were commended for stepping well outside their comfort zones to challenge themselves across community involvement, personal skills, physical recreation, and an adventurous journey. 🥈 Silver Award Recipients 7 Medals Lorcan McEllin, Hannah Mulchrone, Aoife Deacy, Christopher Walsh, Éadaoin Donnelly White, Róisín McNally, and Ailish McDonagh. 🥉 Bronze Award Recipients 11 Medals Fintan Murphy, Suzanne Murray, Elaine Dunbar, Nicole Williams, Michelle Kelly, Shane Nugent, Patrick Kilcoyne, Michael Nolan, Niall Kearns, Tessa Geraghty, Rachel Farragher, and Ivana Connor. 🟢🔴 Special Guest Presentation Accolades were officially presented by Andy Moran (Captain, Mayo Senior Football Team) and Mr. Hugh MacConville (An Gaisce), who commended the students’ resilience, teamwork, and voluntary community service. GMIT Castlebar 📸 Presentation Showcase: Davitt College Silver and Bronze An Gaisce Award recipients celebrating at GMIT alongside Mr. Andy Moran (Mayo Senior Football Captain), Ms. Emer Whyte (PAL), and Mr. Hugh MacConville (An Gaisce).

Awards, Core News & Information, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, Sports

National Glory: Davitt College Student Liam Corcoran Crowned All-Ireland Cycling Champion

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🚴 Cycling • All-Ireland Champion National Glory: Davitt College Student Liam Corcoran Crowned All-Ireland Cycling Champion 18 December 2012 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College, Castlebar, extends its massive congratulations to Leaving Certificate student Liam Corcoran, who achieved a spectacular sporting milestone by winning the prestigious Irish Junior Road Race Championship. This historic national victory earns Liam the ultimate cycling honor: he will proudly wear the iconic Irish National Champion’s jersey in competitive road events throughout the upcoming season. 🥇 National Road Race Series Irish Junior Road Race Title A victory built on tireless training regimes, tactical endurance, and elite athletic sacrifice—cementing Liam’s place among Ireland’s finest rising cycling talents. National Honour Irish National Champion’s Jersey Junior Cycling Ireland Liam was welcomed back to campus by a large crowd of delighted classmates, friends, and fellow riders from the Castlebar Cycling Club. School Principal Ms. Bernie Rowland and Castlebar Cycling Team Manager Mr. John Brennan formally met with Liam to commend his phenomenal achievement on behalf of the entire school and local sporting community. Comhghairdeas Liam – we wish you every success wearing the green jersey across Ireland! 📸 Champion Homecoming Showcase: All-Ireland Junior Road Race Champion Liam Corcoran pictured with Ms. Bernie Rowland (Principal), Mr. John Brennan (Castlebar Cycling Team Manager), alongside classmates and fellow Castlebar Cycling Club members.

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