School Life, Culture & Achievements

A look inside the daily spirit of Davitt College, capturing student experiences, assemblies, themed weeks, and community spirit.

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, Leaving Cert, Past Pupils, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, Senior Cycle

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🎓 Class of 2026 • Life After Davitt Celebrating the Class of 2026: New Beginnings and Bright Futures September 2026 There was a very special welcome at Davitt College as members of the Class of 2026 returned to the school — this time with their Leaving Certificate journey behind them and an exciting new chapter about to begin. Our Guidance Team were delighted to welcome the students back and have the opportunity to celebrate their excellent Leaving Certificate results. More importantly, it was a chance to catch up, hear about their plans and discover where life after Davitt is taking them. For a year group that shared so much of their secondary school journey together, the next stage will take them along many different paths — each shaped by their own interests, talents and ambitions. The Next Chapter Different Pathways. Shared Ambition. 🎓 Higher Education Beginning degree programmes and pursuing new academic opportunities. 📚 Further Education Developing specialist knowledge and practical skills for future study and careers. 🛠️ Apprenticeships Combining workplace experience with professional training and recognised qualifications. 🚀 Tertiary Education Taking advantage of new pathways connecting further and higher education. What makes the Class of 2026 particularly worth celebrating is not simply a set of examination results, but the range of futures now opening before them. Success after secondary school does not follow one route, and we are proud to see our graduates progressing through Higher Education, Further Education, Apprenticeships and Tertiary Education. Each destination represents years of work, personal growth and perseverance. As our students move into new colleges, training environments and workplaces, they carry with them the friendships, experiences and memories built during their years at Davitt College. While their time as Davitt College students has come to an end, they will always remain an important part of our school community. We look forward to hearing where their journeys take them in the years ahead. To every member of the Class of 2026: be ambitious, embrace the opportunities ahead and never underestimate what you are capable of achieving. Go n-éirí an t-ádh libh go léir! ☘️

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

Anna Dobre Earns First Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo

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🥋 Martial Arts Excellence Anna Dobre Earns First Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo 2 September 2026 Years of training, discipline and determination have culminated in a major achievement for Davitt College student Anna Dobre, who has earned her First Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. Anna achieved the prestigious grade through Mango Martial Arts Academy, marking an important milestone in a journey that has demanded far more than technical ability alone. Reaching Black Belt level represents sustained commitment, resilience and the determination to continue improving through countless hours of training. It is a tremendous personal achievement for Anna and one that the entire Davitt College community is delighted to celebrate with her. 29 Black Belts A remarkable Davitt College tradition spanning approximately four decades A Proud Davitt Tradition Anna Joins a Remarkable Legacy Anna’s achievement also continues a proud martial arts tradition within Davitt College. Over approximately 40 years, 29 Davitt College students have now progressed to Black Belt level — an extraordinary record of commitment, perseverance and sporting excellence across generations of students. Beyond the Belt Discipline That Reaches Beyond Sport A Black Belt is not simply an award earned on one particular day. It reflects the habits developed over years — showing up consistently, responding to setbacks, accepting challenge and having the patience to improve one step at a time. These are qualities that extend far beyond martial arts, and Anna can be immensely proud of what she has accomplished. Her achievement is a wonderful example to other students of what sustained effort and dedication can make possible. Congratulations, Anna, on an outstanding achievement — your dedication, discipline and perseverance have been richly rewarded. Maith thú, Anna! 🥋

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, Leaving Cert, Past Pupils, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, Senior Cycle

From LCA to Electrical Apprentice: Megan Rumley Begins Her Next Chapter

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⚡ LCA • Career Pathways From LCA to Electrical Apprentice: Megan Rumley Begins Her Next Chapter 2 September 2026 A huge congratulations to Megan Rumley, LCA Class of 2026, who has taken the next exciting step in her career by beginning an Electrical Apprenticeship. Having completed her Leaving Certificate Applied programme at Davitt College, Megan is now putting her skills into practice while continuing to learn, develop and build a career in the electrical trade. Apprenticeships offer young people the opportunity to combine practical workplace experience with structured learning and recognised qualifications. For Megan, this marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter and the opportunity to develop her skills in a highly valued and rewarding profession. 🛠️ Learning in Practice Building Skills for the Workplace Megan will develop practical expertise on the job while continuing her education and professional training as an electrical apprentice. 🚀 Life After Davitt A Pathway Beyond School Megan’s progression highlights the wide range of opportunities available to LCA students as they move into employment, further training and apprenticeships. We are incredibly proud to see our LCA graduates progressing confidently into the world of work and further training. Megan is a fantastic example of how the Leaving Certificate Applied programme can open doors to meaningful and exciting career pathways beyond school. Everyone at Davitt College wishes Megan every success as she begins this new chapter. We have no doubt that she will bring the same commitment and determination to her apprenticeship that she demonstrated throughout her time at Davitt College. Best of luck, Megan — an exciting career lies ahead! ⚡

Academic & Curriculum, Core News & Information, Leaving Cert, Past Pupils, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News, Senior Cycle

Davitt College Celebrates Outstanding Leaving Certificate Results for the Class of 2026

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🌟 Leaving Certificate • Academic Excellence Davitt College Celebrates Outstanding Leaving Certificate Results for the Class of 2026 August 2026 • Davitt College Castlebar Davitt College is delighted to celebrate an exceptional set of Leaving Certificate and Leaving Certificate Applied results achieved by the Class of 2026. The results reflect the hard work, commitment and determination of students throughout their time at Davitt College, supported by the dedication of their teachers, SNAs, staff and families. A particular highlight of this year’s results was the achievement of one exceptional student, Cian Nolan, who attained the maximum possible score of 625 points, an outstanding accomplishment and a source of great pride for the entire school community. >15% 500+ Points Achieved 500 points or more >50% 400+ Points Achieved 400 points or more 80% of students achieved over 300 points. 45% of Leaving Certificate Applied students achieved the highest grade of Distinction. The excellent Leaving Certificate Applied results are a particular source of pride for the school, with almost half of LCA students achieving a Distinction, the highest possible grade. This outstanding achievement reflects the dedication and commitment of the students and the staff who supported them throughout the programme. These results represent a significant achievement for the students and are a testament to the strong culture of learning, ambition and support within the school community. “We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our Leaving Certificate and Leaving Certificate Applied students this year. These results reflect the dedication, resilience and determination shown by our students, as well as the commitment of our teachers, support staff and the families who have encouraged them throughout their journey. We congratulate every student and wish them every success as they embark on their chosen pathway. Comhghairdeas do chách.” — Conor O’Reilly, Principal 🌟 Academic Milestone: Davitt College student Cian Nolan who achieved the maximum 625 points, pictured with Principal Conor O’Reilly and Deputy Principals Anita Gallagher, John Bones, and William Rowan.

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

Traditional Talent Shines at the Belfast Fleadh 2026

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🏆 Traditional Arts Success Medal Success for Davitt College at the Belfast Fleadh 13 August 2026 The summer has been wonderfully musical for our students, who recently showcased exceptional talent and brought home a fantastic haul of medals from the Belfast Fleadh. We are immensely proud of everyone who took to the stage to represent our school community. Roll of Honour Roisín Moran: 🥇 1st Place – Trios (12–15) Niamh Rodgers, Eva Hynes, Roisín Moran, Aoife Mongey, Luke Nolan, Alannah McDonagh, Noah Kilkenny: 🥈 2nd Place – Grúpaí Ceoil (12–15). Led brilliantly by past pupil and student teacher Cian Kilkenny. Noah Kilkenny: 🥉 3rd Place – Bodhrán (12–15) Grace Holmes: 🥉 3rd Place – Full Set Ladies (15–18) We would also like to extend a special congratulations to the Rolling Waves Over-18 Grúpa Ceoil, who placed 3rd overall—a wonderful achievement showcasing the enduring talent of some of our past pupils. Well done to all involved! Comhghairdeas to all our talented musicians and competitors representing Davitt College with distinction.

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

Grace Holmes Strikes Gold at Connacht Fleadh

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🏆 Traditional Arts Excellence Gold for Grace: A Champion at the Connacht Fleadh 13 August 2026 The stage was set, the music was fierce, and Grace Holmes delivered a performance that simply couldn’t be beaten. We are thrilled to announce that our very own Grace has struck gold, taking home the top prize in the U18 Full Set Ladies category at the recent Connacht Fleadh. It takes immense discipline to master the traditional arts, and Grace has shown exactly what that looks like. Her gold medal is the result of countless hours of practice and a genuine passion for the craft. Now, the focus shifts to the national stage. As Grace and her team head to Belfast for the upcoming All-Ireland Fleadh, they carry the full support of our school behind them. We know they will represent us with everything they have. Comhghairdeas, Grace – go make us proud in Belfast.

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

International Bronze for Isabella Kearney at the Schools International 2026

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🥇 International Athletics Excellence Historic Schools International Bronze for Isabella Kearney 18 July 2026 The Davitt College community is celebrating a magnificent athletic milestone following exceptional news from the Schools International fixture in Belfast. Our talented student-athlete, Isabella Kearney, has officially secured her first international medal, claiming a prestigious bronze in the hammer throw event. Competing against the finest young athletes from across the islands, Isabella demonstrated immense mental fortitude and competitive grit. Even while acknowledging she did not reach her ultimate personal best on the day, her tactical execution and fierce determination under pressure saw her excel when it mattered most, proudly stepping onto the international podium. This remarkable achievement reflects years of unwavering dedication, early morning training sessions, and relentless hard graft. Isabella stands as a true ambassador for her club, coaching team, and family, proving that elite success is earned through disciplined preparation. Comhghairdeas, Bella! A profoundly proud moment for Isabella, her coaches, and everyone associated with Davitt College. ✨

Athletics, Extra-Curricular, School Life, Culture & Achievements, Sports

Historic International Sweep: Davitt Athletes Blazing a Trail to Belfast!

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🏆 International Athletics Selection Historic International Sweep: Davitt Athletes Blazing a Trail to Belfast! 26 June 2026 What a breathtaking summer it has been for the Davitt College Track & Field department. We are absolutely flying with pride today as we celebrate a truly historic week of international selection, national podiums, and record-breaking performances from our elite athletes. Our standout thrower, Isabella (Bella) Kearney, has officially been selected to represent Ireland for the second consecutive year, booking her place on the national squad for the upcoming SIAB Schools International Athletics Championship at the Mary Peters Track in Belfast! The 2026 Campaign: From Sligo to the Provincial Peak This spectacular international call-up is the ultimate culmination of an athletic campaign that has seen our squad dominate the track and field all season long. The Sligo Statement (24 April): Our season ignited at Sligo ATU, where a fantastic, highly motivated panel of Davitt College students represented the school with immense pride, determination, and flawless sportsmanship, securing qualification slots across the board. The Connacht Finals Sweep (3 May): Moving onto Day 1 of the Connacht Schools Track & Field Championships in Sligo, our elite throwers put on a masterclass. Aisling Henderson launched a fantastic 30m throw to secure a brilliant Minor Hammer Silver Medal, while Isabella Kearney completely dominated the field, capturing Intermediate Hammer Gold with a massive throw over 52 meters to punch her ticket to the All-Irelands in Tullamore. Sligo ATU Gallery Conquering the Prestigious Tailteann Games That elite momentum brought three of our most dedicated young athletes—Clodagh Tunney, Benjamin Byrne-Dempsey, and Isabella Kearney—to the prestigious interprovincial Tailteann Games in Carlow on June 19th. This event brings together the absolute best U17 athletes in Ireland to battle for a spot on the international squad. Isabella Kearney delivered the performance of a lifetime in the hammer circle. Stepping into the ring under immense pressure, Isabella unleashed a sensational, explosive throw to claim the National Silver Medal—smashing her lifetime best to set a monumental new Personal Best (PB) of 54.33m! Tailteann Games Gallery We extend our congratulations to Clodagh, Benjamin, Aisling, and Isabella for representing Davitt College with exceptional distinction throughout the season, and we wish Bella the very best of luck in Belfast. An historic international selection and a phenomenal achievement for Davitt College athletics.

Combat Sports, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, Sports

Davitt College Welcomes the Irish International Taekwondo Tournament 2026!

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🏆 International Martial Arts Event Davitt College Hosts the Irish International Taekwondo Tournament! 26 June 2026 The mats are down, the flags are raised, and the atmosphere is electric. We are absolutely delighted to officially welcome the Irish International Taekwondo Tournament 2026 to Davitt College! Over the coming days, our campus transforms into a buzzing hub of world-class martial arts action. We are incredibly proud to welcome talented athletes, dedicated coaches, supportive families, and international officials from right across Ireland and far beyond to Castlebar. A Celebration of Skill, Discipline & Sportsmanship This prestigious tournament promises to be an extraordinary showcase of speed, focus, and technical excellence. Watching competitors step onto the mats after months—and years—of unseen sacrifice is a true inspiration to our entire school community. To every single competitor preparing to line out: we wish you the absolute best of luck. May your hard work, sharp focus, and perseverance shine through in every round. Keeping an Eye on Our Local European Champions The tournament holds an extra special meaning for the school community this year. Coming right off the back of their historic medal hauls at the European Championships in Portugal last month, Davitt College’s own Ana Dobre and Chelsea Ward will be taking to the mats on home soil. A Word of Thanks A massive tournament like this doesn’t just happen. We want to extend a huge thank you to the brilliant team of organizers, volunteers, and instructors—including our local partners at Mango Martial Arts Academy—who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring an event of this scale to life. We hope all our visiting athletes and families enjoy their time at Davitt College and experience the very best of hospitality here in Castlebar. Let the tournament begin!

Core News & Information, Creative Schools, Extra-Curricular, School Life, School Life, Culture & Achievements, School News

Design Thinking in Action: 5th Year Artists Revitalise School Courtyard

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🎨 Creative Schools Initiative Design Thinking in Action: 5th Year Artists Revitalise School Courtyard 27 May 2026 Davitt College’s 5th Year Art students have put design thinking directly into practice by transforming one of the school’s central courtyards with striking artistic flair. Embracing the core ethos of our Creative Schools journey, the students tackled the space as an architectural and visual design challenge – taking it from initial concept sketches to a vibrant, colourful mural that brightens the entire campus. Their hard work, generosity, and creative energy have been warmly praised across the school community. Special thanks go to Art teacher Ms. Joanne Hopkins and Creative Schools Coordinator Ms. Veronica Morley for guiding the project, as well as Albany Castlebar for generously sponsoring paint supplies. Phase 1 is complete, and Phase 2 will resume in September as this inspirational learning space continues to evolve! Initial Concepts & Sketches Project Model In Progress: The Work Student Achievements

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